Horse Safety Gear and Hunting Season

Hunters often mistake dark-colored horses for deer.

Hunting season is a particularly dangerous time of the year for horse and rider. Because many horses have coloration similar to that of deer, it can be hard for a hunter to recognize the difference. This is especially true in areas of heavy foliage or dim natural lighting. When a horse is near the woods or on a trail, the sound of its movement is similar to that of a deer. These similarities often result in accidental injury or fatality, so it is important to protect yourself and your horse during deer hunting season.

Horse Gear

Even in a pasture, your horse may not be safe from accidental injury during hunting season. Many hunters accidentally wander onto pastures while hunting. It is always safest to keep your horses indoors during hunting season, but if this is not possible, there are some ways you can make them stand out.

If your horse can wear a halter while turned out, invest in a brightly colored halter for this time of year. Orange works best, but any bright color will do. Tail bags are also useful if you horse will tolerate wearing one. There are several kinds of horse vests and sheets that can be worn while riding or at pasture for use during hunting season.

Foals and ponies are at higher risk because of their smaller size, which is closer to that of a deer. Small foals and ponies can often wear human hunting vests if they must be outside during the day.

Vetwrap

Vetwrap is an inexpensive way to add noticeable color to your horse. You can wrap the legs with the brightly colored adhesive bandages to help them stand out. Vetwrap can also be applied to the tail, wrapped around halter straps and braided into the mane. Be careful not to wrap it too tightly, especially at the bony part of the tail, as it can restrict blood flow if applied too snugly.

Rider Gear

It is always safest to avoid riding in open pastures or on trails during hunting season. If you must do so, dress in bright colors. Hunting vests are available where hunting supplies are sold. These bright orange vests are made to stand out against the normal color of the woods.

Stretchy nylon helmet covers are available in a variety of colors and patterns. Because your head is at a level above where a hunter expects a deer to be, often the helmet is noticed by hunters before any other gear.

Visual Barriers

If hunting season typically brings problems of hunters on your land, putting up visual barriers can help to deter them. On wood fences, painting the upright posts orange will help them stand out. You can wrap orange duct tape around the upright posts in lieu of painting.

If you have a wire or electric fence, use orange marking ribbon, available at most farm supply stores. Tying ribbon every few feet along your wire will help catch the attention of a hunter. "No hunting" signs should also be posted at any areas where a trail may lead onto your property.

Alternatives to Trail Riding

An alternative to riding on your favorite trails during hunting season is to travel to state parks. State parks do not allow hunting and provide a safe place to ride.

Hunting season is most dangerous during opening weekend. Consider planning barn-cleaning duties during this time to encourage riders to stay indoors.

References

• Drs. Foster and Smith, DVM: Horse Safety During Hunting Season
• 3M: Vetwrap
• Equine Protectavest