Inspiritus Equine, Inc.
Joanna Robson, D.V.M., M.S.
CVSMT, CMP, CVA, CSFT, CIT, eCPR, VHSC, CMT
Saddlefit- Properly fitted equipment is imperative!
Did you know some mystery lamenesses are 100% due to poor saddlefit?
The horse's anatomy dictates how the saddle should fit, regardless of the brand! English, Western, Australian stock, even treeless - all have to fit! You must understand your horse's basic anatomy and the basics of a saddle tree, panels, and construction for a pain-free fit. The grid below contains some of the more common saddle-fit issues I see in my practice, but did you know that sometimes there aren't any outward signs and the issues are 100% behavioral?
​
Bucking, rearing, swapping leads, biting when saddled and girthed, ears pinned, stress-yawning in the cross-ties, your horse won't stand still to be saddled or mounted, and bloating, are all potential signs of ill-fitting tack and PAIN!
​​
Saddlefitting and finding the right saddle for you and your horse can be a time-consuming and frustrating process. But when you understand HOW the saddle is supposed to fit, it can streamline the process. Let's work together!
Pressure from an ill-fitting tree creating dry spots behind the withers - this may progress to white hairs and galls if not corrected
White hairs, known as a Gall, created by a pinching saddle. Permanent damage to the skin creates scarring, and the muscles and nerves beneath may also be irreparably injured.
Uneven shoulders may create problems for saddlefitting; most horses are bigger on the left side.
Thermographic imaging highlights uneven flocking and panel contact on this dressage saddle.
Many horses have short backs, creating problems when panels are too long and put pressure into the loin, resulting in pain, bucking, and hollowing.
behavioral response to saddling, including pinning ears, biting the bars, grinding teeth and tensing
Channel is TOO NARROW to clear the spine, creating rubs, pressure, and behavioral problems
Fluid filled bumps that may result from saddle or pad pressure, and may indicate underlying disease such as kissing spine
Dr. Robson has worked with Master Saddlers from many brands for over twenty years, and is well-versed with both English and Western saddles, as well as treeless, adjustable gullet, adjustable panel, and other designs.
As part of a saddle-fitting evaluation, your horse's anatomy is reviewed and current tack is assessed. The balance, length, angle, width, condition, and comfort are all evaluated. If it fits, it fits! If it doesn't, recommendations are provided for styles or brands for the horse and rider's needs. Finding the right saddle can be a frustrating process and takes time, skill, and often a decent financial investment. A properly fitted saddle is IMPERATIVE for your horse's comfort, soundness, and longevity.
​
Dr. Robson is a Certified Saddlefit Technician through Saddlefit4Life(R) since 2004, and is a proud Authorized Saddlefitter for Peter Horobin Saddery, whose saddles include an adjustable Stride-Free(R) tree, pure merino wool-flocked panels, and the highest quality leather line of English, Racing, and Endurance saddles, and new half-breed options! A fitting session includes full measurements of the horse and rider, demo rides whenever possible, and discussion of custom options or in-stock inventory. Learn more about the anatomy of saddle-fit and Peter Horobin's story in the videos below.
​
Dr. Robson frequently assesses Western saddle fit. Allegany Mountain Saddlery, Crates/Steele Tree, Julie Goodnight Circle Y, and various short/light barrel saddles may be recommended, but any brand and saddle is worth an evaluation! See more on the Videos and Education page, and pick up a copy of my book Recognizing the Horse in Pain.
​
Saddle pad evaluations are included. Five-Star wool, Equipedic, ThinLine, Diamond Wool, Classic Equine, Mattes, ProChoice, SaddleRight, and other wool felt or natural wool pads may be recommended. Please stay away from gel, neoprene, Tacky Too, and certain foams or inserts that trap heat! Don't fall for the marketing, these materials will cause problems for your horse!
​
A Sample of the Peter Horobin Saddles
