It is sad.
But you’re looking at this from the rider’s perspective. Not the sportsman’s perspective.
Foxhunting isn’t letting a bunch of dogs out to chase wildlife, while galloping your horse over private or public land.
It’s hunting. Someone must know how to select, breed, (or acquire) good hounds - the right kind of hound for your territory.
That requires expertise - and that expertise must be hired or apprenticed. That’s how it’s done. You learn from an experienced hunter(s) willing to mentor you. Then you pass that knowledge on to younger people.
That person also has to know how to manage a good kennel, and must have the space and facilities - or be able to acquire both.
That person must also be able to depend on dependable whippers-in - who have to be extremely proficient riders, with bold horses, and a lot of free time - as well as being experienced with hunting or at least willing to put in the time and effort required to become proficient.
The hounds require extensive training, all spring, summer and fall. They must be exercised consistently. That requires an enormous time commitment as well as dedicated helpers - during the day when most people are at work.
That’s a tall order. But there are a lot of new clubs out there - though maybe not in your area. If you would like to change that, you’re going to have to have the money, time, and desire to learn about hunting.
Not all mounted foxhunting clubs are recognized by the MFHA. There are lots of farmers packs/private packs out there. Maybe not where you live, but they do exist. It’s doubtful they advertise their existence - few sporting clubs do. They’re private.
There are also plenty of coon hunters, night hunters (fox), bobcat, bear, etc. hunters.
If you like hunting with hounds, and mounted foxhunting isn’t available near you, why not hook up with other sportsmen and go hunt with them?
