Inspiritus Equine, Inc.
Integrated Soundness Solutions (sm)
...Reveal the Equus Within!
Dr. Joanna Robson, DVM, CVSMT, CMP, VA, SFT
707-738-7110
Correct saddle fit is imperative to maximize the longevity and performance of your horse. The majority of the
back pain cases that I see are related to poor equipment fit.  The equine community is slow to recognize the
physical damage that can be done to cartilage, muscle, and bone under the pressure of a poor-fitting saddle.
However, now that we have modalities such as MRI, CT scan, thermography, and computerized saddle-fit
pressure gauges, we have evidence of such damage. It is our duty as equestrians to work tirelessly for the
comfort of our competition partners. You wouldn't expect to hike 10 miles in shoes too small, neither should
your horse be expected to perform at his best in a pinching saddle.  Many close contact saddles are touted
because of their brand names - they're the "in-thing" in the hunter-jumper industry. But many of these
saddles are not correctly fitted to the horses, are placed too far forward by the rider, and do not allow
freedom of the shoulders for correct jumping form. The objective evidence provided by the horses in before
and after demonstrations are evidence enough for the influence of saddle fit on equine performance.

I am a member for Saddle Fit 4 Life, and work closely with Certified Master Saddler Jochen Schleese.
Schleese Saddlery Services, is based in Canada, and was the 2005 and 2007 official saddler at the World
Cup in Las Vegas. The patented Adaptree allows for continual adjustment of the saddle tree as the horse
develops and changes. This provides freedom of movement and prevention of damage to cartilage and
muscle tissue.  

As a veterinarian, my foremost concern is the welfare of the horse.  As an educated professional, I can
provide you with the advice and take objective measurements to make the most educated decision for you
and your horse regarding the fit of your saddle.  Please read the article on saddle fitting under EDUCATION
to learn more about proper saddle fit.
Discussing saddlefit with a client in
Maui, Hawaii.
Joanna Robson, DVM,
CVSMT, CMP, VA, SFT
707-738-7110