Terri Perrin
Special to the Record
Spring is finally here and outdoor enthusiasts are taking every opportunity to enjoy hiking, cycling, jogging and horseback riding on local trails.
If you are one of the thousands of people who enjoy the myriad of parks in the Comox Valley, the Back Country Horsemen of BC Vancouver Island Chapter want you to be safe!
Be aware that many of the Valley’s best-loved trails are designated as multi-use and, just as there are rules for the roads, there are rules and common courtesies for park use, too.
Ensuring your safety on the trails goes beyond dealing with challenges presented by Mother Nature … such as washed-out sections, fallen trees and wildlife. Whether you are riding a horse, walking a dog, jogging, cycling or driving an ATV (where permitted) you can take steps to ensure your personal safety as well as the safety of any horses and riders that you meet.
First and foremost, is to know that trail etiquette dictates all users yield to horses; ATV riders also yield to cyclists and pedestrians; and cyclists are required to yield to pedestrians.
Here are some other safety tips to ensure you enjoy your walk in the park:
Speak up!
Because dog walkers, cyclists and joggers may move quickly and relatively silently, a horse may perceive them as predators. If you are approaching a horse and rider from any direction, call out a greeting so that the horse recognizes you as a human being.
If you are riding a motorized ATV: stop, shut off the engine, open the face mask or slowly remove your helmet and speak to the rider, so the horse knows that there is a human under there somewhere. Start a conversation with the rider to help the horse relax. If the horse is acting frightened, remain still. Take instructions from the rider as to how you can remain safe.
Slow down or stop
If a horse appears frightened, stop and move aside, being sure to stay within sight of the horse. Be aware that if you duck into the bushes to get out of the way, the horse may consider you a threat. Avoid sudden movements or making loud noises and wait until the horse has moved on or the rider has the horse back under control before you proceed.
Listen
Never run up behind a horse — you could be kicked. Stop, talk to the rider, and wait until they have had a chance to move the horse off the path before you continue on your way. And please, don’t put your headphones on so both ears are covered. Horseback riders need to be able to verbally communicate with you to let you know they are sneaking up behind you, too.
Leash your dog
Always carry a leash with you when you walk your dog and keep an eye out for horses, other dogs and wildlife. Some dogs may act fearful at the sight of a horse; others act aggressively or overly enthusiastic. Either way, a barking and lunging dog can easily spook a horse.
Watch your kids
If you are walking with a child and you encounter horses, take your child’s hand and instruct him or her to remain calm. If your child wants to “pet the horsey,” ask permission from the rider and approach the horse slowly from the side, not directly in front or from behind. Stroke the horse gently on the neck with a flat palm. Keep your fingers away from the horse’s mouth. Most horses don’t bite with intention to harm … but may accidentally nibble on your fingers thinking that you are trying to give them food.
Network, learn and make friends
Local horse enthusiasts interested in learning more about riding etiquette and connecting with others are welcome to contact the local chapter of Back Country Horsemen of BC. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of each Month (September – June) at Grantham Hall. BCHBC also hosts sanctioned group rides and other special activities.
For more information, call Sharon Pickthorne (250-337-1818) or visit www.bchorsemen.org.