What is a Whipper-In?
A whipper-in is someone who assists the huntsman during a hunt for foxes and other quarry. The whippers-in are responsible for helping the huntsman to keep the hounds organized and focused while out in the field, and they may also help to care for the hounds in the kennels, depending on the organizational structure of the hunt in question. This position may be professional, or volunteer, again depending on the hunt. While a hunt is in the field, the huntsman is responsible for handling the hounds. He or she gives the hounds orders, encourages them to pursue particular quarry, and stays attuned to the activities of the hounds as they travel across the countryside. However, a big pack of hounds can be difficult to manage, and this is where a whipper-in, or several, come in. A whipper-in walks or rides along the side of the hunt, ensuring that hounds who try to split off will not wander too far. He or she also discourages the hounds from unacceptable quarry, and communicates with the hunt
