When trying to understand the decisions your horse makes, it is essential to understand their behavior. Before we even begin to think about riding, it is essential to understand the ground rules. Using AAHS Instructor's Handbook of Horsemanship, I'll highlight several easy to remember behavior related safety tips. What we as humans have problems with are the mechanisms that have helped horses evolve over thousands of years. No matter how great a horseman you are, you will never take away the instincts of a horse. We can certainly condition them to have varied responses, but you can't make a horse into an ATV. Don't be a predator. Predators have to surprise a horse, take it down quickly, and know the kill spots. Don't be abrupt, but don't think creeping around a startled horse won't arouse suspicious. Movements should be deliberate, but not quick. Never reach quickly towards the face, walk directly behind, or grab for a startled horse. The shoulder is an ideal place to approach. Always announce your presence. Predators don't. Just because you were there 30 seconds ago, doesn't mean your horse hasn't forgotten or dozed off. Better safe than sorry. If you have to pass behind a horse, always walk completely out of 'kick zone' or close enough you can keep you hand on the horse; begin by running your hand from his shoulder around the butt if possible.
There is no possible way one can sit down and list every safety issue related to horses. However, here is a short list of the most common concerns among horse folk.
1) Never approach a horse from behind.
2) Never kneel, sit, or put yourself in a position where you cannot vacant your horse's space immediately. This includes pinching yourself between a wall and a horse.
3) Always wear appropriate footwear for being around a horse and when riding.
4) Never wrap a rope, or anything attached to your horse, around yourself. This includes 'accidentally' looping the rope around your hand when leading.
5) Treat every horse like it can and will bite, kick, or run through you. Familiarity can get you hurt.
6) Don't duck under lead ropes or a tied horse.
7) Be thoughtful in where and how you tie a horse. Always use quick release knots. Never tie where they can break free, pull something out of the ground, or so long they could get a leg over the rope.
What safety tips do you have to share?
