March 2024
Spring has sprung! Ready set mow!
Watch those easy keepers on the spring grass. Sadly, I just heard of one of the nicest mares foundering and being put down. I might hear about more founder than most because it is Larry's job, but it happens way too much. I put mine in half a day and try to fill their bellies with hay before they go out. If they are too heavy and there is no dry lot available, they can wear a muzzle.
I had a great trip to California. I honestly think I have found someone that loves talking about saddles more than me. Or, maybe I should say she has more stamina than me. Karen Loshbaugh, Art2Ride Saddlery is an amazing teacher and her passion to help horses get into good fitting saddles is remarkable.
The reason for the trip was to help the Peter Horobin Reps gain a better understanding of choosing the right options for each horse/rider, the new models, really great new options, fitting and to share our experiences with other Reps. I think that is my favorite part. Even after 12 hour days, we were still learning from each other during our drives and meals. We probably crammed 5 days of training into 2. Karen, our fearless leader never stopped! She is amazing.
The reasons I love the Peter Horobin saddles:
- The horses love these saddles.
- They are beautiful quality adjustable saddles.
- They are a family business that genuinely care about horses, their clients and their Reps.
- Their patented Stridefree tree has a lifetime warranty and it can be adjusted endlessly so it continues to fit as the horses develop in their width and angle.
- They have super soft wool flocked panels, nice wide channels and a tree that won't allow the tree points to ever hurt the horse, whether it fits or not.
If this is the first you have heard of these saddles check them out. Peter Horobin Saddlery
I follow TW Saddlery & Specialized Saddles Group on Facebook. This group was started by Wyntre Stout a few years ago when she was searching for a used TW Saddle and realized that there was no FB page for used SS/TW. She saw a need for riders to search for used, discuss and basically just learn about thsee saddles from other riders that are also on Facebook.
Much about the Specialized and TW Saddles is about filling a need. They call it “necessity is the mother of invention.” Once, I needed a saddle with a lower swell and cantle and the TW Western Dressage Saddle was born.
There is a lot of good information on the FB page. A lot of the Reps are on there and are quick with good information but, it is still Facebook and there is also some wrong answers. Consider the source.
Recently, a Specialized Saddle owner reached out to the group for fitting advice because her saddle was slipping right. You know the old saying…"if you ask 10 horse people, you will get 11 different answers."
Well, if you know me you know that my answer was first we need measurements. Trying to fix her slipping problem wtihout knowing the specs of the saddle, pad, girth and the measurements of the horse is like throwing darts in the dark. You might get lucky and hit the target. You might also get somebody hurt.
After we had all the information, it was determined that she needs a Specialized Wide Tree which is 7". What she had was an older model Specialized Tree which was 5". It is really important to have all the information and not just “tweak.” Sombedy could get hurt. FYI
Standard Specialized Trees are 6"
Wide Specialized Saddles Trees are 7"
All TW Saddles are 7"
But, they were not always this way, so knowing what saddle you have is a pretty important part of the equation.
One of the best things about the Specialized Saddles is that the adjustments are made with the velcro cushions and shims, so basically you can do it yourself. Some people can fix their own trucks and shoes their own horses. Some people should probably not drive nails into their horses feet or try to fit their own saddle. I suspect that is why there are so many people that say I sold my Specialized because it didn't fit my horse.
I am the type of person that needs to pay someone to fix my truck. And I am thankful that my Husband is one of the best farriers around. I stay pretty busy with the riders that have Specialized Saddles and need/want help with the fitting. I am sure there are many successful do it yourselfers, I just don't know them because they don't call me.
I know I said at one point I didn't have time to do virtual fittings but there is such a huge need for it in far away places like Utah, Indiana and Florida (that is just this week's virtual fittings) that I have picked it back up. “Necessity is the mother of invention.”
There is more information about my virtual fitting process on the website and a registration form if you need/want a virtual fitting. HELP ME WITH MY SADDLE
The Saddle Fit Class in April filled up pretty fast so I scheduled another one on May 18, 2024.
Next trip to Oak Mt. is April 10-11
Next trip to Jessie's Run is April 21, 2024
As always, thank you for helping me spread the word about proper saddle fit and how it affects our horse's behavior, performance and ultimately the health of horse and rider. One quick post or mention of the importance of good saddle fit can changes a horse's life forever.
I hope you have a blessed holiday remembering and giving thanks to Jesus for his love and grace. The world could use a little more Jesus in it.
TTYS,
Terry Peiper, Fit Right Saddle Solutions
Recognizing the huge need for proper saddle fit, Terry started FIT RIGHT SADDLE SOLUTIONS now based in Crossville, TN and passionately pursues her mission to "spread the word about proper saddle fit, how it affects the horse’s performance, behavior and ultimately the health of horse and rider" to prevent horses from needless suffering.
