Virginia is for Lovers, Horses, Hounds, and Road Safety
Written by Sarah Hickner | Photo by Joanne Maisano
Middleburg’s title as the nation’s horse and hunt capital isn’t a relic from a bygone era. Local hunts are alive and thriving, drawing riders from around the world to Virginia’s rolling countryside.
Drive along almost any country road, and occasionally even a main thoroughfare, and you might come across a loose hound or a horse and rider. Next, local social media groups light up with posts that start with “Found Hound!” followed by a flurry of advice and opinions on what to do next.
Those unfamiliar with the rules of the road might wonder: do you leave it and hope it finds its way home? Do you stop and pick it up? If you do add a new furry passenger to your car, what happens next? And if it’s a horse on the side of the road, do you speed past, stop and wait, or honk to say hello?
Part of the beauty of Hunt Country is that horses, hounds, residents, and visitors to the area all have the opportunity to cross paths. With that in mind, experts familiar with Middleburg’s unique niche share their thoughts on horses, hounds, humans, and safety.
Tips for Drivers
The average car in the U.S. weighs around 4,300 pounds, while the average horse weighs about 1,000. When the two meet at speed, it’s often fatal for both horse and driver.
The best way to pass a horse on the road? Imagine you’re passing a baby in a stroller, except this baby can move fast and unpredictably. Drive slowly enough that if the horse jumps in front of you, you can stop in time.
Most horses that travel near roads are accustomed to cars, so it’s not always the vehicle they are afraid of. Horses are flight animals, and the list of things that can spook them is long: falling branches, buzzing bees, or a plastic bag drifting on the wind are just a few.
If you or your passengers want a closer look at a horse, stop at a safe distance rather than driving up close. Some riders may not be able to pause; their horse could be young, nervous, or on a mission to get home.
Horse Riders and Road Safety
According to Betsy Donley, honorary secretary of the Old Dominion Hounds, “Horses are legally supposed to go the same way as traffic — meaning that, like a bicycle, you’re supposed to ride on the right side of the road. Hug the shoulder as much as you can if you’re on horseback, and try to stay on the grass if there’s a safe verge. Riders should stay single file to allow traffic to pass.”
Visibility also matters. Bright orange vests with reflective strips are an easy, affordable way to help drivers see you. They may not be glamorous, or particularly equestrian chic, but they do have pockets for your phone and a few horse treats.
A quick wave and a friendly smile can go a long way in keeping harmony between riders and drivers.
Finding Stray Hounds
A working foxhound lives a very different life from the average house dog. These hounds are lean, fit, and used to spending much of their time outdoors with a pack. They’re trained to listen to their huntsman, not strangers, so don’t be surprised if a stray hound ignores your calls.
Several hunts ride across Middleburg and the surrounding countryside, and it’s not unusual to see hounds near roads during a hunt. If you spot one, first make sure it’s truly separated from the pack. Often, a hound will catch a scent and wander off, only to return when called.
Pull over in a safe spot and observe for a moment. If you don’t hear the sounds of a nearby hunt, such as horns or baying in the distance, try calling the hound to you. Most wear collars with GPS trackers and contact information. If you know where the hunt meets, you can deliver the hound there. Otherwise, call the number on its tag.
If the hound won’t come, a photo can be very helpful. Hunt staff know their hounds well and can identify them by sight. You can text or email the photo to the contact on the collar, if provided.
If all else fails — whether you’ve caught the hound, snapped a photo, or simply spotted one alone — share a post in a local Facebook group with the location. Many Middleburg residents are well connected online and can usually track down the right hunt or owner in short order.
Keeping Tradition Alive
In a place where horses are commonplace and hounds sound off across the hills, sharing the road is part of sharing the beauty of Hunt Country. Slowing down, showing courtesy, and lending a hand when a hound goes astray are small acts that can protect a cherished tradition.
Virginia may be for lovers, but here in the heart of Hunt Country, it’s also for riders, hounds, and neighbors who care enough to keep it that way. ML
Published in the November 2025 issue of Middleburg Life.