How Do I Get My Horse Okay At Tacking UP?

Question

When I Tack My Horse Up She Chucks Me Into The Stable Door And Wall Because She Once Had A Sore Back And Now Thinks Everything Is Going To Hurt Her. How Do I Get Her Better At Tacking Up?

Answer 1

try to be as gentle as you can with her and let her know she can trust you!

Answer 2

You need to approach this issue slowly and patiently. Your horse was traumatized and you need to de-sensitize her to this. Start with just your halter and lead rope on her, no bridle. Take your saddle pad and slowly approach her with it; let her smell it for a while and slowly begin to brush it against her, all over--slowly--first against her muzzle, then her face, neck, shoulders, etc. eventually to her back. Remember *slowly*-- if she starts to flinch as you are progressing back, return to where she was comfortable, starting with her muzzle, and then creeping back again. The instant she flinches, calmly reassure her and return to where she was comfortable once more. It really does work, but you *must* remain calm and very patient. Eventually, you will be able to set the pad on her back without her flinching. Let the pad sit there on her back, rub her face and talk to her softly, just to reassure her.

Once you feel that she is absolutely comfortable with the pad (after letting it rest, taking it off again, and returning it slowly to her back), you can introduce the saddle. This is probably going to take a bit of time, but let her smell  out the saddle and approach her very very slowly. Let her know through much reassurance that the the saddle won't hurt her...use the same approach/steps as with the saddle pad until she is comfortable. Every step through saddling must be done very slowly and patiently, continuing throughout bridling, etc. There really is no telling how long this will take, but your patience WILL pay off! I know that it is difficult to be patient, especially when all you want to do is ride, but being impatient and tacking her up forcefully will only cause further damage. So take your time, it may be hours or days or longer-- just remain patient and your work will yield pleasant results. Hopefully this was helpful for you, good luck--