Keeping Our Equine Friends Comfortable
Thank you to the South-East Region for organising a training day on Saddlery Fitting which coaches Louise and Sarah-Jane attended. The course was delivered by Frances Roche, SMS Qualified Bridle Fitter, Master Bridle and Harness Maker, registered with the Society of Master Saddlers, and a Fellow of the Society of Master Saddlers and also Catherine Baker, Master Saddler, Master Bridle Maker, Registered Qualified Saddle Fitter, and Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter with the Society of Master Saddlers. Catherine is also the current President of The Society of Master Saddlers. The morning began with a theory based presentation with the focus on bridle fitting and how important it is to consider the horse’s head anatomy when fitting tack. Understanding a horse’s individual anatomy is key to achieving a well fitting bridle, crucial for equine wellbeing. In the afternoon there was a practical demonstration using RDA ponies Bonnie and Hector, who showed how patient they were when they were used to showcase both saddle and bridle fitting techniques. An excellent course, delivered superbly and thank you to Catherine and Frances for making it such a memorable learning experience, Louise and Sarah-Jane’s only critique of the day was they found it so interesting they wished the course could have been 3 days instead!! Thank you to HBLRDA, for being wonderful hosts and looking after everyone, and Bonnie and Hector who were superstars ⭐