5 things to do – gaining safety by a horse (Part Two).

5 things to do - gaining safety by a horse (Part Two).

This article is about 5 things to do, to optimize your safety along the animal.


A) Be aware; if you do not know the horse, that you are handling extremely well, do always approach and work with the horse from the left side, when you are saddling. The reason for this are, that many horses have been accustomed to only being approached or work on their left side. Of course, this may not be the case with all horses, but is count for 80% - at least. But better safe, than kicked.
Due to the problem about the left side approach and working, teach your hose in it early years, to approach and work with it from both sides. Make sure, that the horse is calm, when you approach it.

B) Also be aware; if you do not know the horse at all, do not make sudden movements or noises around it. Some horses are very sensitive to sudden noise and sudden movements and this action could result in injury - due to startle. When you pet a horse, do always scrub or scratch it gently, never a slap. Get the horse used to your actions and movements. Show the horse, that you are friendly. You could expect some kind of action, that is kicking or biting, if you slap it to hard. Most horses likes scrubbing or scratching, but dislikes slapping.

C) Communicate with the horse in a gently and calm, bur firm tone. Do always let the horse to know, what you intend to do with it. For Example, if you saddle a horse, show the saddle to the horse, approach it gently, let the horse feel the saddle gently and so on. Small steps all the way.

D) Do never walk under a step or a tied lead rope and when the horse is on cross-ties, do not walk under its neck to get to the other side. Always let the hose have you in sight. In this way, you still in control with the horse and the situation, if a situation is escalating.

E) Do not leave a halter on a horse, if its loose. A horse might accidently get it caught on a fence, which could result in severe damage and even possible death, if the horse panics.