Equine Health & Safety
All you need to know regarding equine health and safety on a #GoRacingGreen visit
Keeping Horses Safe
When we are visiting racing yards and coming into contact with racehorses in any environment, it is important to be aware of equine health & safety, from simple things like what not to do around a horse, to things that may have more serious consequences for the horses, and for racing.
Keeping You Safe
Horses are like people, and they very much have their own personalities, and their own likes and dislikes. However experienced you may be around horses, only those who are with them every day, truly understand them. It is therefore vitally important you listen to all instructions given at the start of the visit.
Privacy & Security
Please do no take any photos or videos without the consent of the yard/premises. It may be that you can take them for your own enjoyment, but must not share them on social media. Also, you should not repeat any discussions you hear about horses on a yard externally.
important ponts to note
Please reach us at debbie@novicefilly.co.uk if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Please do not attend a visit if you know you have had contact with any yard where a horse has tested positive for any form of contagious equine condition, or there is a possibility there may be, even if not confirmed. Such illnesses would be devastating for horses and racing.
Please do not touch the horses without the permission of the person leading the visit. Touching horses can be the easiest way to spread equine illnesses. Some horses just do not like to be touched, and there will either be a sign on their stable, or you will be told. Please be mindful of mares with foals, like any mother, they will want to protect their baby. At stallion yards there is clear guidance that must be adhered to. Always approach them calmly from the shoulder to avoid blind spot.
No open toed footwear (flip flops, sandals, Crocs) is permitted. Please always wear enclosed footwear. Please avoid wearing scarves as horses can grab hold of these and pull them, harming you, them, or both. Please avoid umbrellas. Do not stand behind horses at any time.
Please do not ever feed horses without permission. Also, please do not eat or drink around horses.
There is zero tolerance to smoking, including vaping and e-cigarettes, on any #GoRacingGreen visit. Do not attend a visit under the influence of alcohol or any non-prescribed substances.
When watching horses at work, whether that be on gallops or in an arena/training area, please stand well back. Remain upright at all times when taking pictures and videos - do not crouch or lie low to the ground, as this can spook a horse. Do not be loud or make any sudden movements. Do not use an umbrella. Listen to instructions at all times.