How to Hook Up a Pony Harness

To the beginner, a pony harness can look like a confusing jumble of leather straps and metal. It can be intimidating, but once you understand the basics, you'll be able to put a harness on your pony quickly and efficiently.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Harnessing a Pony

Things You’ll Need:

Halter Harness
Halter
Harness

Step 1

Put the saddle on the pony's back at the base of the mane, and buckle the girth beneath the animal. It should be loose enough to not cause pain but tight enough not to slip.

Step 2

Place the crouper, or the the split leather loop, around the pony's tail, taking care not to catch any hair in it. If the crouper has buckles, secure them.

Step 3

With the widest side facing upward, place the collar over the pony's head. Make sure the collar isn't placed too low or it will make it harder to control the pony.

Step 4

Straighten the reins and fold them over where the two pieces of leather meet. Pull them under the back strap to hold them securely until you need them.

Step 5

Put the bridle on by starting with the bit gently placed in the pony's mouth. Slowly bring the bridle over the pony's head and buckle it into place.

Step 6

Fasten the breeching along the back and hind legs. Gently pull the tail through. Adjust it so it's not riding too low on the haunches or it could injure the pony's hind legs. The breeching is the section of the harness that goes around the pony's haunches and will allow you to control the cart.

Step 7

Check to make sure all parts of the harness are fitting correctly and hitch the cart to it.

Tips & Warnings

Practice several times before hitching the cart. It can be stressful for both pony and owner in the beginning.

If you and your pony are inexperienced at bridling, have an experienced person guide both of you through the procedure the first time to avoid stress and injuries.

Article Written By Catherine Rayburn-Trobaug

Catherine Rayburn-Trobaugh has been a writer and college writing professor since 1992. She has written for international companies, published numerous feature articles in the "Wilmington News-Journal," and won writing contests for her poetry and fiction. Rayburn-Trobaugh earned a Master of Arts in English from Wright State University.

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