I Got A Horse But Now A Bit Problem

[wanttobecowgirl]

Hello All, I have been away for many months, When I first came on I was in lessons and wanted to ride a pony at the stable I was in lessons with, well that didn't go over very big long story... I was a new rider scared of the canter ect... Well got passed that and now I have just got my own horse, not really a pony but 14.hands small Qt/Paint mix.. He is older 20 cause I still am a new rider but is in well shape all except his mouth. People who had him before me used what looks to be a reining bit way too tight in his mouth, they said they also just rode him in a halter cause he is very well in the behave department... He hates things in his mouth, and that is the only problem I have with him. I had a good look in his mouth and the poor chap has some missing teeth, which he still eats well, his fronts look like they may have been broke at one time. Ok my Question: Can I or should I ride him in a hackmore or find a bit he will use. Any advice would be helpful. Oh how can I down load his picture so you guys can see him???

[Dreamchaser]

I would use a bitless bridle if he is okay with being ridden in a halter, as hackamores are pretty harsh.

If you want to upload pics, go to www.photobucket.com and you create an account. Then you upload your pics onto there and you can just copy and paste the link they provide for displaying your pic.

[Est]

I've seen your picture in the other thread - he looks lovely :) Congratulations! What's his name?
It would be a good idea to get your vet out to check his teeth soon so you've got a better idea what to expect. For example, he might be able to go bitted again, or the vet might recommend sticking with a bitless of some sort. If he has teeth problems, it could affect what you feed him. You might find he needs mushy/wet feeds, and perhaps chaff (chop) instead of hay, if he has trouble chewing. Also it puts your mind at rest as to whether he is in any discomfort from them... think how a broken tooth makes our jaws and cheeks ache! Your vet can give some good advice on all these things :)
Anyway, I bet you're really excited about having him! What kind of things are you planning on doing? Congratulations again :)

[cvb]

wanttobecowgirl

"Hackamore" is one of those things that means something slightly different in UK to US. Do you mean a bosal ? A sidepull might also work for you.

[wanttobecowgirl]

Yes cvb, guess it would mean a bosal... Soft Hackamore which it is called in the States.. The Vet will be out on Thursday,...( Est ) cause I do not want to cause him any undo pain.. His name is Cam... and my plans for him... well at this point I will be doing fun stuff, just need to get use to him and then we will hit the light trails. This is so exciting and stressful all at the same time, almost like having your first child all over again.. Thank you for the advice..