every time I have had a horse related accident, I consider it to be my fault in some way.
I now always wear my helmet and most of the time my protective vest when riding/driving.
Linda
Rich-Lin Farm Haflingers
----- Original Message -----
From: cedarglyn
To: haflingerfriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Friday, January 22, 2010 9:50 AM
Subject: [haflingerfriends] Re: How big will she get?
sylviasmiskoe@... wrote:
>> > While I agree that many things associated with horses are dangerous, the danger can be lessened with just a few safety precautions; namely closed top shoes and helmets. Most horse activities such as showing, 4-H, pony club, racing, bronc riding require a helmet that meets astm requirements. Most recreational riding establishments require a written release and a helmet.
. . . . . .
> It is your choice to ride unsafely but don't promote unsafe practices.
>
> Sylvia in NH
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
I agree. Certainly, it is an individual choice. (only let's not encourage the absence of safery precautions on a public list with several young readers).
Approved helmets have been discussed more than once in the past on this list. "Better safe than sorry" has generally been the concensus, at least publically. See post # 100039 (Oct. 29, 2008) for just one example. OR type "helmets' into the search box at the top of posts to read commonly held views of numerous riders AND drivers.
ASAP (as safe as possible) is the motto for the vast majority of riders of all ages and all disciplines. Head trauma can be deadly which is the reason for ASTM requirements.
Why take unnecessary risks when there is such a simple solution?
FWIW... my rules on my property: NO ONE rides without a helmet that fits and shoes with a heel (to prevent slipping through/catching on a stirrup) and closed toes. I've had my toes stepped on <ouch!> and really like the steel-toed paddock boots for everyday use.
Additionally, for dressage purposes, my Haflingers are not ridden bareback--they are ridden with well-fitting saddles to 'preserve the back' so they can raise it "in trust" of the rider's leadership as they bend at the poll and their ears go to the side in attentiveness to their rider. (My older mare is responding well to this training method although she was not given this consideration by her previous owner/s.)
We don't encourage ears forward, i.e., horse inattentive to rider.
That statement may create another discussion of differing opinions!!
Judy in NE TN (with rain and mud, dirty Haflingers and slippery terrain -- I'm eager for better riding conditions.)
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
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