kitcat0601
Outhouse Monitor
Smooth Flyin' Jet AKA: "Rocky"
Posts: 249
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Post by kitcat0601 on May 22, 2007 11:24:48 GMT -5
 Ok, I know what a saddle sore is, but I cant seem to find any info online that gives a specific reason except for improper saddle fit. I bought a mare that has a few older looking saddle sores. She has been ridden twice sine I bought her and the saddle sores are returning, as in the scab came off. Is it possible that the pad might be rubbing her? They are on her withers and not bad, but I dont want to cause her any discomfort. Just curious if any of you guys have had a horse that gets them. I use a saddle pad that has the cushion on each side where the pressure points would be on a saddle. Any suggestions? Thanks 
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Post by twnpnds on May 22, 2007 12:12:08 GMT -5
True, saddle sores are usually caused from improperly fitting saddles. Sounds like your saddle may be sitting too low which puts a lot of pressure on the withers. Can you put 4 fingers under the pommel? A saddle that is too narrow can also cause sores. A saddle may fit without a pad but when a thick pad is added it becomes too narrow/tight. If this is the case use a thinner pad or a blanket. You mentioned that your pad is padded. I have seen these pads rub a horse. Especially when the pads are made of vinyl, leather, anything but cloth. Also the padded part can add pressure. The sores will have to heal completely before you can ride using a saddle. Scabs must be gone and no sign of soreness present. When the scabs fall off the area will be tender for a while. Meanwhile you may consider riding bareback or using a bareback pad. Be sure to have someone check your saddle and your pad. Might also want to have your vet check her for underlying causes such as a fungus. I knew someone that had a gelding that got saddle sores no matter what they did. Their vet came to the conclusion that he was just thin skinned. So they cut away the pad where the sores were. You will need someone who can sew a pad to close the cuts. This eliminated all pressure where the sores were and still padded where it needed to be padded. It also allowed air to reach those spots. He didn't get sores anymore. Good luck and hope you'll be riding again soon.
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