My husband's competitive/endurance horse has developed a "roached back" over
the winter (or at least that is when we started to notice a significant
change). The horse is a 13 year old QH (looks VERY thorobred-like!!!) He is
used for 30-75 mile competitive rides and 50 mile endurance rides - about 300
miles of competition per season plus training & hacking.. He is ridden in a
well-fitted McClellan-style saddle with a cool back pad and gel insert. The
horse prefers to "road trot" - a very large trot (almost looks like he is
gaiting) that is clocked at 22-26 mph.
My questions are these:
1) What is the cause of a "roach"? Is this part of normal aging of the
horse's back?
2) Will this adversely affect his performance?
3) Is there any successful treatment for a "roach" (& should we even be
looking to treat it?)
Any replies are appreciated.
Linda Flemmer
MFLEM22551@aol.com
Blue Wolf Equestrian Supplies