Inspiritus Equine, Inc.
Joanna L. Robson, DVM
CVSMT, CMP, CVA, CSFT, CIT, eCPR, VHSC, CMT
Veterinary Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Bodywork, Saddle-fitting, Emotional-CPR, Health Communications
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!
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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
I have worked with Master Saddlers from many brands for twenty years, and am wholly familiar with English and Western saddles, as well as treeless, adjustable tree, adjustable panel, and more. 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, I am able to help guide you to styles or brands that may fit you and you horse's needs. Finding the right saddle can be a frustrating process and takes time, skill, and a financial investment. A properly fitted saddle is IMPERATIVE for your horse's comfort, soundness, and longevity.
In addition to being a Certified Saddlefit Technician through Saddlefit4Life(R), I am also a proud Authorized Saddlefitter for Peter Horobin Saddery, saddles including an adjustable Stride-Free(R) tree, pure merino wool-flocked panels, and the highest quality leather line of English, Racing, and Endurance saddles. A fitting session includes full measurements of you and your horse, demo rides whenever possible, and discussion of custom options. Learn more about the anatomy of saddle-fit and Peter Horobin's story in the videos below.
I am also a National Champion in Western Dressage and can help you with your Western saddle needs. See more on the Videos and Education page, and pick up a copy of my book Recognizing the Horse in Pain.
A Sample of the Peter Horobin Saddles
