Trafalgar Square Books is pleased to announce the publication of The Western Horse’s Pain-Free Back and Saddle-Fit Book by Dr. Joyce Harman. Dr. Harman’s best-selling book and DVDs on saddle-fit have received rave reviews and helped improve the lives of performance and pleasure horses all over the world. Now, due to popular demand, she’s written the complete reference on saddle-fit and back health for Western disciplines.

In this most thorough, comprehensive book Dr. Harman, veterinarian and respected saddle-fitting expert, educates the reader about the horse’s conformation—particularly the shape of the back, withers, ribs, and shoulders; saddle construction—the tree, bars, seat, skirts, fleece, gullet, and stirrups; and the rider’s physical build. She explains how all these variables must be considered in order to keep the horse comfortable. In addition, read about correct use of saddle pads; fitting saddles for different sports such as reining, cutting, pleasure, and trail; and how to care for your horse’s back, both over the short and long term. 

DR. JOYCE HARMAN graduated from Virginia Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine in 1984 and became a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in 1985. She has been certified in veterinary acupuncture for 18 years and veterinary chiropractic for 14, has since completed advanced training in homeopathy and herbal medicine, and is currently working on a master’s degree in Chinese medicine. Dr. Harman is the author of the acclaimed The Horse’s Pain-Free Back and Saddle-Fit Book, as well as the two instructional DVDs, Western Saddles and English Saddles. Since 1990, she has owned and operated Harmany Equine Clinic, a holistic veterinary practice in Flint Hill, Virginia.