bringing the head down

[jUmPingIsLifE]

Milky has been going around with her head way up in the air, and when i want her to stop while on the trail all she does is put her head way up and tuck her head in. when she is being good she still carries her head way up. how could i try to get her head down while riding (without using a martingale, i don't have one and really don't have any spare money right now with the spring vet bill comming up).

thanks

[FreedomStar]

Has she always done this? Maybe it's a problem caused by the bit. She could be in pain, and maybe the bit has a sharp spot that is poking at her and she's trying to evade the bit this way.

[Alex]

Milly does that sometimes when she doesn't want to do what I'm asking of her. I used to ride her in a martingale, but am trying to go without one as I don't like the idea of FORCING her head down. I'd be interested to see if anyone has any suggestions about this, otherwise I think I may have to resort to using the martingale again :(

btw, her bit and the rest of her tack is all ok. She's apparently always done this with her head.

Love,
Alex

[jUmPingIsLifE]

she has allways done this on occasion, it has just gotten worse since i started riding again after the winter break. Her saddle and briddle were checked a while ago because of her being a brat under saddle and we thought maybe something was hurting, we had a vet check and everything. my instructer says "she is being a subbern pony" and that is it.