How to Saddle a Horse

Without good quality, correctly fitting saddle and bridle the horse cannot be ridden correctly, comfortably, or safely. The riding horse also requires other items of equipment.

Secondhand saddlery is often available at horse sales and the saddler’s shop. It can be an economy to buy used tack, but great care should be taken. Careful inspection should be made, particularly to the tree of a secondhand saddle as these are sometimes damaged beyond repair, and the condition of the leather, stitching, buckles, and other fittings should be checked on other items.

A saddle will give long service if it is carefully stored and maintained. All leather saddlers should be hung in dry storage when not in use. It very soon deteriorates if it is left in a damp environment or is not hung up correctly. The practice of putting saddles, or any leather equipment, on the ground almost always results in damage being caused.

The saddle, bridle, and any other equipment used should be washed clean every day with a warm, damp cloth and treated with saddle soap. At least once a week the saddle and bridle should be taken apart, thoroughly washed, dried, and saddle soaped. This treatment helps to prolong the life of the equipment and also ensures that the leather that comes in contact with the horse or the rider is kept soft and supple.

The ability to transport the horse by road is a necessity for any serious horse owner, but traveling arrangements can prove frustrating and disappointing if not carefully studied and considered. There are three ways in which the horse can be transported: by a horse transport contractor; in a trailer drawn behind a car; or in a truck specially modified for the carriage of horses or livestock.

See more: How a Horse Learns