Without the correct equestrian gear, such as a well-fitted saddle and a good-quality bridle, horse riding can be uncomfortable for both rider and animal.
Yet researchers from Duchy College in Cornwall believe that however well kitted out some horses are, they may be at risk of suffering from health issues. Why? Because some of us are too weighty to be riding.
Analysing data on 152 horses and their adult riders located in Devon and Cornwall, the study has uncovered that only five percent of these riders were a suitable weight for their equine companions.
One of the scientists involved in the research stated that people usually do not pay attention to any weight issues a rider may have because they "tend to think that horses are such big animals they must be OK". However, she warns, "the health impact on the horse can be quite extreme, quite quickly. It seems to be a growing problem".
She believes the study shows the need for industry-wide guidelines which would stop horses from bearing the weight of riders who could cause them unintentional harm.
Carrying riders who are too heavy for them can result in the animal suffering back pain, lameness, and behavioural problems.
Hopefully something will be done about this soon, so that no more horses suffer from easily preventable health issues.
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Labels: back pain, behavioural problem, bridle, Duchy College, equestrian gear, equine, guidelines, health, horse, lameness, rider, saddle, weight