Re: Bridles

[Farafix@aol.com]

Sue,

How about some carrot pieces?  I trained my youngsters to take the bit by
rewarding them with a bite size piece of carrrot (those baby carrots work
great, but are a bit expensive --- you can always cut up a carrot & put the
pieces in a pocket).  They are now very good about taking the bit & holding
their head down while I attach the side pieces to the halter.  I also give
them lots of praise for being so cooperative.  I would start using the carrots
at home so that the horse begins to associate taking the bit with getting a
treat, so that away from home, hopefully, it would still be looking for the
treat when you approach with the bit.

Yrs ago I read a horse training book by a cowboy (don't remember who it was!).
Said the key to training was figuring out how to make the horse want to do
what you want.  What's in it for the horse?  I'm not above using treats &
other bribes to gain the horse's cooperation!

Good luck!

Nancy