Horseback Riding Safety Rules:

We want everyone to be as safe as possible while spending time with the horses. Being careless or unaware can be very dangerous when dealing with horses, so please be alert, pay attention and make sure you are informed at all times. Safety guidelines are:

1. Do not take anyone into the paddock that is not capable of keeping themselves safe.

2. Please do not take children into the paddock. Bring the horse out to them, so they can enjoy it without having another horse interfere.

3. When in the paddock with the horses, be aware at all times. The horses can kick and threaten each other and you can get hurt if you are in the way. Be very careful and pay attention.

4. Always lock all gates securely behind you. The horses need us to help keep them safe.

5. Always put a halter and lead line on when moving horses around.

6. Please be aware of others and do not put anyone at risk.

7. Ensure that tied horses cannot get entangled in the rope.

8. Do not leave ropes or halters hanging where a horse can get their leg caught.

9. Treat all the horses calmly and be aware of things that could startle or upset them.

10. Do not leave horses unattended.

11. Ensure all horses are tacked up correctly. Improper use of tack might cause a horse pain or result in unsafe use of equipment and become a safety issue.

12. Do not do anything with the horses that you are not 100% comfortable doing. Get help or ask for assistance.

13. Do not allow anyone who is not a member to be responsible for the horse in your care or to mount or ride the horse in your care

14. Whatever you are doing with the horse, remember to keep safety in mind and watch for anything that could become a dangerous situation. Be Safe. Be Alert. Don’t Be Forgetful! Focus on what you are doing.

TRAIL SAFETY

Out on the trails many situations can occur that have the potential of being dangerous. Being aware of risks and thereby preventing accidents is most important to staying safe. As your skill level increases, you can do more things safely, however, be aware of your limitations and ride accordingly. As always, use your best judgment. Here are some trail safety guidelines:

1. Pay attention to your horse at all times. Be aware of its behaviour; if something is scaring it and making it uncomfortable, try to help it through the situation safely to the best of your abilities.

2. Maintain control of your horse at all times. Do not crowd other riders. Stay calm. If you cannot, dismount and lead your horse.

3. Ride with consideration for the others in the group. Don’t upset the other horses and don’t ride past the limitations of the other riders.

4. Only ride the horses within your skill level and do not allow others to push you past the point of your own comfort level.

5. Watch the trail for hazards. There are many things on trails that could hurt you or your horse, so be aware and pay attention to the footing, tree branches, debris, rocks and roots horses could trip over etc. Protect your horse. (S)he’s your best friend out there!

6. Don’t run around corners. Always be able to see where you are going.

7. NEVER race other riders.

8. Be very considerate of the others out there on the trails. Always walk past other people or horses. Be friendly and polite.

9. If any other rider is behaving in an unsafe manner, please inform us immediately so we can address the situation quickly.

10. If you have any problems with or notice changes in the horse’s behavior, please inform us.