When we tack our horses, we are preparing them for a ride. This is almost as important as the actual riding. Failing to properly tack your horse automatically results in improper riding. When your horse is improperly tacked, it will harm it. And all equestrians know that a negative effect on a rider’s horse will definitely affect the rider as well. Here are some don’ts to keep in mind the next time you tack up your beloved beast.
The 5 Don’ts of Horse Tacking
- Do not bridle your horse inattentively- A bridle is a piece of equipment which the rider uses to control the horse. When bridling a horse, pay utmost attention. You may not know if your horse is bridled to firmly or loosely, but your horse will know. When latching the nosebands, ensure it is not latched up too tightly. Pay attention to every buckle you tighten. Making the throat latch too light will make your horse very uncomfortable. Ensure that the headstall is pulled gently over the ears. Avoid bending your horse’s ear too much. Your horse will react to your nudging based on how well and comfortably it is bridled.
- Do not groom your horse in a hurry- Imagine having to take a bath and dress hurriedly. Chances are we have all done it. And we know that those days, we forget one or two things and generally wish we had more time to take care of ourselves. The same thing applies to your horse. Each brushing, hoof picking, and even oil applying routine is a germane part of your horse’s wellness. Do not rush through it because if you do and manage to overlook one detail or to do it incorrectly, you will hurt your horse.
- Do not use dirty, worn out, or wrinkled saddle pads- A saddle pad is the protection your horse has against your weight, dirt, and other debris that might hurt it. A horse might be a beast of burden but it is definitely is not immune to pain. Ensure your saddle pad is in top-notch condition before using it.
- Do not make the bit uncomfortable- The bit goes into the horse’s mouth to enable you to direct it. However, if it is done too tightly, it can be extremely painful. Firstly, you shouldn’t use any bit that can injure your horse. Get the right size and ensure that it is smooth and not worn out. The bit shouldn’t be clamped painfully against your horse’s teeth.
- Do not skip the final check- The final check is a very important aspect of tacking. In this stage, you are to go over every knot, buckle or clamp to ensure it is properly done. Make sure you go over every aspect of your tacking before you ride.