Safety Rules for Kids Around Horses/Ponies

LWhen beginning horseback riding lessons, especially for kids, safety is key.

1.Students MUST ALWAYS wear a helmet when working  on or around horses/ponies!
2. ALWAYS WALK ; do not run when working with horses/ponies.
3. Never approuch a horse directly  from the rear! A horse/pony cannot see the back there and more easily starled and may resort to a "Kick first, ask question later"approach.
It is better to walk towards to shoulder and neck.
4. Always speak to the horse/ponybefore approaching or touching him.Let the horse/pony know you are not  there to hurt him to accept you.
5. After he accepts your  presence, keep a hand on his body as you walk around him and talk reassuringly  to him.
6.  NEVER tie a horse/pony using the rains and bridle.If you have to tie him use a quick-release knot, ground tie or simply wrap the lead rope attached to his halter  around the hitching post.
7. Traditonally you lead from the left side, placing your inside hand about 12 to 18 inches from the halter. Keep the excess lead rope folded, never wrapped, in your outside hand.
8.  Never yank or jerk the horse's/pony's halter or lead rope.! Use gentel "pressure and  release "commands. Remember, some of our HOPE horses/ponies  mybe a bit  elderly and need more time to react.
9. When tacking, grooming or moving around the horse Never go under the horse's/ponies neck or belly. Unbeknownst to you,  he may have a sudden need to bring his leg up or head down fast .
10. Always  wait for the  Instructor's direction before mounting.
11. Whenever  in doubt about something ALWAYS ask the Instructor! Remember they are there to help EVERYONE.