| [ P e t s ] |
![]() |
|
|
Working safely in the stable makes horse-sense
|
 MANY activities with horses, such as riding fast without a saddle and jumping obstacles can appear dangerous but, in fact, either of these options is actually safer for a horse-owner than activities such as grooming or feeding, which take place on the ground. When you are near horses you should always wear a helmet to stay safe and, when you are feeding, leading or grooming a horse, it is very important to remain alert. Keep the shortest distance possible between you and the horse when you are on the ground. Keep the horse on a short rein and stay right up by its head so it won’t be able to turn and bite you.
While this may sound odd, since you may think being farther away from a horse is safer, the full effect of a horse’s kick will be felt if you are farther away. However, when you are up close, you won’t be so likely to suffer so much of the impact. It is important that the horse knows where you are at all times and is aware of when you are approaching it. Start at the front and work towards the back when you are grooming a horse.
Know the horse’s ticklish areas and keep a hand in constant contact with the horse, such as the flank area. If you tickle the horse, it is more likely to kick you.
Keep the fence between the horse and yourself during feeding. Never place a horse between you and the exit when you are doing any work in the barn. Soothingly talk to the horse while doing any work. Start early with a horse and don’t begin any bad habits. This means no feeding out of your hand or foods such as sugar when they are young. Have the horse around people when it is young and it is also better to start them out early with exposure to distractions of different types such as flags flying and loud music playing nearby. It is important to be firm but you should never mistreat an animal. Treat the horse with respect and remember that it is in their nature to try to be free. Never wrap a lead around your wrist when you are leading a horse.
To detect a horse’s mood you should watch its eyes and ears. If you notice signs such as the ears going back, chomping at the bit or prancing around uneasily, try to calm the horse down by talking to it and reassuring it. When working with horses, never make any sudden movements and, if they like it, touch or rub them on the neck.
Remain calm yourself and make sure the horse knows that it is not alone, since it can pick up quickly and easily on your moods.
However, you should always make sure that you show the horse that you are in control of the situation by being firm, just not too firm.
|  Return to Top
Home Page
Send by Email |
|
|
|
|
![]()
| Birthdays |
| |
Stephen Baldwin - 42 - American actor,
Dennis Rodman - 47 - American basketball player,
Martha Quinn - 49 - American MTV VJ, |
|
| |
more... |
|
 |
|
