Re: Went to Blydenburgh Dog Park Today... *updated - went again today*

Re: Went to Blydenburgh Dog Park Today... *updated - went again today*

PSA for those of you on the trails at Blydenburgh park that also allow horses -- PLEASE be considerate of the horses on the trail. Remember, the people riding are riding prey animals and even the best trained / most relaxed horse can become unhinged by a rowdy dog. Please make sure your dog is respectful of the horses, never runs close to them, and never, ever "sneak up" behind a horse. If you're coming up behind them, say "excuse me, coming through with a dog" and put your dog back on the leash. Always walk well to the side when passing, not close (and walk is also an important word - never run or jog past a horse).

This is for your safety, as well as the safety of your dog AND the safety of the rider. Riders should also allow you and your dog the same courtesy, so don't be afraid to ask for it. Also, please understand if a rider asks you to call your dog so they can pass or something like that. They know their horses best, and they are likely trying to avoid a potentially dangerous situation.

I ride in a park where dogs aren't even allowed and the hikers / joggers can be extremely inconsiderate -- likely b/c they do NOT understand that they can very easily scare the horse, which can turn into a very dangerous situation for the person riding (and the person / people on the ground if they are too close).

I'm not sure if the dogs are allowed on the same trails as the horses, but if they are, a little consideration / understanding goes a long way to keeping everyone safe and happy! Horses aren't horrible, mean animals or anything, but they ARE prey animals. It's an entirely different dynamic than owning / dealing with dogs, cats, and other more common domestic pets.

Okay, climbing off soapbox now!

And PS - Riders should never pass YOU and your dog at more than a walk either, nor should they pass closely to you. Don't be afraid to ask for the same consideration you give them in return.

Message edited 1/14/2008 8:45:26 AM.

Re: Went to Blydenburgh Dog Park Today... *updated - went again today*

Posted by Kara

PSA for those of you on the trails at Blydenburgh park that also allow horses -- PLEASE be considerate of the horses on the trail. Remember, the people riding are riding prey animals and even the best trained / most relaxed horse can become unhinged by a rowdy dog. Please make sure your dog is respectful of the horses, never runs close to them, and never, ever "sneak up" behind a horse. If you're coming up behind them, say "excuse me, coming through with a dog" and put your dog back on the leash. Always walk well to the side when passing, not close (and walk is also an important word - never run or jog past a horse).

This is for your safety, as well as the safety of your dog AND the safety of the rider. Riders should also allow you and your dog the same courtesy, so don't be afraid to ask for it. Also, please understand if a rider asks you to call your dog so they can pass or something like that. They know their horses best, and they are likely trying to avoid a potentially dangerous situation.

I ride in a park where dogs aren't even allowed and the hikers / joggers can be extremely inconsiderate -- likely b/c they do NOT understand that they can very easily scare the horse, which can turn into a very dangerous situation for the person riding (and the person / people on the ground if they are too close).

I'm not sure if the dogs are allowed on the same trails as the horses, but if they are, a little consideration / understanding goes a long way to keeping everyone safe and happy! Horses aren't horrible, mean animals or anything, but they ARE prey animals. It's an entirely different dynamic than owning / dealing with dogs, cats, and other more common domestic pets.

Okay, climbing off soapbox now!

And PS - Riders should never pass YOU and your dog at more than a walk either, nor should they pass closely to you. Don't be afraid to ask for the same consideration you give them in return.

Re: Went to Blydenburgh Dog Park Today... *updated - went again today*

Posted by Gertyrae

I have to agree with this post...We have seen many, many riders on the trails at Blydenburgh (almost every time I go) and I always call Misty back, stop, leash her and let the riders go by...it's common courtesy and I know the horses can be easily spooked by the dog.

Re: Went to Blydenburgh Dog Park Today... *updated - went again today*

Posted by Kara

Posted by Gertyrae

I have to agree with this post...We have seen many, many riders on the trails at Blydenburgh (almost every time I go) and I always call Misty back, stop, leash her and let the riders go by...it's common courtesy and I know the horses can be easily spooked by the dog.

Thanks for being so considerate of the riders! We (well, the VAST majority of us) truly appreciate it!