Horse Etiquette
Horse Etiquette - Horses are prey animals. They can be startled by noise and/or unfamiliar movement. This can initiate fighting (kicking, striking) or fleeing (bolting) behavior and become quickly dangerous for everyone. So please keep the following in mind as you enjoy the Meadows Neighborhood:
If you approach a horse on the trail, walk (if you are not already doing so), speak calmly to the rider/handler, and make sure you remain visible to the horse.
If Passing by a rider working on their property, walk and call out to the rider/handler and ensure you are acknowledged by the rider/handler. If you wish to continue at a faster gait, ask for permission before doing so.
All dogs should be under control and by your side. Use a leash if you need to make this happen. Some horses do not like dogs. So be sure to give plenty of space to any horse you are passing so you and your dog are not kicked.
As with dogs, do not touch or approach other horses without asking permission from the owner first. Horses can have food allergies too, so please ask permission before feeding. Be aware that biting and kicking may ensue with the playful ones.
If you are driving down the road and are approaching a horse, slow down to under the speed limit of 14mph. Go slowly and give a wide berth in case the horse spooks into the road.
If you are biking down the road and come across a horse, stop and ask the rider/handler if it is safe to continue past the horse.
We have all levels of riders and horses in the Meadows. Despite the best training, horses can still be unpredictable. Thank you for helping us keep the community safe for horses and humans alike!
Please note: Some members of the community have asked that riders only walk/trot while on the sections of the Equestrian Easements (Trails) that surround their property. These sections have been highlighted on the Meadows Trail Map.