Girth Galls and Saddle Sores

Girth galls and saddle sores can occur for a number of reasons. Most are minor, but if left untreated, they can cause injury, scarring, and discomfort. Here's how to identify, treat, and prevent girth galls and saddle sores.

Other Names

Girth Galls, Saddle Sores, Blisters, Girth Sores, Pressure Sores, Saddle Galls, Harness Sores, Harness Galls

Causes

Girth galls, saddle sores, and sores that occur under a driving harness are caused by friction. They are similar to a blister that forms from wearing ill-fitting shoes. The sores can be caused by tack that is dirty with a build-up of grime and sweat that grinds the dirt into the horse's skin. Tack that is too tight or stiff and inflexible may cause chaffing that can lead to saddle sores. Occasionally, a foreign object like a burr, grass awn, or wood chip may become lodged between tack and horse, and cause chaffing. Some horses with sensitive skin are prone to saddle and girth sores and require extra care.

Symptoms

Saddle soars and girth galls may appear as slight rubs where just the hair is missing, or as very inflamed, open, blister-like wounds. The hair may not be rubbed off and the gall or sore may show as a swollen lump under the skin—somewhat like an unbroken blister on your foot. The lump can be tiny, or quite large. Girth galls commonly form just behind the elbow of the horse in the girth area, but can occur anywhere the girth or cinch lies. Very severe saddle sores can form deep 'holes' that can become infected.

If left untreated, permanent damage and scarring to the skin and underlying muscle can occur.1 Saddle sores can form anywhere the saddle sits, although they most commonly form underneath the cantle area, or directly under the pommel area, near the loins and withers.

 Bob Langrish / Getty Images

Treatment

On an open sore, sponge the sore and area around it with saline solution and cover it with a soothing ointment or cream. Many people like creams or lotions with calendula or aloe vera. Purple gentian spray may also be used. Please consult your veterinarian for the most appropriate recommendation for your horse. The main goal is to keep the area clean and the skin in good condition. Diaper or zinc oxide cream can also help to heal and soothe.