How to Make a Cutting Horse Dummy

To get both the horse and rider used to turning quickly, some ranches attach a dummy of a cow to an electric pulley. The pulley uses the dummy to help simulate the movement of a real cow, darting forward and backward sharply. The dummy must be light enough so it doesn't put excess pressure on the wire, but sturdy enough to still maintain its shape when it changes direction. Creating a cutting horse dummy to be attached to an electronic pulley is simple.

Things You'll Need

  • Brown fabric
  • Synthetic stuffing
  • Marker
  • Needle
  • Thread
  • Laundry clips
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay two large sheets of fabric out on a flat surface, one on top of the other. The color matters little, although most real cattle the horse will eventually come in contact with will be a shade of brown.

    • 2

      Trace the general shape of a cow, using a marker. It does not have to be perfect, as it will be used only for practical purposes. Make the cow's height 1 inch less than the distance from the ground to the pulley's wire, and its length about twice as long. Cut out this pattern, shaping both sheets at the same time.

    • 3

      Sew the two sheets together with a needle and thread, leaving the cow's "back" open. Use simple over and under stitches that are close together, to give it more strength. A sewing machine can save time, if you have one handy.

    • 4

      Stuff synthetic stuffing into the cow, making sure to get it all the way down to its feet. Use only enough to give the dummy shape. Don't over-stuff it, which puts pressure on the stitches and adds unnecessary weight to the pulley. Sew the cow's back shut.

    • 5

      Add detail to the dummy, if desired. Although for training purposes, this is not necessary. Attach it to the pulley with laundry clips or other similar clamps. Test it on the pulley, making sure it retains its shape when it quickly changes direction.