preparing horse before riding

[suzy]

Hi,i would like to know at what age i should introduce my horse to the bit. She is 1 yr old.A reg foundation quarter horse.we can saddle her and put weight in the saddle now.she does well.but when we do try the bit and it touches her teeth, she goes crazy!any ideas? also what else should we be doing to get her ready to ride next summer? thanks for any help, suzy

[Maci]

When you introduce her to the bit, have one person try to put it in, and another person coax her and pet her while the bit is being put in. It helps lessen their fear, and it lets them know that the bit is a good thing.

Give lots of praise for even the slightest movement of the jaw when you're putting the bit in, so she comprehends that the bit is good, and won't hurt her.

Good Luck!
Maci :)

[Nic]

A year old is a bit young to be trying saddle, weight etc. Her bones won't be properly formed. Take things easy, there is no rush.

[Wally]

I have to agree, your horse is very young and is still at play group. She's not ready for high school. If you must put a bit in her mouth now try a rubber or plastic one. Put some molasses on it or treacle syrupy type stuff. It may be too much for her to get her head round at such a young age.

But I would really take things steady as regards saddle and weight. You may hurt her then it will take ages to get her over a fear of saddles. A saddle phobic horse is not a pretty sight!