How to Make Animal Saddlebags

Making saddlebags for animals is a straightforward and quick project that anyone can do. You can make saddlebags for horses, donkeys and even small, lightweight ones for some large bird species. Saddlebags for your dog can be used when you take your pet hiking, camping to the beach or anywhere else where it can carry its own water dish and treats.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Two fanny packs (size appropriate for your pet)
• Large rectangular piece of fabric or leather
• Scissors
• Heavy gauge thread and needle
• Measuring tape

1. Measure your pet's girth by wrapping the measuring tape around its back and chest just behind its elbows. Take a second measurement from its back below the base of its neck to around the front of its chest.

2. Measure a length of fabric half as long as the girth measurement and cut. Measure the width of the fanny packs and cut the fabric about 2 inches wider. Fold the edges under and sew to create a seam.

3. Measure another length of fabric about 1 to 2 inches wide and 3/4 as long as the girth measurement and cut, then cut in half again. Sew each piece to each end of the fabric rectangle at matching corners.

4. Open the fanny packs and sew to the fabric, one at each end. Be sure to attach them such that when they are resting on your pet's back they are right side up.

5. Rest the saddlebags on your pet's back and determine where to attach the chest straps. They should be straight across the animal's chest, about halfway between the ridge of its back and the bottom of its chest. Cut a strip of fabric just a bit longer than the chest measurement.

6. Sew the strip of fabric to the saddlebags at the points you determined.

7. Slide the saddlebags over your pet's head and tie the girth straps around its chest, just behind its elbows, to complete the saddlebags.

Tips & Warnings

• Frequently check the measurements and pieces against your pet to avoid making size-related mistakes.
• Be sure the pack is not too heavy for your pet. Check that the pack is not rubbing against any sensitive areas on your pet. When tying the straps, make sure they are not too tight and be sure to use a quick-release knot, like a bow.

References

• Hunt and Fish Finders; Tips for Hiking with Your Dog