Dicas de cavalgada.

Riding Safety Tips
Developed by the Certified Horsemanship Association and AQHA
Preparing for the Ride:
• Clean horse’s feet with hoof pick
• Check that shoes are tight
• Thoroughly groom your horse, especially areas where tack will touch him
• Be sure saddle pad is clean and pulled forward and up into gullet of saddle to create air space over withers and back
• Be sure saddle fits the horse without pressing on the spine or shoulders and that cinch is smooth, clean and tight
• Check bridle for proper adjustment with no pinching or loose straps and that leather is in good condition
• Have a properly fitting halter on under the bridle
• Have a lead rope around the horse’s neck or coiled and fastened to the saddle
• Apply fly spray or wipe on your horse
• Give horses opportunity to drink before starting on trail and allow them to drink on the trail if water is available
• Dress in layers
• Bring or wear a hat and sunscreen to prevent heat exhaustion or sunstroke
• Wearing a safety helmet is an individual and/or parental decision
What to Take:

• Current Coggins/health/brand inspection
• Form of identification
• Pocket knife
• Hoof pick
• Insect repellent
• Fly Spray
• Jacket
• Rain gear
• Water
• Snacks
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Lip balm
• Sunscreen
• First aid kit for horses and riders
• String or leather for tack repair
• Gloves
• Compass
• Cell Phone in case of emergency
Rules on the Trail:
• Ride a horse that is suitable for your riding skill level
• Remember, even the most gentle horse can or will spook if startled, so be aware of your surroundings at all times
• Tie red ribbon in the tail of a horse that kicks
• Do not bring dogs
• Maintain space between you and the next horse
• Stay with the group or tell someone if you intend to leave
• Stay on designated trail
• Never trespass or ride on someone’s land without permission
• Never leave trash behind
• Never smoke while riding
• On farm land, leave livestock alone
• Leave all gates as you found them (open or shut)
• Don’t let horses injure the environment (Stay on the trail; if you stop and tie horses, spread them out and scatter manure before leaving)
• Observe fire regulations
• Don’t let horses foul the water near a camping spot
• Keep horses away from areas and places where manure will bring flies and be a nuisance
• Be polite and friendly to hikers, bikers, farmers and other people you meet on the trail
• Do not run past others
• If passing another horse on the trail, first ask the rider ahead if you can pass and allow plenty of room when passing
• When making a rest stop, loosen the horse’s cinch and lift up back of saddle and pad so air can get to his back and cool it
• If tying your horse, be sure to tie with the halter and lead rope, not the reins; tie the horse at a level even with his back or higher and use a quick release knot