Horse Safety: Handling & Grooming Stephen R Schafer, EdD 2006 University of Wyoming

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Handling Approach….with caution (slow is better) Catch….typically with hand or rope Halter….gently and carefully Lead….from left side of horse (known as near side) Tie….various knots, but should be easy to untie

Handling Why tie….and with easy-to-untie knots????? It is tied for what reason: Grooming/Clipping/Bath Grooming, followed by saddling Hoof care Tooth care De-worming Vaccinations or other health care work When horse gets scared, it will jerk and pull on its lead rope….making the knot hard to untie

Handling Use caution and slowness…..because of eyesight Drawing: Wyoming 4-H

Handling Safety Zones…..because of eyesight Drawing: Wyoming 4-H

Handling Always give wide clearance….or keep hand on horse Drawings: Wyoming 4-H

Handling Safety/Caution…Red Tail Flag = Kicking Horse Photo: Unknown Source

Safety In Handling Always give wide clearance….or keep hand on horse Never walk under the neck of the horse Never get under the belly/abdomen of the horse Do not use quick movements Do not yell, scream, or make other loud noises Always expect the unexpected….easier said than done

Grooming Why?????????????????? Safety (for rider and for horse) Health of the horse (detection and prevention) Cuts Swellings Cracked Hooves Burrs or whatever in hair, mane, or tail Appearance of the horse This is also a good time to check equipment

Grooming - Basic Tools Hoof Pick (usually….metal with coated handle) Curry Comb (typically….rubber, plastic, or metal) Brushes (have a soft brush and a hard brush) Mane & Tail Comb/Brush (usually….plastic or metal) Grooming Cloth (an old towel will work just fine)

Grooming - Basic Tools Drawing: Wyoming 4-H

Grooming – Using The Tools Drawing: Unknown Source

Summary: Handling & Grooming Always use caution when catching a horse Always be calm/collected when working with a horse Grooming has many purposes (not just for appearance) Use the proper grooming tool for the appropriate job Safety-Handling or Grooming-Expect the Unexpected