by Linda Scrofano

Created on: July 19, 2009

Ensuring that the girth is properly adjusted prior to mounting is vital for the safety of both the rider and the horse. An improperly tightened girth can lead to saddle slippage which may cause the horse to spook while the rider is only part way up. Additionally, a loose girth can quickly cause girth galls which cause the animal pain and will likely lead to behavior problems during tacking.

In order to properly adjust a girth, saddle the horse with the girth just snug. Walk him to the area where mounting will occur, stand beside him facing the saddle watching his ears for signals that he may react in a negative manner. Ear "pinning" where the horse lays his ears flat back is a sign that he is unhappy and may act out. Slowly tighten up the girth until you can pull it away from the horse's barrel (belly) only about 3 or 4 inches by pulling outward.

Once it is tightened as described, it is very important to walk the horse off a few steps. Some horses will act up if mounted immediately after the girthing. Walking them off seems to remove this issue. After you've walked the horse off a short distance, double check the tightness of the girth prior to mounting. If it is the same as it was when you last checked it, you're okay to mount. Some horses "bloat" their barrel in an effort to keep the girth from being tightened. They blow their barrels outward with air and if you fail to double check the girth prior to mounting the saddle slides down the horse's side!

Some horses who bloat during girthing will need to be walked around for a few minutes to get their mind off the girthing process. Then once you stop them, quickly move to the girth and tighten it, but do not jerk it up into place as you may pinch the horse in the process.

Once the girth is properly adjusted, pull out slightly and slide your hands downward under the girth toward the ground. This straightens out the skin under the girth where it was just adjusted and reduces the possibility of girth galls.

By using care in tacking your horse up each time you can avoid problem behaviors such as bloating, ear pinning, kicking and biting. Horses use these behaviors to avoid pain. A horse that has been hurt or frightened in the past will require patience and time to overcome his fears. However, it is important not to tolerate dangerous behaviors for the safety of those handling the horse. Correct problem behaviors as soon as you see them. Have one person hold the horse while another adjusts the girth if problem behaviors are present.

Take your time working with the animal and ensure all tack is in excellent usable condition before using it for a safe and enjoyable ride every time.

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