Chapter 2. Basic Barn Rules
Barn Smarts
NAVIGATE FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT SAFELY
Most horseback riding facilities have rules posted to keep everyone happy and safe. Riding can be dangerous, and most stables will ask visitors to be mindful of the following:
Don’t pet or feed treats to horses without their owner’s permission.
Some horses may not be friendly, and reaching out to them may startle them. Some horses are on special diets or may be allergic to certain treats, so it’s important to always ask the owner’s permission before giving any kind of treat to a horse.
Always clean up after yourself and your horse.
A neat stable arena is a safe stable area. Keeping equipment stored where it belongs not only keeps the stable looking nice but also helps prevent accidents.
Return all tack and stable supplies to the correct location.
Several people may be sharing tack or equipment; it’s important to make sure it is returned to its proper location so everyone can find it.
Don’t yell or run while you’re at the barn.
Running and yelling inside or around the barn can spook horses and cause them to hurt themselves or others.
Respect the barn hours of operation.
Barn owners typically set hours of operation to know when people may be inside the barn. It’s important to respect those hours; certain times of the day may be reserved to let barn staff complete their tasks.
Don’t use tack or equipment that belongs to other people unless you have their permission.
It’s not polite to use other people’s tack or equipment without their permission.
Always keep gates and stall doors closed and latched.
After returning a horse to their stall or pasture, double-check that the gates and stall doors are completely closed and properly latched. Some horses are escape artists!
Leave your pets at home.
Dogs can frighten horses and other people, and their curiosity can get them hurt. It’s best to leave your pets at home when going to the barn.