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Just as we would use proper manners around other people, it is imperative to use proper manners around horses as well. You wouldn't want a horse barging into your home and causing a ruckus now, would you? Using equiniquette, as I like to call it, will help you form a bond between you and your horse. Furthermore, if you are visiting somebody else's horse, using proper equiniquette will allow for the owner's approval of your visits as well as the horse's. Here are some basics:

PRESENCE

The first thing you do when entering a stable is to let the horse know you are there. Talk to him or her in gentle, friendly tones to ease any discomfort the horse may have. The horse will also grow accustomed to your voice over time if you frequently visit his home.

Many horses can be skittish, and any quick motions will disturb them. This is especially true if you are trying to pet or brush them. If you own one of these kinds of horses, go slow. Easy and gentle movements will gain the horse's trust. If you find yourself in a barn with horses you are unfamiliar with, this is always the best method of poking around.

Never walk closely behind a horse you are inexperienced with. Ever get that uneasy feeling that someone is following you? Well that is how a horse can feel, and will combat this with a hoof to your face. When I was two and a half years old, I ran into a horse corral and behind a rather hair-brained horse. The next thing I knew, I was being rushed to the hospital in an ambulance because he kicked me very close to my temple. This brings me to my next point.

Refrain from letting rambunctious kids yell and run all over the place when in a stable. Explain to them that such actions will cause the horse to get spooked, and not like them very much.

HANDLING

In handling a horse, there are certain things to remember. The general rule of hoof is not to do anything to the horse that you would not want done unto you. This means no mane and tail pulling, ear tugging, no touching of the rear, etc. Just think how annoying it was back in grade school when the kid behind you did such things!

FEEDING

Many people love to feed horses to get them used to their presence. If this is not your horse, be sure to ask the owner what his diet is, and what you can feed him, if anything. You wouldn't want to be the one responsible for the horse becoming sick.

Once you get the OK to feed the horse, be sure to keep your palm facing upward and flat. While you do not want to get your fingers chomped on, your horse friend will not be pleased with finger-infested hay.

ASKING FOR HELP

Horses know when a rider is inexperienced and unsure of themselves. And trust me they will use this to their advantage. If you can't seem to show the horse who is boss, be sure to get the help from someone who can maintain him.

Furthermore, tacking up can be tricky if you are new to riding. As a child, I once found myself riding down my pony's neck in the saddle because I didn't have the cinch tight enough. When I got off, she was wearing the saddle on her head like a bonnet! Always check your tack to see that it is put on properly, and if you are unsure that it is put on correctly, get some help from a stable assistant. While they are there, ask them other questions that you might have. That is what they are there for.

I have been around horses my whole life, so I know that it can be an amazing experience for people of all ages. If you behave appropriately, you can form a bond with a horse that will last a lifetime. Just be aware of your presence, how you handle them, their feeding requirements, and when to ask for help. Oh, and watch out for that pile of horse manure!

Learn more about this author, Kelly A. Mello.
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