Answer

By Country Walking magazine

Horses are always a potential danger to ramblers – as a flight animal by nature, their inclination is to run if they take fright. While it’s not ideal for horses to be tethered (usually with a rope attached to a halter or neck strap) it is not particularly cruel, provided the horse has access to water and enough space to graze freely, preferably within sight of other horses for company.

Horses are very expressive and you can tell a lot from their body language. Generally speaking, if the horse looks up, catches sight of you and then calmly starts grazing again, chances are it’s safe to walk past him. If he’s leaping in the air, kicking out and charging around on the end of the tether it’s probaby best to avoid coming into contact with his iron-clad feet. Don’t run, shout or walk closely behind a horse – in short, act sensibly around all animals, especially those who weigh half-a-ton and have a mind of their own.

If you’re ever concerned for any animal’s welfare, you can call the RSPCA emergency number on 0300 1234 999.