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Re: [RC] Bits/Advise - Chris PausIf I ruled the equine world, all Tom Thumb bits woudl be gathered up, melted down and made into something useful.
yes, it is quite likely the bit is hurting her. TTs have a "nutcracker" effect, squeezing the jaw, poking the palate and putting pressure on the poll. She is displaying classic avoidance behavior. She's speaking loudly and clearly.
Why did you change bits? From your message, it seems that you haven't always ridden her in this? Why not go back to what works?
My guess woudl be a nice soft French link or some kind of snaffle with two breaks. Those curve gently over the tongue. Or try a Mylar comfort snaffle.
The irony about TTs is that the people who have good enough hands to ride in them without hurting the horse are the kinds of people who could ride a horse with cotton for a bit and dental floss for reins. The horse responds to them because their hands are ever so light and they are asking far more of the horse with their seat and legs than with their hands.
Most of us are only that good in our dreams. Therefore we have to do the best we can to find a comfortable bit for the horse, a bit that will be forgiving in our hands.
You also probably need to have her teeth checked. If she has hooks or spurs on her teeth that could cause her extreme discomfort. She might have back issues or saddle fit issues. There are lots of things for you to explore here, starting with the bit.
Whenever a horse misbehaves, I first look at me and what I'm doing, Am I giving mixed signals? Then I start ruling out all the potential sources of pain and discomfort.
good luck.
chris
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