> Should we, or shouldn't we, bit a young horse? Isn't this a fine question!?!?
I am very much a "less is more" person. So, my gut reaction to this question is no. But -- (you knew there would be a but, didn't you?) But, if you "need" to have a bit in a horse's mouth, for a particular class at a show for example, then by all means, get the horse USED to carrying one. Doesn't mean you have to use it when riding though. : ) Also, something else to think about with the bit or no bit question: Some higher-strung or reactive horses may find a particular bit to have a calming or "pacifer" effect on them. Eitill will work his happy apple mouth bit when he is a little nervous about something, and it tends to help him focus and work off any anxiety he may feel. He likes to have something to entertain himself with too. . . But, he's fine without a bit too. Bits are not brakes. Bits are not steering. Bits are not "control". They do give people that illusion however. As I've said before, the strongest bit for control you can have is between the horse's ears. . . -- Renee M. in Michigan
