Girth hematoma

 Horses they love to keep us on our toes don't they?!! 

So over the weekend Viv had a small lump just behind her girth. We noticed it as we were grooming ready to tack up. It wasn't like a girth gall as it was longer and squidgey. No scab or sore. However the lump got bigger over the week and has came further forward. 

It has turned out to be a hematoma and although not large it is in just the wrong place! It is not causing her any pain. There is no heat, nor a sore or anything to suggest it is an abscess so we are keeping an eye on it. And applying Arnica daily. It is slowly going firmer and smaller but Until its gone there is no saddle!! 

 Z has just pottered in the paddock bareback over the last few days. This I suppose is great for her balance!! She also took her for a short hack and absolutely LOVED IT. She laughed and smiled all the way.

 Z LOVES riding bareback. She has been pottering practicing sitting Viv's very bouncy trot. LOT'S OF GIGGLES. Thankfully no spills yet!!

Im not so keen on bareback. My years of bareback riding are behind me! I'm going to do the lunging and groundwork stuff with Viv while the kids are at school. Just nice bonding time and time to be mindful and present with her.

Will keep you updated on how she gets on. Hopefully we get back out hacking soon !!