Va. foxhound training preserves focus of meeting

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Proposed changes to fenced preserves where hounds are let loose on foxes are moving forward in Virginia.

The Board of Game and Inland Fisheries endorsed staff recommendations on Wednesday that would apply to nearly 40 foxhound training preserves, which are found primarily in Southside and southeast Virginia.

The vote came after critics called the so-called fox pens inhumane and asked that they be banned. Preserve owners were generally pleased with the changes, which are intended to give foxes more opportunities to elude hounds.

Operators say the foxes are treated humanely and the object of the preserves is the chase — not the capture of fox.

The board is expected to consider the recommended changes at its June meeting.