The Western Horse's Pain Free Back and Saddle Fit Book 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

Western Saddles How to Fit: Pain-Free Joyce Harman, DVM

It has been said that all a cowboy needs in life is a horse and his saddle. Even more important, perhaps, is that his saddle fits his horse well. In this DVD, Dr. Joyce Harman, veterinarian and renowned saddle-fitting expert, advises that good saddle fit is not determined by style, brand, or price, but by construction, condition, and proper fit. She also explains how a horse will indeed cut more efficiently, lope more consistently, travel farther, and remain sound longer when his saddle accommodates his conformation and allows his back to function correctly.

The DVD covers:
• Why saddle fit matters to both horse and rider
• Western saddle evaluation, off and on the horse
• Ensuring the saddle fits the rider
• The proper use of saddle pads
• Accommodating conformational challenges


Dr. Joyce Harman, a graduate of the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, has appeared as a guest speaker on the topic of saddle fitting at numerous equine expositions in the USA, England, and Germany. Dr. Harman owns and operates Harmany Equine Clinic, a holistic veterinary practice, in Washington, Virginia.