HANDLING LARGE ANIMALS SAFELY
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380-BKI-01-IAOT © 2022, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | wsps.ca
Do not let the horse "walk" you. Do not allow it to get behind you either as it could jump into you if
spooked.
To lead a horse through a doorway, you should step through first, then quickly step to the side out of the
horse's way. Keep an eye on it, as some horses try to rush through narrow spaces.
Never wrap any piece of equipment attached to a horse around your hand, even with small loops, as it
could wrap around the hand and cause serious injury.
After you remove the halter, make the horse stand quietly for several seconds before letting it go
completely. This will help prevent the horse from developing a habit of bolting away and kicking at you
in the process.
Some horses can become sour and begin nipping at you if they anticipate discomfort during grooming.
Do not hurry the grooming procedure, especially with a young or spooky horse. Stay near the horse and
keep a hand on it at all times so you can anticipate its movements.
Do not climb over or under the lead line of a tied horse. The horse may pull back and cause you to trip
over the line. You will have no quick escape should the horse lunge forward, paw or try to bite. Never
walk under the belly of any horse.
SHEEP
A common accident involving sheep is being butted by a ram. Ewes will also protect their young and
should be handled carefully. A sheep can be immobilized for safe handling by sitting it up on its rump
and the ground.
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