07/04/2022
**πβπππΌ βπΈπβπ πβπ»πΌβ ππΈπ»π»ππΌ**
βπΈβπ πβπΌ
YIKES! It's that time of year when we can get calls to say 'HELP!' cos white hairs have appeared under the saddle area. Often they're first noticed as a coat changes, or the horse is clipped.
What are the white hairs?
The can be many things, but are often caused by an injury or excessive pressure in an area. This trauma can damage the pigment producing part of the hair follicle and cause the hair to grow back without pigment. They CAN indicate an issue with the saddle fit, because they can mean there has been increased pressure in that area.
Should you panic? No... don't panic. But DO call your fitter, just in case.
Why you shouldn't panic. Firstly, they don't necessarily mean there is a problem NOW. The white hairs can take months to grow through and by the time they're there, it might well be that your saddle is already sorted. Secondly they don't always mean there is a problem with the saddle - sometimes one ride in a ruched up saddle cloth is enough to cause white hairs (always make sure your saddle cloth is smoooooooth under the saddle, smoother than Joey from Friends' chat up lines).
But, definitely call your fitter as soon as you notice them, just in case it is something to worry about. They will be able to advise.
