If you love getting out and about in the great outdoors, you will more than likely encounter a horse rider or carriage driver at some point.
Even though horses are large and powerful, they are also gentle giants who can be very nervous. Horses are flight animals, which means that if they perceive a threat or something out of their comfort zone, they will react extremely to escape. Because of their size and strength, this can have a devastating impact on members of the public, the rider or carriage driver, other animals and the horse itself.
It is, therefore, very important that you approach horses safely and pass them with care.
The British Horse Society has shared some top tips on what to do when you encounter a horse while out and about.
How to pass horses safely
How to pass horses when driving
Equestrians prefer to stay off our roads as much as they can, however, it is not always possible due to the shrinking bridleway network. If you are in your car and encounter a horse and its rider, or a carriage driver, the most important thing to remember is patience. If a horse is frightened, it can do immense damage to your vehicle as well as to itself.
Horses are categorised in the Highway Code as vulnerable road users, sitting alongside cyclists and pedestrians in the Hierarchy of Road Users. As set out in the Highway Code for passing equestrians, you are advised to do the following when you see a horse:
1. Slow down to a maximum of 10mph.
2. Be patient, don't sound your horn or rev your engine.
3. If safe to do so, pass the horse slowly and widely at a distance of at least two metres if possible.
4. Drive slowly away.
How to pass a horse on your bike
Cyclists and equestrians have shared the countryside for generations. As vulnerable road users, they share similar risks when using the road and off-road tracks, so it’s important that they work collectively together.
If you are out on your bike and see a horse and rider coming down the track, there are some easy steps you can take. Keep communication in mind, calling out to the rider and listening to their instructions.
Only pass a horse on the outside and pass slowly and widely, leaving at least two metres. If there is a clinch point in the path, allow the rider to move past before carrying on. If you remain patient, you can work with the rider to get past each other as smoothly as possible.
How to pass a horse when out hiking
When you’re out hiking in the great outdoors, it can be daunting to see a large horse coming towards you. Although they are big and powerful creatures, most horses are also kind with a friendly nature.
A great way to open communication with an equestrian is to simply call out, something along the line of "Hi, is it okay to pass?”. Give the horse and equestrian time to react and realise you are there. The equestrian will often instruct you on the course of action to take.
Their instructions will help keep you, the equestrian and their horse safe.
How to pass a horse with your dog
You don’t think of your loveable companion as a predator but, by nature, dogs are predators and horses are prey. Unfortunately, sometimes these genetic instincts can take over our dogs, resulting in chasing, scaring and potentially harming a horse.
If you don’t know how your dog will behave around horses, the best thing to do is keep them on a lead. Even if your dog is completely trusted and friendly, their excited movements can scare a horse easily. This can result in potentially fatal consequences for the horse, equestrian and dog itself.
Keeping to the side of the path with your dog close to you and under control is the safest course of action to take.
Ever wondered if horse riding is a sport? Or are you curious about the ins and outs of equine ownership? If so, check out our feature about how much it costs to own a horse.
And, if you're looking for present ideas, don't miss our handpicked selection of best gifts for horse lovers.
About the British Horse Society
The British Horse Society is an equine charity that promotes and advances the education, training and safety of the public in all matters relating to the horse. With the support of their volunteers and members, the BHS works hard to make a positive impact on the lives of all horses and those who love them.
To learn more about the BHS and how they can help you to get started on your equine journey, visit bhs.org.uk