Title: Demonstrate haltering a horse.
Course: Equine Science, Advanced (18104-II) > Section: Handling and Grooming a Horse

Demonstration should include using all safety procedures and guidelines, including approaching the horse on the near (left) side (halters are designed to be buckled on the left). Demonstration should include the following steps:

- Ensure the halter is unbuckled or unsnapped and the lead rope is attached.
- Stand on the left side of the horse, pass the end of the lead rope under the neck with the left hand, put the right hand over the horse's neck, and take the lead rope from the left hand.
- With the rope around the horse's neck, use the right hand to catch both ends of rope so the horse cannot wander off during the process.
- Position the loop to pass the halter strap to the right hand in the same manner as with the rope.
- Hold both the rope and the halter strap in the left hand, with an arm over the horse's neck and the halter buckle in the right hand.
- With hands on either side of the horse's head, position the noseband so the horse's nose will slide easily into it and raise the halter into position.
- Bring the halter strap over the horse's head, right behind the horse's ears, and fasten the buckle, keeping hold of the rope in case the horse tries to break away before finishing.
- Make sure the halter fits properly and is neither too loose nor too tight. The noseband should lie two fingers below the cheekbone and one should be able to fit two fingers between the horse and the noseband.
- Remove the loop of rope from around the horse's neck.

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why would a halter be left on a horse in a pasture?
- What types of halters would be suitable for use during turnout?
- How would one explain putting on a halter to someone who knows nothing about a horse?
- What is the difference between a regular horse halter and a rope halter, and how should each be used?