 
The world of horses is compsed of a wide variety of activities. Trail riding is one of the fastest growing of these activities. More horse owners are finding the excitment and satisfaction of taking a ride merely to enjoy the horse, the out-of-doors and the pleasures of relaxation from the back of a horse. Hopefully, all aspects of horse safety are second nature to the horseperson. Rather than repeat all the rules of horse safety, the following comments refer to precautions unique to trail riding. Riders should know them and follow them as closely as possible. 1. Be sure your horse is properly conditioned. An over-fatigued horse could lead to accidents. 2. Be sure your equipment is in good repair and properly adjusted. The girth, stirrup leathers and headgear are particular parts to check. 3. Do not tie your horse too close to a strange horse. Tie it out of kicking range of the nearest horse. 4. Do not crowd other horses when on the trail. Your horse may be kicked or bitten; possibly resulting in an accident. Maintain a space between you and the rider ahead of you at least equal to the length of your horse. 5. Do not pass another horse on the trail at a differnt gait than the gait being traveled. 6. Watch out for low hanging branches, large rocks, boggy areas on the trail and other natural hazards. 7. Treat minor scrapes, abrasion, strains or bruises of either horse or rider while still minor. Left untreated, they could become aggravated and result in mahor injuries. 8. Do not try to negotiate a segment of the trail you consider too hazardous or for which you have not prepared your horse. 9. Obey all orders, directions and suggestions of the person in charge of a group ride. 10. Be alert to traffic when you are riding near highways. If you have to cross a busy road, dismount and lead your horse across.
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