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Written by Lady Anne
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Wednesday, 11 October 2006 |
Bridles and bits are perceived as devices which help the rider control his horse. Anyone who is concerned about the horse's welfare, however, would do well to consider the necessity of such methods as well as the way they are used.
Nosebands, martingales, curb chains and other such devices could all be cruel to horses, yet too often their use is not even questioned.
So is it possible to give all that up? We should all note that Native Americans are able to ride bareback with just a halter. In short, it's all a matter of training and riding skills. It takes time and effort but surly it is well worth it. Kind training and natural methods will make the horse happier and give the rider the opportunity to improve his horsemanship and become a more natural rider.
Alternative training methods often develop a rider's skills on the ground first, followed by halter and saddle, then halter and bareback and only when independent seat and control is accomplished is the rider permitted to ride with a bridle and bit. One must understand that these are a refined tool designed to enable horse and rider to communicate through sensitive signals. Too often this tool is abused, a fact to which the constant increase in the bit's size and thickness will attest.
I would like to call all riders to question old habits, think of alternatives and above all give your horse the humane, natural horse care it deserves. |
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Last Updated ( Monday, 16 October 2006 )
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