>>> Also, even with liability releases, if a party can prove any level of >>> negligence >>> (like you knew in advance of the little hole that the horse tripped in and >>> caused the >>> rider to fall and break their arm), the liability release is null and void. >>> It's >>> amazing that any of us let anyone ride our horses or get near them and >>> that's why so >>> many people won't let you ride on their land.
Exactly, and that is a little scary if I think about it TOO much. >>> I just believe you have to be aware, do your best to protect yourself and >>> have a >>> little faith. I will do everything I can to safely help a child that has a >>> thirst to >>> participate in the "horsey experience" Us too. We let kids ride here, but only well-screened kids. We even let three little girls "adopt" Thunder for a while (at different times) after Emily left home, and those experiences were absolutely joyous for the hopeless "horsey mom" in me. They took lessons on him, and two learned to jump, but their parents were involved, knew the inherent risks of riding, and they agreed to our restriction that the kids had to stay involved in organized and suitable riding lessons. (MAYBE I could give lessons myself but it's really NOT my cup of tea!) I've let a few kids ride the Icelandic's here, some that I didn't know prior to their parents coming to try out Icelandic's. We always start in the round pen so I can see for myself that the kids have had some training, and that they aren't rough riders. If the kids don't have experience, or if their parents are clueless, we don't let them out of the round pen! If a kid is rough with the reins, they have ONE chance to prove that they can listen and do better, but if they insist on riding rough, I take the attitude that they my horses deserve better. After that one chance, they don't have to be perfect, just better, and show that they care enough to listen. I can only think of two occasions where I put my foot down and said 'nuff's enough. We've also had a few pony-ride birthday parties here for the nephews and good neighbors, but I carefully select which horses I trust for that duty. I sure wouldn't ask ANY horse to do that for very long, or very often. Karen Thomas, NC
