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Horseback Riding Orientation
Introduction
By Dave Wiggins

When you arrive for a ranch vacation or backcountry adventure, the outfitter will go through a fairly extensive horsemanship clinic, but in the meantime the following are some points you can study before your trip.

Stampede!
This takes a little practice

Approaching

Always speak to your horse before approaching or touching her. Some horses are likely to jump and may kick when startled. Always approach your horse from the front. If they are turned away from you, call to them or entice them with a treat to get them to come to you. Never approach your horse directly from the rear. Even in a tie stall it is possible to approach from an angle at the rear. Pet a horse by first placing a hand on its shoulder or neck. The touch should be a rubbing action. Do not"dab" at the end of a horse's nose. If the horse is tied, get her to look at you. Always notice a horse's expression before advancing.

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