By Sarah Hand

Introduction In this slide show you will learn how to properly approach a horse. The slide show is as followed: 1. The steps to approaching a horse. 2.Warnings your should be aware of. 3.Better understanding horses. 4. The best clothing to wear around horses. 5. The right foods to feed a horse. By the end of this slide show you will hopefully have a full understanding of horses and how best to approach them.

1. When first approaching a horse do not walk straight towards him or her, make a little noise to let the horse know you are there. 2. Turn to your side and wait. 3. Walk towards the horse but not directly. If he or she does not approach you keep turned to your side. TIP: Remember horses can not see directly in front of them. Their eyes are positioned on the side so the see on the side. ALWAYS approach horses on their side.

4. Let the horse see what you will do next. If he or she backs away: Stop and wait. If he or she does not back away then you can stretched out your arm as if to greet him or her. 5. Repeat this process and eventually the horse will realize your not a threat. Give him or her a pat and gently put on the halter. Tip: Do not look your horse straight in the eye. Only predators look them straight in the eye. The horse might get scared.

If the horse bucks, stand back but do not retreat quickly. Retreating quickly will show that you are afraid. Never approach a horse you do not know or do not have permission from owner to approach. Try not to make sudden movements or loud noises as they could scare the horse.

Better Understanding Horses When horses are frightened you are at risk. At this time a horse’s only thought is escape and survival. Horses are prey animals so in the wild they are at risk of being eaten. Horses are constantly on the lookout so it is best to approach them safely. To the right is a diagram of a horses sight. For your safety try to not approach a horse from their blind spots.

The Best Clothing to Wear around Horses Do not wear any jewelry! It could harm you and the horse. Wear footwear that covers you whole foot such as sneakers or boots. Wear shirts that cover your shoulders. Avoid bright colours. Dress appropriately for the weather.

Horse Treats The following treats are safe to feed horses: Pitted Dates Raisins Sugar cubes Hay cubes Apple pieces Carrot pieces Sunflower seeds (with or without shells) Peppermints The following treats are NOT safe to feed horses: Lawn, hedge or garden clippings. Cabbage, including broccoli, cauliflower etc…. Potatoes Tomatoes Acorns Chocolate

Through this slide show I hope you learned how to safely be around horses. Remember horses will not be afraid if you are not afraid!

Bibliography How to Approach your Horse: The Best way to Approach a Horse: lp_gain_its_trust_in_you Horse Safety Tips: General Horse Safety Tips