Bit differences was: RC: Re:CONTROL AND COURTESY

[Sue Brown <sbrown@wamedes.com>]

>AND...the weird and all too common use of a curb chain or strap with a 
>snaffle. What is THAT about??
>

The only reason I can see to use a strap on a snaffle would be to keep the
rings from sliding into the horses mouth...but that's usually a fix for a
horse in the wrong sized bit (too small rings) or a horse that evades the
action by opening his mouth.  If a not-so-skilled rider tries desperately
to turn a horse like this by pulling the head around (and not using any
leg, twisting of the torso, or seat bone, and a give-and-take inside rein),
the horse can open his mouth allowing the bit to slide thru.  Anyway...it's
not really a functional thing.  What's needed is possibly a different
bit...but more likely more correct training.  And NO CHEATING by using a
flash or figure 8 to keep the mouth shut...and the cavesson should be
loose.  That way, if the horse is evading (usually because the rider is
pulling hard and steady with both hands), it's very evident by their gaping
mouth.

Sue

sbrown@wamedes.com
Tyee Farm
Marysville, Wa.


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