SAFETY FIRST! Don't forget this all-important rule
because even the nicest and well-mannered
horses can hurt you if you are not careful.
Accidents can happen so be sure you have taken
all the precautions necessary to ensure you and your
horse are as safe as possible. An inexperienced handler can
hurt himself or others by simply not knowing better - and then it's too
late - so it's best to learn before you get into a sticky situation. An experienced handler can be hurt by ignoring rules that they usually follow in order to get something done faster or by trusting a horse too much.

Here are ten basic safety rules to follow that will enable you to be safe and free to enjoy your horse year in and year out - and visa versa!

 

 
 
Allow enough time to do things properly. Don't get in a hurry and take shortcuts. 		 

 
 
Always pay attention! An inattentive handler won't notice when things begin to happen - until it is too late. 		 

 
 
Always control your temper when working with horses. Stay calm & confident - a nervous handler can make a horse jumpy.		  

 
 
Wear boots or hard soled shoes to avoid being stomped on - and breaking something!		  

 
 
Never wrap ropes or shanks around your hands, arms or neck. It's better to let your horse go than to be injured trying to stop him.		  

 
 
Never walk behind a horse - you might get kicked.		  

 
 
When approaching a horse, speak to them first before touching them on the shoulder. That way, they won't be startled and jump or kick.		  

 
 
Always stand to the side when working with your horse - never directly in the front or back of a horse.		  

 
 
Learn all you can from a professional and/or experienced horseperson before going out "on you own". Don't think, "Bad things can't happen to you or your horse". Get the training that you need to do the very best that you can and avoid problems that can arise on a daily basis.		  

 
 
Wear a protective & properly fitted helmet while riding your horse - medical studies have documented that the most common riding-related injuries are to the head. There is proper head protective gear available for English & Western riders.