⭑Presenter Bio Gill Shepherd⭑

With a rich and diverse equestrian background, I bring a lifetime of passion and expertise to the world of horseback riding, coaching and holistic saddlefitting. From mastering dressage at the FEI Small Tour level to competing in eventing and showjumping, my experience spans multiple disciplines, with notable success in the show ring across Western Australia.

As an EFA/NCAS Level 1 General Equestrian Coach, I’ve had the privilege of working with riders of all abilities, including those with disabilities, helping them unlock their potential across a range of equestrian pursuits.

My journey began with traditional training through riding schools and Pony Club, laying the groundwork for a career dedicated to empowering horse lovers worldwide to achieve their goals while prioritising the well-being and partnership of horse and rider.

As both a rider and coach I struggled with rider position due to ill fitting saddles not suitable for either the horse or rider. It was incredibly frustrating to be going over the same positional correctional lesson with students (and myself) as we all fought our saddles to stay in the correct position.

As there was no one to answer my many questions I went searching and found the late Dr Kerry Ridgway who was a veterinary chiropractor and acupuncturist specializing in hoof balance, horse’s back health and saddlefit. Dr Ridgway was based in the USA and was both an educator and world leading authority on saddlefit.

I completed the Equinology INC Principles of Saddle Assessment and Shoeing Dynamics in 2007 and have been a practicing Independent Saddle Assessor and Fitter since then. I have continued my education on the anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and hoof balance of horses and riders in relation to saddlefit to become a Holistic Saddlefitter.

My role as a Holistic Saddlefitter is to take a whole-of-horse and rider approach to saddlefitting. This extends to girths, stirrups, saddle blankets/pads, bridles, rugs, nutrition, dental health and the mental health and wellbeing of both horse and rider. My journey continues to educate horse lovers to find the best fitting saddles for both horse and rider.

The first step in holistic saddlefitting is to learn how to identify your horse’s unique saddlefit area so that you can assess any saddle for suitability and avoid costly mistakes. My Identifying The Horse’s Saddlefit Area course helps horse owners take this crucial step in creating a happy horse and partnership through correct saddlefit.

Because Of The Horse...

I've become the person I am today—a saddle fitter with a holistic approach which promotes a harmonious riding partnership, nurtures the bond you cherish with your horse, and saves you time and money, all while avoiding the common frustrations of saddle fitting. I am passionate about empowering owners and riders like you to find the correct saddle fit for you and your horse.