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About

This is the only Western Saddle fitting course in the UK which is accredited and certified by Lantra.

The finer details

Module 1: The Western Saddle
 
• English and Western saddles - a comparison.
• Western saddles: structure, function, styles, makes, models, materials and care.
• Western saddle trees: types, angles and measurements.
• Western saddle accessories: saddle pads, cinches, etc. - purpose, development, types, styles, materials and fitting.

• Record keeping

 

Module 2:  Equine – Human Psychology
 
• Understanding the true nature of the horse and its response to domestication.
• How equines signal stages of discomfort, anxiety and fear.
• How to predict, understand and make rational judgements about equine behaviour.
• Horses, donkeys, mules, hybrids and their differences.

• Working safely with equines and their handlers.

 

Module 3:  Equine Anatomy and Physiology
 
• The skeletal system - anatomy and maturation. 
• Range of motion of the axial skeleton. The appendicular skeleton.
• The muscular system - major muscle groups and understanding the horse's back.
• Static and dynamic conformation, gait analysis and condition scoring.

• Working within professional boundaries.

 

Module 4:  Rules and Regulations 
 
• Law
• Finance
• Accountancy
• Health and safety

• Record Keeping

 

Module 5:  The Consultation 
 
• Preliminary information gathering.
• Assessing horse and rider.
• Measuring for saddle fit, padding, shimming and girthing.
• Evaluating saddle fit, first without and then with the rider.

• Providing excellent customer service

 

Module 6:  Professional Presentation
 
• Demonstrating complete familiarity with different Western saddles, bridles, accessories and their constituent parts.
• Presenting professionally and appropriately for safety and security with equines.
• Listening carefully to a client and explaining clearly how you will work.
• Knowing when to recommend something other than a saddle e.g., bareback pad, treeless etc.

• Knowing when and where to refer a client if suitable products for the horse and rider cannot be sourced.

 

Module 7:  Case Studies
 
End Point Assessment: Observed professional practice.
 

Delivery method

Classroom and practical demonstration and assessment

Recognised by

Lantra Awards

Course description:

Western Saddle Fitting Course Download PDF

Who should attend?

Equine professionals from all disciplines and experienced amateurs with a paramount concern for horse safety, comfort and welfare, who wish to professionally practise as a Western Saddle Fitter.

What will be covered?

The course aims to:

• equip learners with the knowledge, skills and understanding required to professionally practice as a Western Saddle Fitter. 
• promote and maintain the correct fitting of Western saddlery and lorinery, to ensure high standards of equine welfare.
• enhance the ability of learners to work safely, effectively and efficiently in the workplace, reducing unnecessary risks to themselves and others.  
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