Safe Trail Horse  by Gary Lane

Now is the time to think about safety.  Most riders do not ride or train much during the winter months, so when we get back in the saddle, we tend to be physically and mentally dull. This is when we make mistakes. Sometimes as riders, we just don’t recognize when we are in harm’s way.  We’ve done this so many times before, we don’t think twice about it.  We are lulled into a false sense of security, which leads to complacent riding.  It can then become a “routine” without concentrated thought.

Whether we are returning to riding after a restful winter or in the middle of a joyful riding season, we still need to think of safety before, during, and after the ride! It only takes a split second for calamity to strike.

Here are my top ten reasons when riders get hurt on Gaited Horses. This is not an all-inclusive list or in any order of importance.  It is intended to remind us of the things we need to keep foremost in our minds as we, once again, participate in the sport we love.

1. Mounting and dismounting the horse.

2. Shying quickly to the left or right.

3. Lack of physical and mental control on the trail or rail (horse and rider).

4. Riding on slippery hillsides, blacktop, or other wet footing.

5.Riding through fall and winter storm damage - fallen trees and limbs. Severe weather.

6. Riding too fast!

7. Stopping too fast on the forehand!

8. Over-bitting & saddle fit.

9. Lack of a safety plan - tack, helmets and vest, etc.

10. Riding when you don’t feel good.

Everyone has items they could add to this list. With so many different equine disciplines, safety issues are as numerous and specific as the riding discipline.

The bottom line - ride your horse, have fun, but stay safe!

Together lets find the magic in our Gaited Horses!
G—L