Safe approaches to horses: 3 secrets to proper interaction and care.

When approaching a horse, safety is always paramount – for you and for the horse itself. Though gentle and intelligent, horses are highly sensitive and easily startled if approached incorrectly. Therefore, knowing how to approach a horse safely will help minimize risks, build trust with the horse, and make all activities – from caring for and leading to riding – smoother. This article will guide you through simple, practical, and easy-to-apply steps to approach a horse correctly, ensuring everyone's safety.

Tip 1: How to interact with horses correctly and avoid danger.

Step 1: How to recognize a horse's body language for a safe approach.

Understanding horse body language is the first and most important step in approaching a horse safely. Looking for the right signs will help you distinguish between when a horse is relaxed and when it is stressed or warning of danger. Below are some signals you need to watch out for carefully before approaching.

Signs that the horse is comfortable (accessible).

1. Soft eyes, not staring.

   • A relaxed gaze indicates the horse is calm and does not perceive you as a threat.

2. Turn your head or torso toward you.

   • This is a friendly sign, indicating that the horse accepts your presence.

3. Lightly lick your lips

   • This behavior shows that the horse is relaxed and feels safe.

4. Ears facing you

   • Ears that are perked up and turning in your direction indicate that the horse is paying attention in a positive way.

5. The body remains still and relaxed.

   • A relaxed posture is the best sign that you should approach things slowly.

Signs that a horse is uncomfortable (avoid approaching).

1. Back away or run as you approach.

   • If a horse is feeling uneasy or frightened, continuing to approach it may cause it to react violently.

2. Eyes wide open or staring

   • This is a sign of heightened alertness and may lead to defensive behavior.

3. Press your ears back against the wall.

   • Typical signs of discomfort, warning signs, or an impending attack.

4. Muscles tense

   • Horses prepare to react, usually by kicking or startling.

5. Show your teeth or try to bite down gently.

   • One of the clearest warnings is that you need to maintain distance.

6. Stand upright or kick with your hind legs

   • This is dangerous behavior; absolutely do not approach.

7. Wagging its tail vigorously while stomping its feet.

   • A sign of frustration, often appearing before the horse kicks.

Important note for beginners

• If you have no experience working with horses, approach them under the guidance of a professional to ensure safety.

• Never approach a strange horse without the owner's permission.

Step 2: Always observe the horse's position to ensure safety when approaching.

Pay attention to the positions of all the horses around you.

• Horses can move very fast, and just a moment of inattention can lead to you being caught off guard from behind.

• Always keep horses in your sight, especially when you are in a stable, training ground, or area with many horses.

Understanding the startled reflex of horses

• Horses can be frightened by very small things such as strange noises, sudden movements, or the unexpected appearance of humans.

• When you notice signs of stress in a horse, keep your distance and observe further to avoid any unforeseen situations.

What to do when a horse runs toward you.

1. Stay calm and stand firm.

   • Panicking can lead to poor reactions and make it difficult to escape from danger.

2. Raise both hands to create a bigger pose.

   • This posture makes you more visible and easily recognizable to the horse, reducing the risk of being trampled.

3. Give the order in a firm but calm voice.

   • Use short, familiar commands such as "Whoa" or "Get".

   • A firm tone of voice helps the horse understand that you want it to change direction.

4. Avoid turning your back or running away.

   • This could trigger a horse's chase reflex or cause you to lose control of the situation.

Important advice for beginners

• Always maintain a safe distance and observe constantly when working near many horses.

• Learning to recognize signs of unease in horses will help you apply the correct and safe approach to horses and avoid startling them in any situation.

Step 3: Make a friendly presence before approaching the horse.

Reduce stress so the horse feels safe.

• In horse behavior, there's always the principle of "pressure and release." Horses will react by backing away when they feel you're putting pressure on them.

• Some seemingly simple actions, like staring into a horse's eyes, can actually make the horse understand that you are urging or wanting it to move.

Create an inviting, non-demanding source of energy.

1. Keep your posture relaxed.

   • Stand naturally, avoiding facing the horse directly with your entire body to prevent stressing them out.

2. Reduce direct eye contact.

   • Just glance briefly, don't stare. Prolonged, direct stare signals stress for horses.

3. Approach slowly and purposefully.

   • Move slowly and steadily; this helps the horse perceive you as a safe presence.

4. Give horses the right to choose.

   • Stop within the horse's line of sight and let it decide for itself whether it wants to approach you. When the horse takes the initiative to approach, you have established initial trust.

Why is it important to create an invitation instead of imposing?

• Horses are social animals and rarely stand still waiting for you to approach. If you approach too directly or too quickly, they will instinctively move away.

• When you know how to reduce pressure and send friendly signals, horses will be more cooperative, allowing you to approach them safely and effectively.

Step 4: Approach the horse from the front diagonally so that it can easily spot you.

Approaching from the front – slightly to one side.

• The most important rule of safe approach to horses is to ensure the horse knows you are approaching .

• Walking diagonally from the front helps you stay within the horse's line of sight and avoid the "blind spot" directly in front of you.

• If conditions permit, you can approach from the left front because most horses are trained by humans to approach from the left, so they are used to your approach from this direction.

Understanding why horses "prefer the left"

• Horses approaching from the left is not a natural instinct. This is a habit created by humans through long-term training.

• In the wild, horses approach each other from any direction, as long as they feel safe.

• It's important to choose an approach that allows both you and the horse to easily observe each other , minimizing misunderstandings and ensuring safety.

Maintain a gentle and steady pace.

1. Walk slowly, keep your mind relaxed.

   • Horses are very sensitive to stress, so the calmer you are, the more cooperative they will be.

2. Don't try to walk as lightly as possible.

   • Making moderate footwork helps horses know you're approaching; suddenly appearing behind them can easily startle them.

3. Maintain a clear direction, don't be secretive.

   • Unnatural behavior can cause horses to misinterpret things and react defensively.

Avoid making direct eye contact with horses.

• Looking directly into a horse's eyes can be interpreted by them as a sign of challenge or intimidation.

• When approaching, look at the horse's knees or shoulders . This helps you maintain a friendly presence without making them uncomfortable.

Step 5: Approach the horse from behind diagonally if necessary.

Only do this if you have experience.

• Approaching a horse from behind always carries risks because this is an area where horses have difficulty observing their surroundings and are more likely to react defensively.

• This action should only be performed by experienced trainers or those with a thorough understanding of horse drive lines. Beginners should not attempt this as it is difficult to control the situation.

Go around a wide angle, don't approach directly from behind.

1. Approach diagonally instead of standing directly behind the horse.

   • Approaching directly from behind doesn't give the horse time to react and it may kick instinctively.

   • Walking diagonally helps you appear within the horse's line of sight, making them feel more secure.

2. Prioritize the widest possible angle.

   • Horses have monocular vision, meaning each eye can observe a separate area on either side.

   • When you walk in a wide diagonal direction, the horse can see you with at least one eye, reducing the risk of panic.

3. Maintain a slow and distinct pace of movement.

   • Horses react strongly to rapid movement behind them.

   • A steady, calm pace helps the horse understand that you are not threatening.

Prioritize approaching from the left whenever possible.

• Similar to approaching from the front, the horse's left side is usually the direction it is most accustomed to working with humans .

• If you need to approach from behind, choose a diagonal approach from the left to increase safety and the horse's cooperation.

Step 6: Use your voice to let the horse know you are approaching.

Always speak up when approaching a horse.

• Beginners often find it strange when trainers talk to horses constantly, but this is an important technique to help the horse locate you .

• As you approach, call out softly and evenly, just loud enough for the horse to know you're coming. A calm voice helps the horse feel safe and prevents it from being startled.

How to use your voice when approaching someone.

1. Use natural language, a steady tone, and avoid making threats.

   • You can say any familiar sentence, for example:

     • "Hey little one, Uncle/Auntie is coming."

     • "Hello, are you ready?"

   • The important thing is not the content, but the calm tone of voice that conveys a friendly feeling.

2. Combine voice with clear footsteps.

   • Walking and talking at the same time helps the horse track you using both sound and movement, reducing anxiety.

3. Maintain a safe initial distance.

   • Speak up before you get too close so the horse has time to notice and adjust its posture.

It is more important when approaching from the side or rear.

• When not approaching from the front, horses may not see you immediately , making them more likely to react aggressively.

• Using your voice at this time helps the horse clearly identify your location and avoids startling them or causing them to kick reflexively.

Step 7: Let the horse sniff your hand to naturally recognize you.

Let the horse use its sense of smell to identify you.

• Horses, like dogs and many other animals, use scent to distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar people and to assess levels of safety.

• Once you've approached, giving the horse a chance to sniff your hand is a small but important step in establishing initial trust.

The correct technique for letting a horse sniff your hand.

1. Maintain a safe distance of one to two steps.

   • Don't stand too close in front of the horse, as this can make them feel pressured.

2. Extend your hand slowly, not abruptly.

   • Keep your palms facing down and relax your fingers.

   • Hold your hand about 30 cm from the horse's nose, close enough for the horse to choose to sniff it if it wants to.

3. Maintain a calm posture and avoid rushing.

   • Do not push your hand too close to the horse's nose; this action may startle them or cause them to back away.

4. Observe the horse's reaction.

   • If the horse lowers its head slightly, brings its nose close, or sniffs, that's a positive sign.

   • If the horse doesn't seem interested in sniffing, simply withdraw your hand gently and continue with the next steps.

Respect the horse's personal space.

• A horse refusing to sniff your hand isn't necessarily negative behavior; sometimes they just need more time to observe you.

• The important thing is that you don't force it — a horse's trust is best built when you create opportunities , not impose.

Step 8: Give the horse a small treat when permitted.

Only feed the horse after you have asked the horse's owner.

• Treats are not mandatory but are very helpful in building rapport with unfamiliar horses.

• However, horses are very susceptible to bloating —a condition that can be life-threatening.

• Therefore, always ask the horse owner before feeding to avoid risks such as allergies, unsuitable food, or interference with the horse's medication/nutritional regimen.

These types of treats are safe when permitted.

• Carrot

• Apples or a few slices of apple

• Specialized treats for horses

Reasons why caution is needed when feeding horses.

1. Sensitive digestive system : Horses can become bloated by just a new or unfamiliar food, or by eating it at the wrong time.

2. Risk of poisoning : Some wild plants or processed foods can be toxic to horses.

3. Special nutritional regimen : Horses taking medication or nutritional supplements may be affected if they eat the wrong type of feed.

How to feed horses correctly and safely.

1. Place the food in the palm of your hand, keeping your fingers flat.

   • This reduces the risk of being accidentally bitten by a horse.

2. Let the horses feed themselves.

   • Don't force it. If the horse doesn't want to, just withdraw your hand and move on to the next step.

3. Observe the horse's behavior after receiving food.

   • Some horses become "greedy" or overly demanding when they receive rewards regularly.

   • Treats should be used to reinforce good behavior and accompanied by a command, not indiscriminately.

   • If used incorrectly, horses may wait for you to offer them food before they will follow — this is not good for training.

Suggestions for safe foods in small portions.

• A carrot

• A few slices of apple

• A horse feed pellet

Step 9: Pet the horse to build a bond before starting work.

Create a sense of safety and trust for the horse.

• Before leading the horse, grooming it, or performing any other task, take a few seconds to allow it to become accustomed to your presence .

• Approach the horse while speaking softly so it knows where you are and feels reassured.

The correct way to caress

1. Stand at the horse's shoulder

   • This is a safe and easy position for the horse to observe you visually.

   • Observe the horse's expression: soft eyes, relaxed body — these are signs that the horse is comfortable.

2. Gently stroke the horse's sensitive areas.

   • Starting from the neck, shoulders, and mane , you can then gradually move down to the body and hindquarters when the horse appears relaxed.

   • Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth — these are sensitive areas that can easily upset horses.

3. Use gentle rubbing or scratching motions.

   • Many horses enjoy the feeling of being gently stroked or scratched, similar to how their fellow horses rub against each other in the herd.

   • Avoid patting or slapping the horse , as most horses dislike that kind of sound and force.

Observe the horse's reaction while stroking it.

• If a horse relaxes its head, slightly closes its eyes, or leans towards you, it means it's enjoying itself.

• If the horse stiffens, turns its head to look at you too intently, or avoids your gaze, reduce the pressure or change the position of your strokes.

Secret 2: Basic steps in caring for and riding a horse.

Step 1: Properly attach the leash (halter) to the horse for easy control and movement.

Prepare before wearing the halter.

• Once the horse is comfortable and accustomed to your presence, this is the appropriate time to move on to attaching a halter to guide the horse or perform the next task.

• Before you begin, loosely wrap the lead rope around the horse's neck . This provides support if the horse moves or becomes uncooperative, but keep the movements gentle so the horse doesn't feel forced.

How to wear a halter correctly

1. Maintain a safe position to the left of the horse.

   • This is the side on which horses are usually accustomed to working with humans, making them more receptive to your actions.

2. Position the halter correctly.

   • Most halters consist of a small loop that goes over the nose and a larger loop that hooks behind the ear or under the jaw.

   • Check that the halter is not twisted to avoid causing discomfort to the horse when worn.

3. Insert the halter through the front of your nose.

   • Gently pass the small ring through the horse's nose, maintaining a slow motion.

   • Don't push too hard or make sudden movements, as this can easily cause the horse to back away.

4. Secure the strap behind your ear or under your jaw.

   • Once the nose ring is in the correct position, bring the remaining strap up and secure it according to the halter's design.

   • Check the fit: the halter should not be too tight or too loose.

5. Attach the leash to the halter.

   • Once the halter is stable, hook the leash onto the metal ring under the horse's chin to begin leading it.

Things to keep in mind when wearing a halter

• Always keep your voice soft to reassure the horse throughout the process.

• If the horse seems stressed, pause, pet it for a few seconds, and then continue.

• Avoid standing directly in front of the horse's head, as this is an unsafe position if the horse suddenly lifts its head or gets startled.

Step 2: Saddle the horse properly to prepare for a safe ride.

Only attempt this if you have a guide and lack experience.

• Saddle riding is a technically challenging step as it directly affects your safety and your horse's comfort .

• If you are a beginner, ask a trainer to supervise you to avoid making mistakes that could hurt or upset the horse.

Prepare before placing the saddle.

1. Brush the horse's back and lower abdomen thoroughly.

   • Dirt, sand, or tangled hair can cause painful friction when tightening the belt.

2. Lay down the blanket or pad.

   • The lining should lie flat and not be creased to protect the horse's back and distribute the force of the saddle.

How to properly position the saddle

1. Place the saddle gently on the horse's back.

   • Place it on the shoulder and gently pull it into position; avoid placing it forcefully, which could startle the horse.

2. Keep the pedals (stirrups) and straps neatly in place.

   • If left dangling, they could hit the horse and cause it to jump to one side.

3. Adjust the saddle position.

   • The saddle should rest correctly on the horse's shoulders, not sliding too far forward or backward.

Tighten the safety harness (girth).

1. Slowly pull the strap under the horse's belly.

   • Horses are often sensitive in this area, so tightening the harness suddenly can easily cause them to react.

2. Medium density

   • You should be able to slip two fingers between the harness and the horse's body.

   • If the saddle is too tight, it will make it difficult for the horse to breathe; if it's too loose, the saddle will slip while riding.

3. Check again after a few minutes.

   • Many horses puff out their bellies when the harness is tightened, so check the tightness after a few steps.

Two common types of saddles

• Western saddle : a large, sturdy saddle, suitable for long-distance riding or farm work.

• English saddle : a lightweight, compact saddle, commonly used for jumping, dressage, or basic riding.

The important thing

• Always remain calm when the horse is still.

• Observe the horse's reaction: if the horse shakes its head, tucks its ears, or turns its body, stop and check if there is any discomfort at any point.

Step 3: Mount the horse correctly to ensure safety.

Prepare before mounting the horse.

• Make sure the horse is wearing a halter , and the reins and saddle are properly attached.

• Beginners should use a platform or ladder to reduce pressure on the horse's back and make mounting easier and safer.

Traditional way of mounting a horse from the left.

1. Stand to the left of the horse.

   • This is the side that horses are usually accustomed to when working with humans.

2. Hold the reins with your left hand.

   • Keep the leash at a level that allows you to control the horse's head but without pulling it too tightly and causing discomfort.

3. Place your left foot on the pedal (stirrup).

   • Make sure the pedals don't rotate and are long enough for you to easily place your feet on them.

4. Right hand grips the saddle.

   • Hold on firmly to the saddle for support as you lift yourself up.

5. Use a slight squatting motion to lift yourself up.

   • Bend your knees once or twice to gain momentum, then gently lift your body up.

6. Swing your right leg over the horse's back.

   • The movements must be smooth, avoiding forceful kicks or touching the horse's hindquarters, as this can easily startle the horse.

7. Sit down comfortably and place your right foot on the other pedal.

   • Once seated securely, adjust your balance and firmly grip the reins with both hands.

Important note for beginners

• A raised platform or step helps reduce the load on the horse's spine when you get on and prevents it from losing its balance.

• Keep your voice soft throughout the process so the horse knows what you're doing.

• If the horse moves as you are about to mount, stop and wait for it to stand still before continuing.

Step 4: Begin riding the horse correctly to maintain safety and control.

Maintain a stable posture immediately after mounting the horse.

• Once you are seated securely in the saddle, take a few seconds to adjust your posture , your foot placement in the stirrups , and the length of the reins .

• Keep your back straight, your shoulders relaxed, and your legs gently tucked between your toes—this is the foundation of all riding techniques.

Controlling a horse using basic signals.

1. Use the reins gently.

   • Pulling too hard will cause the horse pain or panic; maintain a light and even force to guide the horse to turn left, turn right, or stop.

2. Use your feet to signal movement.

   • Gently tap your foot to signal the horse to come; do not kick hard as this may startle the horse.

3. Maintain a balanced center of gravity.

   • Your body must move rhythmically with each step of the horse to maintain stability and keep the horse comfortable.

Perform the basic movements.

• Walking : slow pace, suitable for beginners learning balance and rein control.

• Trot walking : requires better balance; beginners should practice under the guidance of a coach.

• Calter running : Only practice this once you have mastered the technique because it involves faster speeds and requires good control of your center of gravity.

Detailed instruction manual

• Horse riding is a complex skill, with both books and in-depth courses available for beginners and experienced riders.

• If you want to learn more about posture, speed control, or handling situations while riding, consult in-depth guides from reputable sources — especially helpful for beginners.

Suggestions for beginners

• Practicing under the guidance of a coach will help you master the correct techniques right from the start.

• Patience and consistent practice are key — each ride helps you better understand how horses react and how to communicate effectively.

Tip 3: Things to avoid when interacting with horses

Rule 1: Maintain a safe distance to avoid the horse's kicking area.

Understanding the danger posed by a horse's kick.

• No matter how experienced you are, horses can still be startled by factors beyond your control, such as strange noises, sudden movements, or the unexpected appearance of other people.

• When this happens, standing within the horse's kick can be very dangerous, as the kick is powerful enough to cause serious injury .

Two ways to stay safe when standing behind or beside a horse.

1. Maintain a comfortable distance when standing behind or beside someone.

   • Always stay out of reach of rocks , especially when you're behind a horse.

   • The distance between rocks varies depending on the size of each one, so it's best to keep a greater distance than you think is necessary .

   • When you need to go around to the back, take a wide arc , not ride too close behind where the horse can't see you.

2. Stand close and maintain contact if you must be near someone.

   • For certain tasks such as grooming, checking the hooves, or removing mud from the horseshoes, you may need to stand close behind the horse's flanks.

   • Keep your hand lightly touching the horse's body , and speak softly so the horse always knows your location.

   • Although horses can still kick, when you stand very close , they cannot gain enough momentum to generate strong force, reducing the risk of serious injury.

Important safety tips

• Always observe the horse's posture and ears for signs of stress.

• Never move quickly or suddenly when you are near the hip area.

• If you are unsure whether the horse is comfortable or stressed, choose to keep a safe distance .

Article 2: Avoid sudden movements when standing next to a horse.

Understanding why horses are easily startled.

• Horses have strong survival instincts. Even if they know where you are, a quick or unusual movement can still cause them to perceive you as a threat.

• When frightened, horses may jump, back away quickly, or kick—reactions that can be dangerous to anyone standing nearby.

Actions to absolutely avoid

1. Putting objects or hands too quickly into the horse's face.

   • Horses have a blind spot right in front of their noses, so this action can easily startle them because they can't clearly see what you're doing.

2. Run towards the horse

   • Running fast creates a sense of attack. Horses may run away, retreat, or kick as a defensive reflex.

3. Pat, slap, or hit any part of the horse's body.

   • Horses don't interpret this action as a friendly gesture. The force applied causes them stress and may lead to a negative reaction.

How to move safely when near horses.

• Always move slowly, smoothly, and purposefully .

• Make sure the horse sees you at eye level; avoid "suddenly appearing" from a hidden corner.

• Communicate in a soft voice to let the horse know what you're about to do—this is an important habit in all situations.

Article 3: Avoid making loud noises that might startle the horse.

Why does noise have such a strong impact on horses?

• Horses have sensitive hearing and a high survival reflex, so sudden noises can easily trigger a panic response.

• Even horses accustomed to humans can be startled by loud or sudden noises.

Noises to avoid when standing near horses.

1. Shouting, loud clapping, or any other jarring sounds.

   • Horses may interpret this as a warning signal of danger and either run away or react aggressively.

2. Gunshots rang out.

   • This is one of the sounds most likely to cause horses to panic, especially if the horse has never been trained to be accustomed to gunshots.

3. The music is too loud.

   • Loud speakers near stables or riding areas can stress horses, making it difficult for them to concentrate and causing them to react erratically.

4. Loud noises from machinery like chainsaws, off-road vehicles, and generators.

   • The loud, prolonged vibrations make it difficult for horses to predict the source of the sound, easily causing them to panic.

5. The sound of nature was as loud as thunder.

   • It's impossible to control, but it's worth noting: on days with bad weather, horses tend to be more sensitive and prone to strong reactions.

How to handle situations where you are forced to make noise.

• Move away from the horse before making any noise to minimize the impact.

• Give a gentle warning so the horse knows you're moving and isn't startled.

• If possible, guide the horse to a quieter area to ensure its safety.

Rule 4: Avoid startling or upsetting horses while they are eating.

Respect the horse's space while it's eating.

• Horses, like many other animals, tend to be protective of their food .

• Even a normally docile horse can become irritable if disturbed while eating, especially sensitive or defensive ones.

Things to absolutely avoid when horses are eating.

1. Do not get too close to the feed trough or the horse's head.

   • Bringing your hand or an object close to the horse's face, lips, or nose at this time may be interpreted by them as you trying to steal their food.

   • This can easily lead to defensive reactions such as head tossing, a light bite, or a strong retreat.

2. Do not surprise or provoke the horse.

   • Avoid any actions that might distract the horse: forceful patting, sudden shoulder taps, running around, or making unnecessary noise.

   • The interruption causes horses to become stressed and lose their sense of security around their food sources.

3. Do not encroach on the horses' feeding area.

   • If the horse shows signs of discomfort while eating (tense muscles, ears pulled back, staring at you), keep a wide distance .

   • Allow the horse time to finish eating before approaching or performing other tasks.

Safe and respectful behavior when horses are eating.

• Observe the horse's demeanor from a distance and only approach if you truly need to and can clearly see that the horse is calm.

• If you have to approach, signal in a soft voice and move slowly to avoid creating pressure.

• Never put your hand into the horse's trough or feeding area.

Article 5: Remember that some techniques are only suitable for professional trainers.

Clearly distinguish what is for experienced people.

• In horse care and interaction, there are certain actions that experienced trainers regularly perform, but which beginners should absolutely never attempt .

• This is because these techniques require a very keen ability to read horse body signals, quick reflexes, and experience in responding to unexpected horse reactions.

Why beginners shouldn't attempt advanced exercises.

1. Lack of understanding of the hidden risks.

   • Certain actions, such as approaching from behind, handling the hind legs, and working close to sensitive areas, can be dangerous if the horse's condition is not properly assessed.

2. Lack of experience in controlling the situation.

   • Horses can change moods or react faster than a newcomer can handle.

3. Easily misleading for horses

   • An inexperienced person might inadvertently create the wrong signal, causing the horse to misunderstand and react instinctively.

Principles for beginners

• Only follow the steps that are clearly instructed , safe, and appropriate to your level of experience.

• When faced with situations requiring advanced technical skills, seek assistance from a coach or experienced professional .

• Always prioritize your safety and the safety of your horse — this is the foundation of every approach to safe horse handling .

Understanding the personality differences in each horse is crucial for safe handling.

Each horse has its own temperament.

• While most horses are friendly and gentle, some are easily startled or react more strongly .

• If you are unfamiliar with the horse, ask the owner's permission before approaching it . This will help you understand its habits, sensitive spots, and how to approach it appropriately.

Be patient with shy or stressed horses.

1. Give the horse time to get acquainted with you.

   • Anxious horses often need a few minutes to observe, smell, and sense your presence.

2. Approach slowly and gently.

   • Use a soft voice and walk slowly to reduce pressure.

3. Work with experienced people.

   • The trainer will help you read horse body signals correctly and handle situations safely.

Respect the rule: do not touch horses that are not under your care.

• If it 's not your horse , and the owner isn't present or hasn't given permission , keeping your distance is polite and safe.

• This protects both you and your horse from unexpected situations.

Avoid the horse's blind spots.
Horses have several areas where they cannot see you, including:

• In front of the nose and directly under the head

• Along the underside of the belly

• Directly behind the buttocks

If you are forced to enter a blind spot :

• Signal your location with a gentle voice.

• Keep one hand lightly touching the horse's body so it knows where you are.

Do not underestimate safety principles when working with horses.

• These guidelines are not just "tips," but important safety rules .

• A startled horse may:

  • Running uncontrollably

  • Jump up

  • Back off or ram hard.

  • Kick with the back leg

Why is this dangerous?

• Adult horses typically weigh over 450 kg , meaning even a simple instinctive reaction can cause serious injury.

• Following proper safe horse handling practices helps protect you, the horse, and everyone around you.

References

1. Kate Jutagir. Equestrian Specialist & Trainer. Expert Interview
2. Jessica Rude. Equine Expert. Expert Interview
3. https://www.horsefeedblog.com/2012/06/the-dos-and-donts-of-feeding-treats/
4. https://nasdonline.org/document/1043/d000837/approaching-catching-and-haltering-horses-safely.html

Translated by: Sidney Bailey Hoang .