|
|
Points for Contemplation
Saddles are not the horse’s best friend!
Like many other caring and concerned horse owners, I have spent a small fortune on saddles, in the endeavour to find the perfect one. Many pounds and years later my answer would most likely be:
‘THERE IS NONE’
Why?
The main reason is possibly, that we are placing a static object on to a dynamic surface. When correctly ridden, the horse’s back needs to shorten and lengthen and the perfect saddle is meant not to interfere with this movement. Unfortunately, this is almost impossible. In addition to this undefeated problem, there are many others.
Did you know that many saddles are assembled by unskilled factory workers and not saddle makers. However, as we speak there are some concerned people trying to regulate at least ‘tree – making’, by quality control stipulations.
The increasingly varied use of horses in different disciplines, exposes further requirements and expectations of the equipment. Breeding, horse shape and confirmation have changed over the years, in response saddles will have to change too. However, developing saddle fashion does not always reflect requirement and function.
Undoubtedly, the rider does not help; balance, size, weight and their musculo-skeletal problems can all be a hindrance, when good riding is requierd.
One thing is often forgotten; considering dental issues. The way the horse carries its head can influence back alignment.
I would also like to bring your attention to the horses foot balance, as a high heel long toe scenario will influence the horse’s shoulder position. Unfortunately, this is often missed.
‘Saddle pressure in one particular area will cause damage over time, as blood flow is restricted.’
We all know the obvious signs of badly fitting tack:
- white hair
- bumps, scaring, galls
- muscle sensitivity
- muscle atrophy
- muscle twitching, to mention only a few
We are also aware of the tell tail signs:
- short stride, lead change difficulties, poor impulsion etc.
- cold back
- bucking and refusing to work
- avoidance response when being tacked or mounted
Have you considered that all of this, due to compensatory weight distribution, could lead to; tendon and ligament problems, bruised heel and navicular syndrome, or even the onset of degenerative joint disease?
Your horse’s saddle is the key to its well-being and performance!
Have I scared you enough?
Please always have your saddle checked regularly, have it fitted by a reputable and trained saddle fitter (Not all Master Saddlers are also trained in saddle fitting). Ask for advice on where to place your saddle on the horse. Sometimes a well fitted saddle, if positioned too far forward, is just as bad as an incorrectly fitted saddle. Remember, horses change their shape in relation to season or workload. Consider different saddles for different disciplines or purely to change pressure areas(e .g. when ridden over long periods of time). Be careful which pads you use, a thick sock in a tight shoe…… and try to avoid riser pads. Ask your saddle fitter, or ‘Master Saddlers’ on 01449 711642.
The same is true for your horse’s rug, especially the turn out rug, and more so when it is wet. Just think how many hours a day your horse wears its rug. If it is too large or small it will cause rubbing and irritation over the withers and shoulder area when moving around all day. A good saddle fitter should be able to advise you in those areas (consider made to measure rugs).
Get someone qualified and experienced to check and treat your horses back. Non-related back problems, caused through accident, work load, confirmation etc can spoil the benefits of a good fitting and suitable saddle, due to un-even muscular development.
The best saddle for you and your horse is the one that fits, despite prize, colour or brand name. Educate yourself, take time and then make a good decision. Pay attention to your horse and try to listen when things change. Your dream saddle is the one that keeps your horse’s back pain free and movable and is suitable for you. Remember to ask your saddle fitter to show you exactly where to position the saddle, as how ever well fitted by your saddler, if not placed correctly every time you use it, your saddle fitters efforts will be in vain.
Some points to consider about your horse’s bit and bridle:
- width of jaw
- size of tongue
- history
- material
- usage
- sit of noseband
Horses are individuals and their biting requirements vary more then you think. For more info please visit www.bitbank.co.uk Dentition
It is possible for horses to develop dental issues such as, abscesses, even when they are checked regularly. For more info please talk to your vet or a qualified dental technician.
- bolting
- rearing
- stiffness
- wasting food - head shaking
Please remember to have your horse’s teeth checked regularly. As dental issues can lead to a number of problems. 6-12 monthly checkups are recommended.
Horses need efficient functioning dentition not just for valuable digestion of food, but tooth related pain can instigate a number of behavioural and performance related issues.
Dogs
The same needs to be considered for dogs. Unsuitable collars or harnesses can cause stress to the dog’s neck due to pulling on the lead, especially if mainly lead from one side. This will then in addition influence the rest of the animal’s posture. Other areas to think about are the sleeping place, daily exercise and play, especially with toys such as frisbees. Agility and excessive jumping can cause strain too.
www.meadow-farm.com
Last but not least I would like to point your interest towards two more things very close to my heard.
Joint Supplements and Animal Behaviour!
There is a lot info out there about joint supplements and in general I would advise you to ask your vet for a recommendation. Remember joint supplements are not just useful for arthritis and age related pain, they are also great as a preventative measure against wear and tear due to daily stress put upon the skeletal system. In order to maintain joint health, an adequate supply of nutrition is required to allow cartilage repair and joint lubrication. Please visit www.natural-animals-health.co.uk for great info about Cortaflex and www.sciencesupplements.co.uk for a supplement ‘Flexability’, scientifically evaluated by vets at the Animal Health Trust. Animal behavioural issues are a hot topic, and owners are often aware of the influence this may have on their daily interaction with their horses and dogs. Natural Horsemanship and Horse/Dog Whispering are on every one's agenda and I do not need to add anything to this. I just wish to say that most animals I meet are more successful in getting the picture about us then we will ever be about understanding them. Beware, they are in touch with us just through watching and reading our body language and energy. A great horseman maintains, ‘Horses are like books,…… unfortunately we can’t read.’ Mark Rashid. |
|