Comfortable in the saddle

If your horse becomes frightened, remain calm, speak to it quietly, steady it, and give it time to overcome its fear.

Hold your mount to a walk when going up or down a steep hill. Allow a horse to pick its way at a walk when riding on tough ground or in sand, mud, ice or snow where there is danger of your horse slipping or falling.

Don't fool around. Horseplay is dangerous to you and your friends, as well as to others who may be nearby. Never ride your horse with just a halter. Halter do not give enough control. Please always use a bridle.

You should not rush past riders who are proceeding at a slower gait as it startles both horses and riders, and frequently causes accidents. Instead, approach slowly, indicate a desire to pass, and proceed cautiously on the left side. Ride abreast or stay a full horse's length away from the horse in front of you to avoid the possibility of being kicked. You can tell if the distance is safe by looking through your horse's ears. You should be able to see the hind heels of the horse in front of you.

Do not let your horse run to and from the stable. Walk the last distance home. When your horse is frightened and tries to run, turn her in a circle and tighten the circle until she stops.

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RELATED GORP LINKS
GORP Horseback Riding
GORPtravel - Dude Ranches
GORP Activities