Not every week starts the way this one did—and thank goodness for that. Poor Blackjack had a vet visit for an ulcer scope, which wasn’t going to be pleasant for him. Watching your pony sedated and going through something uncomfortable is never easy, even when you know it’s ultimately for their own good.
It confirmed what we suspected
Following recent concern, Fiona from Vale View Veterinary Practice came out to examine him. She sedated him and then carried out the scope, which we were able to observe on a monitor. It confirmed what we suspected—Blackjack had developed some ulcers. While it was upsetting to hear, at least we finally had answers and could begin treatment straight away. On Fiona’s advice, Blackjack is now on two weeks of rest while his treatment takes effect. Once that’s complete, we’ll re-scope to check his progress. In the meantime, he’s making the most of his break—happily munching grass in the field.
Riley has also been taking it easy, spending his days happily grazing. He’d already been on a break due to some stiffness, as I mentioned in my previous blog after our appointment with Rachel Greetham. This week, however, it was time for Riley’s saddle check. I’d been toying with the idea of a new saddle for him for a while—especially after investing in a bespoke Childeric for Blackjack earlier this year.
Little beakthroughs like this are encouraging
Enter Helen Dunning from Orange Horse Consultants who are Childeric saddle fitters. (The saddle fitter for Becky Moody no less, but I think it’s safe to say that’s where the similarities end!). Helen assessed Riley and confirmed that a new bespoke saddle would be helpful for both him and me. While the made-to-measure version will take a few weeks to arrive, she tacked him up in a Childeric saddle she felt would fit in the meantime, and we headed to the manege so she could see him ridden. I wasn’t sure how much Riley would manage after his recent stiffness, but the time off had clearly helped—he felt much better, and we were able to do enough for a full assessment.
After watching us work, Helen was pleased with the fit, leaving only the details of seat and flap size to finalise so Childeric can build Riley’s saddle correctly for us both. Much to my surprise, I found the Childeric helped me maintain a better position in canter. Whilst there’s still plenty to improve , little breakthroughs like this are encouraging. I am always learning and have a new appreciation on just how valuable a bespoke saddle designed to fit you and your pony can be. Helen’s knowledge and guidance always give me confidence, and she has now successfully guided me through choosing two saddles and two bridles. While waiting requires a bit of patience on my part, I can’t help but feel excited for the new saddle to arrive.
All in all, it’s been a week of contrasts—some appointments with the ponies have been challenging, others much more uplifting. But each one has been important in its own way. What matters most to me is knowing that Blackjack and Riley are getting the right care, and that I’m doing my very best for them.