AJ - SI problems are not fun and a trotting horse is about the worst thing for SIs. Soooo, find thee a soft gaited horse. A Peruvian Paso is fantastic, known as the smoothest of ALL the gaited horses, and 'basically' with a locked in gait. IOW - you know they are going to do it! Another great breed is the rocky Mountain Horse or, an RMH X PP - now this is heaven.
I would reaffirm that a trotting horse is not good for SIs nor is a hard pacey lateral horse - as many of the TWH are. Really diff to find a smooth, soft gaited, horse. That is where the Peruvian Paso Horse comes into it own. Unfortunately, the PP seems to run a tendency to problem issues, i.e. breaking down: not solely confined to the PP breed but just a tad too prevelant within the breed. These issues are being addressed, but will take a time to sort - like the eye problems in the AQH. We'll get there.
Another nice horse is the Paso Fino - not show (fino-fino aint no fun - a million steps goin nowhere!) But a decent trail horse, largo. Nice. But, again, it is only really the PP that has the more locked in smooth gait.
I'll check out an see if there is anyone in your area - just to go look at em being ridden would be a fun outing, or perhaps to catch a show?
Great to meet fellow riders -
Molly
