Mounted search and rescue

["T'mi Finkle" <tfinkle@erols.com>]

Thanks Una 

-----Original Message-----
From: msar-riders-bounces@lists.ibiblio.org 
[mailto:msar-riders-bounces@lists.ibiblio.org] On Behalf Of Una Smith
Sent: Thursday, May 23, 2013 9:11 PM
To: Mounted search and rescue
Subject: Re: [MSAR] Side Saddle Questions

T'mi, interesting questions!

I don't know of any MSAR team that disapproves the use of specific types of 
saddle.  The only minor exception being those posse
groups that specify a "Western" saddle but this has more to do with rodeo 
ceremony and parade riding than SAR.

I would have no safety concerns about a rider using a side-saddle, provided 
the rider is secure in it.  And given the design of
these saddles I would expect a skilled rider to be very secure.

Someone with significant neuropathy involving a lower limb, or even a 
prosthetic foot, could well be better off in a side-saddle
than riding astride.  Here in New Mexico the SAR community includes a number 
of amputees.  They are remarkably able, resourceful
persons.

Best wishes,

        Una Smith
        New Mexico