Three Considerations for Protecting Your Horses Back

No matter what activity is expected of your horse, it needs a healthy back to function properly. As people know, horses were not designed to be ridden and their backs need care and preparation before they are started under saddle as well as care during their ridden career. There are three things riders should consider to protect their horses back: 

1. Saddle Fit 
Once under saddle, it is essential to ensure a correctly fitting saddle.  One common mistake riders make is waiting for a horse to get older before investing in a decent saddle. By then the damage may already be done to your horse's back and the horse may have learnt behavioural or positional issues due to discomfort or soreness.

2. Development 
Dr Victoria Hamilton's special interest is in caring for the horse's back. She runs clinics to help riders learn how to develop their horses' backs both under saddle and through  in-hand work and cross training. This is so important not only for the young horse beginning it's career under saddle but also for horses that may be coming back into work after injury - back related or not! If you are interested in finding out more... head over to the Dressage Page.
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3. Girth
​There are also many girths on the market, with different shapes and materials making a huge difference. The shape of the girth you choose should depend on the horse's conformation, as it will impact where its girth groove is in relation to its saddle platform area. Materials can vary from sheepskin covered, fabric, neoprene or leather, with elastic and non-elastic options, and some with equalising systems. Girths should always be selected after the correct saddle is found and fitted to your horse, as the girth straps on the saddle will impact the placement of the girth. 
Check out our range of Equi-Prene Girths in the VH Saddlery Shop.