Tack and Equipment
Travelling
Horse Behaviour
Feeding
Anatomy
100

What checks (3) should you carry out on a saddle before putting it on a horse?

  • Check the saddle is clean and free from dirt or debris.
  • Inspect the stitching, girth straps, and billets for wear or damage.
  • Ensure the tree is sound (no cracks or movement).
  • Check the girth is in good condition.
  • Make sure stirrup leathers and irons are safe and correctly adjusted.
100

What should you check on a horse before travelling?

Health, no injuries, shoes secure, and fit to travel.

100

What type of animal is a horse?

A prey and herd animal.

100

What is the most important part of a horse’s diet?

Forage (hay or grass).

100

Name one part of the horse’s leg.

Knee (or hock, fetlock, cannon).

200

How do you correctly position a saddle on a horse’s back?

  • Place the saddle slightly forward over the withers.
  • Slide it gently back into the correct position so the hair lies flat.
  • Ensure it sits behind the shoulder blade, not restricting movement.
  • Check it is even on both sides and not tipping forward or back.
200

What equipment is commonly used to protect a horse during travel?

Travel boots or bandages, tail guard, and headcollar, poll guard

200

Why do horses prefer to live in groups?

For safety and social interaction.

200

Why must horses have access to fresh water?

To stay hydrated and maintain health.

200

Where are the withers on a horse? and why do we measure them there?

At the top of the shoulders, between the neck and back.

300

What are the key signs that a saddle does not fit a horse correctly?

  • Saddle rocks or moves excessively.
  • Pressure points or soreness on the horse’s back.
  • Tightness at the withers or lack of clearance.
  • Bridging (gap in the middle of the saddle).
  • Uneven sweat marks after work.
  • Horse shows discomfort (e.g., swishing tail, reluctance to move forward).
300

How should a horse be positioned in a trailer or lorry?

Facing forwards or backwards (depending on vehicle), balanced and secure.

300

What does a swishing tail usually indicate?

Irritation, discomfort, or flies.

300

How often should horses be fed?

Little and often, trickle feeders

300

What is the function of the hoof?

To support weight and absorb shock.

400

Describe how to correctly fit brushing boots to a horse’s legs.

  • Ensure the boots are clean and correctly sized.
  • Place the boot on the inside of the leg, covering the tendon area.
  • Fasten straps from front to back (so they cannot catch).
  • Make sure they are snug but not tight—no pinching or slipping.
  • Position evenly so they protect without restricting movement.
400

What safety checks should be done on a trailer before travel?

Lights, tyres, hitch, partitions, ramp, and flooring.

400

How might a horse show fear?

Wide eyes, raised head, tension, or trying to move away.

400

Why should you make changes to a horse’s diet gradually?

To allow the micro-bacteria within the digestive tract to adapt 

400

What is the difference between the forelimb and hindlimb?

Forelimbs carry more weight; hindlimbs provide power and propulsion.

500

Explain how you would assess and ensure overall tack fit once the horse is fully tacked up.

  • Check saddle balance (should sit level).
  • Ensure correct wither clearance (2–3 fingers).
  • Confirm girth is secure but not over-tight.
  • Check bridle fit: noseband, browband, and bit position (e.g., 1–2 wrinkles at the mouth).
  • Walk the horse forward and observe for comfort and freedom of movement.
  • Recheck all equipment after initial movement for slipping or tightening issues.
500

What signs might show a horse is stressed during travel?

Sweating, pawing, vocalising, restlessness, or refusing to load.

500

Why is it important to understand horse behaviour when handling them?

To stay safe and respond correctly to their reactions.

500

What factors affect how much feed a horse needs?

Work level, weight, age, condition, and health.

500

Why is it important to know basic anatomy when working with horses?

To identify injuries, fit tack correctly, and handle safely.

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