Re: sore back advice

[CMKSAGEHIL <CMKSAGEHIL@aol.com>]

In a message dated 98-03-30 13:21:47 EST, allnutt@blue.weeg.uiowa.edu writes:

<< Are there any rider weight maximums recommended for horses in general?  Is
 it determined by horse confirmation?  Horse age?  How do the heavyweights
 'toughen' their mounts backs, or do you decide who to ride based upon if
 they can carry you without getting sore? >>

Weight maximums:  About 1/3 the horse's body weight.
Age recommendation:  Mature
Determined by horse conformation?  ABSOLUTELY!!!!!
And yes, definitely best determined by who can carry the heavyweight without
getting sore.

Other tips to help out, though:

Do dressage, and help the horse learn to round his back.

DON'T encourage this person to ride daily--try three times a week, so there is
a recovery phase.

Heidi Smith, DVM--Sagehill Arabians (Oregon)