>>>> Maybe the bit is harsh and the horse is light to avoid the pressure, so that coupled with not having to be a lesson horse anymore is changing how the horse is responding.
And remember, no bit is ALWAYS harsh, if the rider has soft enough hands to compensate for any possible harshness. The bit some of us are thinking it MIGHT be, a so-called Tom Thumb "Snaffle" (which isn't a snaffle at all) CAN be a harsh bit...and probably often is. But I know some horses who are ridden in it who don't seem bothered by it. Some of it probably has to do with the individual conformation of the horse's mouth and how loose the reins are. (One note: you may be aware that some of us often complain about the use of the Icelandic bit in competition. That bit is very similar to a Tom Thumb snaffle, BUT I have NEVER seen an Icelandic competition rider riding with anything approaching a loose rein... A harsh bit in hard hands is a no-no!) Another thing not to rule out as a POSSIBLE factor in the horse's change. You said she changed bits AND saddles, right? The saddle change could just as easily be the major factor here. She could be moving with more energy because this saddle is more comfortable...or she could be jiggy and antsy because this saddle fits worse. Some people might mistakenly view jigging and antsiness as "more energetic" when really it only means the mare is uncomfortable. Karen Thomas [EMAIL PROTECTED]
