RE: Bitting Question - Trail vs Dressage Usage

["Snodgrass, Bonnie" <snodgrab@ncr.disa.mil>]

I wouldn't worry too much about a confusion factor. A large number of event
riders do exactly the same thing that you are doing. They use a snaffle
(frequently the french link type) for dressage but few use the same bit for
cross country work. Many use a kimberwicke, pelham or gag while galloping
thru their cross country phase. Just use each bit as it's meant to be used.
Your use of your hands should differ when switching between an unjointed
curb type bit and a jointed snaffle type. However, the use of your seat/legs
for half halts remains the same and should be what is really the basis of
your communication to your horse.

Bonnie Snodgrass

-----Original Message-----
From: Ruth Abair [mailto:shakesbearides@texoma.net]
Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2000 8:33 AM
To: ridecamp@endurance.net
Subject: RC: Bitting Question - Trail vs Dressage Usage


Dear Ridecampers,

I have a 5yo Arabian - broken and coming along nicely - I would like to
do endurance and "basic" dressage with. Problem; I fear I'm confusing
him with the switching of bits for each discipline. He was
broken/trained in a snaffle - the one with the nutcracker effect - and I
switched him to a Kimberwicke - the "uxeter" - slotted, mullen mouth,
minimum leverage model - for the trails. Works good, but is not
acceptable for basic dressage. So for the ring, I started using a
snaffle with a "french link." It's more comfortable to him than the
regular snaffle. Nonetheless, I am fearful he is becoming confused with
the switching - signals, feel/pressure, etc. - of bits. How does one
switch bits - back and forth - between trail and dressage work, without
confusing one's horse? Or do they? All comments are most welcome!

Ruth Abair in Texas
email: shakesbearides@texoma.net


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