How to Catch, Lead & Tie-up: A Beginner's Guide

Mastering the art of handling ponies is a rewarding journey that requires dedication and skill. In this guide, we delve into essential techniques and practices for safely catching, leading, and tying up your equine companion. Whether you're a novice or seasoned equestrian, our expert insights will equip you with the knowledge to foster a harmonious relationship with your pony. From selecting the right equipment to understanding nuanced communication cues, each step is meticulously outlined to ensure both your safety and the well-being of your four-legged friend. Join us as we embark on a journey to cultivate trust, respect, and mutual understanding with your pony, paving the way for countless fulfilling adventures together.

CATCHING

Learning how to handle ponies well takes a lot of time and practice. Your priority must always be to keep out of harm’s way - safety first. The front end may bite and the back end could kick. There will be times you need to be firm and times to be kind.

Assuming that your pony is easy to catch; it will make life so much easier for you and your parents. But beware that even the most well-behaved pony can have its moments.

So, let’s begin with a head collar and lead rope. There are many different types of head collars on the market to choose from, but it’s important that it fits correctly. Ask for advice at your local saddlery and check that you are able to exchange it if it doesn’t. When you try it on make sure your pony is clean, just in case you do need to return it.

Before approaching your pony be prepared. Have a special treat tucked away, such as a sugar cube or a half an apple, and have your lead rope attached to the head collar and the buckle on the head strap undone; so that when you reach your pony, you are not fiddling around. He may change his mind about being caught and take off in a cloud of dust, or at this time of the year, a splattering of mud. They run a lot faster than us and it is never a good idea to run after them yelling and waving your head collar around in vain, as they may think of you as prey and gallop off faster still. When approaching your pony, speak to him quietly to avoid surprising him, and wait until he sees you before approaching him. Never walk directly towards him. Instead, move towards him as if you were going to his left shoulder and keep your body slightly angled away from him, instead of directly facing him.

Continue talking to him in a soft calm voice, and when you get beside him give him a pat along his neck, and then take the lead rope and place it loosely around his neck - this is to prevent him from moving off while you put the head collar on. Remember not to make sudden movements or be too timid or aggressive in your actions.

You should place the halter on, while standing on his near side, then bring the nose piece over his nose and the long strap over the top of his neck, behind his ears and buckle it up. Again, you should be gentle but firm. This is when you can give him the treat you have tucked away for being a good boy. Remember to reward your pony for good behavior, rather than get angry at him for not understanding what you want from him.

LEADING

When leading your pony back through the gateway make sure that the gate is opened wide enough so that you can both walk through together in safety. Learning how to lead your pony safely may seem a bit daunting at first, but with some practice this necessary skill will quickly become second nature to you. You should always walk beside him. Generally you lead on the near side (left side). This is the same side you mount from. Never walk in front of him, as he could easily run over the top of you if he got a fright.

When leading your pony, the lead rope should run through your right hand, while your left hand holds the end to stop it dragging on the ground. You must be able to let it go quickly if something dangerous happens. Never wrap it around your hand, as this could cause serious injury should he run off without notice. Ponies can be cute, but they can be dangerous, so keep your wits about you at all times.

Facing in the direction you wish to go, ask your pony to move forward by clucking, or saying, “walk on”. Move forward assertively giving a gentle tug on the lead rope, then release the pressure as soon as he moves forward and keep facing in the direction in which you wish to walk.

It’s a good idea to practice your leading whenever you can, and work on all your leading skills – standing still, stopping, turning left and right, and getting your pony to move backwards.

I remember as a small child I would practice every day at home, pretending that our very patient family dog was a beautiful white stallion, and lead him all over the backyard, imagining that I was at the Royal Melbourne show.

TYING UP

Remember - Never tie your pony to a fence, gate or anything else that looks unstable. If he pulls back he could take the gate or fence, and possibly you, with him.

One of the most essential pieces of equipment that you will undoubtedly use is the humble piece of bailing twine. Bailing twine is the string that holds the bales of hay together and is found in almost every stable. It is always a good idea to keep a few strands of it in your grooming kit to use when needed. More often than not you will have a designated area to tie your pony up, particularly if you are at an agistment place.

When you tie your pony up make sure he is tied with a quick release knot, to a piece of bailing twine that is attached to a solid post. This will secure him for normal purposes, but if he does decide to pull back, the string will usually break, and the pony will not be hurt.

PUTTING YOUR PONY BACK INTO THE PADDOCK

Lead the pony out into the paddock, making sure that the gate is closed behind you. Turn him to face the gate and then remove the head collar. This will give you time to step back out of the way if he decides to “kick up his heels” once you have released him. Never chase him away from you, as this may teach bad habits. Good luck, and remember, always respect your pony and treat him kindly and he will do the same to you.

Article: Catherine Shelley - NCAS EA SSTA/ CE Level 2 General Coach, NCAS Level 1 RDA Coach, Dip. of TB racing - Melton Equestrian accredited with EA Ready, Set, Trot program.

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