Safety Tips

Staying safe

Horses are unpredictable. These steps take minutes and make a real difference.

Start with an intro call

Before committing to anything, arrange a quick call through our messaging. Get a feel for each other, ask about the horse, and listen for anything that doesn’t sit right. It’s low pressure — and well worth it.

Always do a meet & greet

Meet the horse on the ground before anyone rides. Owners — watch how the rider handles themselves in the yard. Riders — see how the horse behaves up close. If anything concerns you, trust your instincts. A good neighbour will understand.

Meet & greets are arranged at your own risk. Make sure you have appropriate insurance before visiting any yard — even just to view a horse.

Sort your insurance first

Both owners and riders need cover before any activity. Riders — don’t assume the owner’s policy covers you. It often doesn’t.

Simplest option for riders

BHS Gold membership includes up to £30m public liability and personal accident cover for recreational riding — from around £8.50/month. Visit bhs.org.uk/membership/gold-membership

Useful organisations

Trusted resources for safety, welfare, and verification.

British Horse Society

Safety advice, welfare guidance, insurance, and incident reporting. Visit bhs.org.uk

Central Equine Database (Equine Register)

Check any horse’s microchip, passport, and registered owner. All UK horses are legally required to be registered. Visit equineregister.co.uk/chipchecker

RSPCA

Horse welfare. Report concerns about a horse’s welfare — you don’t need to know who owns it. Visit rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/horses

Report an incident

British Horse Society

If you’re involved in any incident on the road or in a public place, however minor, report it to the BHS. They collect data across the UK and use it to lobby for safer laws and better driver awareness. It takes a few minutes and genuinely helps. Report via the BHS Horse i app or their online incident form: bhs.org.uk/go-riding-and-learn/record-an-incident/incident-report-form