Safety First On The Ground
Many times we have taught that most techniques, whether educational, recreational, or therapeutic are done on the ground with client and horse. Many of these activities, although basic, can be very difficult for your clients. Some of these activities such as haltering, leading, grooming & picking up feet seem safe enough; however, injuries from from these low-level activities have been known to interrupt your sessions, classes and your clean insurance record. Through proper lessons and session planning, you can limit these types of injuries. Teaching safest techniques can also be very therapeutic and a good place to start with some of your new clients.
THE FRONT OF THE HORSE
Let's begin at the front of the horse with the head. Where is the most common dangerous place the horse's head comes in contact with the human? You probably guessed it. The human's head! This type of injury can be very severe. When haltering, leading and grooming, the horse's head can come in contact with several areas of the human head. Injuries can occur to the human's chin and jaw area, the cheek and nose areas, and the temple, ears area and possibly anywhere above and below! With proper grooming techniques a person can become aware of methods to stay safer and, at the same time, learn more about human and horse psychology and how important body language really is. We have to honorably mention the horse's front feet. I say honorably, because even the best horse people have probably been stepped on and had toes smashed by the horse's front feet.
It is important to point out to students and clients, and in combination with proper techniques of leading and grooming, etc., have them observe the horse's more natural standing position. Observing the horse first gives the person a good understanding of where this animal will most likely set his feet down. The observa- tion should be done standing, walking, and turn- ing. These exercises can also make a great ther- apy session for a client to look at their own comfort areas or zones. Position of the person's body is also important to observe, possibly by video tape.
THE BACK OF THE HORSE
Moving on back, we come to probably the most feared position or area of the horse, the rear end and back legs! Almost everyone has had a fear of this area due to an actual negative exper- ience or some friend who has been injured. Well, it should definitely be respected. The back legs are the gas pedal of the horse. The rear end is lighter and can move very quickly side to side, front to back, and up and down. Simply picking up the back hooves can be a confidence-building therapy session. This area also should be observed for its natural movement and stance. People need to understand the back legs' movement and limitations. The most common area of negative contact are toes, legs and a person's hands when hanging below the Belt. Naturally, there are many others when poor positioning occurs, when walking behind or cleaning the feet. Most commonly, staying close is a good rule. But also position should be examined in relation to the surroundings, i.e. buildings or other horses, as you could get pinned between if a horse should spook. When picking up the rear feet, position your back and legs so they are as straight as possible, and make sure that you are not leaning your head way over, looking into the frog or sole. Pick the legs up. Don't lean forward to it. I strongly recommend reading about different styles of body positions and techniques. It would also be wise to contact your local farrier and have him put on some training for staff or clients as to safe procedures around the horse's feet.
Reprinted courtesy of the author and Equine Services News, Volume 1 Issue 3-Nov.96
About The Author
Greg Kersten is the founder of Equine Services & Equine Assisted Psychtherapy (EAP), having over ten years of experience in this field. A former military police K-9 handler, Greg understands the importance of animal and human interactions. With a degree in Sociology and Certification as an Addictions Counselor, he has worked in prisons, jails and youth programs in Maryland, Florida, Iowa, Nebraska Colorado and Utah. For the last five years Greg has devoted his time and efforts to teaching and promoting the use of horses to help at-risk youth and families. Greg specializes in safety procedures, group and individual EAP. At his Aspen Ranch in Loa, Utah, licensed therapists team up with equine specialists to conduct therapy sessions. This type of setting is not only less non- threatening than an office environment, especially with adolescents, but is also more real. Individual therapy students learn to deal with issues such as anger, honesty, self-esteem, attitude, and coping mechanisms. Group therapy provides experiential activities using horses to teach teamwork, problem- solving, leadership, communication, relationship development and confidence. Family therapy teaches family roles and dynamics, trust & communication. Parent education is not only taught, but experienced. For more information about membership and opportunities in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, contact: Greg Kersten Equine Services, Loa, Utah. Or call (801) 836-2080
Articles of Interest
What it's about: the benefits of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, how it works, and the issues EAP addresses.
Article #2 Title: EAP from a Gestalt Therapist's Perspective by Catherine Johnson
What it's about: the principles of Gestalt therapy that are basis of EAP and their application to the work.
Article #3 Title: EAP at Work in the World by Jeannette Galarneau
What it's about: a camp program for 'at risk' teens and the benefits gained by participants.
Article #4 Title: Safety First on the Ground by Greg Kersten
What it's about: safety tips for being around horses.
Article #5 Title: Straight from the Horse's Mouth: The Truth about Equine-Assisted Therapy by Greg Kersten and Lynn Thomas
What it's about: how EAP began, what happens in an EAP session, the type of clients that can benefit, and the outcomes.
Article #6 Title: Equine Assisted Growth and Learning: Q & A Sheet by Winning Strides
What it's about: Frequently Asked Questions.
Article #7 Title: Why Should Administrators Support EAP? To Sierra Boys Ranch
What it's about: how to pitch EAP to your agency's administration team.
Article #8 Title: Safety or Control by Laurie Messner
What it's about: the controversy about whether or not keeping clients safe is really about too much control.