AHG6 Tack Talk:Layout 1 3/17/08 10:57 AM Page 12

TACK TALK

Bridle Path

WE’VE TALKED have adjustments on both sides), so I’m in By Dennis in recent months about the various parts of position if I need to move the buckle up or the ; now let’s talk about how to use it. down a notch. 1. When you go to bridle your , first If you’re using a new headstall or bridling Moreland untie his rope from the fence. Tie the a different horse, it’s better to have it too big around the neck, to give yourself a rather than too small. If it’s too big, you can “safety net” in case he tries to pull away. The adjust it once it’s on the horse. But if it’s too same is true when you take off the bridle; small, you’ll be trying to let it out halfway never try to re-halter your horse with a halter through the bridling process. that’s tied to the fence. Only one good thing 4. People have different ideas about how Keep these tips in could happen (your horse is compliant and tight the bit should be in the mouth, but lets you do it), but there are lots of bad things generally speaking, you don’t want it to be that could happen. pulling too much on the corners of the mind for easy bridling I like to handle my around their mouth or hanging too loose, either. heads a lot, to get them accustomed to hal - 5. When it’s time to unbridle the horse, tering and bridling. They’re relaxed about slide the headstall forward off his ears and and unbridling. the process. then allow him to release the bit. Don’t pull 2. First, holding the headstall up with your the bit out of his mouth, just let it release right hand, ask the horse to accept the bit. naturally. This is another good time to pet You can put your left thumb in the corner of his head and encourage him to relax. his mouth to ask him to open up, while hold - ing the bit in place with your fingers. AQHA member Dennis Moreland has been mak - 3. Fold one ear forward and pull the head - ing quality working tack since 1976. Visit stall over it, then do the same with the other www.dmtack.com to learn more about his Den - ear. Most adjust on the left side (some nis Moreland Second Edition line. A M E R I C A ’ S H

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12 NOVEMBER 2007 AMERICA’S HORSE