Basic Horse First Aid/Trail Riding Tips
When starting out riding on the trail, it is important to train the horse on smoother trails before attempting more difficult terrain. Learn the important dos and don'ts of riding with helpful advice from an experienced trail boss in this video on horseback riding.
There are many pitfalls for both you and your horse when trail riding. It is not like riding in a ring or an indoor arena where so much of the environment can be controlled. On the trail the dangers are endless and random. You and your horse can be assaulted from all directions from insects, mammals, the splashing of fish or the jumping of a frog or turtle into a pond, deer, bear, coyote, the unleased dog, a kite flying above that scares your horse, a large boulder on the trail that was not there before, the rustling of leaves, the movement of birds, etc., the sound of gun shots or any loud noise for that matter. There is no end. Always remember that horses are prey animals and they take flight to protect themselves from harm. I was always told that "he who controls the horse's head, controls the horse," however, the feet are really important, too! It is a natural reaction that you as the rider must be able to handle and in the process stay seated. Trail Riding and Handling Encounters and Trail Riding Safety on Horseback.
Below are a few of the many problems that can arise while trail riding.Note: One item that Bill and I always packed for any trail ride was banamine paste for our horses in case of injury or emergency necessity. Banamine Paste for Horses is recommended for the alleviation of inflammation and pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders in horses. Flunixin meglumine is a potent non-narcotic, non-steroidal, analgesic agent with anti-inflammatory and fever reducing activity. Of course, always check with your vet.
For More Information:
Bombproofing, Desensitization and Sacking Out Horses