Jane and her brother-in-law saddle up at Potato Creek.

   This past weekend again confirmed for me that there is nothing better than a trail ride — for you and your horse!

   Several of my friends had been planning a Halloween camping trip to Potato Creek State Park for months, and bringing horses was a bonus. My newly acquired horse was making the weekend trip with her previous owner, so I took full advantage of horning in for an afternoon of riding.

   Also included in on the ride was my brother-in-law, visiting from Wisconsin, and of course I conned my husband into going. For those of you who know my husband, you can imagine he was truly overjoyed to trail ride!

   We currently own only one horse, so we needed two additional horses. Luckily, there were several available due to very generous friends. My brother-in-law (who owns an “iron horse”) rode my horse while I and my husband rode friends’ horses.

   As my husband (who has very little riding experience) got help getting on his mount, an alarm went off inside me: How safe was this going to be? Had I made a big mistake thinking we could just hop on and ride off into the sunset? Thankfully, it all worked out for us.

   A few things to consider for a safe ride are:

   — The conditions: Climate, terrain and your horse’s level of experience;

   — Proper tack, apparel and safety equipment;

   — And most importantly: emergency procedures.

   Never hit the trail without a buddy, and never leave a buddy behind. Know how to administer first aid to both horse and human. Always carry a fully charged cell phone, but know where the closest land-line phone is in case of poor cell coverage in remote areas. And it’s always best to leave information of your plans and when you plan to return with a responsible person.

   Happy trails will lie ahead with a little common sense and safety!

   Paws till next time — Jane

JANE BERNARD is director of the LaPorte County Small Animal Shelter. Visit the shelter at 2855 W. Ind. 2. Hours are Monday, Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Or call 326-1637 or visit http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/IN89.html.