Hacketstown Stud Stables

Welcome to Hacketstown Stud Stables!

The stable code is in place for the safety and welfare of our riders, staff and horses. Please read the following rules carefully and ask staff if you have any questions.

BOOKINGS, CANCELLATIONS & MAKE-UP LESSONS

All bookings and cancellations are managed through Hopoti. Please do not message us with cancellations, as we cannot issue make-up lessons unless the lesson has been cancelled through Hopoti within the required notice period.

* Lessons must be cancelled at least 48 hours in advance.
* Cancellations made within the 48-hour notice period will not receive a stable credit.
* When cancelled correctly and within the notice period, Hopoti will issue a stable credit which can be used to book a make-up lesson.
* Make-up lessons must be booked at the rider's appropriate level and are subject to availability.
* This strict policy ensures fair and equal access to make-up spaces for all riders.

RIDER WEIGHT POLICY

We operate a rider weight limit for each individual horse and pony. The maximum carrying capacity is listed on each horse's Hopoti profile.

Riders must keep their weight information up to date on Hopoti. Any rider may be asked to verify their weight at any time.

This policy is solely to protect the **long-term welfare, health and soundness of our horses and ponies.

1. STAFF & GENERAL SAFETY

* Follow all staff instructions at all times.
* Remain calm and quiet around horses.
* Never handle or enter a horse's stable, paddock or pasture without permission.
* Children must be supervised by a parent/guardian.
* Dogs must be kept on a lead.

2. LESSONS

* Please arrive on time. Riders more than 10 minutes late cannot join the lesson.
* No mobile phones while riding.
* No photography or filming during lessons.
* Jumping for riders under 18 must be supervised by an instructor or guardian.

3. RIDING CLOTHING & SAFETY EQUIPMENT

* An approved, correctly fitted riding hat must be worn when mounted.
* **Body protectors must be worn by all riders under 16 at all times, and by all riders when jumping or hacking.
* Gloves must be worn when riding and leading horses.
* Suitable riding boots with a heel must be worn. Runners/training shoes and open-toed footwear are not permitted.
* Long hair must be tied back. No jewellery, dangling earrings, scarves or hoods while riding.
* Jackets and jumpers must be securely fastened.
* Tight-fitting, suitable riding clothing must be worn.
* Riders with long/fake nails must wear gloves.
* Riding hats and body protectors are available at the yard, but we strongly recommend purchasing your own correctly fitted equipment for safety reasons.

4. HORSE CARE & EQUIPMENT

* Do not feed horses without staff permission.
* Use the correct tack for each horse and return it to its proper place after use.
* Never wrap reins or lead ropes around your hand.
* Wear a hat and gloves when leading horses.
* Treat all horses with patience, kindness and respect.
* Report any concerns regarding a horse's health or welfare to staff immediately.

5. ARENA RULES

* Call “DOOR” before entering.
* Keep gates and doors closed.
* Follow **Left to Left** when meeting another horse.
* Keep at least one horse-length distance.
* Warn other riders before leaving the arena.
* Remove/scoop manure when safe to do so.
* No lunging or loose-schooling unless authorised by staff.

6. YARD & VEHICLE SAFETY

* Cars are not permitted into the yard. Please use the designated car park.
* Vehicles and personal belongings are left on the premises entirely at the owner's own risk. Hacketstown Stud Stables accepts no responsibility for any loss, theft or damage.
* No smoking or vaping anywhere on the yard.
* Keep gates, walkways and access areas clear.
* Report any hazards or damaged equipment to staff immediately.
* Please familiarise yourself with the yard's fire procedure.

Thank you for helping us keep Hacketstown Stud Stables a safe, welcoming and enjoyable environment for our riders, staff and horses.