Six Safety Issues That Humans Have With Horses

One of the smartest things you can do, as a newly minted horse owner is to learn about the various safety issues that you need to learn in order to interact with your horse. Even the gentlest horse has the potential to hurt you if he should become startled or scared. Horses do not necessarily need to be aggressive in order to hurt humans. Accidents happen, but you can prevent many of these accidents simply by understanding that your horse is much larger and stronger than you. Horses are most often gentle giants that can sustain wonderful relationships with human beings when the proper safety measures are being taken. It is wise to remember that horses, by nature, are prey animals. They have the ability to react quickly and out-run a predator in the wild. Even in domestic horses, this survival instinct still remains strong.

Here are some tips that can help you avoid kicks, bites, trampled toes, drags, or runaways. Try not to feel overwhelmed by all this information. Simply take it slow, observe and read.

1. Leading: Always remain calm and quiet when you lead your horse. Avoid sudden movements, which can cause a horse to jump sideways or kick out. The best and most safe way to lead your horse is by using a halter and a lead rope. Through a doorway, you want to make sure that the door is open wide enough so that your horse doesn't hit the door on the way out. You should also avoid hooking your fingers through the straps of the halter, nor the bit or the ring, for if your fingers could become trapped and injured, you will likely be dragged.

2. Standing: Always avoid standing directly behind your horse. When you're grooming the tail, try to stand off to one side and gently pull the tail over to you. Never kneel or squat when cleaning the hooves or applying bandages. Your goal is to be visible to the horse at all times. The safest place to stand when you are around your horse is either beside his shoulder or at least ten feet away.

3. Finger and toes: Take good care of your fingers and toes when handling your horse. When you are using your reigns, long lines or lead ropes, you should loop them around your hands or any other body part. You could be injured and dragged if you are not careful. Use a bucket or tub when you feed your horse treats in order to avoid your fingers from being mistaken of a carrot. Footwear is important when you are dealing with horses. Avoid thin shoes or sandals around horses, and opt instead for boots or other sturdy steel-toed shoes.

4. Quick release: Always tie up your horse when you're cleaning a stall, grooming or saddling up. You may want to learn how to tie a quick release knot (panic snap) in case the horse feels the need to free himself in some situations. Never leave your horse unattended.

5. Mount up: Wear the appropriate riding gear before mounting up. Begin by protecting your head by wearing an ASTM approved riding helmet. You should also wear sturdy boots with minimal tread and short heels. The boots you wear should make it easy for you to enter the stirrups, release your foot easily and not slip through. You should always feel comfortable and in control in your gear.

6. Communication is key: If you are going on a ride, always let someone know where you’re going.