problem with bits

[paulo]

Can anyone offer advice on trouble with bits/ teeth.

My part bred arab mare has fractured teeth which are resulting in her mouth being very tender therefore I have been riding her in a hackamore for the past few weeks to allow healing. Problem is my arms are now getting pulled out sockets, she has become quite unresponsive and strong.
When being ridden in a bit she tends to lean and is strong. Can anyone suggest a but which is relatively gentle but will allow me some control?? She is very sensitive and was previously ridden in a sweet iron snaffle with rollers on tongue.

..... I should also say that not riding her is not an option as I have no winter turnout or opportunity to lunge... 10 of us crammed in an indoor arena each night- nightmare!

 

[KatB]

Waterford should help stop her leaning? Or may be because of discomfort from her teeth, so how about a Nathe bit.....

 

[aimeerose]

what type of hackamore are you using and how is it ajusted?

hackamores are usually quite strong and should alow you good breaks. i use mine on my mare for fast work etc and a snaffel for schooling!

 

[flyingfeet]

What is your budget?

A nathe combo bit would be the best for the job, but are hideously expensive. Might be worth seeing if you can hire one.

Other than that - I agree with the comment above, which hackamore are you using? If its one of those dreadful Dr cook jobs, swap to an english one and you should be fine.

 

[paulo]

its an english hackamore with short shanks, I have it sitting about 2 inches below her cheekbones, i think i have it sitting too high however I have heard so many horror storys about hackamores I was scared to adjust it lower!
its turning thats the main problem.

 

[paulo]

I've never heard of a nathe combo bit, can you tell me a bit about it?

 

[flyingfeet]

Official name is Nathe Tandem Bit, I drool over them occasionally in our catalogues, but don't need one

Here is a Link

You can get either straight or jointed

However if steering rather than braking is your problem then a Dr Cooks style bridle may actually work (you get good steering, but b*gger all brakes)

 

[paulo]

Thanks for the advice I will have a look and let you know how I get on.
I'm not sure the Dr Cook would be a good idea, she's pretty unpredicable... chestnut arab mare!

 

[aimeerose]

why not just buy a slip head and put a nathe on that -


wallahh... combo bit!!

 

[KatB]

[ QUOTE ]
why not just buy a slip head and put a nathe on that -


wallahh... combo bit!!

[/ QUOTE ]

 

[aimeerose]

hackamore on the normal cheek peices and nathe on the sliphead

sorry would have explained more but boss walked in so i hit 'submit'!!