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|A Basic Guide for Beginning
Getting involved in horses is a wonderful and rewarding way to learn new skills, develop a relationship with a fascinating animal, and meet new friends in the process. Like many activities, however, equestrian sport also involves some degree of risk. Horses are large, powerful animals, easily capable of injuring a person. But, if you are well armed with a basic understanding of horses, a few hard and fast rules, and your own good sense, the risks are readily minimized.
The biggest risk in being around horses occurs when they are frightened. At this time, their only concerns are escape and survival, and people who are in the wrong place at the wrong time can be hurt. Therefore, the easiest way to prevent such accidents is to understand what frightens horses.
Horses are prey animals; in the wild, they are constantly at risk of being eaten. As a result, they have evolved systems of behaviour to help them successfully detect and avoid predators. Specifically, horses are always on the lookout. Their long necks, widely spaced eyes, and mobile ears help them be aware of things all around them. This means that they see things "out of the corner of their eye" much better than humans, whose eyes are on the front of their faces.
Equine ears swivel in all directions, allowing them to hear and locate
faraway sounds. These abilities are crucial to horses' survival, because
despite their speed, they are not as fast as many of their natural predators.
Early detection is therefore essential.
Equine Body Language:
Take some time to observe horses from a distance, and learn a bit of their body language. When startled, a horse (like all animals) has three typical reactions. Some will show all three in succession; others may show only one in a given situation. If you can recognize these signs, you will be better able to predict and avoid danger.
In terms of your safety, then, you should be aware that horses are most easily scared by sudden movements or loud noises, particularly outside of the animal's field of binocular vision. Quick movements or loud noises in these areas will trigger fear reactions such as spinning or bolting, and you may get trampled or kicked in the process.
For this reason, avoid approaching horses from the rear or side. Move to the head, giving the animal a chance to see you. Most horses are more used to being approached from the left. Announce your presence and put a hand on the horse's neck or shoulder so he knows where you are. Offer your hand in a closed fist for the horse to smell. Never run up to a horse, throw things toward a horse, or move in a quick or unpredictable manner. Never stand directly behind a horse; he cannot see you well there, and you risk being kicked.
By learning about horses, how they perceive and react to the world,
and by adopting a few basic rules of conduct, you can look forward to safe
and enjoyable interaction with these beautiful creatures. Let's now consider
some specific situations where you may come into close contact with horses:
At A Horse Show:
For many people, a local fair or horse show is their first close-up exposure to horses. Going to a show is a wonderful way to learn more about the different types and uses of equines, to meet people involved in the sports that interest you, and to make contacts that may lead you to riding lessons, or even your first horse. For the competitors, however, a horse show is a serious thing. Behind the scenes at a show can get pretty hectic, and there are risks to both spectators and horses alike. In addition to the basics we have just covered, here are some specific cautions for the horse show environment:
Many horse shows have only single ropes & chains defining
the ring, making it easy for children & dogs to dash under.
(Allison Taylor Photo)
While Driving Your Car:
Do you know what to do if, when in your car, you meet a horse being
ridden or driven down the road?
This can be a particularly dangerous situation for all concerned: if frightened, the horse may bolt into the oncoming vehicle or jump into a ditch or fence line. The horse may be injured, the rider or driver thrown, or your car damaged.
Your best strategy is to slow to a crawl, keeping to the opposite side
of the road. Dim or turn off your headlights, if possible, and turn down
your car stereo. If the horse appears particularly nervous, stop and wait
for the rider to either enter a laneway or wave you by. Never brake or
accelerate suddenly, both of which cause noise and throw up gravel. Spraying
gravel will certainly frighten and may even injure the horse. Never, ever
honk the horn. When you are well past the horse, accelerate gradually and
be on your way.
Your First Ride:
So, you've decided to take the plunge and learn to ride. Whether at
a riding school, a trail riding establishment, or a friend's stable, there
are a few basic rules you should follow to ensure a safe and enjoyable
Helmets have saved untold numbers of lives in riding accidents - don't even think of riding without one. If driving is your chosen sport, you should also wear a helmet. Head injuries can occur if you are thrown out of the cart. Make sure the helmet fits snugly, and has a solid chin strap to hold it securely in place. Avoid helmets labeled as "items of apparel", as these have no real protective value. Look instead for a logo indicating approval by a safety or standards organization, such as the Canadian Standards Association or equivalent such as (in the U.S.) the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) or the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) Bicycle helmets are used by many pleasure riders, who find them cooler than conventional equestrian helmets. As long as they are similarly endorsed by a recognized standards organization, they are a safe alternative.
Never ride barefoot, in sandals, or in slip-on shoes such as loafers. Your feet must support you in the stirrups, and flimsy shoes can fall off or get in the way. Heels are important to prevent your foot from going all the way through the stirrup and getting stuck. Sneakers are unacceptable. A lightweight, ankle-high boot with laces is ideal.
Tight jeans do not stretch and are uncomfortable to ride in. Very loose clothes can chafe, or catch on fences or tree branches. Sweat pants or exercise tights are a good choice. Men should consider some form of athletic support for their comfort and safety. Don't chew gum (which can be inhaled) and avoid carrying anything in your pockets, such as a wallet (which is uncomfortable) or a pen (which could stab you if you fall).
Before saddling or harnessing, check all equipment to ensure that it is in good condition and free from foreign bodies that may irritate the animal. Do not use equipment that is cracked or frayed, as it may snap during use.
Use your own good judgement and be realistic about your abilities. Do not ride a horse that frightens you. Be patient with the animal and with yourself. Learning to ride or drive a horse is a long-term prospect, and you will not be able to gallop across fields, jump fences, or rope cattle on your first outing. If you enjoy your first experience, seek out an experienced, qualified instructor and enjoy the process of learning. It is a wonderful adventure.
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