The best way to fi ght ranch equipment theft is to make it harder for thieves to target you. Do not make it easier for them to steal your hard-earned belongings!
1. Permanently
Good quality, clear pictures from all angles can help law enforcement authorities when you have experienced saddle theft.
identify your
saddles, tack and equipment. Record serial numbers, model numbers and take pictures of every part from multiple angles.
2. Do not store saddles and rid- ing equipment in unlocked trailers or barns. If you are storing your saddles in a trailer, keep the trailer out of easy view or hidden from traf- fi c. Locks may not prevent all theft, but it will require the thieves to spend more time on your property, something they do not like.
Under the horn wraps or gullet is a good place to mark your saddle. Take pictures of the horn, wrapped and unwrapped.
While the number stamped on your saddle may not be unique, it could pro- vide much-needed identifi cation if the item is stolen. This number on the back of the cantle is a model number and date of manufacture.
3. Halters and lead ropes left on corral gates or fences can in- vite thieves. Do not hand them a halter to steal your horse! Keep equipment locked up and out of sight.
4. Keep an eye out for suspi- cious visitors or things that just do not seem right. Trust your gut — it is usually right! Sometimes the only ones who know your area and routines are thieves. Be vigilant for your own property and that of your neighbors.
Some rigging dees are wide enough to allow engraving of your driver’s license number or other identifying marks.
Stamp or mark your saddle on the inner layers of a saddle’s skirt or inside a fender. If there are already marks in these areas, record them and take pictures for later identifi cation in case of theft.
5. Post No Trespassing and as- sociation membership signs such as TSCRA’s blue Posted sign. Many thieves have re- ported that they skip prop- erties with the blue TSCRA Posted sign to fi nd a pasture without one!
Do not forget to stamp or mark your cinches, stirrups and straps.
tscra.org
Take pictures of conchos or hardware that can be removed or replaced.
6. Keep in touch with your local law enforcement or TSCRA special rangers. They can give you a heads-up if your area is experiencing a rash of theft.
November 2015 The Cattleman 87
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