Horses 'are not lawn ornaments'

In response to the letter from John Sowerby (June 13 edition of the Sentinel):

I have lived and enjoyed the countryside of King Township for many years.

During this time, I have yet to encounter a horse and rider "jogging" along the shoulder of a steep hill. Horse people tend to regard their equine partner as a member of the family, and are conscious of the safety of both. Relationships tend to last for years, they are not replaced frequently, when a new make or model catches their eye.

This is not to say that all riders using the roads are considerate, as not all motorists using the roads are considerate. Perhaps if Sowerby encounters riders causing him concern, a better approach would be to stop and speak to them.

It is unfortunate that Councillor Linda Pabst's comments (which I interpreted were meant to educate and increase readers' awareness) were read by Sowerby to mean all horses are a danger to vehicles. Yes, horses can be startled, usually by uncaring motorists who race by, sound their horns or scatter stones while passing.

While driving along the hills of King, I have encountered deer, coyote, joggers, and even families with babies in carriages enjoying the countryside. As well, children playing will often dart out unexpectedly. Is Sowerby suggesting that by the Township posting signs to alert motorists, such as "Deer crossing," "Watch for children," etc., that the Township (aka the taxpayer) could be made responsible? Perhaps the Ministry of Transportation could also be held responsible for accidents occurring when motorists do not obey the speed limit sign.

With regard to the "better approach" suggested by Sowerby: to "ban horses from the road" and to simply "enjoy them in the fields where they live and prefer to be:" Horses are not like cows and sheep. They do enjoy their time off, but they are working animals that people partner with to enjoy recreational activities together. they are not lawn ornaments.

Perhaps we could suggest to Sowerby that he restrict his driving to the 400 series highways, where he is unlikely to encounter anything but other motorists. Or to the streets of Toronto, or not. Oops! we do have police on horseback patrolling certain areas. Long live Brigadier in our hearts.

N. Coulter, Schomberg