under stress. The horse may react according to its natural instincts, which are to jump
sideways, forward or backward, to run away from danger, to kick with its hind legs or strike
with its forelegs, to buck, rear up, to bite and/or throw its head upwards or sideways. THIS
STABLE cannot always predict the behavior of any given horse in such situations.
3. Other aspects, which must be realized when dealing with horse, include, but are not limited
to:
a. Riding is the only sport where a smaller, weaker predator (human) tries to impose
will on a larger, stronger prey (horse), where each has a limited understanding of the
other, yet tries to become one unit movement. The mind of the horse can work either
with or against the Rider.
b. Smoothness and speed of the ride of horse’s gaits may be irregular at times. Horses
move at three unique gaits: walk, trot and canter. Each gait requires differing
movements and behavior from the Rider as instructed by THIS STABLE.
c. The distance to the ground is typically further on a horse than from a bicycle. Riders
usually fall on their upper body. Further, during the fall it is possible for the horse’s
large body to interfere with the rider. A fall may result in injury to the rider.
d. Always keep in mind that horses are five to 15 times larger, 20 to 40 times more
powerful, and and three to four times faster than the average human.
4. Upon mounting a horse and taking up the reins, the Rider is in primary control of the horse
and his/her safety depends largely on the ability to carry out simple instructions and remain
balanced while mounting.
5. THIS STABLE is not responsible for acts or occurrences of nature that can scare a horse or
cause it to fall. Some examples include: thunder, lightning, rain, wind, water, wild of
domestic animals, insects, reptiles, irregular footing, etc. Additionally, Riders must be aware
at all times of other Riders and horses nearby, actions of which can also cause the horse the
rider is riding, leading or standing near to become frightened or angry.
6.
A girth may naturally loosen during a ride, and the Rider is responsible for alerting the
attending instructor for assistance to avoid saddle slippage.
______SECTION III: RELEASE AND RIDERS CONENANTS
A. I/WE understand the inherent risks associated with riding and otherwise associating with
horses as outlines above; and I/WE accept full responsibility for any bodily injury, including
death, medical and other financial losses (including time lost from work or school), or
property damage which is sustained while on the premises of THIS STABLE or as a result of
riding at THIS STABLE by the Rider, the Rider’s parents/guardians or the Rider’s family
members and guests. Further, I/WE for myself, heirs, administrators and assigns, do hereby
waive and release THIS STABLE from and against any all claims, suits, causes of action,
damages or other liability for personal injury, including death, property damage, emotional
distress or other damages that might be suffered by Rider or Rider’s family members and
guests that in any way are related to activities of the Rider, the Rider’s family members or
guests at THIS STABLE (herein collectively “Liabilities”). I/WE further agree to indemnify
and undertake of the defense, including all costs associated with said defense (i.e., attorney
fees, court costs, etc.) THIS STABLE for any claims for any such Liabilities.