Summer hacking with your horse can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to keep safety and happiness at the forefront. Here are some tips to ensure you and your horse enjoy your rides:
Plan Your Route
Know Your Terrain: Familiarise yourself with the hacking paths and be aware of any potential hazards such as busy roads, steep hills, or uneven ground.
Weather Check: Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Avoid riding in extreme heat or during thunderstorms.
Stay Hydrated
Ensure your horse is well-hydrated before, during, and after your ride. and take enough water to keep yourself hydrated, especially on hot days.
Use Appropriate Equipment
Safety First: Wear a helmet, gloves, and sturdy riding boots. Consider high-visibility clothing.
Horse Comfort: Use lightweight, breathable tack and ensure it fits properly. Consider a fly mask or fly sheet to protect your horse from insects.
Be Mindful of Pests
Apply fly repellent to your horse and yourself to keep biting insects at bay. After your ride, check both you and your horse for ticks and remove any found promptly.
Warm Up and Cool Down
Start with a gentle walk to warm up your horse’s muscles before picking up the pace and then walk for a while at the end of your hack to allow your horse to cool down gradually and prevent muscle stiffness.
Ride With a Buddy
Riding with a friend can be safer and more enjoyable. It’s helpful in case of an emergency. If you do ride alone, let someone know your planned route and expected return time.
Protect from the Sun
Apply sunscreen to exposed areas of your horse’s skin (like pink noses) and wear sunscreen yourself. Take breaks in shaded areas to prevent overheating.
Observe Your Horse’s Condition
Watch for Signs of Heat Stress: Excessive sweating, rapid breathing, and lethargy are signs of heat stress. Stop and cool your horse down immediately if you notice any of these signs.
Respect Nature and Other Users
Stick to marked trails and avoid trampling on delicate vegetation. Be courteous and respect other riders, hikers, and wildlife. Slow down when passing others and always announce your presence if possible.
Hacking in the summer is not just about the destination but also about enjoying the journey. Ensuring your horse is healthy will help you enjoy a full summer of hacking. The ArcEquine is not just great for injuries, it has a maintenance programme that helps to naturally promote general health and wellbeing for your horses. With the help of your ArcEquine and by following the above tips, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and fulfilling experience for both you and your horse. Happy hacking!
