Terms, Conditions & Liability Waiver
Acknowledgement of Risk and Liability Release
Participation in activities involving horses, ponies, and other farm animals carries inherent risks. These activities take place in a working farm environment that may include uneven ground, livestock, farm equipment, and other natural hazards.
By registering a child to participate in activities, camps, riding experiences, or other programs at Shady Lane Stables, the parent or legal guardian acknowledges and agrees to the following terms.
Assumption of Risk
The parent or legal guardian understands and acknowledges that horseback riding, pony riding, and interaction with farm animals are inherently dangerous activities.
Risks may include but are not limited to:
- Falls from horses or ponies
- Kicks, bites, or other unpredictable animal behavior
- Slipping or tripping on uneven ground
- Contact with fences, gates, farm structures, or equipment
- Injuries caused by other participants or animals
Horses and livestock are large, powerful animals that may react unpredictably to sounds, sudden movements, or unfamiliar situations.
The parent or legal guardian voluntarily assumes all risks associated with participation in farm and animal-related activities.
Ontario Equine Liability Act Notice
Under the Ontario Equine Liability Act, 2001, participants in equine activities assume the inherent risks associated with those activities.
This includes the risk of injury or death resulting from:
- The unpredictable behavior of horses
- The potential for a participant to act in a negligent manner that contributes to injury
- Hazards such as surface conditions or obstacles
- Collisions with horses, people, or objects
By allowing a child to participate in equine activities at Shady Lane Stables, the parent or legal guardian acknowledges these risks and accepts them.
Release of Liability
In consideration of allowing participation in activities at Shady Lane Stables, the parent or legal guardian agrees to:
Release, waive, and hold harmless Shady Lane Stables, its owners, employees, instructors, volunteers, and representatives from any and all claims, liability, damages, or expenses arising from injury, accident, or loss that may occur while participating in activities on the property.
This includes injuries resulting from:
- Horseback riding or pony riding
- Interaction with animals
- Participation in camps or farm programs
- Being present on the farm property
This release applies except in cases of gross negligence as defined by law.
Helmet and Safety Requirements
For safety reasons, approved riding helmets must be worn during all mounted horse or pony activities.
Helmets must meet recognized safety standards such as ASTM/SEI certified equestrian helmets.
Participants must follow all instructions provided by staff regarding:
- Safe handling of horses and animals
- Proper riding practices
- Farm safety rules
Failure to follow safety rules may result in removal from activities.
Medical Information and Emergency Consent
The parent or legal guardian agrees to provide accurate information regarding:
- Medical conditions
- Allergies
- Health concerns that could affect the child’s safety
In the event of illness or injury, and if the parent or emergency contact cannot be reached, the parent or guardian authorizes Shady Lane Stables staff to seek medical attention for the child as deemed necessary.
Any medical expenses remain the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian.
Photo and Media Consent
Photographs or videos may occasionally be taken during activities at the farm for promotional purposes, including:
- Website content
- Social media
- Printed promotional materials
By registering a child for activities, the parent or legal guardian grants permission for Shady Lane Stables to use images in which the participant may appear.
Parents who prefer that their child not appear in photographs or videos should notify us in writing prior to participation.
Participant Conduct
Participants must treat animals, staff, and other participants with respect.
Unsafe behavior, mistreatment of animals, or failure to follow staff instructions may result in immediate removal from activities for the safety of participants and animals.
Agreement
By registering a child for participation in activities at Shady Lane Stables, the parent or legal guardian confirms that they:
- Have read and understood this Terms, Conditions, and Liability Waiver
- Understand the risks associated with farm and equine activities
- Voluntarily agree to the terms outlined above
Contact Information
If you have questions regarding these terms, please contact:
Shady Lane Stables
Email: [your email address]
Phone: [your phone number]