With summer around the corner, many will attend horse-riding camps. How does one decide where children will be safe and learn to treat horses in a responsible and caring manner?

Visiting several facilities at different times, preferably during camp is a great way to gain insight. Generally appointments are not necessary and visitors are welcome.

A property that looks beautiful, may not be clean or safe. A less impressive property that is clean and not in disrepair, may belong to a conscientious owner.

Is the facility clean? Meaning the absence of manure and ammonia smells. Hay on the floor may mean horses have access to their stalls and eat continually. It may also indicate dust management. Is the riding area fully enclosed? Are children under the age of 18 allowed to handle horses on their own?

What is a happy, healthy horse? Horses grazing does not automatically mean they are in good care. A horse lying down may be sleeping peacefully or in serious digestive distress. Lesson horses should not be sick, injured or unsound, old and arthritic or overused. A horse in pain may react by throwing a rider.

If frightened or threatened, horses will react to protect themselves by biting, kicking or running.

What about the teaching environment? Are horses left alone on crossties or is an experienced adult present to help in a panic situation. Is the facility quiet or chaotic? Are children playing around the horses? Are the horses calm?

Horses are wonderful animals and riding camps can be a positive experience. Making informed decisions will keep your child safe and give them the opportunity to develop lifelong relationships with horses.

Gabriela Rodriguez

Kennebunk