Full course description
We expect that at the end of this course, learners will have made their own pack saddle which fits their working equid well; provides comfortable support for loads carried and avoids unnecessary wounds, thereby helping The Donkey Sanctuary to improve the situation for working equids globally.
During the course, we will provide learners with the instructions required to build a pack saddle using recycled and locally available materials. Delegates will learn how to measure their equid to produce a bespoke saddle, and how to maintain the saddle, to ensure their equid avoids developing harness wounds.
Learning Outcomes include;
- Recognise the importance of the use of a pack saddle to improve health and welfare of working equids;
- Understand the principles of saddle fitting and the importance of a correct use of the equipment;
- Identify the various parts of the pack saddle;
- Understand how to manufacture the pack saddle, using different options;
- Understand how to prolong the life of the pack saddle, through proper care and maintenance.
- Introduction to the course;
- Introduction to pack saddles;
- The Donkey Sanctuary pack saddle;
- List of materials and tools;
- Making the pack saddle;
- Girths, breast straps and breeching;
- Slight changes to the pack saddle if used in combination with a wooden frame;
- Use of the pack saddle for the first time;
- Maintenance and daily care of the pack saddle;
- Final aspects