How to Tack Up any Horse

Tie up your horse in cross-ties, a single tie or tie the lead rope to a railing to keep your horse from wandering away.

2 Groom your horse in preparation for a ride.

3 Place protective boots or wraps on horse's legs.

4 Saddle up the horse.

5 Put on schooling aids such as a running martingale or drop noseband.

6 Untie the horse's halter and remove from horse's face.

7 Replace halter around horse's neck to keep him from wandering off.

8 Stand on near (left) side of horse and place right hand over horse's head and gently press downward to get horse to drop his head.

9 Hold bit in left hand while separating the bit from the reins with your fingers.

10 Hold the bit to the horse's mouth. A well trained horse should open his mouth. Give the "Open" command. If your horse won't open his mouth, slip your right thumb in between the lips and gums at the back of the mouth. There are no teeth there. If you wiggle your thumb, your horse should open his mouth.

11 Gently slip the bit into the horse's mouth. Don't force the bit.

12 Gently slip the headstall over the horses ears and buckle latch of throat strap.

13 Thread reins through running martingale loops if you are using one.

14 Check to make sure everything is attached and properly fitted.

15 Ride and have fun!