ridecamp@endurance.net: Re: Bits & pieces

Re: Bits & pieces

mkgehrin@n-jcenter.com
Mon, 11 Aug 1997 17:10:33 -0500

Well, I thought I would just let this bitting thing slip away but then I
read more posts and that generated more thoughts about the whole issue.
I think Tina had a good point about experience being a major factor. My
mare came to me at age 4 and I was told she would bolt. I don't know
about her life before coming to live with me but obviously something
went wrong somewhere. I didn't think much about it since I planned to
do dressage with her. She started out in a full cheek snaffle. My
trainer seemed to think a fat loose ring snaffle would be better for her
and it was. This is a horse that would come to a complete stop with a
deep breath for a halt aid. Very sensitive. And we did well in intro
and training level dressage. Once we started schooling 1st level, it
became apparent that it was too hard for her to maintain that frame and
her hocks were stressed. Not wanting to go the shots route, we changed
professions. On the trail, she was anxious, spooked and had an
overwhelming need to be in front in a group. I tried the grazing bit
(no curb strap) just because I came across one and she seemed to like
it--moved out longer, more relaxed on the trail. She learned with alot
of time and practice not to be fearful of most things. I literally did
nothing but walk her for months, added trotting for another month or so,
added canter etc. Now she goes great alone. Her anxiety is with other
horses. But with practice, she is getting better at that also. The
loose curb strap on the grazing bit (hardly an instrument of torture)
has given me the ability to rate her without doing circles all the time,
half-halting every other stride or coming down to a walk. Successfully
going behind other horses this week (even cantering now) has given her
more confidence. Knowing that I have a better chance of preventing a
run-away gives me confidence too. With practice and relaxed experience,
things should only improve.

I am going to unsubscribe to ridecamp because I need to devote more time
to studying for an up-coming national board exam but, for the most part,
I have enjoyed this list and have learned a good deal. I think that
learning takes place better when people share experiences, offer empathy
and try not to be judgemental or black and white about issues. We
obviously all care alot about our horses and try to do right by them or
we wouldn't take the time to participate on this list. Let's give each
other credit for good intentions and at least a little common sense.

Best Wishes,

Karen
Ormond Beach,Fl

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