How to Saddle a Horse

Without a 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 at thesaddler's shop. It can be an economy to buy used tack, but greatcare should be taken. Careful inspection should he made,particularly to the tree of a secondhand saddle as these are sometimes damaged beyond repair, and the condition of theleather, 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 saddler should be hung in dry store 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 betaken 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 basically three ways in which the horse can be transported: by a horse transport contractor; in a trailer drawn behind a car; in a truck specially modified for the carriage of horses or livestock.