| These basic instincts of horses are inherited from wild | | | | move around ponies and horses safely. |
| horse ancestors. Once you are aware of these | | | | Horses are easily startled. Those loud noises can give |
| instincts you will be much safer as you handle, catch | | | | you pony a fright and he may jump in his skin quite |
| and ride your horse. | | | | quickly. Make sure he does not get a fright, jump and |
| Horses and ponies are flight animals. Their first instinct | | | | land on your toe! |
| is to flee from danger. If they think they are really in | | | | Horses are very sensitive to being touched. Your pony |
| danger, the flight response will take over even if they | | | | or horse does not need much energy from you to |
| are normally very quiet in their nature. Keep your pony | | | | move. Think of him as being ticklish! You can often |
| safe and reassure him when you are with him. Be | | | | wave a whip around with the intention of touching him |
| aware of your pony and what he is doing at all times. | | | | and he will move before you get the whip near him. He |
| Understand these natural things about your pony and | | | | is very aware of movement and touch. |
| you know how to handle horses and ponies safely. | | | | Always take precautions when handling horses and |
| Horses have a blind spot in front of them as well as | | | | remember the equine safety rules listed above. Be firm |
| behind them. Be aware when approaching your pony. | | | | and alert. Stay safe - both you and your horse. Be |
| Make sure that you know that he can see you when | | | | prepared for the worst then it probably won't happen! |
| you are near. Speak quietly and calmly so you can | | | | |