Re: Running Martingales (long)

[Maggie Mieske <mmieske@netonecom.net>]

I posted some comments earlier about running martingales pointing out that after
our last session with a running martingale I had since switched to a sidepull which
seemed to be making my horse and I both happy.  I failed to mention that we also
had his teeth floated by a professional equine dentist!  I think it only fair to
include that in my comments as I was truly (previously) ignorant enough to not
realize how the bit (even a mild snaffle) can bump those back teeth and create all
kinds of head tossing and other avoidance behaviors.  I am getting wiser and
learning more... perhaps that is an option to think about before putting on a
martingale.  We still use one on our old Foxtrotter mare after her teeth were done
because she still resists tucking in her head and collecting herself (we've had her
about 6 months) but I have noticed less resistance since the teeth were done and I
think soon we will do some riding without the martingale to see if she has come
around...she was ridden for years as if she were a quarter horse, never allowed or
encouraged to "gait".  Anyway, teeth, teeth, check the teeth!!!  :)
Maggie