GROUP- SAFETY TIP

When riding in a group, place the most experienced horse-and-rider team in the lead. The other horses will take their cues from the lead horse; if he stays calm, the others will be less likely to panic when encountering wildlife.

If your group is on a narrow trail, single file, and encounters an animal that stands its ground, the lead rider should halt and keep her horse calm, while the others turn around slowly and retreat, one at a time. Finally, the lead team should leave. By leaving in a quiet, orderly fashion, you’ll reduce the risk that you’ll alarm the animal, trigger a chase, or cause it to attack you.