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Being a veterinarian I have specialized in using Chiropractic to treat horses as well as dogs which have problems caused by blocked or restrained joints and columnar vertebrae.
At my job I often get to meet horse patients and their owners, whose problems are caused by an ill-fitting saddle. These horse backs are easily recognised due to reduced and tense muscles (for example: dents behind the shoulder), which couldn’t work as supposed to because of pressurepoints due to the saddle. After having de-blocked joints and treated strains during my chiropractic sessions I like to suggest the use of a Barefoot-Saddle including pad, so that the muscling can redevelop easily and without restriction.
From my own experience with the Barefoot-systems throughout many years, I can tell of numerous horses which immediately travel much more relaxed, satisfied and supple. I receive similar feedbacks from my patients-owners whose horses quickly show a more content facial expression – even beyond riding.
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In addition I often recommend the Barefoot Girthing system, which can be adjusted without irritating skin or fur. Quite many cinchy horses have been healed from their behaviour.
Unfortunately I occasionally run into badly rebuilt treeless saddles, which are often used with just a thin numnah underneath and thus cause severe pressure in the saddle area, result in the problems mentioned above and cause white hair. I can only discourage from these items.
Due to differently shaped horses – form of back and withers – choosing the optimal saddle and fitting it individually and cautiously is important – for example the Barefoot-Numnahs can be padded and the width front gullet can be adjusted. In case of questions one can always contact Barefoot for advice.
The Barefoot-Concept has convinced me many years ago and so I was able to keep an eye on the development and many improvements. I enjoy passing on my experience to my patients and their owners.
It may indeed be a greater adjustment for the rider to get used to an independent and well-balanced seat, especially if the horse develops more impulsion and he was formerly used to a pre-formed dressage-seat. Not only underneath but also onboard this saddle “new” muscles are being used.
For the well-being of any horse, I strongly encourage the use of a leg-up aid – be it with or without a saddle tree.
And I also believe: Horses do speak!
Christiane Gold
www.tierchiropraktik.net
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