Education • Safety & Animal Welfare
Safety and welfare come first—always.
At All Strides Equestrian Center, safety is built through calm structure, compassionate guidance, and ethical horsemanship. Our standards protect riders, honor the horse, and strengthen trust—so learning can be steady, confident, and safe.
Rider safety
Clear standards, calm coaching
We reduce risk with consistent routines, appropriate supervision, and safety-focused instruction at every level.
Horse welfare
Ethical care and humane handling
The horse’s well-being guides our decisions—workload, rest, tack fit, nutrition, veterinary care, and turnout.
Trust
A culture of respect
We teach boundaries, empathy, and responsibility—so riders learn to partner with horses, not control them.
Our safety & welfare standards
These are the guiding practices we use across lessons, camps, clinics, and events. We can provide program-specific details during enrollment.
Rider safety
Safety is a skill. We teach it explicitly—then reinforce it consistently.
- Appropriate supervision based on age and experience
- Helmet expectations and safe footwear guidance
- Calm routines for mounting, leading, grooming, and transitions
- Fit-based pairing of horse and rider for safety and confidence
- Facility awareness rules for gates, arenas, and shared spaces
Horse welfare
We honor the horse as a partner. Welfare is not a “policy”—it’s a daily practice.
- Humane handling with calm, clear cues—no intimidation
- Appropriate workload with rest days and recovery
- Tack fit checks and comfort-first equipment choices
- Health oversight with veterinary/farrier coordination
- Enrichment & turnout to support physical and emotional well-being
Culture: how we teach safety
We use a supportive, trauma-informed approach: predictable routines, respectful language, and achievable goals—so riders can learn confidently.
Clear expectations
Riders learn “why” we do things, not just “what” to do.
Positive reinforcement
We build skills through guidance and consistency—not pressure.
Appropriate progression
We advance when the rider and horse are ready—safely and calmly.
Accountability & reporting
We take concerns seriously. If something doesn’t feel right, we want to hear about it.
- Speak up early—staff will respond respectfully
- Documented follow-up when appropriate
- Continuous improvement through review and training
Have a concern?
Contact us and we’ll respond with care. (You can replace this with a dedicated reporting form later.)
Contact ASECEducation
FAQ
Quick answers about safety and welfare. If you’d like more detail, we’re happy to help.
Do riders have to wear a helmet?
We strongly encourage helmet use and can set program-specific expectations. Final policy language can be published once your programs are finalized.
How are horses selected for lessons and camps?
We pair riders with horses based on size, temperament, experience, and the day’s goals—prioritizing safety and comfort for both.
What happens if a horse seems uncomfortable?
We pause and reassess—tack, workload, environment, and health. Welfare always takes priority over “getting the ride done.”
How can supporters help with safety and welfare?
Donor support sustains quality care—feed, farrier and veterinary services, facility maintenance, and safe equipment.
Safety standards require consistent support.
Keeping riders safe and horses well-cared-for takes ongoing resources—trained staff, facilities, and thoughtful programming.