Terms of Service

1. Introduction and Affiliate Disclosure

Welcome to LocalHorsebackRiding.com (the "Site," "we," "us," or "our"). This Site is an online directory that provides information about horseback riding businesses, facilities, and services across the United States. We connect riders with local providers through informational listings, reviews, and curated content.

1.1 Material Connection Disclosure

Our Commitment: While we earn revenue through these relationships, we are committed to providing honest, accurate, and helpful information. Our affiliate relationships do not influence our editorial recommendations, and we only feature businesses and services we believe will be valuable to our users.

This disclosure applies to all pages on this Site. For complete details, see Section 4 (Monetization & Affiliate Links).

1.2 Agreement to Terms

By accessing, browsing, or using LocalHorsebackRiding.com, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service ("Terms"), our Privacy Policy, and all applicable laws and regulations. If you do not agree to these Terms, you must immediately stop using this Site.

These Terms constitute a legally binding contract between you ("User," "you," or "your") and LocalHorsebackRiding.com.

2. User Agreement

2.1 Acceptance of Terms

By accessing or using this Site in any manner, including but not limited to visiting, browsing, searching listings, submitting content, or clicking on any links, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by:

• These Terms of Service
• Our Privacy Policy
• All posted guidelines and policies
• All applicable federal, state, and local laws

Your use of the Site constitutes your electronic signature and acceptance of these Terms.

2.2 Eligibility to Use the Site

You must meet the following requirements to use this Site:

• You must be at least 13 years of age
• If you are under 18 years of age, you may only use the Site under the supervision and with the consent of a parent or legal guardian who agrees to be bound by these Terms
• You must have the legal capacity to enter into binding contracts
• You must not be prohibited from using the Site under applicable laws

Minors: If you are a parent or guardian and you provide consent for your minor child to use the Site, you agree to be bound by these Terms on behalf of your child and you are fully responsible for their use of the Site.

Representation: By using this Site, you represent and warrant that you meet all eligibility requirements.

2.3 Prohibited Uses

You agree not to use this Site for any unlawful purpose or in any way that violates these Terms. Prohibited activities include, but are not limited to:

Data Collection & Automation:

• Automated scraping, data mining, or data harvesting without our express written permission
• Using bots, spiders, crawlers, or any automated systems to access the Site
• Copying, duplicating, or reproducing any portion of the Site without authorization
• Creating derivative databases from our listings or content

Misuse & Interference:

• Spamming or sending unsolicited communications to businesses or users
• Impersonating any person or entity, or falsely representing your affiliation
• Posting or transmitting viruses, malware, ransomware, or any harmful code
• Interfering with, disrupting, or overburdening the Site's servers or networks
• Bypassing any security measures or access restrictions
• Engaging in any activity that could damage, disable, or impair the Site

Harmful Conduct:

• Violating any applicable local, state, federal, or international law
• Collecting personal information about other users without their consent
• Engaging in harassment, abuse, threats, hate speech, or discriminatory conduct
• Posting false, misleading, defamatory, or libelous content
• Infringing on intellectual property rights of others
• Engaging in fraudulent activity or identity theft

Commercial Misuse:

• Using the Site to compete with us or create a competing directory
• Aggregating our listings for commercial purposes without permission
• Reselling, redistributing, or sublicensing access to the Site

2.4 Enforcement and Consequences

We reserve the right to:

• Investigate any suspected violations of these Terms
• Terminate or suspend your access immediately, with or without notice, with or without cause
• Remove any content you post that violates these Terms
• Report illegal activity to law enforcement authorities
• Take legal action to enforce these Terms or protect our rights

No Refunds: If you have paid for any premium services and your access is terminated for violating these Terms, you will not be entitled to any refund.

3. Listings and Content

3.1 Third-Party Listings

The horseback riding businesses, facilities, instructors, guides, and service providers listed on LocalHorsebackRiding.com ("Listed Businesses") are independent third parties that we do not own, operate, manage, employ, or control in any way.

Informational Purposes Only: We provide this directory solely for informational purposes. The inclusion of any business in our directory does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, certification, guarantee, or warranty of any kind regarding:

• Quality, safety, or suitability of services
• Qualifications, training, or experience of staff
• Condition or maintenance of facilities, equipment, or animals
• Business practices, pricing, or policies
• Compliance with laws, regulations, or industry standards

3.2 No Guarantees or Warranties

Accuracy of Information:

• The accuracy, completeness, reliability, or timeliness of any listing information
• Addresses, phone numbers, hours of operation, or contact information
• Descriptions of services, facilities, or activities
• Pricing, rates, packages, or special offers
• Photos, videos, or images associated with listings

Availability & Services:

• The current availability of any services, bookings, or reservations
• Whether a business is currently operating or accepting new clients
• The types of activities, lessons, or programs offered
• Age restrictions, weight limits, or rider requirements
• Scheduling, cancellation policies, or refund terms

Safety & Quality:

• The safety, condition, or maintenance of horses, equipment, trails, or facilities
• The temperament, training, or health of any animals
• The qualifications, certifications, licensing, or insurance status of any business
• Compliance with safety regulations or industry standards
• The quality or suitability of services for any particular purpose or skill level

Business Practices:

• The legality, legitimacy, or reputation of any listed business
• Customer service standards or business ethics
• Financial stability or creditworthiness
• Compliance with employment, tax, or regulatory requirements

3.3 Information Sources and Updates

Listing information may be:

• Provided directly by businesses themselves
• Aggregated from public sources and third-party databases
• Compiled from user submissions and reviews
• Outdated, incomplete, or inaccurate

We are under no obligation to:

• Verify, validate, or fact-check any information provided by third parties
• Update listings in real-time or at any specific frequency
• Notify users of changes to business information
• Remove listings of businesses that have closed or ceased operations
• Respond to business requests to modify or remove listings (though we may do so at our discretion)

3.4 User Discretion and Due Diligence Required

We strongly encourage and recommend that you:

Before Booking:

• Contact the business directly to verify all information, including availability, pricing, and policies
• Ask detailed questions about safety protocols, insurance coverage, and emergency procedures
• Inquire about instructor qualifications, certifications, and experience
• Request information about the horses, including age, training level, and temperament
• Confirm age restrictions, weight limits, health requirements, and skill level prerequisites
• Read and understand the business's liability waiver, cancellation policy, and terms of service

Research & Reviews:

• Read reviews from multiple sources, not just those on our Site
• Check the business's credentials with relevant state agencies or licensing boards
• Search for any complaints or negative reports about the business
• Verify the business's insurance coverage and liability protection
• Ask for references from past clients if desired

On-Site Safety:

• Inspect facilities, equipment, and horses before participating
• Ensure that safety equipment (helmets, boots, etc.) is provided and properly fitted
• Follow all safety instructions and guidelines provided by the business
• Disclose any health conditions, injuries, or concerns that may affect your ability to ride safely
• Do not participate in any activity that exceeds your skill level or comfort zone
• Report any unsafe conditions or concerns immediately

3.5 No Endorsement or Vetting

The presence of a business on this Site does not mean:

• We have visited, inspected, or evaluated the business
• We have verified the business's credentials, insurance, or licensing
• We recommend or endorse the business in any way
• The business meets any particular standards of quality or safety
• The business has paid for inclusion or received special treatment (unless specifically designated as "Featured" or "Sponsored")

We do not perform background checks, site inspections, or quality assessments of any Listed Businesses.

4. Monetization & Affiliate Links

4.1 Affiliate Marketing Relationships

LocalHorsebackRiding.com participates in affiliate marketing programs with various companies and platforms. This means:

How Affiliate Links Work:

• We may earn a commission when you click on certain links on our Site
• We may earn a commission when you make purchases, bookings, or sign-ups through our affiliate partners
• These commissions are paid by the third-party business, not by you
• The price you pay is the same whether you use our affiliate link or not
• Commissions help support the free operation of this directory service

Types of Affiliate Relationships:

• Booking platforms and reservation systems (e.g., booking engines, scheduling software)
• Equestrian product retailers (e.g., riding gear, tack, equipment)
• Travel and accommodation services (e.g., hotels, vacation rentals near riding facilities)
• Insurance providers offering equestrian or travel insurance
• Educational resources and riding course providers
• Feed, supplement, and horse care product companies
• Any other products or services relevant to horseback riding enthusiasts

Identification of Affiliate Links:

• Affiliate links may be marked with tags such as "affiliate link," "partner link," or similar designations
• Some affiliate links may not be individually marked but are covered by this disclosure
• This entire Terms of Service document serves as notice of our affiliate relationships

4.2 Editorial Independence

Our Commitment to Honesty:

• Our affiliate relationships do not dictate our editorial content or recommendations
• We strive to provide honest, accurate, and unbiased information
• We only promote products and services we believe may be valuable to our users
• We disclose when content is influenced by affiliate relationships

However, you acknowledge that:

• Our revenue depends in part on affiliate commissions
• This creates a financial incentive to promote certain businesses or products
• You should consider this potential bias when using our recommendations
• You should conduct your own independent research before making purchasing decisions

4.3 Third-Party Websites and Redirects

When you click on an affiliate link or any external link on our Site:

• You may be redirected to a third-party website
• You will be subject to that website's terms of service, privacy policy, and business practices
• We are not responsible for the content, accuracy, or policies of third-party websites
• We do not control the products, services, or transactions offered by third parties
• We are not a party to any agreements you enter into with third parties

You acknowledge and agree that:

• Any transactions or interactions with third parties are solely between you and that third party
• We are not responsible for any disputes, damages, or losses arising from third-party transactions
• We do not guarantee the quality, safety, or legality of third-party products or services
• You should read the terms and privacy policies of any third-party site before providing personal information or making purchases

4.4 Display Advertising

This Site displays advertisements served by third-party advertising networks and partners, including but not limited to:

• Google AdSense and Google Ad Manager
• Other programmatic advertising platforms
• Direct advertising partners and sponsors

Types of Advertisements:

• Contextual ads: Targeted based on the content you are viewing
• Behavioral ads: Targeted based on your browsing history and online activity (subject to your cookie preferences)
• Retargeting ads: Based on your previous visits to advertiser websites
• Banner ads, native ads, video ads, and other formats

Advertiser Relationships:

• We do not control the content of third-party advertisements
• We are not responsible for the accuracy of advertising claims
• We do not endorse advertised products or services unless explicitly stated
• We do not guarantee the quality, safety, or legality of advertised offerings
• Advertisers may use cookies and tracking technologies subject to their own privacy policies

Ad Blocking:

• You may use ad-blocking software, but this may affect site functionality
• We reserve the right to restrict access to users who block advertisements

4.5 Sponsored and Featured Listings

Some business listings may be designated as:

• "Featured Listings": Businesses that pay for prominent placement
• "Sponsored Listings": Businesses with advertising or affiliate relationships
• "Premium Listings": Businesses that pay for enhanced visibility or additional features

These designations will be clearly marked when applicable. Paid placement does not guarantee quality or endorsement but does provide enhanced visibility on the Site.

4.6 No Obligation to Purchase

Nothing on this Site obligates you to:

• Click on any affiliate links or advertisements
• Purchase any products or services
• Use any particular business or service provider
• Engage with any third-party advertisers

All purchasing and booking decisions are entirely your own, and you are free to use any alternative sources or providers you prefer.

4.7 FTC Compliance Acknowledgment

Our affiliate disclosures comply with the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising (16 CFR Part 255). By using this Site, you acknowledge that you have been clearly informed of our affiliate relationships and advertising revenue sources.

5. Disclaimer of Liability and Assumption of Risk

5.1 Independent Business Operators

• Own, operate, manage, control, or direct any horseback riding businesses, facilities, or service providers
• Employ, train, certify, or supervise any instructors, guides, or staff
• Maintain, inspect, or guarantee the condition of any horses, equipment, trails, or facilities
• Have any financial interest in or operational control over any Listed Businesses (except for affiliate commissions as disclosed)
• Provide horseback riding services, lessons, or related activities of any kind

All horseback riding services are provided exclusively by independent third-party businesses. We are merely an advertising and informational platform connecting users with these independent providers.

5.2 No Responsibility for User Interactions or Transactions

Communications & Bookings:

• Any interactions, communications, negotiations, or transactions between you and any Listed Business
• The conduct, services, representations, or business practices of any third-party provider
• Booking confirmations, reservation errors, scheduling conflicts, or miscommunications
• Cancellations, refunds, disputes, or payment issues
• Customer service quality or responsiveness of any Listed Business
• Privacy practices of any Listed Business regarding your personal information

Service Quality & Safety:

• The quality, safety, suitability, or legality of any services provided by third parties
• The condition, maintenance, training, or health of any horses or animals
• The condition, safety, or adequacy of any facilities, equipment, trails, or property
• The qualifications, certifications, experience, training, or competence of any instructors, guides, or staff
• The implementation or effectiveness of safety protocols, emergency procedures, or risk management practices
• Compliance with applicable laws, regulations, licensing requirements, or industry standards

Injuries, Damages & Losses:

• Any injuries, illnesses, damages, losses, or deaths that may occur during horseback riding activities or related services
• Property damage, theft, or loss occurring at any third-party facilities
• Emotional distress, psychological harm, or other intangible injuries
• Financial losses resulting from cancelled reservations, travel expenses, or other costs
• Any consequential, indirect, or punitive damages of any nature

5.3 Inherent Risks of Equestrian Activities - Assumption of Risk

By using this Site to find horseback riding services, you expressly acknowledge, understand, and agree that:

Nature of Equestrian Risks:

• Horses are large, powerful, unpredictable animals that can react suddenly and unexpectedly
• Even well-trained horses may behave unpredictably due to sounds, movements, objects, persons, or environmental conditions
• Horseback riding involves the risk of serious bodily injury, including but not limited to: broken bones, head injuries, spinal injuries, internal injuries, paralysis, and death
• Additional risks include: being kicked, bitten, stepped on, thrown, or dragged by a horse; falls from height; collisions with objects, terrain, or other riders; and injuries from equipment failure

Voluntary Assumption of All Risks:

• YOU VOLUNTARILY AND KNOWINGLY ASSUME ALL RISKS associated with horseback riding and equestrian activities, whether those risks are known or unknown, foreseeable or unforeseeable
• You understand that no amount of instruction, training, or safety equipment can eliminate all risks
• You represent that you are physically and mentally capable of participating in horseback riding activities
• You are responsible for honestly disclosing any health conditions, injuries, disabilities, or concerns that may affect your safety

Your Responsibilities:

• You are solely responsible for assessing your own abilities, experience level, and fitness for any activity
• You must follow all safety instructions, rules, and guidelines provided by the business
• You must use all required safety equipment (helmets, boots, etc.) properly
• You must immediately inform staff of any unsafe conditions, equipment malfunctions, or horse behavior concerns
• You must not participate in any activity that exceeds your skill level, comfort zone, or physical capabilities

5.4 Limitation of Liability - Maximum Protection

Types of Damages We Are Not Liable For:

• Direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, special, exemplary, or punitive damages
• Personal injury, wrongful death, emotional distress, pain and suffering
• Property damage, theft, or loss
• Lost profits, lost revenue, lost business opportunities, or lost data
• Attorney's fees, court costs, or litigation expenses
• Any other economic or non-economic losses

Causes We Are Not Liable For:

• Your use of or inability to use the Site
• Any errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or outdated information in content or listings
• Your reliance on any information, recommendations, or links obtained through the Site
• Your interactions, transactions, or disputes with any third-party businesses or users
• The conduct, services, or products of any third-party businesses
• Unauthorized access to or alteration of your transmissions, content, or data
• Viruses, malware, or other harmful components transmitted through the Site