If a western saddle extends to the hip, what should be done?

When a western saddle extends to the hip, it indicates that the saddle is not properly fitted to the horse's back or that it is too large for the rider. In such cases, replacing the saddle with one that fits correctly is essential for both the horse's comfort and the rider's safety. A saddle that extends too far can cause pressure points, leading to discomfort for the horse and potential injuries over time.

Using a properly fitting saddle is vital in therapeutic riding, where the comfort of the animal is paramount for effective sessions. It ensures that the horse can move freely and perform its tasks without pain or restriction. While adjustments and additional padding may offer temporary solutions, they do not address the fundamental issue of fit, which can only be remedied by selecting an appropriate saddle size and shape. A girth stabilizer might help keep the saddle in place, but it doesn't correct the sizing issue. Hence, replacing the saddle is the best long-term solution.