> I always use a breast collar for sure. I just > wondered if I needed a crupper. Never used one. Lorraine >
If your horse has no withers and/or your saddle slides forward going down hill then a crupper may be necessary. I have used one with a pony I used to have when we rode down REALLY steep hills in Marin. If your saddle starts sliding around your horse's neck as your going downhill, it's really awkward and can be very unsafe to quickly get off and readjust on a steep decline. The crupper must be very clean, and made of a smooth material. It should not be very snug. It should only engage if the saddle moved forward slightly. I'd test your horse's react first. I've only used them with two horses and they could care less, but I would put it on the horse but not attach it to the saddle and pull it snug and see how the horse reacts. Their tails are really strong, so when they feel it snug up they clamp their tails down and hold it in place. Then hook it to the saddle and ride on the flat, then small hills first. Cherie
