Why Dogs Aren't Allowed on Trail Rides
I like dogs, but when I'm riding my horse, especially if I'm with more than one or two other riders, I prefer to concentrate solely on my horse and my ride, and not have to worry about where someone's dog might be. Below is a prime example of why dogs and horses don't mix on the trail, from Endurance.Net Ridecamp:
Los Angeles, CA – On Sunday, June 20, 2010, Jacqy Gamble’s life was turned upside down when her beloved horse, Mensche, bolted during an endurance training session in the Hansen Dam Wash. After an intense search spanning 48 hours, including an infrared flyover of the wash, there was no sign of the missing Mensche.
Mensche, a 12 year old bay Arabian gelding with four white stocking and a full blaze, measuring 15.2 hands, became missing during a trail ride June 20. The seasoned endurance horse was startled when a dog ran underneath him. Gamble became dislodged and Mensche broke free, taking off with the dog chasing him. Gamble searched the nearby area, but was unable to find any sign of Mensche. The dog’s owner reported he had come home, but the spooked equine was nowhere to be found.
July 12, 2010
I am sorry to report that Menche was found today in Big Tujunga Wash very close to the area that he lost his rider. It appears that he broke his neck and leg while running soon after she came off. —Margie
In a situation, like this, nothing ever seems to make sense. One will always second guess themselves. Could I have done anything any differently? In the situation that question does not belong on the lap of the rider/owner. It does belong on the lap of the person not in control of their dog. My great hope out of this would be that ALL pet owners, who bring their dogs to ride camp, camping, etc., know how quickly a very innocent situation can turn into such a tragedy. —D'Arcy