How does Horsemanship Training relate to Trail Riding Safety?
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Simple, true horsemen are people who understand the inherent nature of horses and apply training appropriate tactics to achieve the desired result. For instance, a true horseman never puts his horse, himself or those around him at risk. Horsemen have a way of knowing what to do and when to do it. This is extremely important when embarking upon a trail ride because so many unknown factors come into play. Not everyone is educated in trail riding safety. And one mishap can turn a simple trail ride into a nightmare. So, horsemanship training is something that should take place long before you hit the trail. Below are a few horsemanship training tips that will help get you off to the right start.
Horsemanship Training Tip #1 – Choose a Suitable Horse Partner
Trail riding can be quite stressful for horses. They are exposed to a wide variety of things that can cause them to become fearful from obstacles to others you might meet along the way. By selecting a suitable mount, you are ensuring your safety and that of the others on the trail.
If your horse is nervous in an enclosed arena, he is probably not ready to face the adventures of trail riding. Choosing a seasoned trail horse that has been exposed to rustling leaves, startled deer and the occasional rabbit will prove to be invaluable. If no trail safe mount is available and you are left with your nervous trail horse, see if a person with a seasoned trail horse is available to ride with you. Having a calm mount along can help re-assure your horse as he becomes accustomed to this unfamiliar territory.
Horsemanship Training Tip #2 – Be aware of your Horse’s Fitness Level
Our horses depend on us for their overall care. Most horses will continue on past their physical limits merely because we asked them too. This is especially true when in an unknown environment such as a trail, because a horse’s inherent flight response is heightened in this setting. When venture out, it is important to be aware of your horse’s fitness level and not to over do it. Choose a trail length that is appropriate to his current conditioning. Just like people, horses can suffer from exhaustion and muscle pain. It is our responsibility to ensure that they are conditioned appropriately for the tasks that we ask of them.
Horsemanship Training Tip #3 - Preplan Your Ride
Trail riding safety depends a lot on outside factors and our ability to plan for them. It is important to check the weather and trail conditions ahead of time. Knowing the area and weather conditions will help you to determine what to take and which trails are best suited for your ride. While all the tips listed here are important, from a trail riding safety standpoint, this is probably the most important horsemanship tip. Part of the fun of trail riding is getting back and telling others about your trip.
As many seasoned trail riders know, trails can be confusing or poorly marked. Bring along a map, compass or GPS unit, so you’ll know where you are and how to get back. Pack the equipment necessary to deal with an emergency. This should include a halter, lead rope, water, hoof pick, first aid kit, flashlight, cell phone, leatherman type tool or wire cutters.
Let someone reliable know where you are going and when you will return. Consider posting a “sign out” sheet for trail riders in your barn. This list should contain the riders’ names, location of the ride, time of departure, expected return time and a cell phone number and an emergency contact number. This makes it clear for the barn manager or your friend to know when and where to summon help for you.
Horsemanship Training Tip #4 – Be Courteous
Horsemanship training tip #4 is probably the most overlooked part of trail riding safety. Being courteous to others from the
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When riding in a group, it is important to give others enough room. Some horses may respond differently to things they encounter on the trail. Allow at least a horse length of space between horses to prevent kicking, biting or other misbehaving. If your horse or another horse in the group is a kicker, tie a ribbon in their tail to inform all approaching riders of this tendency.
Changes of gait and passing should only occur when all in the group are ready for the change. If another rider is having problems with their horse, all other riders should halt and wait for the horse to settle. If a rider falls off during a trail ride, it is best for all other horses to stop and/or dismount until the rider is attended to. Never leave a rider experiencing difficulty alone on the trail. Again, horses are herd animals and feel safer in a group. Being left alone may intensify the problem. The same goes for crossing a road. Wait for a large enough gap in traffic that all the horses can cross together.
Horsemanship Training Tip #4 – Watch out for Others
Always pay attention to your surroundings. Trail riding safety starts with attentive riders. Attentive riders are those that look ahead for hazards and things that may spook the horse. They pay attention to footing and find alternate routes or go back when treacherous footing arises. Remember you are a rider not a passenger on your horse.
Don’t be afraid to report suspicious people that you may encounter. Suspicious people can be dangerous too because they are unpredictable. It is important to trust your instincts and use your horse’s power to carry you away from these people. Once you are a safe distance away, call “911” to report the suspicious activity.
Trail riding can be loads of fun especially when you have a group to share it with. The horsemanship training and trail riding safety tips above will help ensure that your rides are enjoyable experiences. Written by: Mary Hamilton Mounted Police Instructor