Saddling an Artillery Horse

There are a number of techniques in saddling an artillery horse. Below are the methods used by Reilly's Battery which include preparation, awareness, and steps in saddling/harnessing.

2. Awareness. To make the saddling and harnessing process run smoothly, it is necessary for both the handler(s) and horse to feel comfortable. Below are some of the common actions that should be kept in mind throughout the saddling/harnessing process.

Step 1. Introduce yourself to the horse.

Talking calmly and confidently, introduce yourself to the horse. Let the horse see and smell the items that you will put on him - in this case, the artillery horse blanket is being introduced to the horse.

Step 2. Place blanket on horse.

Blanket should be smooth without wrinkles or lumps. Ensure the "X" portion of red stripes is on the left-rear side of the horse, as shown. Click here to see the steps in folding the artillery horse blanket.

Step 3.

Place Collar on horse.

Step 4. Place Saddle and Harness on horse.

In this case, we are mounting a saddle and harness for an off horse, wheel pair. The saddle, harness, hames, tugs, and rear brakes are pre-attached together - see a photo of this saddle system. When placing the saddle "system" on the horse, work on the left side

mount saddle/harness