Beginner One Theory Notes:
1.
SAFETY AROUND HORSES
Horses are large, heavy animals with a mind of their own and their own likes, dislikes and fears. As riders we must be aware of the things which are likely to cause horses to move unexpectedly, or to do unexpected things.
Injuries occur with horses most often due to being trodden on. This most often occurs when a horse steps sideways when the handler is not expecting it. This is normally when the handler is unaware of the horse’s behaviour either due to lack of knowledge or lack of concentration!
Bites can sometimes occur when a pony is being tacked up. Many ponies dislike having the girth tightened and may nip. Make sure you have the pony tied up securely to tighten the girth.
Kicks normally only occur when a pony is intending to kick another pony and the handler gets in the way, or when a pony gets a fright and kicks out as a reaction. Most ponies do not bite or kick just to be nasty.
Falls from ponies are inevitable if you are learning to ride. Most falls are harmless and usually hurt your ego or give you a fright rather than actually hurting you badly.
If you do get injured, listen to your instructor: they will know what to do!!!
To avoid injuries:
- Always make sure the pony knows where you are.
- Always be aware of your horse’s behaviour: take notice of what he is looking at and make sure he is always concentrating on you.
- Always use a correctly fitted headcollar or bridle to lead a pony.
- Always wear correct footwear ie leather riding boots or work boots
- When walking behind a pony, either walk very close to the pony with your hand on his bottom, or walk far enough away that he wouldn’t reach you with his legs if he did kick.
- When feeding a pony, make sure that there are no other ponies close enough to kick or bite him
- Always wear a helmet when near ponies
- Make sure your pony is always in a safe area
- Never run or shout near horses or ponies
- Always concentrate when around horses
- Always do what your instructor says immediately as they may have noticed something about to happen which you haven’t yet noticed!!!!