For any horse enthusiast, Craven County can be an ideal place to reap the benefits of horseback riding.
It is not only a liberating outdoor activity, but it is also therapeutic. Positive personality traits, physical health promotion, relaxation, companionship, and transportation are just a few of the many satisfying things that horses can offer.
When you are in the mood for something new and fun, try horse riding. Havelock resident Debbie Doe, as well as a rider of 55 years, says the equine community is large and welcoming in Craven County.
Four horse riding spots in the area
Operating the Gables Equestrian Center at 6 Gables Rd. In New Bern, North Carolina: This riding facility offers lessons, rides, horse shows, summer camp, and horses for sale or rent.
Rollover Downs at 1250 Rollover Creek Rd. In New Bern: Rollover Downs offers classes, coaching, boarding, and sales.
Cottonwood Farm is at 1700 Street Ferry Road. In Vansboro: Cottonwood offers boarding, an outdoor show, learning loop, cross-country playground, horse lessons for all levels, test rides, and more.
Walking stables down this road at 699 Ernul Brick Rd. In Vansboro: Walk This Way offers onboard accommodations, birthday parties and a barn for special occasions such as weddings, pony rides and stunts.
Domestic horse riding accident turns into an educational tool
While horseback riding can be a rewarding and accessible activity, no matter how experienced you are, it comes at a potential price.
If anyone is riding or approaching a horse, it is important not to forget that the animal can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and can easily be frightened by unforeseen circumstances. It is also essential to learn how to properly groom or approach horses to avoid serious injuries.
Will, 60, a Havelock resident and a horseback rider since she was 5, shared her life-changing moment and her experience of the traumatic injuries she endured due to a horse scare on March 5.
She said she was touring New Bern with two others on a friend’s horse when an unknown cyclist quickly approached the animal’s rear. Although she says she has ridden the horse several times in the past, the animal was still caught off guard and was pushed out by her fearful instincts.
The rider’s first intuition from a long time ago was to pull the horse to the shoulder of the road. When she stopped, she said, she got off the horse and fell to the ground. Was six of the ribs and collapse of the lung as a result of the accident. Al-Fares shared a graphic photo of her hospitalization.
“You never know what a horse is going to do when it approaches from behind,” she said. “It was surreal. It’s like nothing has happened to me in my life before. I fell, and I stepped, but nothing like this.”
In the area where Doss was riding, she says there is a sign that says Surrender to Horses. Anyone approaching the horse must slow down, stop and let the horse pass first. She added that the horse did not suffer any injuries, only fear.
Do was transferred to CarolinaEast Hospital, then her life moved to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville on March 5 and was released on March 9. She says she is still in pain and will have at least 12 weeks to recover.
How to approach a horse safely
There are several things to note about a horse before approaching it to ensure your safety. If you are a rider or have been around horses, here are some helpful tips to avoid potential injuries.
Horses have two blind areas directly in front of or behind the horse, according to the American Youth Council. To properly approach the horse, come forward from an angle toward his shoulder.
It’s also important to note that a horse’s personal space is called their flight zone, according to the AYHC. This is what causes the horse to move away from the person approaching the animal. The size of their flight area depends on the temperament of the horse and its experience with people.
With repeated training and handling, the flying area can go down.
According to the AYHC, noticing a horse’s body language and expression before moving toward it goes a long way. Make eye contact with the horse before moving in its direction. If the horse is turned away, encourage it to turn around and face you before approaching.
Recognizing changes in head, ear, neck, body postures, and facial expressions can indicate a horse’s temperament or temperament.
Be careful when working with a horse’s head, legs, and tail, according to the AYHC. If the horse is startled or angry, the animal may move quickly and injure the handler.
She said she hopes by sharing her traumatic experience that others are aware of the appropriate safety precautions to take. She hopes to start riding again after she’s fully recovered.
“My horses are part of my life. It’s what I do and what I live for.” She said. “…I want to make the public aware of the safety and precautions to take when seeing and approaching a horse, especially if there is a rider on board.”
Reporter Simon Graham covers local public safety for the Sun Journal. Do you have a story or idea? Send it on the way to [email protected]