Electric Hanging Harnessing System

Designed for her by a local harness maker, this Electric Hanging Harnessing System allows Jennifer Watchous of Newton, KS, to harness her large draft horses by herself. Called the “Harness Hire,” it’s a remote controlled, electric-powered winch crane (made from 2-inch square tubing) that’s mounted on the wall of her horse barn. It extends 15 feet out and supports a 4-foot horizontal bar with three hooks that will hold the harness’ components (i.e., hame strap, back pad, spider ring). She first lowers the crane to the floor to connect the harness then raises it back up; next she manually swings the harness over the horse; and lastly, she lowers it onto the animal’s back. The hooks are designed so they easily release the harness once it’s in place.

Cost: $1,100.00

Impairment Category: Back, Strength/endurance, Upper extremity