Learn About Horse Tack and Equipment

The rider sits on the saddle. It is attached firmly around
the horse's girth so that it does not move. This saddle
has a pad underneath.









Stirrups hold your feet in place as you ride.
Stirrups are attached to the saddle.









The reins are pulled to tell the horse
which way to go or stop.







The reins are attached to the bridle
around the horse's head. The bridle has
a bar called a "bit" going through the horse's
mouth. This gives the rider more control.









The halter is used to guide, train or tie up the
horse. The bit is not used with the halter.










The saddle is attached to the horse with the
girth strap. The girth strap wraps underneath
to attach to both ends of the saddle.






The circingle or vaulting handles used in therapy
provides a larger area to grasp for stability. The child
sits on a pad instead of a saddle, so that he can
change positions, feel the warmth of the horse and
use muscles to for postural control.  The vaulting
circingle has two handle holds to encourage
using both hands.



The smaller handle on the natural ride provides less
support than the circingle. The child works harder to
balance and can more easily more his legs around








The neck strap is attached around the neck and can
be used to control the horse during training.








Horses wear shoes to protect their hoofs






The hoof pick is used to clean dirt off the hoof.







The horse is brushed before attaching the saddle.



Horse-themed Activities