Riding a horse is one the best ways to get close to your horse. However, you also need to be very conscious of both your surroundings and also what your horse is thinking and doing to be certain that you're riding safely.

Here are some good rules to follow when riding your horse:

First of all, always ride at your experience level. Never put your personal safety in danger by attempting to do a maneuver on a horse that you've never attempted before unless you are working one on one with a teacher.

When riding, it's a good idea to wear shoes or boots with heels as it is easier to keep your feet in the stirrups. Also, wear comfortable clothing that allows for great freedom of movement. You never know when you're going to have to move quickly when you're riding. Don't wear clothing that is so loose and flowing it can get caught on branches or any other object that might be protruding as you ride by as you could get pulled off your horse.

Before you ride, check your equipment. Most accidents come from simply not following up and noticing the saddle wasn't cinched correctly or in bad condition. This also goes for the bridle and girth. If they are worn, don't ride until you get new ones, you're safety could depend on it.

Mount and dismount properly. A number of accidents happen because people don't take both feet out of the stirrups before dismounting and get a foot tangled. Take your time getting off and on your horse to do it safely.

Last but not least, ride with a friend and always make sure at least one other person knows exactly where you plan to ride. Follow these tips and make every ride you have with your horse a safe one!

One of the first things you take into consideration when working with a horse is your own safety. If you are working with a horse you don't know well, follow these tips to make sure you both stay safe and have a positive experience.

Before you approach a horse gauge his mood. If he seems agitate or upset - attempt to calm him down - if he won't respond to your attempts, now may not be the time to attempt any training.

Talk softly and see if the horse will allow you to stroke his face. Not all horses enjoy that and he will be quick to let you know by tossing his head and moving away if he doesn't enjoy it. Some horses enjoy being whispered to and blow on his face gently - many horses respond with affection. You'll have to see what works with your horse.

Never, ever sneak up on a horse. Horses are psychologically wired to be prey animals and as such even the most docile of horses will spook easily. When approaching a horse, whistle or speak softly and let the horse know where you are, he can anticipate your presence and it won't ruffle him a bit.

It's a good idea to lead your horse rather than let him run out ahead of you. It may take a little longer if you have multiple horses, but it is the safest way to get your horses from place to place.

As for yourself, keep perfumes and colognes to a minimum. Horses react strongly to smells. Also wear loose clothing so you can move freely and keep your feet out of the way. In case your feet do take a step from your horse, wear strong shoes with reinforced toes.

Watch your horse's body language. If he seems upset or agitated, do your best to calm him down and if he continues to act out of sorts, take him to his stall where he can calm down. You can always continue training another day!