Ridecamp: [RC] Levon - White Hairs

Levon:

Don't panic!  I bought a used Boz saddle after trying it for a month.  After
about 4 months of training, I noticed white hairs right behind & below the
withers in 2 spots.  He was also developing white hairs midway down his back
about 2" below the spine.  He was never sore!  However, having grown up on a
cattle ranch & seeing the horses that had those permanent white hairs from
poor saddle fit, I knew I had to do something.

I borrowed a friend's orthoflex & used it.  I finally found a used orthoflex
& we've been fine since.  You should try to borrow whatever saddle you're
interested in before purchasing one.  Ride in it & check for soreness.
Watch those white hairs!  (I'm keeping the Boz for another horse, by the
way).

I would not think it was the saddle pad causing the problem, but rather, the
saddle.  You can try changing pads, the skito is a very good pad.  It's also
cheaper than buying a new saddle.  Watch those white hairs carefully, and if
they are getting thicker & larger, then it is the saddle.  By the way, when
Taz shed out this spring, the white hairs were gone, so if you catch it in
time, it's not permanent.

The white hairs indicate a problem, so you are smart to be concerned.

Kathy Garner & Taz



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