Staying Safe in the Saddle

An equine expert from the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine (PCVM), in partnership with South Carolina 4-H Livestock and Equine Programs, participated in a multi-day clinic for horse enthusiasts of all skill levels. The event, called Summer SaddleUp, was held June 19–22 at T. Ed Garrison Arena.
Summer SaddleUp featured a variety of clinics for both youth and adults designed to strengthen riding techniques and horsemanship. The program’s mission is clear: “We are a team of experienced horse professionals committed to providing a safe environment for equestrians to ride and learn in a friendly, educational atmosphere.”
Vicki Weber, LVT, director of teaching operations and ambulatory manager at the PCVM, described the camp as a Horseman’s Conference. She said it was a valuable platform where experts and horse owners share knowledge, foster connections and build community.

“This event provides opportunities for networking, developing new skills, and understanding the wealth of equine industry resources available in the Upstate, across South Carolina and beyond,” Weber said. “As more horses of all performance levels move into the region, the demand for education and support grows. Summer SaddleUp is well-positioned to meet that need.”
Weber and Leona Parr Ransdell, 4-H Youth Development Equine Program leader, teamed up to deliver engaging sessions on equine safety and health. A lifelong horse owner and Equine 4-H alum, Weber led a seminar titled “Basic Trail and Trailer Safety, Prevention and First Aid (SPF)”, covering best practices in trailering safety, emergency preparedness and equine first aid.
“I knew my audience would range from youth to seasoned horse owners,” Weber said. “My goal was to offer helpful reminders and new information. I wanted everyone to take away something useful. I also encouraged dialogue so participants could learn from one another.”
Ransdell shared insights into Clemson’s Agriculture Programs and Cooperative Extension Service and encouraged youth to get involved in 4-H, especially those without horses of their own. Many of the educational programs are open to all who are interested in equine science, offering pathways to regional and national competitions.
“I grew up on a dairy farm in Newberry,” Ransdell said. “Horses were just pasture pets until I learned about a major horse show in Camden and found out that I had to be a 4-H member to participate. That decision shaped my future. 4-H gives youth a chance to explore their passion, gain confidence and even build a career.”
During the camp, Ransdell introduced participants to equine anatomy using full-scale limb and whole-horse models. Weber shared photos of her personal experience with trail rides, parades and long-distance trailering.

“Much of it I’ve done solo, including cross-state travel with my horse and even my trail dog, Weecha,” Weber said. “It has taught me a lot about safety and preparedness for both me and my horse.”
Ransdell emphasized the value of the PCVM-4H partnership. “This collaboration was a great way to showcase how our youth have a unique opportunity to get an inside look at how a veterinary school operates, show our youth that they have access to unique educational programming and that the leadership within the PCVM is truly passionate and caring about the 4-H members and want to see them succeed! There is truly no better team than at the PCVM, and their willingness to partner with 4-H is unmatched,” said Ransdell.