Even though horses are social animals, strange horses should not be allowed to get too close to the others. When leading or riding in a line, keep at least one horse's length between animals to avoid kicking. Horses being introduced nose-to-nose for the first time will often squeal and strike out with a front foot or even try to turn quickly and kick. When crossing a road, it is extremely important that all the horses cross together. One person should take charge and check that all are ready to cross simultaneously or in larger groups. It is better to hold the traffic and let the whole line cross. If one horse is left behind, it could get out of control and cause an accident.
Similar precautions should be taken when turning a group of horses out into a field. All the horses should be taken into the field and held well apart and clear of the gateway. The gate should then be closed. They should all be turned to face the gate and, when all are ready, released together. Turning the horses to face the gate means that the horses have to turn before they charge off and the handlers have time to step clear.
In a situation where the person riding or leading the horse loses control of the animal, the others should try to remain calm and stand still. Trying heroically to rescue a bolting horse at a gallop will only make matters worse.
