22 August 2008 14:14
We bought a new pony and were told she was sensitive in the girth area. We got her a new leather girth, but in a few days she developed sores. When they healed, we added a sheepskin cover to deal with this, but after just one hack she had another sore. They’re not sweat-induced and we’ve got no idea what to do next!
Answer
By Your Horse
Advanced Instructor Alison Ritchie replies:
AIt may have been that the sores weren’t totally healed before she was ridden. Check her tack fits properly and make sure you’re not leaving her girth a little loose – this causes movement that results in friction and rubbing. Try wider rather than narrow girths to spread pressure over a wide area and, if you’re riding, make sure you sit still and centrally.
Sheepskin covers are good when new but once worn can be quite abrasive. An ideal cover will absorb sweat and be made from a soft, natural fibre. You can harden the skin in this area by using witch hazel, which can be found in your chemist or saddler, but you must keep the skin supple.