Feeling very frustrated :(

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BookWorm

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Feeling very frustrated with my horse. Iv had him for years & hes getting on a bit. Hes always been strong but hes so heavy in my hands & Im lucky if I get him soft and light in the contact for more than a minute or 2 per ridden session. Its gotten to the point where Im having constant back pain. I cant even halt him from a walk & if I soften my hands he pulls the reins through my hands & puts his head down to the floor. came home in tears this morning as even if I try to halt him in front of a fence/wall he just turns his head and drags me away :( I don't have regular lessons as Its so expesive but think I might have to even if only 1 a month & was even thinking about sending him to be reschooled but he is 19 & I don't know if its possible at this stage?. I love him to bits but im at my wits end. His back & saddle have both been given the all clear recently. He is getting his teeth done next week & Im praying they find something that might be causing discomfort:(
 
I have a variety of bits, snaffles & gags etc but he pulls me in all of them. Im so frustrated (& sore) do you think hes too old to learn to be 'soft'? :(
 
Have you tried bitless? or with different nosebands?

How about something stronger like a pelham or kimblewick? I would imagine that if his teeth are ok it will be a case of trial and error to find something that he respects.
 
no not tried bitless but he can still tow me about in a Pelham. Really want to try dressage too but it just seems impossible right now!
 
My pony has always been heavy on his forehand as he's so damn lazy to move properly. I switched him into a waterford some years ago as he can't grab hold of it, as a result he is lighter in hand. Hope you manage to resolve your issue soon.
 
Thank you so much for commenting! I am worried if I use a Waterford I will be reliant on it & won't be able to put him in snaffle for dressage test! However, the thought has crossed me mind before, so thanks. I will try & her some lessons even if maybe 1 a month- better than nothing. Looking forward to his teeth getting done on Tuesday to rule out any problems there!
 
The waterford will take away the thing he has to lean on right now - but he needs to be carrying himself correctly to hold his head, too, and that will come with training as he gains the right muscles. You won't end up 'relying' on the bit, because he'll get strong enough to carry himself properly - but you do need to give him the chance to learn how, so really, really get the support of a good instructor. If you can only afford monthly lessons, explain this to them and ask for 'homework' that will keep you on the right track inbetween. Sounds like you've got yourself in a bit of a rut and it's upsetting you, too, so absolutely get help - a second pair of eyes can really turn things around for you :)
 
My friend had similar issues with a strong unschooled pony and she had arthritis in her hands so was constantly struggling. We tried a Myler combination bit which worked a treat as it acts on the nose as well as the mouth. A waterford would also be worth a try. It just gives you a breathing space until he's working better.
 
Thankyou again :)
Do u mean a waterford snaffle? As I believe there's such s thing as waterford gag as well?! Think I'll give it a try Thankyou :)

Just to add - I'm also a bit worried he will pull on it & damage his mouth :(
 
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