WRITTEN BY JENNIFER FORSBERG MEYER for horseandrider.com
"These key horseback riding and handling guidelines will help keep you safe in the saddle and at the barn.
1. Approaching, catching. Always speak to a horse to alert him to your presence before walking near; this avoids provoking his startle reflex. Approach from the side, to avoid his "blind" spots (directly in front of and behind him). Touch him first on the neck or shoulder, with a firm but gentle stroking motion....read more
2. Leading. Always use a lead rope attached to the horse's halter, rather than grasping the halter itself, which provides no options if the horse were to startle....read more
3. Tying. Tie a horse "eye high and no longer than your arm," meaning the tie knot should be at least as high as the horse's eye, and the distance from the knot to the halter should be no more than the length of your arm....read more
4. Grooming. Stand near the shoulder or next to the hindquarters rather than directly in front of or directly behind a horse when grooming his head or brushing or braiding his tail.
To walk behind a horse, go either (1) close enough to brush against him (where a kick would have no real force), keeping one hand on his rump as you pass around; or (2) far enough away to be well out of kicking range.....read more
5. Trailering. Never fight with a reluctant horse to get him into a trailer; seek professional help and retraining, if necessary.....read more
6. Turning loose. When turning out a horse or pony for exercise or returning him to his paddock or pasture, always turn his head back toward the gate....read more
7. Feeding treats. Give carrot or apple chunks from the palm of a flattened hand to avoid being accidentally nipped. Better yet....read more
8. Supervision. Until skills are well established, beginners and especially children should ride under supervision. Jumping and work with cattle should be supervised at all times.....read more
9. Safety gear. Essentials include proper footwear (boots or shoes with hard toes and a heel) and, especially for children, a properly fitted helmet that meets current safety standards.....read more
10. Tacking up. A bit that pinches, ruffled hair under the saddle pad, a too-tight back cinch—any of these can cause a horse to act up "unaccountably." ....read more
11. Preparing a fresh mount. Longeing by an experienced person will "take the edge off" a fresh horse and make it less likely he'll act up when ridden.....read more
12. Mounting. Never mount where there are low overhead clearances or projections.
Follow proper technique (a trainer or instructor can show how) and maintain contact with....read more
13. Paying attention. Staying calm, focused, and alert in the saddle at all times is a key safeguard. Children, in particular, can have....read more
14. Trail riding. Novices and children shouldn't ride out on the trail until a trainer or instructor deems they are ready, teaches them how....read more"
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