Harnessing

THE FUNCTION OF A HARNESS

A harness is the set of equipment used to capture animal energy. A harness may be used to carry a load directly on the animal’s back, or to connect and transmit draught power from the animal to a cart, implement or load (2).

There are several appropriate types and models of harness, however, all should respect and enable the following key functions (1):

• Moving the load: by transferring draught power when animals are used for traction. This enables a cart or load to be moved, usually through a system of collar, traces and swingle tree;
• Carrying the load: by supporting, distributing the weight and securing a load or rider in place, usually though different types of pack, cart or riding saddles;
• Communication: driving the animal;
• Braking the load: acting as a braking system to prevent the cart from colliding with the animal when stopping or moving downhill, or helping to break the load when combined with pack saddles.

Appropriate harness design and fitting are essential to enable efficient traction as well as to protect animal welfare, prevent injury and ensure the equid is working comfortably within the individual capabilities (3, 4).

WHAT FACTORS DETERMINE THE APPROPRIATE HARNESS TYPE AND FIT FOR DIFFERENT WORKING EQUIDS?

The following factors should be considered when selecting harnesses for working equids:

• Equid species, size and conformation: each equid species and individual animal has a unique size and body shape that requires a harness to be adequately fitted to avoid discomfort or restriction of movement. Harness fitment may also need to be adjusted if the body condition of an animal changes (weight loss/muscle changes)
• Type of work performed: the type of load and the specific tasks the equid will be performing, such as pulling carts or ploughing fields influence the type of harness needed (1).
• Number of animals: whether the animal is working alone or in a pair or group influences the type and design of harness and cart or implement required.
• Climate and environmental conditions: factors such as temperature, humidity, terrain and exposure to sun or rain influence the choice of materials and design features in the harness to ensure comfort and prevent overheating or chafing.
• Adjustment: harnesses that are adjustable allow for adequate fitting as the equid grows or changes shape, ensuring continued comfort and functionality over time.

HARNESS DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Bits should be of a simple design, such as a straight bar snaffle, depending on the work performed. Bits should always be smooth, appropriately sized for the equid in relation to their diameter and length and kept clean. Inappropriate materials such as thin cord, reinforcing bars or wire should not be used as bits.

Traces should be atraumatic to the animal and secured in such a way that does not represent a tripping or entanglement hazard to the animal. Traces should have enough length to avoid the contact of the swingle tree with the hind legs and should be made from or covered with atraumatic materials.

The swingle tree should be used at all times when a collar (of any type including a breast collar) is in use with a vehicle or implement. It should allow the collar to move freely with the equid, without causing abrasions.

Padding should be provided at critical pressure or tension points for comfort and prevention of injury. Considerations for padding include:

• Padding should be incorporated in the saddle design or added between the saddle and the animal’s body, with a clearance over the spine to avoid direct pressure, providing cushioning and comfort while preventing chafing or rubbing (5).
• Care should be taken not to provide excessive padding which may increase heat and sweating under the saddle.
• Collars may be padded to provide cushioning and comfort while preventing chafing or rubbing.
• Poor fitting should not be compensated by additional padding.

	Harness design should be atraumatic and prioritize freedom of movement, even weight distribution, durability, and adjustability to promote optimal performance and comfort (1). Collar design should ensure the trachea is not obstructed, should be sized according to the equid with consideration to width and not be fitted directly over any moving joint.
	The often smaller size and specific conformation of donkeys should be considered when designing harnesses for this species (4): Donkeys have different neck and shoulder conformation to horses. The collar should be positioned respecting the point of draft and in such a way that does not add pressure directly over the point of the shoulder.

IMPLICATIONS OF ILL-FITTING OR INADEQUATE HARNESSES

Ill-fitting, incorrectly hitched or inadequate harnesses can lead to discomfort, chafing, and potential injuries and behavioural changes. This may also impair movement, increase the effort required and hinder performance leading to ineffective draught.

Working equids may experience reduced willingness to work, lameness, pressure points, rubbing, skin abrasions, chronic wounds, secondary infections, and pain with poorly fitted harnesses.

Specialized harness designs may be necessary for certain working equids, and regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring proper fit, function, and durability.

PREVENTION OF HARNESS-RELATED INJURIES IN WORKING EQUIDS

Harness injury should be prevented by using a properly designed, well fitted and adjusted harness which is checked daily for damage and repaired promptly as necessary.

Where possible, equids should be appropriately groomed before harnessing and checked after work for signs of rubbing and hair loss. The source of any problems should be removed through maintenance, fitting adjustment and padding where required.

A harness:

• Should fit in such a way that does not cause wounds or chafing due to excess movement or friction;
• Should be smoothly shaped or padded so that loads imposed on the working equids' bodies are spread over a large area. Any part in direct contact with the skin or mouth should be non-abrasive;
• Should be made from breathable and atraumatic materials where they come in contact with the animal (5). Natural materials should be used whenever possible;
• Should not have sharp edges or ends which could cause injury. Any bolts or buckles should be kept away from the equid’s body or eyes and any stitching or rivets kept on the outside of the harness;
• Should not impede the animal's movement or normal breathing or restrict blood supply.

For draught equids, the use of swingle trees is essential so the collar can move with the animal and thus reduce the risk of sores from the harness.

When the equid’s work involves pulling a vehicle, considerations regarding the cart should also be taken to reduce the risk of injury. These include:

• Adequate size of the vehicle and wheels;
• Appropriately sized and positioned shafts or central pole, ensuring correct placement of the equid between the shafts in a single animal vehicle;
• Appropriately distributing the load in the vehicle;
• Ensuring adequate tyre inflation and pressure;
• Adequately balancing the cart axel and functional wheel bearings;
• Including a breeching system to assist with braking the cart.

Appropriate work practices such as adequate loads and working hours should also be maintained to protect animal welfare. Owners and working equid users should ensure effective harnessing as well as good riding and driving practices.

HARNESS MAINTENANCE CONSIDERATIONS

Harness maintenance helps ensure the safety and comfort of working equids. Adequate maintenance practices help extend the longevity of harnesses, prevent premature wear and tear, and minimize the risk of injuries to the animals (1).

Harnesses, including padding, should be cleaned routinely with a product appropriate for the harness material and non-harmful to animals in case of contact. Harnesses should be allowed to dry before use.

Routine cart or implement inspection and maintenance should also be ensured before and after every use. Carts should be checked to ensure all moving parts are functional, tyres are fully inflated and there are no damaged parts or sharp edges that may cause injury.

Regular cleaning is recommended to remove dirt, sweat and debris that can accumulate on harnesses during use. A mild soap and water solution can be used to gently scrub the harness, although other products may be indicated depending on harness materials. Harnesses are typically rinsed thoroughly and allowed to air dry completely before storage or use. Harness sharing between animals should be avoided where possible. If a harness is going to be used on a new animal, it should be thoroughly cleaned and fitted correctly before use. Harnesses from animals with contagious disease should not be used on healthy animals. Regular inspections help identify any signs of damage or wear on the harness. Loose stitching cracked or worn materials, sharp ends or prominences, damaged hardware and weak spots in the straps should be sought during inspection and repaired. Certain components of the harness may be worn out over time and may need to be replaced. This includes straps, buckles, padding, and hardware such as snaps and rings. Adequate storage helps prevent damage to harnesses when not in use. Harnesses are ideally stored in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, moisture or rodents