Etiquette for Equestrians

                                Organized Trail Rides:

-- Be sure to read the information pamphlet provided by the ride owners. It will post all the rules of the ride.

                                    On Trail Rides:
--  Make sure your horse has the temperament and training for riding on congested public trails. Busy multi-use trails are not the proper place for schooling green horses.
--  Advise other trail users of your horse's temperament, e.g. a horse with a tendency to kick should always wear a red ribbon on the tail or a stallion should wear a yellow ribbon. Assume that not everyone will know what these ribbons mean, so be prepared to explain or take the necessary precautions to avoid trouble.
--  Obey posted speed/gait limits and use common sense in crowded areas. Cantering/galloping on crowded trails endangers everyone.
--  Move to the right to allow faster trail users to pass.
--  Announce your intentions to pass other trail users and reduce speed in order to pass safely. Pass on the left only.
--  Remove your horse from the trail if you begin experiencing behavior problems.
--  Stay on equestrian approved trails.
--  As a courtesy to others in your group, use appropriate hand signals for turning, slowing, etc., and give verbal warning for dangers on the trail (e.g. holes, low branches).
--  Do not clean out your trailer in the parking area. Look for a manure dump area.

                                  "Road Riding"

--  Know the ability of those whom you are riding with and be willing to "slow it down".

--  Never just canter off; tell your fellow rider that you wish to ride ahead. Check to make sure your friend's horse isn't throwing a hissy that your friend can't manage.

--  Don't ride into people's yards or onto their property unless sure you have permission. It's best to keep in the good graces of your neighbors. (Better known as "things I learned in my younger years".)

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