Have you ever noticed your pony swishing his tail, pinning his ears, or even turning to nip at the air when you tighten the girth? It’s easy to think he’s just being grumpy. But here’s a secret lots of riders don’t know: a pony who reacts to the girth is almost always trying to tell you something, not trying to be naughty.
Ponies can’t say ‘that pinches’ or ‘my tummy feels sore,’ so they use their bodies instead. Pulling faces during girthing (some people call it being ‘girthy’) is one of the clearest messages a pony can send.
What might he be saying?
- The girth is being done up too fast, or too tight all at once. Tighten it slowly, a hole at a time, with a little walk in between.
- His skin is being pinched. Check no folds of skin are caught underneath, and that the girth is clean and smooth.
- His saddle might not fit quite right, which can make the whole area sore.
- Sometimes a sore tummy (like ulcers) makes girthing uncomfortable. This one needs a grown-up and a vet.
Watch your pony each time you tack up. If you notice a grumpy face, tell your coach or a trusted adult. The riders who get the best from their ponies are the ones who listen to the small signals before they become big ones!
