Horses make wonderful companion animals and many people who own horses do not ride them, but enjoy them as companions. However, if you are visiting a horse show or ranch/farm, do not approach any horses until invited to do so by the owner or staff. Some horses are not friendly and will bite or kick. Stay about 20 feet away from any horse until you are invited to pet them by the owner or staff. If you are interested in owning a horse as a companion animal, consider HORSE RESCUE, such as CANTER USA which finds homes for retired race horses. Visit them at www.canterusa.org.
Horses like to be scratched the same way dogs and cats do, and their favorite spot is at the base of their neck where it joins their backs. Horses can be seen "chewing" each others necks, and mother horses will be seen gently mouthing that area on baby horses (called foals.) However, do not attempt to touch any horse until you are told it is safe to do so by the appropriate person.
Many people are frightened of horses due to their large size. This fear can be overcome by developing confidence through riding lessons. So don't be discouraged if your first reaction is fear. They are large animals and it is normal to feel afraid of them. The fun is getting to know how to communicate with them and discover their personalities. People of all ages take riding lessons, you are really never too old. Kids start as early as 3.
People participating in shows and rodeos might be busy preparing for their ride, so don't be offended if they cannot stop and talk to you. If you walk around the barns, see if you can find some one who is not too busy and ask if you can visit their horses. Most horse owners are proud to show you their horses and encourage your interest in horses. Everyone in the horse industry wants you and your friends to have a great experience - visit a local horse show and make your first equine friend. Google you town + horse show to find a show near you.
Walking around the barns is fun and informative. You will see the horses getting bathed, and very importantly, you will see their stalls being cleaned and the manure removed. This is the unglamorous task of every horse owner and is a daily duty. Stalls must be cleaned at least once a day. Children need to understand the animal is totally dependent on the human being every day for food, water and cleaning.
That being said, kids LOVE horses and have a wonderful time with them. Here are some photos from DORAN SHOW STABLES in Lincoln, CA. Visit them online at www.DoranShowStables.com.
An exciting day for the Dorans, their assistant trainer has won a national championship and is wearing the rose blanket, surrounded by the whole barn and all their friends!
Horses bring out the kid in adults, and you will see people of all ages participating and enjoying horse shows!
Typical Horse Show Day
Copyright by ESSE
