Tips for Working Horses Alone

Wow. I would freak if I found myself in a pit with rats!! When I ride alone I normally take my cell phone and a knife with me. If I'm riding in an area close to houses I may also take pepper spray.

I let someone know where I am going, and they will call me periodically to be sure I am still ok if I'm out for very long. I also try to make sure my horse is as solid as possible, but I have found my old horse was more solid alone than when we had company. I hope that I never get in a really bad situation out there, but if it happens it happens. I will just be as prepared as I can.

I would think more for if mine or my horse's foot got caught or if something broke and I needed to cut a new piece fo something to fix a bridle, piece on a saddle, etc. (I keep extra leather bands with me) I'm trying to think of other things I could need it for, but I can't get anything else at the moment...lol.

^ I agree Kevin. I never thought of a cinch if a hrose was on top of me, but htat could be very important if you were stuck in a ditch or ravine. I would rather have extra safetly tools.

On long trails my mom always wears a hilarious little fanny pack with all kinds of things for in case something happens. After a horse got an abcess on a trail that includes feminine napkins and duct tape. Our vet said if a horse is not lame and has an abcess you could apply that to keep it clean until you get back to camp. I should probably take that little thing with me when I go for rides alone, but that is one thing I have never been able to ride with comfortably. I keep similar items in saddle bags on trails where it would be more difficult for people to get to me.

aynelson said:

Great advice everyone! I am going to ask for a Swiss Army Knife for Christmas. A trail first aid kit is a great idea! I take one with me hiking, why don't I take one during a trail ride?

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The sad part is that mine is more for horses than me....lol. I figure its easier to get back out if I can keep my horse patched up. I haven't needed a rescue yet, but if I ever did I would like to be able to get it. I've been lucky that I haven't. We've been shot at (they thought we were deer), chased by dogs, honked at by semis, and had deer and birds pop out. I was lucky to be on a good horse who onlly reacted with a 3 step bolt and then stopped as soon as he hit the bit.