Horse falling down when getting saddled!?

Hutchgal · 10-30-2011, 01:24 AM

The last 2 months, When I saddled up Crissy(the horse)When I would tighten the girth, Crissy would go down on her front knees, then rear, then repeat. After a bit, I would finally get the girth on without her doing anything. Lately, I've ridden her bareback, as I enjoy bareback . But today, I decided I would saddle her. As I slowly did the girth she did the knee and jump thing. Then she got down and laid down and almost passed out. We undid the girth and she got up and I walked her around, She was pretty dazed but quickly recovered. So I didn't saddle her up again. Has this ever happened to someone? I'm getting a vet, But before I do. Is there anything I could try?

bubba13 · 10-30-2011, 02:24 AM

Saddle may not fit or is not adjusted correctly. This generally happens due to a pinched nerve.

Fatty Lumpkin · 10-30-2011, 04:02 AM

I have heard of this before and the vet put it down to the girth nipping a nerve or a blood vessel, (can't remember which) and it causing them a drop in blood pressure or some such condition.

franknbeans · 10-30-2011, 06:41 AM

If you have a good horsey chiro in the area it is past time for a visit. Unless you want to continue riding bareback. I would NOT try putting a saddle on this horse again. This has already been going on too long, and you may end up with what was a physical issue turning into a behavioral one if it hasn't already. Let alone the fact it is pretty hard on the horse and scary for you, I would think!

kim_angel · 10-30-2011, 07:04 AM

I agree with the others thinking that it is a pinched nerve or blood vessel. Definitely something that needs medical attention.

tcb5040 · 10-30-2011, 04:18 PM

My horse does the same exact thing if I don't take my time. I put on the saddle and do the girth just enough so it's touching his stomach. Then I walk him for 15 seconds, tighten the girth, repeat walk, and finish tightening then walk until he's not bug eyed anymore.

Dee does it because he bloats and exhales while tightening the girth, which causes the freak out/ pass out. He hasn't done it in months now with that saddle routine.

Kiviknon · 10-30-2011, 04:28 PM

I would call the vet. Sounds like Kissing spines or something else neurological.

loosie · 10-31-2011, 03:12 AM

While it could be other issues or a combination, an ill fitting saddle is highly likely. Agree fully with Frankinbeans, not to keep saddling her and this has gone on for too long. I would suggest you take it more seriously as to what your horse is saying in future. I'd get a chiro or other good bodyworker to come check the horse out & help you with saddle fitting too. In the mean time, Balance International have a lot of good info on their site re saddle fit & issues.

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