How to Tie a Haunch Rope

A haunch rope is used as a training aid to teach young horses to properly lead and is simply a long lead rope with a clasp at one end. The haunches on a horse are referred to as the rear of the horse. Tying the haunch rope is not a recommend practice due to safety issues that may arise. In the event the horse balks, bucks or bolts, a tied haunch rope is only going to increase the already traumatic situation. A tied haunch rope can easily slide and tangle around the horses legs, potentially causing serious leg injuries.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter
  • Lead rope
  • Long rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Secure the halter on the horse.

    • 2

      Attach a standard length lead rope to the D ring on the halter.

    • 3

      Desensitize the foal, first using your hands and then using the rope. First start rubbing the foal at the head and continue to rub and pet until you have rubbed the entire length of the horse as well as the legs. Repeat the desensitization procedure standing on the opposite side of the foal. The rope needs to be three times the length of the foal.

    • 4

      Tie a small loop at one end of the long rope. Begin by making a small loop, large enough for the other end of the rope to easily slide through it. It is better that the loop be too large than too small. Grasp the two section of the rope in one hand, wrapping the looped section around the hand, creating another loop. Bring the end of the first loop through the new loop and pull tightly.

    • 5

      Insert the opposite end of the lead rope through the newly tied loop to form another loop.

    • 6

      Place the looped end of the rope along the back of the foal and slide one end around the haunches, leaving the other end laying on the back of the foal towards the base of the neck.

    • 7

      Leave the other end of the long rope loose unless the foal will not step forward. It is at this point that the haunch rope can be tugged, enticing a forward motion from the foal.