The Bit Box: Bit and Bridle Consultant

15/11/2024

Brilliant post from Amy Morris Equine Dentistry and highlights why I very rarely recommend these types of bits !
You have to be very diligent with checking them for sharp edges and replace as soon as one develops.

02/09/2024

Despite the rather soggy weather, September's Bitting Appointments are filling up fast. Happy to work outside regardless of weather! If you are safe and happy to ride I am happy to come to you, no indoor required :D

02/09/2024

A brilliant set of pictures from the British Association of Equine Dental Technicians !
I have had a few clients recently where wolf teeth have been troublesome, for small teeth they can cause quite a lot of discomfort.
Always have regular dental checks with an experienced EDT or vet especially if you are experiencing contact or bitting issues

Wolf Teeth

🦷 Wolf teeth are usually found on the upper jaw positioned in front of the first molars (06s), and less commonly on the lower jaw.
🦷 Wolf teeth typically erupt after 6 months of age.
🦷Wolf teeth are vestigial remnants, meaning they no longer serve a functional purpose. Their shape, size, and root length can vary widely.
🦷 Wolf teeth are found in both males and females, research suggests they are found in 13-40% of horses.
🦷 Wolf tooth removal is often considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on whether they interfere with the bit or cause any discomfort.

Canine Teeth

🦷 Equines can have four canines in total, two on the upper jaw and two on the lower jaw.
🦷 Canines are situated in the interdental space, just behind the incisors.
🦷 Canines typically erupt between 4.5 to 6 years of age.
🦷 Canines are a fighting tooth, while predominantly found in males, some females may have rudimentary canines which are generally smaller.
🦷 Canine teeth are prone to calculus buildup, which can lead to gingivitis. Regular dental check ups are necessary to remove the calculus and maintain oral health.

17/07/2024

Delighted to announce I am able to add Horsemanship Saddlery UK Ltd. Designs to my fitting tool kit !

Available from next month will have a full range of headpieces and bits to trial.

Bridle ONLY fittings from £35
Weekend appointments available

24/05/2024

Signs you may need to consider reassessing the fit of you bit and bridle, or even consider a different designed bit:
- Head shaking, tilting or snatching at the reins
- Chomping or Gnashing at the bit
- Moving the tongue around constantly or hanging it to one side
- Reluctance to go forward or rushing avoidance behaviour
- Bucking, rearing and other evasive manaeovers
- A lack of brakes or bolting away from the contact
- Raising head away from the bridle when tacking up or moving towards the back of the stable

Now the above signs are clear signals of problems but horses are generally stoic animals who try to please and its easy to miss the more subtle signs of bitting issues
- Backward Ear postion when ridden
- A hard stare or worried eye when tacking up
- Working into the contact but unable to maintain a steady head positions, it doesnt have to be an extreme display!
- Leaning on the bit
- Falling on the forehand
- Struggling to maintain tempo

And many more ! Many of these issues overlap with signs of saddle, musculoskeletal and training issues as well as bit and bridle fit. It is important to maintain a regular plan of dental, saddle and physio/chiro checks along side a bit and bridle assessment to ensure your horse stays in tip-top condition.

14/05/2024

The sun is out (mostly !) And we are a getting back going after a long winter. Ensure your horse is comfortable for the upcoming season.

An extensive consultation to find the best bit and bridle set up for your horse including the opportunity to test ride various bits.

Please allow sufficient time (up to 1.5 hours) for a thorough anatomical assessment and then subsequent trials to find the right set up for your horse or pony.

As an independent lantra qualifed consultant I carry a range of bit brands to try and I am not tied to promoting a set brand, what works for one horse may not for another. The horse’s head structure, oral anatomy and maximum comfort lead the way for selecting the correct bit and bridle set up.

£70 including mileage for all G,KA,ML postcodes, for further afield additional mileage will be charged.

Discount for multiples on the same yard !