Directions on Saddling a Horse
- 1). Tie your horse securely. Cross ties work best, but if they are not available use a sturdy tie ring and tie your horse to a solid post.
- 2). Take the saddle off the saddle rack and pull the stirrups up so that they are not in the way. Place the girth up over the seat of the saddle so it will not interfere when you put it on the horse.
- 3). Place the saddle pad on the horse's back. Make sure the saddle pad is even on both sides and that it is positioned just behind the horse's withers.
- 4). Set the saddle on top of the pad carefully and gently. Walk over to the other side of the horse and pull the girth strap down.
- 5). Walk back to the left side of the horse and carefully reach under his belly to grab the girth. Pull the girth toward you and toward the billets on the near side of the saddle.
- 6). Fit the straps on the billets through the buckles on the girth and pull until the girth is tight. When the girth is tight enough you should be able to get your hand between the girth and the horse's side without feeling pinched.
- 7). Walk your horse around for a few minutes, either while mounted or from the ground. Check the tightness of the girth again and retighten it if necessary. Many horses will puff themselves up when being saddled, so the saddle can loosen up after a few minutes. Tighten the girth a final time, then mount up and enjoy your ride.
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