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Training Proper conditioning helps a horse meet the physical demands of recreational riding, but training and mental readiness also play important roles in preparing a horse for the trail. The unfamiliar and unexpected sights and sounds that may be encountered when riding in the great outdoors can frighten a horse that is not well-trained, as well as a horse that has limited experience outside of an arena. Motor vehicles, animals and trail obstacles such as creeks and logs can startle a horse and turn a leisurely ride into an uncomfortable or even dangerous experience for both horse and rider. Even the most well-trained horse may be startled sometimes. For this reason, it is important that the horse responds to its rider’s commands and not flee— even if frightened. A well-trained horse will obey your command even though it is frightened, and not make a dangerous, runaway dash through the woods.
Whoa—“Whoa” is possibly the most important command for your horse to understand. Horses are powerful animals, and the ability to control their movement is the first step in safe horsemanship. One way to make your horse feel more comfortable when encountering someone such as a bicyclist or hiker is to stop and speak to the person. This allows the horse time to adjust its eyes and lose its fear of the newcomers and the “unidentified” object they are riding or carrying.
Stand Calmly While Tied—When pleasure riding, you may want to stop for a break or to explore the area briefly on foot. If you do, you want your horse to stand quietly, without pawing the ground, pulling back on the lead rope, or rubbing itself or your equipment on a tree.
Load and Unload Easily—In the event you find yourself faced with unexpected weather conditions or difficult terrain, your horse should easily load into and unload from the trailer. For instance, if caught in a hailstorm or other inclement weather situation, you want a horse that calmly loads into the trailer when you ask. If your vehicle breaks down along the highway and the weather is hot, you may need to unload your horse from the trailer until help arrives. In any situation, a horse that is a seasoned traveler will make your away-from-home recreational riding experience much more enjoyable. |
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Physical Fitness Although recreational riding is a non-competitive activity and a great way for you and your horse to stay in shape, physical fitness is necessary for a horse, especially if you plan a long or difficult ride. A horse should carry a medium amount of body fat—you should be able to feel the horse’s ribs but not see them. Excessively thin horses have limited energy and excessively fat horses have to work harder to carry their own weight, making them more susceptible to overheating. A horse’s hooves should be trimmed and preferably shod every four to six weeks. Horseshoes protect the soles of your horse’s feet from becoming bruised or cut, and are recommended if you are riding varied terrain. |
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Recreational Riding Checklists |
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Oil level in truck Tire pressure for truck and trailer Trailer hitch for proper hook-up Trailer lights and signals Trailer floors and mats Windows/vents for ventilation Tire tools |
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Single Day Ride—For You Lunch/snacks Canteen/water bottle full of water First aid kit Snakebite kit Bee sting kit Sunscreen Insect repellent Jacket Slicker/rain gear Swiss army knife/multi-tool Toiletry items Equipment repair kit Wire cutters Cellular phone Flashlight Hat Sunglasses Camera and film Batteries Saddlebags Rope/lariat |
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Single Day Ride For Your Horse: Saddle Saddle pad Bridle Breastcollar Tie-down Halter and lead rope Grooming supplies, including: Brushes (stiff and soft bristle) Curry Mane and tail comb Insect repellent Leg wraps or splint boots Bell boots Hoof pick Additional hoof care supplies Veterinary kit, including: Bandages Gauze Medical tape Antibiotic ointment Tranquilizer Pain reliever Anti-inflammatory agent Syringes and needles Rubber gloves Water supply Water hose Buckets Nose bag or hay bag Coggins and health papers |
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Multiple-Day Ride (Additional items needed) For You: Sleeping quarters and gear Clothing Food, snacks and drinks Cookware and utensils Radio Towels and wash cloths Soap and shampoo For Your Horse: Feed and rations (Remember extra rations, just in case) Electolytes Hoof care equipment, including: Hoof pick Hoof knife Rasp Nippers Extra shoes Nails Picket line Knot eliminators and/or tree-savers Portable pen Hobbles Manure fork and muck bucket Blanket or sheet |
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Before beginning your drive to the ride, do a safety check on your vehicle and trailer. |
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Trailer interior for damage Latches, locks, chains and bars Wheel bearings Truck and trailer brakes Brake and turn signals Spare tires for truck and trailer
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