Is this cruel?

I completely agree with Tobiano. I would get back checked again (maybe try a different back person if you have always had the same one and things don't improve?), get his saddle checked as this might be causing the back problems. My horse recently tanked off with me which is very unlike him it turned out he had a very sore neck and was running from the pain.

I also definitely think you need to try a new instructor (you say you can't- why is this?). You have said yourself that your instructor has known your horse for a long time and this could be an issue as she has probably tried all her usual suggestions to fix things and as none of them worked she has resorted to suggesting gadgets. A fresh pair of eyes could come up with some different ways to improve your partnership and help you to slowly take away the gadgets. I do feel for you it's terrifying being out of control (although you sound a lot braver than I am!). Also how old is your horse? If he is older this might take a long time to fix as it has become his way of life.

Good luck x
 
I hate to say it, but I do think that there is a possibility that you may be overhorsed op, at fourteen I was like a twig and I wonder if a different loan might be more suitable for you if you are the same? I don't want to offend or upset you, but it might be worth bearing in mind if you are struggling to control him.
 
Op are you using one or two reins with your gag?

And which rein is your running martingale attached to?

Running martingales with gags are a bit of an alarm bell for me. Whilst not always a problem many horses find they get mixed signals and just fight this combination. I have ridden a horse that normally went in a dutch gag and running martingale but was far more controllable in just a snaffle, strong but not fighting.

If you don't think you would have control with less bit maybe try a standing martingale with a cavesson or flash and your usual bit.
 
Kat said:
Op are you using one or two reins with your gag?

And which rein is your running martingale attached to?

Running martingales with gags are a bit of an alarm bell for me. Whilst not always a problem many horses find they get mixed signals and just fight this combination. I have ridden a horse that normally went in a dutch gag and running martingale but was far more controllable in just a snaffle, strong but not fighting.

If you don't think you would have control with less bit maybe try a standing martingale with a cavesson or flash and your usual bit.
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Only one set of reigns, middle hole!
 
Tilda said:
I completely agree with Tobiano. I would get back checked again (maybe try a different back person if you have always had the same one and things don't improve?), get his saddle checked as this might be causing the back problems. My horse recently tanked off with me which is very unlike him it turned out he had a very sore neck and was running from the pain.

I also definitely think you need to try a new instructor (you say you can't- why is this?). You have said yourself that your instructor has known your horse for a long time and this could be an issue as she has probably tried all her usual suggestions to fix things and as none of them worked she has resorted to suggesting gadgets. A fresh pair of eyes could come up with some different ways to improve your partnership and help you to slowly take away the gadgets. I do feel for you it's terrifying being out of control (although you sound a lot braver than I am!). Also how old is your horse? If he is older this might take a long time to fix as it has become his way of life.

Good luck x
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The back man is good... He feels so much better afterwards, maybe it's an issue with the saddle because it's recurring... :/
 
My boy is 18 now I think, Doesn't act it at all! Thankyou for all your advice everyone! I am going to have a talk with my instructor and have a complete tack change, if a Waterford gag, curb chain, grackle and martingale can't control him no more amount of gadgets is going to help! At the moment, I'm thinking of a cavesson with a flash possibly... As well as a change of bit, obviously! A hanging cheek French link seems a good option maybe :) I think a saddle check would be best too... He's had his saddle for most his life and because he's got quite round lately a check is probably best ;) Thankyou everyone I'll keep you posted!! And no way would I give up on him, we'll get there some day :p
 
^^ Echo the above! If you're having to ask the question, then you're obviously not comfortable with the tack you are using, so good on you for deciding to speak to your instructor & see if schooling etc can improve matters & hopefully bring about some changes. Do be realistic though & don't put yourself or your horse in danger & accept that the changes may have to be gradual & will probably take time. For example, I always allow at least a week for a horse to get used to any new bit - i don't to chop & change them on a daily basis as i don't think it gives the horse time to adjust & show a true reflection of whether or not they are settled in it.
 
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