Girth Check: Comfort First!

A gentle reminder for everyone tacking up horses: a correctly tightened girth is essential for our horses’ comfort and wellbeing.

1. Don’t Over‑Tighten: A girth that’s too tight can cause pinching, pressure points, and overall discomfort. Tighten gradually and always check how the horse is responding.

2. Keep Both Sides Balanced (picture 1&2): Make sure both billets (straps) are on similar holes. If one side is at the top and the other is on hole one, the pressure is uneven — and very uncomfortable for the horse. Please adjust until both sides match.

3. Watch for “Do Not Use” Straps: If you see a leather strap marked with green tape and a cross, that strap should not be used.

4. Girths With a Snap Hook (picture 3): Some girths have a snap hook. The hook should always face toward the front of the horse.

5. Centering Check (picture 4): Look between the horse’s front legs — if the snap hook is centered, your girth is centered correctly.

6. The Hand Test: You should be able to slide a flat hand comfortably between the girth and the horse’s side. This confirms the girth is snug but not restrictive.

7. Watch for “Girth Blow‑Up”: Some horses inflate their belly when the girth is first put on and then release it after a minute or two. Always double check the girth after a few minutes — especially before heading to the arena.

8. Final Instructor Check: Don’t worry — the instructor will always do a final girth check when horses arrive at the ring and before riders mount.

Thank you for taking the time to ensure each horse is comfortable and safe — your attention to these details truly matters!