Brushing and Petting
Where should you pet a horse when you first meet them?
On the neck!
Only some horses will allow you to pet their face, and it is usually after you have spent lots of time with them!
Where should you stand when you are near a horse?
Near the head!
You can also stand near the neck or belly, but the safest place is the head.
What does a horseback rider wear on their head when they are riding?
A helmet
This protects their head in case they fall off.
What kind of red fruit do horses love to eat?
Apples!
Horses love how sweet and juicy apples are, and it helps keep them hydrated!
What sound does a horse make?
"Neigh"
A horse will sometimes say hello to other horses with a "neigh."
How should your hand look when petting a horse?
You should pet them with a firm, open palm.
Horses are ticklish! If you use your fingertips or pet them too gently, they might think you are a bug!
Should you ever stand behind the horse?
No!
A horse cannot see behind itself, so it feels much more comfortable if you are somewhere it can see.
What should you wear on your legs?
Long pants are usually best, but shorts are okay too.
Some people get an allergic reaction to hay, and it is good to wear long pants to prevent this. But this does not apply to everyone. You choose!
What kind of orange vegetable do horses love to eat?
Carrots!
Carrots are nutritious and tasty for a horse.
Sometimes a horse will take a big breath and make a funny sound when it comes out through their lips. What does this sound like?
BRRRR.
This is a sign that the horse is relaxed.
Which direction should you pet and brush the horse?
Pet them in the direction of their fur (front to back).
This is the most calming and feels the best!
Should you ever be sitting on the ground when near a horse?
No!
It is important to always be on your feet, so you can step to the side if needed!
What should you wear on your feet?
ALWAYS Closed-toed shoes!
Horse farms can be muddy, and you don't want to get your toes full of farm mud! They are also important to keep your feet safe around the horse.
What do horses love to snack on when they are out in the pasture?
Grass and hay.
Horses snack on these two things all day to keep their energy up and their bodies healthy!
What kind of noises should you make on a farm?
Talking with a calm, inside voice.
This will show the horse that you are calm and that they can be calm too.
Should you brush their mane?
No (not usually)
The horse's mane can get messy and tangled easily and brushing it can pull out their hairs!
The owner will brush their mane after putting lots of conditioner and detangler in it.
Should you walk, run, or skip around the horse?
Walk!
Horses are herd animals, so if they see someone running, they might think they should run too.
What should you wear for a shirt?
Just make sure you are okay with getting it a little dirty.
What is a horse's favorite candy?
Peppermints!
Horses love hard peppermint candy, and they will even perk up if they hear the crinkle of the wrapper nearby!
What kind of noise will a horse make if a little too much dust goes up its nose?
Sneeze!
Horses sneeze often-- it doesn't mean they're sick!
Should you brush the tail?
No, this is a job for the owner.
It is best to stay away from the backside of the horse.
Where should your feet be when near a horse?
About an arm's length away
Horses often stomp their feet to get rid of a fly or something tickling their leg. You don't want your foot to get stomped on by accident!
Should you ever wear your nicest clothes to go to a horse farm?
No, probably not.
Horse farms are dirty, so it is best to wear things you don't mind getting a little dirty.
Often, horse owners put a snack in the stall for a horse to lick when it wants. What is this snack?
Salt is very good for horses! It helps keep them hydrated and their muscles in good shape.
What kind of sound does their tail make when they move it side to side?
Swish!
Horses swish their tails to keep the flies away or to tell another horse to move away.