How to Hitch a Horse to a Post

Getting a horse to stay put for a period of time isn't as simple as just trusting the horse not to move. Instead, the horse needs to be tied to a stable area with a quality rope. If a horse is not tied properly, it results in sometimes devastating effects for the animal, the people around him and the property. A horse is an incredibly powerful animal, especially when frightened. A sturdy post firmly anchored into the ground is one of the best options to which to hitch a horse.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter
  • Lead rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use a halter and lead rope to hitch a horse to a suitable post. To keep the horse safe, always use a halter and do not tie the rope to the bridle reins or bridle. An appropriate rope is a round cotton lead rope with a ¾-inch diameter. The post needs to be anchored and strong enough to withstand the frantic pulling of a horse. If you are able to move the post, even a little, the horse can, too.

    • 2

      Tie the knot at the appropriate height on the post. A safe level is a height similar to that of the horse's back.

    • 3

      Ensure the length of the rope is safe when tying the knot. Do not leave the rope long enough that the horse is able to step over it, causing the animal to get stuck and panic.

    • 4

      Hitch the horse to the post with a quick release knot. Place the tail of the rope around the post counterclockwise. Cross the tail from the left under the rest of the rope. Form a loop in the rope on the left side. Make a loop with the tail end and then cross back over the top the rope from the right. Put the tail end loop through the first loop and pull. Leave the tail end dangling so that when it is pulled, the two loops come apart and the horse is easily released.

    • 5

      Connect the other end of the rope to the halter around the horse using a sturdy knot.