How to Work Around Horses

Working safely around horses is mostly a result of using good common sense. But there are some things to watch for that will help you stay safe. This article will give you some tips to follow and information that will help you work safely around horses.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A healthy dose of common sense.

Staying Safe Around Horses

1. 
    
   Approach with caution

   Take the long way around the back of the horse. Give it at least a ten to twelve foot space and make a long loop around the rear. Speak in a low and soothing voice to your equine companion, so that it is aware at all times of your physical location. If you need to go around the back of a horse, keep one hand on its body at all times. Run your hand from the back of the withers, down the spine and across the rump, then smoothly go around the rear in one motion, with your hand on the horse's rump following you. Head directly to the horse's neck and give it a reassuring pat.

2. 
    
   A horse's eye cannot see directly behind it

   Keep the noise level to a minimum. Do not scream at or around a horse. If it is loud and noisy, the horse will become alarmed. Horses are flight or fight animals, and if they are in a situation where they find themselves unable to escape by running, they will resort to kicking, biting, or doing anything else they feel is necessary to preserve their safety. So be aware that if there are dogs, cats, or other animals milling around a horse's legs or rear end, you are much more likely to be at risk of a kick. Be aware of yours and the horse's surroundings at all times.

3. 
    
   Don't get caught in the middle!

   Stay away from a horse's rear if near any other horse. Horses don't usually kick people unless the person accidentally gets in the way. Horses are very herd oriented, with every member knowing its place. If somebody gets out of line, it could lead to a fight. If you happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, you may get kicked. Avoid pasture situations where horses can mill too closely around you. Be aware of your physical space at all times.

4. 
    

   Use your common sense. If you think that something might bother the horse and cause it to kick or react violently, you are probably right. And should you ever find yourself at the receiving end of a kick, remember to head towards the kick and not away from it. A horse kick only delivers full power when the horse's legs have reached full extension. If you can catch the blow before that point, you are more likely to be less injured.

Tips & Warnings

• Always get to know your horse's quirks and personality from a previous owner or handler if at all possible.
• Do not teach your horse to kick, rear, or "shake hands" as a trick. You are asking for trouble.

Resources

• Horse Safety