A lack of bitting knowledge was also highlighted by experts
THE impact of poorly fitting tack is “potentially a huge welfare issue”, a top equine orthopaedics specialist has warned.
Dr Sue Dyson presented evidence from a number of studies at the National Equine Forum (2 March) while addressing how badly fitting tack has knock-on effects for both horse and rider.
During her presentation she highlighted how an ill-fitting saddle can prevent a horse’s muscles from developing correctly, cause pain and also have a negative impact on a horse’s performance.
One of the studies cited by Dr Dyson found that the dimensions of a horse’s back increases during exercise, and to a greater extent when a horse is working correctly, but a poorly fitting saddle prevents this and in some cases caused the dimensions to shrink.
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