By Joyce Harman, Joyce Harman, DVM, MRCVS
Paperback - 232 pages - ISBN 1570763895

Written specifically for Western-style riding and horses, this guide offers helpful advice on subjects such as horse and rider conformation and saddle construction. Horse owners will benefit from clear explanations of the variables that must be considered in order to keep a horse comfortable. Because many aspects change according to various exercise and training programs, a section on the use of pads and shims for temporary problem solving, as well as invaluable information on caring for the horse back--both in the short and long term--is included. Emphasizing that a good fit is not determined by the brand, cost, or style of a saddle--an expensive model can cause just as much harm as a cheaper one--this guidebook discusses how fit is determined by a saddle that allows the horse's back to function correctly, while keeping the rider in a well-balanced position