fiddling with bit , right bit ?

[aspirit]

Ive had my mare 3 months and was riding her in french link snaffle, but she was getting v strong and eventually bolted. I changed to waterford, wonderful brakes, but everyone keeps telling me its too severe and I shouldn't be using it ??? She constantly fiddles with this bit, but also fiddled with snaffle. I tried her in dutch gag but she didnt like poll action and this is what she came in originally.
What can I do about the fiddling ? Advice on waterford please ..

 

[texel]

The Waterford is a lumpy bit composed of about 5-6 little spheres and is going to wrap itself around the tongue and the lips when pressure is applied. It is used primarily for horses that tend to lean - as there is nothing they can lean on or get hold of.

All bits have the propensity to be severe - more so if one has to 'see-saw' or pull so hard to slow down or stop the horse that one's arms are aching or one is leaning backwards with the effort.

I suggest the fiddling could be in response to the fact the bit is made of these spheres and your horse feels the need to 'fiddle' as she may not be very comfortable with it and it may take time for her to get used to it. If she continues to fiddle with it after a period of time then you might want to consider a change.

If you feel the need to change again, it might be better to contact one of those established bit suppliers who also provide advice and the opportunity to 'try before you buy', so you can ensure you choose the best bit for your horse. There is much to consider when bitting a horse; apart from the structure of your mare's mouth, bits are made in many materials and you need to consider the pressure points of bits, as you have discovered poll pressure is not favourable.

Horses that tend to zoom off lean into pressure and this is what needs to be sorted out, they need to be taught to yield to it. If it was me I would be wanting to be re-mouthing my mare if she has a tendancy to run off she probably does not yield to pressure correctly. You really want to aim for her to respond lightly to bit pressure and more to the seat aids, and this can be achieved given time and training. This will be better for both of you in the long run.