2024-2027 PKC Blue Book, Open Event and Pro Event Rules

This forum contains member questions concerning PKC rules and policies. The PKC staff will post official clarifications here.

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Jerry Moll
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2024-2027 PKC Blue Book, Open Event and Pro Event Rules

Postby Jerry Moll » Mon Nov 09, 2015 3:18 pm

To view the 2020-2023 Blue Book, click here: http://www.prohound.com/images/PDF/Blue ... k24-27.pdf

Both the PKC Open Event and PKC Pro Event Rules have been combined on the same pages.

To view or download a copy of the combined PKC Open Event and Pro Event Rules, click on the link below:

https://www.prohound.com/images/PDF/Blu ... s24-27.pdf

1. GENERAL DEFINITIONS
A. Professional Kennel Club, LLC - Referred to as PKC, will license clubs, events and Hunt Directors. PKC will keep records of winnings, issue championship degrees and maintain all championship qualification records. PKC reserves the right to be responsible for accounting and disbursing of proceeds, appointing judges, or determining winners of events. PKC reserves the right to withhold recognition of winners and may decline to license clubs and/or Hunt Directors for future events at their sole discretion. PKC reserves the right to appoint a member of PKC management to serve as Hunt Director and/or manage any event.
PRO: PKC Staff will serve as Hunt Director and will have complete authority over the event.

B. Sponsoring Club - The Sponsoring Club will be a Club, Organization, National, Breed or State Association licensed by PKC to conduct events. The club will have authority to conduct events, determine winners and disburse awards. The club will appoint a certified Hunt Director who will have authority over the event. The club must furnish guides for all casts and a qualified non-hunting judge for the final cast. The club will rule on all questions concerning their event via Question Panels. The club will report any instances of member misconduct in writing to PKC. The National Association and/or PKC reserve the right to correct gross errors at their discretion.
PRO: PKC Staff will serve as Hunt Director and will have complete authority over the event.

C. Hunt Director - The Host Club will appoint a "PKC Certified Hunt Director" for each event that will have the responsibility of selecting judges, guides, Question Panels and conducting events. (See Hunt Director Instructions for further information.)
PRO: PKC Staff will serve as Hunt Director.

D. Owner/Handler Membership Requirement/Agreement - Both handler and owner(s) must be current member(s) of the PKC National Association and be in good standing. By entering a PKC sanctioned event, the handler and owner(s) also agree to accept and abide by any decision(s) of the judge, Question Panel, Appeal Panel, Disciplinary Committee or PKC. Handlers and owners entering PKC events are expected to know, understand and comply with all PKC rules and policies contained herein as well as any changes, additions and/or deletions published in PROHOUND magazine or on the PKC website, prohound.com, which become effective on the date of publication unless otherwise stated. It is the responsibility of each handler to ensure that results of their cast are accurate and correct on the scorecard. The PKC rules and policies clearly outline appropriate steps to be taken by handlers who believe the judge and/or handlers are making scoring or other errors. Unless handler(s) follow these proper question, disqualification and/or disciplinary procedures in an appropriate and timely manner, handler(s) forfeit their rights to question the scorecard and/or have it corrected. PKC reserves the right to correct any error discovered, but bears no responsibility to change and/or correct any scorecard that has not been questioned in an appropriate and timely manner by cast member(s).

E. legal Hunter requirement – In order to compete in PKC Events, Handler must have a valid hunting license within their state of residence. Any PKC Member with a suspended or revoked hunting license will be suspended from PKC for the same duration.

F. Dog Registration Requirement - Any dog entered must meet PKC standards. It should be trained so as not to hinder other dog(s) in the cast. All dogs must be PKC registered in the true owner's name prior to hunting. Anyone guilty of falsely registering or falsely entering any dog with wrong papers may be scratched, fined, and/or placed on suspension and/or probation. Dog will not be under the influence of any drug that would alter his/her behavior or ability to hunt. The handler must allow his/her dog to be examined by a veterinarian, if requested, or be suspended indefinitely. All awards will be presented to the registered owner or handler of the dog.

2. GENERAL INFORMATION/NOTICES
A. Hold Harmless Clause - By entry in a PKC event you agree to hold PKC, PKC Employees, PKC National Association, Host Club, Judge, Guide, Panel Members and Hunt Director harmless in the event of accident, error, or misapplication of the rules. Any owner or handler may file a written complaint concerning actions of the sponsoring club. PKC will investigate the complaint and take necessary action, including but not limited to withholding recognition of winners, and/or refusing to license the club for future events.

B. Vehicles During Hunting Time - At no time and for no reason, will a cast be permitted to use any type of vehicle to travel to dogs during hunting time or to score pending trees after hunting time. If vehicles are used, time-out must be called, and all pending scores will be deleted.

C. Member Transportation - PKC and Host Clubs are not responsible for hunter's transportation to and from hunting grounds. Nor are they responsible for loss, accident, or theft suffered by anyone.

D. Abuse Of Dog - Dog abuse of any kind shall not be tolerated in connection with any PKC sanctioned events. This is meant to include the hunt site, traveling to and from the woods, before, during and after hunting time. This includes a handler attempting to influence their dog to perform, avoid minus points, or a scratching offense, but does not to include minor praising of a handled dog. Members witnessing dog abuse may file misconduct charges.

E. Muzzles - No dog will be allowed to compete wearing a muzzle during a cast.

F. Firearms - No person participating in a PKC sanctioned event will be allowed to have any type of firearms in his/her possession during hunting time or in the club house.

G. Wildlife Safety - No game may be killed or harmed during a PKC sanctioned event.

H. Controlled Substances - Use of alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs or any controlled substance shall not be permitted on the grounds or while participating in a PKC sanctioned event. Anyone under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs or any controlled substance will be refused entry and subject to disciplinary action, up to and including Indefinite Suspension or Membership Revocation.

3. JUDGE/GUIDE INFORMATION
A. Hunting Judge - Judges should be selected from the entrants the Hunt Director knows as the most qualified to conduct a cast. He/she should have a good knowledge of the sport and the ability to honestly judge the cast according to PKC rules. If possible, use judges who are not members of the sponsoring club and do not live in the local area. Club members and other PKC members who live in the local area should serve as hunting guides. After determining the number of judges needed, and selecting judges, contact each and ask if they will agree to serve. Extra effort should be given to teach hunters, new to PKC, how to judge a cast. Subject to the limitations and other rules contained herein, the judge will have complete control of the cast and will make all decisions. No handler may be allowed to serve as a judge while handling a dog that has been scratched twice within a twelve (12) month period for fighting. Any judge found to have deliberately scored any situation incorrectly for the benefit of any individual or dog shall be subject to disciplinary action.
PRO: No Hunting Judges.

B. Non-Hunting Judge - A non-hunting judge may be assigned to any early round Open Event cast at the discretion of the Hunt Director. The final cast must be assigned a qualified non-hunting judge. He/she will be an additional voting member of a cast and will have the same authority as a hunting Judge, and must be a current PKC member.
PRO: The non-hunting judge will have complete control of the cast and will make all decisions; no voting. Judge should go into each tree first, but together with handlers. PKC reserves the right to appoint an Assistant Judge on any cast.

C. Non-Hunting Cast Member - A Non-Hunting Cast Member may be assigned to any Open Event cast, including the final cast. He/she will be an additional voting member of a cast in the event of a question. The Non-Hunting Cast Member should be a current PKC member, but it is not required. The cast may be assigned a "Hunting Judge" and/or a "Non- Hunting Cast Member".

D. Open Event Voting - Each handler in an Open Event cast serves as a voting member. After the judge has made any decision, a request for a vote may be raised by any handler of the cast. Any handler who will not cast their vote concerning a question may be scratched from the cast. When four cast members vote 2-2 on the scoring of a judgment situation, the score will remain as the judge originally scored it. (This does not apply to the scoring of a tree.) Any cast member disagreeing with the results of a cast vote may post a question through the normal question procedure.
PRO: No voting by cast members.

E. Number Of Cast Members Required For Voting/Scoring - If one (1) member of a four (4) dog cast is scratched or withdraws with unanimous cast member permission and leaves the cast, the cast then becomes a three (3) dog cast with two (2) now being the majority of the cast required for voting. (No tree may be scored with less than three cast members present.) The scratched/withdrawn cast member leaving the cast cannot certify the scorecard for the remaining hunting time or scoring. Time remaining in the cast (if any) should be noted at the time it becomes a three (3) dog cast. Should any cast become less than a three (3) handler cast, time out must be called immediately. The Hunt Director or a member of the PKC Staff must be contacted to determine who should serve as the third required voting member of the cast.
*Note: A cast is not considered officially over until all pending trees are scored.
PRO: No Cast Member requirement.

F. Guide - Hunt Director should ask entrants if they are willing to guide their cast. All hunting and non-hunting guides used must be drawn to casts at random. Those selected as hunting guides must guide their cast without assistance from any other individual. The PKC Youth Program allows exceptions to this rule, please see Youth Program section. Hunting guides arranging for another person to guide their cast is strictly prohibited, violators must be reported and those involved are subject to disciplinary action. Hunting area should be close enough to allow the cast to complete the hunt and return to the clubhouse before the deadline. If possible, casting ground should be where the cast can compete safely for the entire hunt without calling timeout or moving. Clubs should use area "Hunting Guides" first, area "Non-Hunting Guides" second and out of area "Hunting Guides" as the third option. No person will be permitted to guide a cast in a raccoon controlled environment or enclosed pen.
PRO: May use a "Hunting Guide" or a "Non-Hunting Guide" on the qualifying rounds, but only "Non-Hunting Guides" may be used on semi-final and final round casts.

4. HANDLER INFORMATION
A. Sportsmanship Requirement - A handler must conduct himself/herself professionally and display sportsmanship at all times. A handler becoming loud, aggressive or belligerent may be scratched regardless of the merit of his/her argument. A handler displaying unsportsmanlike conduct at any time or failing to abide by these rules should be reported to the Hunt Director for disciplinary charges. The disciplinary committee may fine, place on probation, or suspend any member.

B. Remaining With Cast - Each handler shall be required to remain with the cast for the entire hunt, which includes scoring all pending trees, even though his/her dog may no longer be a part of the cast, unless all remaining handlers agree to his/her leaving. A handler may not leave the cast for any reason except to go to his dog on a separate tree after the tree is closed. Departing from a cast without unanimous cast member permission and/or leaving it with less than the three (3) cast member at all times requirement, may subject the exiting handler to disciplinary charges. The judge may give a handler permission to leave the cast to search for his/her dog during timeout. A cast is not considered officially over until all pending trees are scored.
PRO: Handlers are not required to stay with cast after their dog is withdrawn or scratched.

C. Dog Withdrawn By Handler - No handler may withdraw their dog without first handling it, unless all cast members and judge unanimously agree and give permission. If any cast member objects to the dog being withdrawn, he/she must state a legitimate reason as to how it could negatively affect the outcome of the cast. Handler(s) objecting for an invalid reason may be subject to disciplinary action.

D. Changing Handlers - It is permitted to change handlers on a dog between rounds at any PKC Event under Open or Pro Rules. However, when the handler of a dog is changed from one round to the next, neither handler involved will be credited handler earnings for that specific dog's winnings at that particular hunt.

E. Handler Interference - Any owner or handler found guilty of interfering with another owner or handler's dog in any way that would affect his/her ability to compete may be scratched and subject to disciplinary action.

F. Controlling Dog - A handler may not scold, encourage, or punish his/her dog at any time (including time-outs) during any PKC sanctioned event. This includes a handler attempting to influence their dog to perform, avoid minus points, or a scratching offense, but does not to include minor praising of a handled dog.

G. Scorecard Inspection - A handler may inspect the scorecard at any time, provided judge is not in the process of scoring dog(s).

H. Handler's Spectators - Spectators may go to the woods on early (qualifying) round casts if agreeable by the majority of cast members. Spectators may stay at the vehicles on early (qualifying) round casts if agreeable by ALL cast members. Spectators will not be allowed on late round casts or semi-final casts unless agreeable by ALL cast members and non-hunting judge. Spectators may shine trees if agreeable by ALL cast members. Handlers shall be responsible for the conduct of their spectators at all times.

5. TRACKING/TRAINING COLLARS
A. Tracking Systems - Tracking Receiver/Transmitter (handhelds) paired with collars that are not capable of producing any type of tone, vibration or electronic stimulation may be powered on and used at all times. Audio alerts on tracking receivers (handhelds) must be muted. No device that is capable of producing any type of tone, vibration, or electronic stimulation may be attached to any dog at any time. Handlers must allow the Judge to check their tracking system for any electronic stimulation, vibration, or tone capability at any time. Checking may include powering on a handler's equipment and inspecting it for verification. Anyone found to have modified tracking or training equipment to disguise electronic tone or stimulation capability will be scratched and if found guilty by a disciplinary panel, will serve no less than a one-year suspension. These rules are to be strictly enforced. Any time a handler is scratched for tracking/training equipment infractions; misconduct charges MUST be filed and sent to PKC.

Tracking System Use during the cast is intended for the personal use of the handler and the safety of the handler's dog only. No information obtained from tracking devices will be permitted for use in scoring situations in the woods or at panel question hearings. As always, dog(s) must be heard before handler(s) can make a call and all time-out rules and requirements still apply.

B. Training Systems - No device that is capable of producing any type of tone, vibration, or electronic stimulation may be attached to any dog at any time. Handlers must allow the Judge to check their tracking system for any electronic stimulation, vibration, or tone capability at any time. Checking may include powering on a handler's equipment and inspecting it for verification. Anyone found to have modified tracking or training equipment to disguise electronic tone or stimulation capability will be scratched and if found guilty by a disciplinary panel, will serve no less than a one-year suspension. These rules are to be strictly enforced. Any time a handler is scratched for tracking/training equipment infractions; misconduct charges MUST be filed and sent to PKC.

C. Dummy Collars - Dogs may not wear a Dummy Collar or an inactive Training Collar during hunting time at any PKC Event.

D. Training Scents - No dog(s) or handler(s) shall be permitted to use or wear training, breaking or any other scent to encourage or discourage their dog or other cast members dogs at PKC events. This is to include the use of scented breaking collars and/or other natural scents that may be used to distract other dogs, and interfere with their ability to compete. Any violation of this rule will cause the dog to be scratched and could result in disciplinary action being taken against all members involved in such violation.

6. TAKING ENTRIES/DRAWING CASTS
A. Drawing For Casts - It is very important that all judges draw their cast. (See Cast Drawing Procedure in Hunt Director Instructions) Dogs with owners and/or handlers in common are required to draw separate casts when possible. Senior Citizens, Youth Hunters, and Pups may be permitted to draw separate casts at Open Events large enough to accommodate each, but there must be a minimum of four (4) participants, and the special cast cannot cause the creation of an additional cast. All Open Event Senior Citizens, Youth, and Pup Casts must be full four (4) dog casts only. Hunt Director may use his/her discretion when implementing Senior Citizen, Youth Hunter, and Pup casts.
PRO: Each handler will draw for their own cast.

B. Announce Hunting Time - In all Open Events with more than sixteen (16) dogs, early round casts will be required to hunt the entire scheduled hunting time. In a late round cast of a two (2) hour hunt, the majority of cast members may agree to hunt only one (1) hour. In a late round cast of a one (1) hour hunt, the cast may hunt no more than one (1) hour. In Open or Pro Event final casts, the agreed upon hunting time must be completed for placement. If there is an agreement to split later, except for more than one dog being tied at end of cast, all final cast members will receive an equal share of awards.
PRO: In PKC Elimination Hunts, all casts will hunt the scheduled hunting time or until a cast winner has been determined. Cast members may, by unanimous vote, choose to hunt less than scheduled hunting time. There may be times, in which after a question panel's ruling, there will not be enough time to complete two hours of hunting and make the deadline. In these cases, the Hunt Director will have the authority to set a cast completion time (if any) allowing the cast to meet the deadline and the cast winner to advance to the next round of competition. If a cast is in the questioning or appeal process when the deadline expires, the cast winner, following the result of the question/appeal, will advance.

C. If Sixteen (16) Entries Or Less - In all Open Events with four (4) casts or less, individual casts are permitted to hunt less than the scheduled hunting time if all cast members agree.

D. Announce Sunrise For Late Round - No Open Event cast may be extended beyond sunrise. Time of sunrise should be determined, announced by Hunt Director, and recorded on the scorecard prior to late round casts leaving for hunting grounds.
PRO: No Pro cast to be extended more than one (1) hour beyond sunrise.

E. Entry Refusal/Barring Individuals From Club - PKC and/or a sponsoring club has the right to refuse entry to any owner, handler or dog for just cause including, but not limited to violent behavior, under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs at the event. However, no owner or handler may be refused entry or barred from a club on the basis of religion, race, color, national origin, sex, physical impairment, or their status with another registry or club. A PKC member may be barred from a specific host club for just cause only. Prior to any member being barred from a club, the club must first contact the PKC staff with details surrounding the accused member. A hearing for the accused member with club officers and/or board members will be scheduled at the club. The accused member and PKC must be notified and invited in writing via certified letter more than ten (10) days in advance of the hearing. PKC reserves the right to attend and/or send a representative to the hearing. Following the hearing and club decision, the accused member must be notified of his/her status in writing via certified mail. Copies of all correspondence between the club and the accused member(s) must be provided to PKC. PKC reserves the right to uphold or deny this barring action based upon the evidence provided.

7. BEGINNING THE HUNT
A. One (1) Minute Rule - Each time dog(s) is turned loose, the handler has a one (1) minute grace period in which their dog does not have to be called. After the one (1) minute period, the dog should be called struck on or before the third bark.

B. Time Keeping - Judges should insure that all time keeping is accurate and that all cast members are informed when any time-keeping rule is started or stopped on any dog(s).

C. Call Acknowledgment - The judge will acknowledge each handler's call by repeating the dog's name and number of points awarded for every strike and tree call made.

D. Staying Within Hearing Distance - When dog(s) are turned loose, the cast should walk slowly in the direction the guide wishes to hunt. All cast members must walk at a pace that all handlers can maintain. After the dog(s) are struck, the cast will attempt to remain as close to the dog(s) as possible at all times, keeping them within hearing distance. If cast is unable to keep all dog(s) within hearing range, the judge may apply the time-out rule, approved by majority vote.
Note: In this situation, if the six-minute rule has already been applied, calling time is not an option until the six-minutes has expired and the struck dogs have their minus points recorded.
PRO: No majority vote needed for judge to call time-out.

E. Keeping Cast Together - The cast must stay together and all cast members will go to all trees unless dogs are treed in different places. All cast members must walk at a pace that all handlers can maintain. Handlers should allow judge to reach tree first. Dog(s) declared treed must be showing tree. A handler may leave the cast to go to a split tree when time is up or when all dogs have been declared treed (except in a one-dog cast). A minimum of three cast members must be present to score each tree. A handler going to a split tree must leash his/her dog and wait for at least two (2) more members of the cast to come and score the tree. Any handler leaving the cast except to go to a separate tree may be scratched from the cast.
PRO: Only the judge is required to score each tree, however, every effort should be made to show all handlers the coon. Handlers going to a split trees must leash dog and wait for judge.

F. Intentional Mishandling - A handler must compete to the best of his/her and his/her dog's ability. Any handler intentionally handling his/her dog in such a way as to allow or help another hound or handler to win will be subject to disciplinary action.

G. Use Of Lights - A handler may not use his/her light to help control dog(s) or shine trees except upon the direction of the judge. He/she must turn the light off at the request of the judge. Dogs may wear lighted collars for safety. Handlers may be scratched for using lighted collars in such a way to control their dog or other handler’s dogs. Before a handler turns on a lighted collar during the cast, we suggest he/she inform the other cast members first, to avoid any confusion.

8. POINT SYSTEM
A. Strike Points - Only one set of strike points, 100 points for the dog struck first, 75 points second, 50 points third and 25 points fourth. All dogs must be loose and competing for strike in order for 100 strike points to be available. When dog(s) are re-struck after being scored plus, minus, circle or deleted they may only be re-struck for 25 points, unless all dogs are competing for 100 strike points, or the minus was for a miscall.
*Note: 50 strike points are never available in a two-dog "heads up" cast.

Striking After Dog Declared Treed - Dog(s) cannot receive scoreable strike points if not struck before the first dog is declared treed unless it does not tree on that particular tree. However, the dog(s) may receive tree points if it trees on that particular tree within the five (5) minutes. Any dog called struck after a dog has been called treed will have its strike points recorded with a line under them indicating that a dog was called treed before the dog was called struck. Strike points will be deleted
if the dog is handled on the same tree.

B. Tree Points - 100 points for the dog treed first, 75 points second, 50 points third and 25 points fourth. Thirty (30) seconds after the first dog is called treed, the second tree will be closed. After one (1) minute the third tree will be closed. All dog(s) called treed after one (1) minute will receive 25 points. Dog(s) called treed after the expiration of the five (5) minutes will be recorded for 100, but will have these tree points deleted if handled on the closed tree.

C. Split Points - Strike and/or tree points shall be split when positions called by handlers cannot be clearly identified by judge.

9. TREE RULES
A. Five (5) Minute Rule - When a dog is declared treed, that dog must have opened immediately preceding the call and he must remain treed for a period of five (5) minutes unless all dogs are declared treed. Any dog hunting alone in a single-dog cast must remain treed for a period of five (5) minutes as well. A dog may not be called treed unless it has already been called struck. Should any handler call a dog treed that has not been declared struck, judge should ignore tree call and advise handler that dog has not yet been struck. The cast should begin walking toward treed dog(s) as soon as possible, but not later than two (2) minutes after the first dog was called treed.

B. Listening For Dog(s) - The cast should stop when requested by handlers to listen for their dog until five (5) minutes are up.

C. Movement On Tree - Judges will pay careful attention to the location of dog(s) called treed to be sure the dog(s) do not move. If in doubt as to whether or not the dog is moving, it is best to hold the cast in place to watch and listen for movement.

D. Dog Treed On Closed Tree - Any dog declared treed after a tree is closed must receive 100 tree points. If the dog is handled on the previously closed tree, its tree points will be deleted.

E. Separate Tree - Handlers should not call treed for a separate (split) tree. The judge should award separate (split) tree points as soon as he/she is sure the dog(s) is/are on a separate tree(s). If dog(s) are found to be on separate trees upon arrival of cast, refer to tree points rules.

F. Proceeding To Tree - When all dogs have been declared treed, handlers may proceed to the tree even though five (5) minutes are not up, except in a one dog cast. Handlers may proceed to split trees when all trees are closed.

G. Dog Coming To Meet Handler - As the cast is arriving at the tree, dog should not be minused tree points for coming back a short distance to meet the handler if it goes directly back and trees satisfactorily. However, the dog should be minused if it is seen not showing tree, is trailing or checking other trees.

H. Scoring The Tree - After the judge has determined which dog(s) are showing tree and which dog(s), if any, are off tree, dog(s) should be leashed and the tree scored. Any dog coming in and showing interest in tree while scoring will be leashed. Shining time will be announced and started when the judge is in position to score the tree. The handler with the most to gain on a tree, strike and tree points combined, should be allowed to search the tree for the first two minutes alone at their option and then all handlers may search. Eight (8) minutes of hunting time may be used to search a tree up until the tree has been scored. No game may be scored prior to dog(s) being handled, the judge starting the eight minutes or after the eight (8) minute shining period has expired. Handlers may blow squallers, pull vines, etc. during the entire shining period. No time-out may be called to search a tree, leading away from a tree, or between split trees. All dogs leashed at the tree must remain leashed until they can be released toward other trailing dog(s) or a fresh re-casting area if no dog(s) are on trail.

I. Connecting Trees - If an additional tree(s) is clearly connected to the tree being scored, it will be scored as one tree. This determination should be made by the judge before shining time starts. There should be an obvious avenue the raccoon could have traveled to meet the connecting requirement, not just lightly touching leaves or twigs.

J. Scoring Trees Out Of Order – ONLY when all dogs have been declared treed, or after hunt time has expired, but with some on split trees, trees will be scored in the most convenient order. Once the process has started of scoring dogs in a different order in which they were declared treed, all dogs must remain on leash until all trees have been scored.

K. Recasting After Scoring Tree - After scoring a tree, lead handled dog(s) one (1) minute. At that point if all dogs are on leash or if no dogs are struck in, dog(s) should be released and a new set of strike points opened up. If other dog(s) are struck in, but not opening, the six (6) minute rule will then be applied to them. Do not start six (6) minute rule until after walking the required one (1) minute from tree. Leashed dog(s) should be released when one (1) of the struck dogs opens, or if a dog at large opens and is declared struck. If no dog opens for six (6) minutes, except when cast has walked out of hearing of trailing dogs, all strike points will be minused. All leashed dog(s) should then be released and a new set of strike points opened up. After scoring a tree and walking a minute, do not release handled dog(s) when:
(1) All other dogs have been declared treed.
(2) The six minute rule is working on trailing dog(s).
(3) The two minute rule is working on treed dog(s) and no struck dog(s) are opening.
(4) Cast had walked out of hearing of trailing dog(s) to score the tree.
(5) Less than six minutes remain in the cast and struck dog(s) are not opening.

L. Going Out Of Hearing Of Trailing Dog(s) To Score Tree - When a cast walks out of hearing of trailing dog(s) to score a tree, the cast should return to the area where the dog(s) were last heard. If dog(s) are not heard within six (6) minutes, points will be deleted and the time-out rule applied or the handler(s) may receive minus strike points and continue the cast at their option. If handlers with struck dogs are unable to reach a unanimous decision, time-out will be called.
Note: If dog(s) trail away from the cast this rule does not apply. This rule applies only when cast walks out of hearing of trailing dog(s) to score tree(s).

10. PLUS POINTS
A. Raccoon Scoring Requirements - When a dog strikes and trees, and a coon is seen by a majority of the cast, dog's points will be plus. A minimum of three (3) cast members must be present at every tree before scoring begins. If only three (3) members of a four (4) dog cast go to a tree, all three (3) must agree on the scoring of the tree. Only one (1) raccoon is counted even if more than one (1) is up the tree.

(1) Night vision and/or heat sensing binocular or monocular scopes may be used as an aid to determine the location of raccoon or off-game in thick or leafy trees. The majority of the cast under Open Event Rules, or non-hunting judge under Pro Rules, must first verify if there is game (raccoon or off-game) before scoring.

(2) A mirror, phone or camera may be used as an aid to see a raccoon or off-game in a den, hole, log or other place of refuge where a visual obstruction exists. The majority of the cast under Open Event Rules, or non-hunting judge under Pro Rules, must first verify if there is game (raccoon or off-game) before scoring. Scoring disagreements may be voted on and questioned via the normal process.
PRO: Only the non-hunting judge is required to score the coon.

B. Place Of Refuge - When dog(s) are declared struck and treed and a coon is seen (out of contact with dog) in a place of refuge other than a tree, the dog(s) declared treed will receive plus strike and tree points. Dog(s) not declared treed and handled at the place of refuge to receive plus strike points only. If off game is seen, minus strike and tree points of dog(s) dogs declared treed and strike points of dogs not declared treed and handled at the place of refuge.

C. Game Caught On Ground — When dog(s) catch or bay game the cast should advance and investigate immediately. No tree points may be awarded for game caught on the ground or anywhere dogs are in contact with game. Dog(s) declared treed will have tree points deleted. Dog(s) involved will have strike points scored plus for coon and minus for off-game. If game is dead and obviously aged (not freshly killed), all points will be deleted.

11. MINUS POINTS
A. Babbling - Dog(s) to receive minus strike points when determined to be babbling. Strike points (positions) minused for babbling, will then be available to all handlers. Dog(s) continually barking after being released and struck where no track is evident may be considered babbling. Dog(s) declared struck within the first minute after being released must show that it is taking a track out of the area and not false barking.

B. Failure To Call Dog - When judge has determined that a dog has opened three (3) times after the first minute without being struck, he/she will ask for a call. If the handler fails to call the dog struck on the next bark, judge will award the next available strike points and minus them. If the dog continues to open he must be struck after the next three (3) barks or the same process will be repeated.

C. Calling A Dog That Has Not Opened - A dog called struck (or treed) must have opened immediately preceding the call. If any handler calls his/her dog that has not opened or calls another handler's dog, the judge will award the points and minus them. If two or more handlers strike or tree the same dog on the same bark(s) in an attempt to earn the same number of points, the handler(s) calling the wrong dog will be minused the same number of points as they were attempting to gain. These points, minused on a handler miscall, will then be available to all handlers.

D. Six (6) Minute Rule - If dogs declared struck do not open within six (6) minutes, all strike points will be minused.

E. Quitting Trail - When a dog quits a trail, strike points will be minused. When a dog strikes back on a trail that is being worked, he will receive a maximum of 25 points, unless all dogs are competing for 100 strike points.

F. Two (2) Minute Rule - After dog(s) are declared treed, at least one (1) of the dogs on that tree must bark at least once every two (2) minutes or be minused.
Note: If no struck dogs are barking through the Two Minute Rule, the Six Minute Rule must run simultaneously. In this case, continue with Six Minute Rule until a struck dog barks or another four minutes expires.

G. Leaving Tree - When a dog has been declared treed and the dog leaves the tree, its tree points will be minused. If dog continues on trail, its strike points remain live. If the dog returns to the tree before the tree is closed, handler may re-tree for next available position on the tree.

H. Treeing Empty Tree - When dog(s) tree and the cast can plainly see that no coon is there and there is no place in the tree, or place of refuge, for one to be hiding.

I. Dog(s) Coming Into PLUS OR OFF-GAME Tree - Any dog handled but not declared treed at a tree that is being scored or has just been scored prior to treed dog(s) being led away to recast will have their strike points minused if coon or off game is scored unless dog(s) was declared struck after the first dog on this tree was declared treed.

J. Off Game - Any game that is not a raccoon or a wild winged animal is considered "off game". For dog(s) treeing "off game", both strike and tree points will be minus. Any dog handled, but not declared treed at a tree or place of refuge where "off-game" is seen will receive minus strike points unless declared struck after the first dog treed. Dog(s) seen catching or baying off game on the ground will receive minus strike points and deleted tree points if called treed. If dog(s) are seen to be running off game, their strike points will be minused and struck back in for 25 points.

K. Running Fast Game - When one (1) or more dogs leave on a fast moving trail and the cast is unable to keep close enough to effectively judge the dog(s), the judge will minus the dog(s) and apply the time-out rule. Any dog(s) not running a fast moving trail will receive deleted strike points.

12. CIRCLE POINTS
Points will be circled when a dog strikes and trees up a tree or other place of refuge where there could be a coon, yet no coon and no off game is seen. No trees should be climbed; however, every reasonable effort should be made to score a dog. Stepping up on a stump, log or fork of a tree is not considered climbing. Any handler has the right to search a hole that any dog is called treed in. Under no circumstances can strike points be circled unless they are connected to circle tree points.

13. DELETED POINTS
A. Delete Points Under These Conditions:
(1) Strike and tree points of dog(s) returning to a tree previously scored on.
(2) Strike points of dog(s) struck, but not declared treed, at the point hunting time expires.
(3) Strike and tree points of dog(s) if time-out must be called.
(4) Strike and tree points of dog(s) if they must be called off because of livestock or nearness of a highway, buildings, etc.
(5) Strike and tree points of dog(s) whose scores are altered through interference of a person or dog(s) that are not members of the cast.

B. DOG(S) COMING INTO CIRCLED OR SLICK TREE - Any dog(s) handled but not declared treed at a tree that is being scored or has just been scored prior to treed dog(s) being led away to recast will have their strike points deleted if tree is scored circle or slick (empty).

C. Dog Treed On Dead Tree - When dog is called treed after five (5) minutes are up on a tree, dog will receive 100 points. These points will be deleted if it is in fact treed on the dead tree.

D. Scoring Dead Game — Dogs declared treed on or handled at a tree containing a dead raccoon or dead off game will have all strike and tree points deleted unless live game is also seen in the tree. If live game is also seen, score in accordance with plus and minus points rules.

E. Scoring Game In Cage/Trap – If dogs have been declared treed and are found baying or treeing raccoon or off game that is in a cage or trap, strike and tree points for all dogs involved will be deleted.

F. Dangerous Obstacle/Deep Water - When dog(s) are treed across deep water or any other dangerous obstacle, after all efforts to reach dog(s) have been exhausted and the cast cannot reach dog(s), all points should be deleted and the time-out rule applied. Under no circumstances should any cast member attempt to cross water deep enough to require swimming. If occurring after hunt has expired, delete dogs that cannot be scored, score any other dogs that have been declared treed and can be scored safely.

G. Squirrel Rule - If a squirrel is seen in a tree while the tree is being scored and there is a bed or hole in the tree large enough to conceal a raccoon, strike and tree points of dog(s) handled at this tree will be deleted.

H. Tie Vote On Scoring Tree Circle Or Minus - In an Open Event cast with two (2) members voting to circle a tree and two (2) members voting to minus a tree, strike and tree points of all dog(s) handled at this tree will be deleted.
PRO: No voting by cast members.

14. DOGS/HANDLERS MAY BE SCRATCHED FROM CAST
Dog(s) or handlers may be scratched for interfering with another dog or handler's ability to compete. If an unintentional error has been made by a judge or handler which has done no harm to other handlers and/or dog(s), every effort should be made to rectify the situation in ways other than scratching. No handler shall be scratched for following a judge's instructions, even if these instructions are later determined to be in error. If not for a specific reason outlined below, dog(s) and/or handlers should be scratched only as a last resort. Every effort should be made to allow dog(s) and handlers to compete for the entire cast. Specific reasons to scratch are as follows:

A. Fighting/Aggression - Any dog snarling, growling, or coming off a tree toward another dog will be scratched. A dog with its hackles turned up, growling and fussing will be scratched. Equal consideration should be given regarding scratching a dog showing aggression while hunting, as well as, one who is treed. A dog may be scratched when observed in an altercation with another dog. When the aggressor(s) is known, scratch the aggressor(s), when unknown, scratch all dogs involved. No dog should be scratched for fighting while under the control of his/her handler (on leash, in a truck, etc.) or because of another dog previously scratched or withdrawn but not handled. However, a dog may be scratched after hunting time has expired should it be involved in the scoring of a pending tree.
(1) Open Event Requirement To Scratch For Fighting - Dog(s) may be scratched for fighting by the judge and one (1) other cast member or a majority of the cast in an Open Event.
(2) Pro Event Requirement To Scratch For Fighting - Non-hunting judge only is required to scratch a dog. It is preferable that all cast members go into each tree with judge, but if having difficulty catching fighting dogs, judge may go in alone.
(3) Judge may put any dog(s) under warning that he/she suspects is causing trouble without scratching the dog(s). Judges are not required to see dog(s) showing aggression in order to place that dog(s) under a warning. In any subsequent altercation where the aggressor dog is not known, but an altercation is observed, the dog(s) under warning shall be scratched with the other dog(s) involved being permitted to remain in the cast under warning.
(4) No handler will be allowed to withdraw his/her dog to avoid being "scratched for fighting". Any cast member(s) found guilty of allowing another cast member(s) to withdraw to avoid being scratched for fighting may be subject to disciplinary actions.

B. Babbling - Dog(s) guilty of false barking (babbling) will be minused on the first offense and scratched on the second offense.

C. Undeserved Points - Any handler making a deliberate attempt to gain undeserved points or avoid deserved minus points or deserved scratch, will be scratched. This also includes making a deliberate attempt to assign another handler undeserved minus points or an undeserved scratch.

D. Livestock - Molesting, running, baying or treeing livestock.

E. Handler Misconduct - Any handler becoming unreasonable, aggressive or presenting his/her ideas in a forceful manner may be scratched. A handler may be scratched by the judge and one other cast member or a majority of the cast. The decision is final and cannot be questioned. Handlers scratched for misconduct will be reported to the Hunt Director.
PRO: Non-hunting judge only is required to scratch a handler.

F. Sexual Behavior - Females smelling strong enough to attract male dog(s), or any dog exhibiting sexual behavior instead of hunting during the progress of the cast will be scratched. If it is not possible to determine which dog is responsible for the behavior, both may be scratched.

G. Stationary Rule - Any dog continually barking in the same place for a period of six (6) minutes will be scratched, unless called treed. This rule is to apply to a dog obviously barking treed. If a dog should pause for more than two (2) minutes or leave the area, break the six (6). If it returns, a new stationary rule will be started. If the six (6) minute rule is being applied to a dog and another dog is called treed in the same place, the six (6) minute rule will be broken. If it is later determined that the dog(s) are treed on separate trees, a new stationary rule will be started on the dog(s) not called treed. If judge is heading to or in the process of scoring another tree, the stationary rule should be stopped. Handler(s) must be advised any time the stationary rule is being applied on his/her dog and that it will be scratched unless declared treed. Anytime the stationary rule has been running for four (4) minutes or more and dog(s) stops barking, the two (2) minute rule should be applied. Should six (6) minute rule expire before two (2) minutes expires and dog resumes barking, handler(s) should be permitted to make a tree call provided call is made within the next three barks the dog makes.

H. Not Hunting, Fifteen (15) Minute Rule - Dog(s) failing to go hunting during any fifteen (15) minute period of hunting time will be scratched. The handler has the right to walk any dog not hunting in the direction the guide wishes to hunt. If dog is handled at a tree during this fifteen (15) minute period, the time should be paused and then continued after dog is recast. A dog must be gone for five (5) minutes to be considered hunting, unless the hunt expires. Anytime a dog(s) is called struck that has opened, the fifteen (15) minute rule will be broken.

I. Delay - Unreasonable delay in completion of the cast.

J. Returning To A Tree - Dog(s) may be handled at a scored tree a second time without being scratched. However, any dog handled at the same tree three (3) times will be scratched, whether declared treed or not. If dog(s) are handled at the same tree the third time after hunting time has expired, they will not be scratched unless they had been previously declared treed during hunting time.

K. Unsolicited Advice - Any handler offering unsolicited advice to the Judge concerning the scoring of dog(s) while he/she is considering his/her call will be scratched on the second offense. Judge must warn the handler on the first offense and scratch on second offense. Judge must be free to make his/her decision concerning the scoring of dog(s) without being under pressure from handlers to make a certain call. Any handler is free to question the judge's decision after he/she has made his/her call, or has not made a call that the handler feels he/she should have made, in accordance with the questioning procedure.

L. Handler Leaving Cast - Any handler leaving the cast, except to go to a separate tree, will be scratched from the cast.

M. Outside Assistance - Any handler attempting to use assistance and/or communication from outside of the cast in an effort to gain an unfair advantage will be scratched and reported to PKC for disciplinary review

N. Controlling Dog - Any handler attempting to correct or influence their dog to perform, avoid minus points, or a scratching offense, will be scratched from the cast. This is not meant to include minor praising of a handled dog.

15. TIME-OUT
A majority of the cast must agree on time-out. Unless absolutely necessary, time-out should not be called unless all dog(s) are close enough to be handled. If time-out is called, it will apply to all dog(s) in the cast. Time-out will be a maximum of one (1) hour. Less than one (1) hour, by majority vote of cast members, may be allowed, if necessary, to make the deadline at the club. A place for handlers to return must be designated. At the end of time-out, handlers must have their dog in hand at the predetermined location and be ready for recasting.
PRO: Non-hunting judge only will make all time-out decisions.

A. Time-Out May Be Called For The Following Reasons:
(1) When dog(s) or cast members are getting near a place of danger. (highway, gunshots fired, posted property, etc) If occurring after hunt has expired, delete dogs that cannot be scored, score any other dogs that have been declared treed and can be scored safely.
(2) When dog(s) not in the cast are working a trail or tree with cast members' dog(s). All scores by cast members' dog(s) will stand unless altered by dog(s) outside the cast.
(3) If new ground must be found to finish the cast.
(4) In case of accident or sickness.
(5) If the scratching of a dog or handler is questioned, immediately note the remaining hunting time on the scorecard, score all pending trees, delete pending strikes not connected to trees and then call time-out to get the question resolved before continuing the cast.
(6) If vehicles are used, time-out must be called, and all pending scores will be deleted.

16. QUESTIONS
A. Proper Procedure For Question - Any handler has the right to question the scoring of any dog in the cast. Questions must be submitted to the judge and remaining cast members at the time of the disagreement to be resolved by a cast vote. If any cast member is dissatisfied with the result of the cast vote may bring the question to a Question Panel to be heard after the cast is finished by placing a deposit of $25 with the judge at the time of the question. Handler may sign an IOU on the back of the scorecard, which must be paid before question is heard or forfeited. Questions must be placed on the scorecard at the time the dog is scored or should have been scored. No deposit is required when a four dog Open Event cast has voted (2-2) and does not have a majority.
PRO: No votes to be taken, $25 question only.

B. No Refund - Any $25 question deposit placed with a judge in the woods will not be refunded later if the handler changes his/her mind. However, the handler may choose to drop the question and forfeit the deposit. If another handler disagrees with the dropping of a question, he/she may pick up the question by depositing $25 with the judge, if done so immediately. Handler may sign an IOU on the back of the scorecard, which must be paid before question is heard or forfeited.

C. Returning For Question Presentation - A cast may not return to the clubhouse to have a question heard until hunting time is completed unless the question pertains to a dog or handler being scratched (or not) from the cast. If the scratching of a dog or handler is questioned, immediately note the remaining hunting time on the scorecard, score all pending trees, delete pending strikes not connected to trees and then call time-out to get the question resolved before continuing the cast.

D. Question Panel Selection - Any panel required for a question will be selected by the Hunt Director. Panel members should be current PKC members; however, the best qualified personnel available who have no interest in the outcome of the cast should be used even if they are not PKC members.

E. Question Panel Hearing - The Hunt Director will assemble a panel of three (3) qualified people to hear the question. The handler with a question should quote the rule violation to the Question Panel whenever possible. The Question Panel Chairman should show the rule used to reach their decision to all cast members. If the panel finds in favor of the question, the deposit will be returned and the scorecard changed to reflect the change. If the panel finds against the question, the deposit will be forfeited. The panel's decision is final, unless appealed.

F. Panel Hearing Conduct - All cast members and panel members are required to conduct themselves professionally during panel hearings. The panel members will call upon each cast member to speak, one at a time. While one cast member speaks, all other cast members are to remain respectful and quiet. Raised voices, vulgar, threatening, intimidating or insulting language will not be tolerated. Violators should be warned once, but if they continue, should be immediately excused from the panel hearing, possibly scratched from the cast and misconduct charges filed by the panel.

G. Re-Hunting A Portion Of The Cast - There are very rare occurrences where irreparable mistakes have been made during the course of a cast that cannot be remedied by the normal Question Panel Process. In these unusual cases, it is possible for a Question Panel to delete a portion of the hunting time and require that portion of the cast to be re-hunted. However, under no circumstances will time be deleted and re-hunted without clear evidence of obvious hindrance to handlers and or/dogs to compete equally.

H. Appeal Of A Question Panel's Decision - Any cast member who believes a panel has made a gross misapplication of a rule may request an appeal of the panel's decision by immediately placing a $100 deposit with the Panel Chairman or Hunt Director. Hunt Director should then contact a member of PKC management for a determination of the validity of the appeal request. If the cast member can quote the specific rule violation and explain the gross error to the contacted PKC Representative, the appeal request will be considered. If the appeal request is accepted it will be passed on to a panel consisting of PKC Staff and/or PKC National Directors for a decision. If the appeal panel upholds the question panel's decision, the $100 deposit will be forfeited. Only if the appeal is accepted and the appeal panel overturns the question panel's decision will the $100 deposit be returned to the cast member. If the appeal panel overturns the original panel's decision the host club may request a detailed explanation if written request is received by PKC within ten days.
*NOTE: Expect the appeal process to consume a substantial amount of time.

I. Frivolous Questions - Following the Question and/or Appeal process the Question Panel and/or Appeal Panel Chairman may report the questioning handler to the PKC Disciplinary Committee for disciplinary review if he/she believes the question brought forth was frivolous, deceitful or malicious in nature. Special consideration will be given to those handlers being reported more than once.

J. Panel Returning To A Tree – This procedure is reserved only for the purpose of correcting the deliberate, improper scoring of a tree and penalizing those involved in doing so. This procedure is not for trees that could be scored either way or may be considered a mere difference of opinion. In order for this option to be exercised, the tree must be questioned at the time of scoring to be brought before a Question Panel. If the questioning cast member loses their initial question with the panel at the club, he/she may request that the panel return to the woods to view the tree by placing a $100 deposit with the Panel Chairman.

1. The Question Panel will consider the appeal request based upon all judge and cast member testimony. If through this cast member testimony, it is evident that the question relates to a tree that could be scored either way, or may be considered a mere difference of opinion, the Question Panel may deny the appeal at their discretion and return the $100 deposit

2. If the Question Panel believes there is merit to the cheating accusation brought forth by the questioning cast member, they may choose to accept the appeal they must call a member of the PKC Staff before proceeding any further. PKC management must first approve any appeal request, before the Question Panel may leave for the woods. At any time before the Question Panel leaves the club to go look at the tree, the questioning cast member may drop their appeal request and have their $100 returned to them with no penalty.

3. If the PKC Staff approves the appeal, the cast members and Question Panel may leave for the woods. Once everyone arrives at the tree and all cast members and judge have verified and agree that it is the correct tree, the cast members and judge should be excused to allow only the three Question Panel Members to look at the tree and make their decision uninterrupted.

4. Once the Question Panel makes their decision on the questioned tree, their decision is final and the scorecard will be changed if required. At this point, every cast member and every Question Panel member must fill out a statement in writing, or typing, to PKC for the disciplinary investigation.

5. If the panel inspecting the tree finds the original scoring to be correct, or that the tree's scoring was or could be a mere difference of opinion, the $100 deposit will be forfeited, the scorecard will not be changed and the questioning handler will be automatically charged with misconduct (no exceptions).

6. If the panel inspecting the tree determines that there was blatant and intentional wrongdoing, the scorecard will be changed, the $100 will be refunded and the offending handler(s) will automatically be charged with misconduct (no exceptions).

7. Handlers found guilty, in either circumstance, will be required to serve a minimum of three (3) months suspension and will be assessed a fine of $250 on their first offense. All fines must be paid before the suspension period begins. All forfeited deposits and fine money in these cases will go directly to the PKC Youth Program's Escrow Account.

8. In the event a question panel returns to a tree for scoring, PKC Management reserves the right to extend the deadline for the cast(s) involved or affected by the panel decision in any championship or elimination type event.

K. Handler Signing Scorecard In Gray Area - Any cast member(s) who believes that the scoring of a situation is drastically wrong and cannot be corrected by the normal voting and questioning process have the option of signing in the gray to possibly disqualify the cast. Two (2) cast members of a four (4) dog cast must sign in the gray to disqualify the cast. Only one (1) member of a three (3) dog cast is required to sign the gray to disqualify the cast. In order to exercise this option, the cast member(s) requesting to sign in the gray must first notify the other cast members at the time the situation occurs. At this point, the other cast members will have the opportunity to fix the problem. If no change is made, the judge must immediately provide the scorecard to the member(s) requesting to sign in the gray. If this action of signing in the gray disqualifies the cast, it will end at once with no more hunting time or scoring taking place. Handlers may not sign scorecard in the gray area after the cast has been completed or after they have withdrawn from the cast.

If the proper procedure for signing in the gray has been followed, during a cast, it cannot be questioned. However, if it has not been followed, such as cast already being completed, or if the handler has previously withdrawn, etc. the other cast member(s) may question it through the normal questioning process. Only under these circumstances, if the question panel determines that the proper procedure for signing in the gray was not followed, may the panel reinstate the cast. Other cast member(s) who believe the cast member(s) signing the gray did not have a legitimate reason for doing so, may file misconduct charges against that member(s). PKC reserves the right to review all scorecards submitted with signature(s) in the gray area for possible misconduct charges against any and/or all members of the cast.
Note: Disqualified Casts, such as one disqualified by a proper signing in the gray, may not be considered for any placement or awards.
PRO: Signing in the gray is not applicable under Pro Rules.

17. COMPLETING THE CAST
A. Scorecard Certification - Any cast considered for placement in an open event must have the signature of at least three (3) cast members certifying it to be accurate. Handlers shall sign his/her name followed by the winning score he/she is certifying and the dog's name and/or scorecard position of the cast winner. Should any handler leave the cast for any reason before cast hunting time is completed, he/she shall sign the scorecard and record the name of the dog and/or the scorecard position of said dog with the dog's score at that time, in addition to the amount of hunting time remaining in the cast. The Hunt Director may sign the card on behalf of a handler if a question is brought before a panel. The Hunt Director may sign the scorecard on behalf of any handler who has not signed a scorecard due to negligence.
PRO: Only the non-hunting judge's signature is required.

B. Signing Fraudulent Scorecard - Any judge or handler found to have signed or certified a fraudulent scorecard may be suspended from all PKC activities, fined, placed on probation, and/or barred for up to life from registering dogs.

C. Accepting Undeserved Credit - Anyone found guilty of accepting credit for a different amount than he/she actually earned in a PKC event may be subject to disciplinary penalties.

E. Disciplinary Reports - Any handler may be reported to the Hunt Director or directly to PKC by another member for misconduct. The Hunt Director may send these reports to PKC with other hunt results, or reporting member may send directly to PKC. Misconduct report will be handled as provided in the PKC National Association By-Laws. The issue will be investigated and charges may be brought on others involved, as well as, member charged.

18. DETERMINING WINNERS
A. Final Score - Dog's final score is determined by subtracting all minus points from all plus points. All circle points count as zero as a final score. The following formula applies to selecting a cast winner, determining final cast eligibility and placing dogs in a final cast. After determining the final score, the order of placement is as follows:
1. Most Plus Points - If more than one (1) dog has the same amount of plus points as a final score, see tie breaking rules.
2. Total Score Of Zero - All circle points count as zero for a final score. If more than one (1) dog has a final score of zero (no plus and no minus), see tie breaking rules.
3. Least Minus Points With Plus Or Circle Points - The dog with the least minus points that has scored plus or circle points.
4. Least Minus Points Without Plus Or Circle Points - The dog with the least minus points without scoring plus or circle points.
5. Dog with No Plus Or Circle Points - A dog without plus or circle points cannot place over a dog who has scored plus points or circle points.

B. Breaking Ties - All ties must be broken to determine a cast winner or placement. Ties will be broken as follows:
1. The dog with the most plus tree points.
2. The dog with the most plus strike points.
3. The dog with the most circle points, combined strike and tree.
4. The dog with the most circle tree points.
5. The dog with the least minus points.
6. If there is still a tie; do not catch dogs or call time out. The dogs tied will continue hunting until the tie is broken. All time based rules that are started in regulation time will carry over into overtime. In sudden death, the first dog to score plus, minus or circle points will break the tie. However, the score at the end of the original hunting time will remain the final score for determining placement in the hunt. As an alternative to overtime, tied handlers may unanimously vote to flip a coin to determine the winner.

7. When there are more than four scorecards qualifying for an Open Event final due to ties that cannot be broken by the Open Event Rules, handlers tied for fourth place have two options:
a) Split fourth place and cast win money (if any)
b) Flip coin(s) to determine which dog will receive the final four berth and which dog(s) will receive cast win earnings (if any)

C. No Credit For Non-Cast Winners - Under no circumstances may the second, third, or fourth place dog in a first round cast receive any credit for winning.

D. Disqualified Casts - Awards normally due any disqualified cast may be disbursed at the clubs discretion, but dog will not receive credit. Under no circumstances may awards from a disqualified cast(s) be added to other places. Examples of a disqualified cast are a cast killed by a member signing the gray, or a cast completing hunting time with less than three voting members.

E. More Than One Dog Scratched - Any time more than one dog is scratched from a final cast at the same time, they will place in the order of their score at the time they were scratched.

F. All Dogs Scratched For Fighting - If all dogs in a cast are scratched for fighting at the same time, none may advance to compete in the next round. If sixteen dogs or less in an open event, the cast winner will receive last place in the final. If more than sixteen dogs, the cast winner cannot place in final.

G. Flipping Coin To Determine Cast Winner – There will be rare instances when a cast winner may be determined by a coin flip. When a coin flip is used, it must be written on the scorecard and on the hunt report. Handlers traveling to a hunt during severe cold, heat, wind, ice, snow or other bad weather would be expected to hunt, and a coin flip would not be approved. It is never permissible to use a coin flip to determine the winner of a single cast Open Event (3 or 4 dog hunt) unless the cast has already been in the woods hunting and severe weather breaks out, or there is an unbreakable tie at the end. A cast winner determined by a coin flip under unapproved circumstances may not be credited with PKC Earnings and could result in disciplinary charges for cast members. If you are unsure if a coin flip is allowable, please contact a PKC Staff Member first. A cast winner may be determined by a coin flip, only in the following situations:

1. At the end of a cast, if the cast winner cannot be determined due to an unbreakable tie and tied handlers unanimously agree to flip a coin instead of hunting in sudden death overtime. In this case the cast winner’s score would remain as it was when cast ended.

2. When severe weather breaks out, it is impossible to continue the hunt, and all handlers unanimously agree to flip a coin instead of hunting or waiting it out. In this case the cast winner’s score is zero and would be eligible for cast win earnings only, in Open Events with more than sixteen entries.

Jerry Moll
Platinum Member
Posts: 5957
Joined: Tue Dec 21, 2004 5:11 pm
PKC Name: Jerry Moll
City, State: Batesville, IN
PKC Member Since: 02 Feb 1989
Annual Membership Expires: 26 Oct 2023
Lifetime Handler Earnings: $30,080
Cell #: 812-212-1619
Contact:

2020-2023 PKC Blue Book, Open Event and Pro Event Rules

Postby Jerry Moll » Thu Jan 23, 2020 3:59 pm

19. HUNTING FINAL ROUND OFF FOR PLACEMENT
A. Various rules apply to deadlines and hunting off Open Event Finals depending upon the night of the week, number of entries and Added Purse amount. Please refer to Hunt Director Instructions in the current Blue Book for specific details. If final casts hunts, the agreed upon hunting time must be completed for placement. If there is an agreement to split later, except for more than one dog being tied at end of cast, all final cast members will receive an equal share of awards.

B. There will be some Open Events, including “Double Headers”, advertised as “Automatic Split Of All Awards”. In these cases, a deadline will be announced and noted on scorecards for cast winners to be back to the clubhouse. Finalists will be the top four (4) cast winners whose scorecards are presented to the Hunt Director by the advertised deadline. These finalists will then be eligible for an equal split of all awards; their dog is not required to be present. However, if any cast winner's scorecard is not presented to the Hunt Director by the advertised deadline, cast winner will not be eligible for the final split, and the next highest scoring cast winner will be selected. In hunts with sixteen (16) entries or less, cast winners whose scorecard is not presented to the Hunt Director by the advertised deadline will be scratched from the final cast and will receive last place awards.

C. In an Open Event Final, the Added Purse will be paid to the winner of the final cast unless advertised “Automatic Split”. The majority of the final cast members may vote to split the added purse. (Note: In the event of a tie to hunt or split an added purse, the finalists shall hunt for the added purse.) Host Club reserves the right to require an automatic split of any added purse provided an automatic split of added purse is advertised prior to the dates of the event. In the event that a two (2) dog final is being hunted off, both finalists must agree to split, or the Added Purse will be awarded to the final cast winner.

PRO: When cast winners are required to recast on the same night of a PKC elimination hunt under Pro Rules, a deadline will be announced for early round cast winners to be back to the clubhouse. Dogs advancing to the late round will be cast winners whose scorecard is presented to the Hunt Director by the deadline. Any dog not on the grounds to answer roll call will be scratched from the late round cast. The Hunt Director will have the authority to set a time limit for any late round cast(s) to be finished hunting based on sunrise. If the cast has not completed by the time limit, the cast winner will be the dog winning the cast at that time. Final round cast members may recast to determine placement, or split awards equally if agreeable with all cast members. In case of a final cast placement tie that cannot be broken, awards will be split for those tied positions. If final casts hunts, the agreed upon hunting time must be completed for placement. If there is an agreement to split later, except for more than one dog being tied at end of cast, all final cast members will receive an equal share of awards.

20. GOOD JUDGMENT
There will not be a specific rule to cover every possible situation. These rules are written and intended to identify and reward the dog that hunts, strikes, trails, and trees a live raccoon and stays until its handler arrives. At times it will be necessary to use Good Judgment rather than a literal interpretation of these rules toward this end. It is within the scope of these rules for PKC staff members, the judge, panel and/or appeal panel to use their judgment and discretion on situations not specifically covered by these rules.
Prepare yourself and your hound. Hunt the dog, read the Blue Book, and your Good Book!


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