Arabs ready to ride

Question
First of all I would like to thank you for volunteering.  I feel lucky to have found this site.  My husband and I own two, three year old Arabs.  A gelding and a mare.  We have had personal contact with them since the day they were foaled.  We have had them home here since they were five months old. They are well-grown and in good shape. I would like to know if it is too soon to lightly saddle ride them.  I have S. Byford's book and she suggests 2-1/2 years to 3 years.  And to x-ray the knees if they were to be heavily trained.   We haven't had them x-rayed.  I am 53 and have owned horses before. Thanks so very much, Jen

Answer
Hi Jennifer,
               You are welcome. No, it is not to early to lightly saddle ride them. I would keep it at a walk though. Arab's knees do not fully close until they are 4-4.5 years of age. The longer you wait the longer the horse will be able to be ridden.

Lisa

Lisa