Suitability of the saddle:
For those jumping for fun, or over small fences, a GP saddle is suitable so long as it allows the rider to remain in balance with the horse. However when competing at the higher levels over bigger fences, in show jumping and cross-country, a jumping saddle is safer and more beneficial to use.
Jumping saddles are typically constructed with forward cut saddle flaps which are shorter in length, a flatter seat, with the stirrup bars positioned further forward. Knee blocks are also commonly used. The main purposes of these design features are to allow the rider to maintain their position, stability and comfort, whilst keeping a close contact with the horse whilst jumping.
The forward cut saddle flaps enable the rider to shorten their stirrups allowing them to adapt their position for jumping. As the flaps are shorter in length it assists in creating a closer leg contact with the horse which allows for effective aids. The flatter seat gives the rider a greater freedom of movement to adopt the different seat positions, whilst the forward stirrup bars help the leg remain in the correct position. If knee blocks are fitted they offer support.
Suitability of the bridle:
A standard bridle is generally used when jumping. Certain bridles are equipped with clips on the cheekpieces and reins to allow the bit to be changed easily and quickly. Nosebands and bits can vary depending on the horse's needs.
Tack permitted in jumping competitions is much more flexible than in dressage. The use of breastplates and martingales, with the exception of a market harborough, are allowed. A selection of bits from each family can be used, however in many competitions bitless bridles are prohibited.
As with any competitions, there are restrictions on tack and bits depending on whether you are show jumping or eventing, therefore the rule book for each discipline should always be referred to.
Condition of the tack:
All the leather on the tack should be clean, soft and supple to prevent it rubbing the horse's skin. Hard leather will not only feel uncomfortable to the horse, it is also prone to splitting or snapping which can have serious consequences for both the equine and rider if it breaks whilst in use.
For safety all the stitching should be completely secure, if any damage is found it should not be used until repaired. On the bridle pay particular attention to the reins and cheekpieces, plus the billets or buckles which secure them to the bit. When checking the saddle all areas of stitching should be inspected, this includes the seat which if ripped can pinch or tear the rider's skin. The state of the leather on the girth straps and stirrup leathers needs examining, plus the holes checked for any stretching or distortion. Furthermore, the stirrup leathers must be the same thickness overall, pay special attention to where the stirrup sits against the leather during riding as it is prone to wear.
Before fitting the bits into the horse's mouth, they should be checked for any sharp edges or wear and tear on the mouthpiece.
Boots should be in good condition, with all the straps in working order. They should be cleaned each time they are used.
Consequences of using ill-fitting or the wrong tack:
Ill-fitting or dirty tack can cause both physical and psychological problems to the horse.
Cleanliness is a vital part of preventing tack problems. Any area where tack, and accessories, sits against the horse's skin can cause rubs and sores if it is not kept clean and supple.
A badly fitted saddle, initially will cause discomfort to the equine, but if continually used the results will be severe pain and possibly irreparable damage. Physically this may be evident by ruffles or white hairs, lumps or sores on the skin, and muscle wastage along the back. The horse's movement may also become impaired; this is typically seen during work and may include a shortening or stiffening of the stride and in worst cases lameness. Resistance to freely move forward and a hollow outline are further noticeable indications discomfort or pain.
If the bit or bridle is fitted incorrectly it will not only create great annoyance to equine, but also cause them extreme pain. Bridles which are too tight will encourage the bit sit too high in their mouth, plus place excess pressure on the poll which is highly sensitive due to the large amounts of nerves located in that area. When a bridle is too loose or big the bit will sit too low in the horse's mouth, and the noseband may rest on the nostrils either irritating the equine or restricting their breathing. Furthermore, its lack of security may also cause the bridle to fall off. An ill-fitted or incorrectly fitted bit will be very painful for the horse; firstly the bit may bang against the incisor teeth and pinching, bruising, bleeding or sores may also be apparent on the bars, tongue and corners of the lips.
Martingales and breastplates incorrectly fitted may rub against the equine's skin causing sores. If it is too small it may restrict the movement of either the head or shoulders; if it is too loose it will not serve its purpose correctly which can cause a lack of control of the horse.
Boots are designed to protect the horse's limbs from injury. If used when in poor condition, or the straps are damaged, they could slip down, restrict the joint, or cause the equine to trip or fall. This could also occur if they are put on too loosely. Fitted too tightly they can result in discomfort or rubbing injuries, restrict the blood supply or natural movement of the horse. Breathable boots should also be used to help prevent the leg tendons over-heating during exercise; additionally they should be removed immediately after fast exercise to allow the legs to cool down quickly.
Behavioural issues are a common occurrence when the tack is incorrectly fitted. Equines will display a variety of responses, these include (but are not limited to) refusal to be tacked up, bad temper, head-shaking, napping, rearing, bucking, or bronking. Unfortunately some horses will suffer in silence, therefore it is vital and your duty of care to provide each working horse with correctly fitted tack which is regularly monitored.
Fitting the wrong tack to any horse, even if it is well fitted, can also be detrimental. Entering a competition in tack which is not permitted can lead to elimination from the competition. Furthermore, it can lead to a lack of control of the horse if the tack is not suitable for the equine's strength. Alternatively if the tack is too forceful the horse may over-reacting to the aids. Both instances can be dangerous for both the rider and horse.
Care of the working horse:
To maintain the welfare and health of every working horse there are certain tasks that should be done after each ride, plus periodic health checks. These include:
