I have a stretch tec girth with the wool (it’s not sheepskin but merino I believe) as well as a straight woolback nylon girth that are good for ones sensitive to pressure. Make sure buckles are covered (this is one thing I don’t like about th Stubben) and the girth is long enough that it buckles close to your pad. Whether you need a true anatomic fit (elbow relief, crescent, or other) depends on his specific conformation. Some with more room at the elbow don’t fit so great on the sternum. I don’t have that issue with the TSF because of the elastic in the center.
Thanks everyone for the feedback/ideas. The comments about scoping for ulcers etc are noted–it’s the same thing I would advise if someone else told me this was happening. I did actually have the vet out shortly after the first episode to discuss but she felt pretty strongly that ulcers seems unlikely given his overall demeanor, body condition, and lifestyle. It’s still something I’ll consider doing in the future, however…I know all of the above does not mean you can rule them out entirely. Bodyworker also noted nothing in that area (girth area, pectorals) of particular concern, there was limited to no tension and no reactivity.
At any rate, I received the Correct Connect girth about two weeks ago and have been using it ever since. No explosions, no twitching when I tighten the girth, nothing. It really does look like it was the rib pressure or possibly even just friction along those areas. Clearly he never loved the (very cushy and wide and soft but no elastic) leather girth I had until it became intolerable to him and he made that…very clear. Concentrating the pressure on his sternum seems to be way more comfortable for him.
I’m still keeping an eye on him and being mindful of physical issues…I never truly rule them out when anything seems amiss. He’s always been a sensitive soul and I do believe that he still has some emotional regulation skills to learn (we’re working on it on the ground). I appreciate all of the advice and wanted to update since all of you took the time to reply!
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That’s excellent news! I hope that it continues - the fact that you saw immediate relief seems really promising. I personally struggle with bra bands so don’t find it super surprising that horses who all have different conformation sometimes have similar struggles.
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