Safety on the Ground: A Lesson With Trent

Safety is paramount when working with horses. Here are a few tips, especially for kids, that will keep you safe on the ground.

Holding the Lead Rope
It is wise to fold the lead rope rather than coil it like a lariat. Coiling the lead rope can lead to it getting wrapped around your hands.

Leading
I prefer to have a horse lead at my shoulder rather than too far behind me so that I am in the clear if he spooks.

Walking Behind the Horse
It is safer to walk right behind the horse, maintaining contact with him, rather than getting out farther where the horse can make more impact if he tried to kick.

Handling the Feet
I like to put the lead rope in my outside hand, then touch the horse's chestnut to ask him to pick that foot up. For the back foot, I start at the top of the hip and work my hands down to make sure he is okay with it. To pick that foot up, I squeeze the hock lightly until he picks the foot up.

Leaving a Lead Rope Slack
If you are going to drop the lead rope, it can be a good idea to drape it over the horse's neck or saddle horn rather than leaving it on the ground.

Taking the Halter Off
Wrap the lead rope around the neck prior to taking the halter off so that you have something to grab if the horse decides to try to walk off.

I hope this lesson helps you and your kids have fun with horses while remaining safe.

Until next time, may God bless the trails you ride!
-Ken McNabb