You can’t fix stupid – Injuries are mostly caused by inexperienced handlers who think they are experts because they had riding lessons when they were 10. Insurance carriers mandate headgear to be worn at all times at lesson barns — Great when it’s 98 degrees and you’re mucking out stalls. I’ve been in the horse business over 25 years and not had one major injury BECAUSE we practice SAFE habits at all times in our barns and NO inexperienced handler is allowed to be around the horses without supervision.
I appreciate and agree with FLAGENT’s comments on the absolute need for safety. That goes a long way in preventing injuries, but it isn’t a 100% solution. Anytime you climb aboard an animal that weighs several hundred pounds you’re assuming a risk of injury, if not by your own error, then just by the inherent behavior of the animal. (e.g. Christopher Reeve) Helmets might mitigate closed head injuries but they do nothing for spinal injuries.
Bottom line…if it’s your passion, go for it; but understand it could dramatically change your life.
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You can’t fix stupid – Injuries are mostly caused by inexperienced handlers who think they are experts because they had riding lessons when they were 10. Insurance carriers mandate headgear to be worn at all times at lesson barns — Great when it’s 98 degrees and you’re mucking out stalls. I’ve been in the horse business over 25 years and not had one major injury BECAUSE we practice SAFE habits at all times in our barns and NO inexperienced handler is allowed to be around the horses without supervision.
I appreciate and agree with FLAGENT’s comments on the absolute need for safety. That goes a long way in preventing injuries, but it isn’t a 100% solution. Anytime you climb aboard an animal that weighs several hundred pounds you’re assuming a risk of injury, if not by your own error, then just by the inherent behavior of the animal. (e.g. Christopher Reeve) Helmets might mitigate closed head injuries but they do nothing for spinal injuries.
Bottom line…if it’s your passion, go for it; but understand it could dramatically change your life.