How to Help a Girthy Horse
“My horse is girthy, how can I help?” Is one of the most common questions I get as an equine bodyworker.
If your horse hates being girthed, here’s what you need to do:
Check your girth fit- are there buckles against their skin? If it’s an anatomical shape, is it creating a pressure point? Does it have a fleecy/ breathable cover to ensure it isn’t creating girth rubs?
Check for tension in their pectoral or serratus muscles. Massaging these areas can help horses who are girthy a lot- some of my clients went from being irritated and almost dangerous to girth, to completely calm, after getting this area worked on.
Check with your vet about ulcers.
Ensure that you are tightening the girth slowly and tactfully.
If you have tried all of the above and your horse is still uncomfortable, it’s possible they have pain elsewhere. It’s best to talk to your vet about this issue.
Would you like a video demonstration of this checklist? If so, check out my instagram! Click here.
