You are not cruel to your horse if you use bits. Horse owners utilize high-quality horse bits to control their horse with ease. Find out how you can avoid stressing your horse, so you can control her comfortably.
Horse’s Wolf Teeth
Pay attention to the physical characteristics of your horse. Have you checked the mouth of your horse? Check it now as you might notice a few teeth that seem different from the rest.
There might be some small stubby teeth that don’t seem to have any function. If the tooth is situated before the horse’s first premolars, it’s the wolf tooth. Not all horses, but 70 percent of them will develop wolf teeth. The development is typical in male horses. But the wolf teeth can also grow in female horses.
You’ll start seeing wolf teeth when the foal is between 5 and 12 months old. Interestingly, horses may have both upper and lower wolf teeth. Some of the horses’ wolf teeth may not erupt entirely through the gums. They appear as small bumps underneath the gums. In this case, they are called blind wolf teeth. Wolf teeth seem like ripping teeth of a carnivore, but they aren’t true canine teeth.
Why People Use Bits on Horses
As mentioned earlier, bits for horses are useful. They enable a rider to cue a horse by directing pressure in and across the horse’s mouth. Through this piece of equipment, you can adjust the horse’s speed and direction of movement.
Choosing the right bit for your horse can be a challenging task. Take note that you must learn to categorize bit types for horses for the intended use. The type or intensity of pressure to be applied is essential so that the horse won’t be confused and respond adversely.
How to Equip Horse with Bits
The horse bit is a component of a bridle that goes into the horse’s mouth. To make choosing the right bit easier, here’s your guide:
- Putting the harness on is the first step.
- Unbuckle the nose strap of the bridle.
- Bring the horse’s head down by placing your hand between its ears. Be careful with your horse to avoid making it feel nervous. To convince it, maintain your gentle pressure on its head.
- When the horse is facing the correct way, take the halter off so that you can put the bridle on the horse.
- Take note that some bridles have a curb chain. Don’t bang the horse’s teeth with the strap. Remove the chain first. It will put it in the latter part as it’s the one that goes under the horse’s chin.
- Next, touch the gums of the horse lightly. This will eventually let the horse open its mouth.
- Insert the bit and secure the bridle.
- Fasten the buckles.
Do Bits Hurt Horses?
Bits can be stressful for horses when they’re fitted incorrectly. The simple pressure causes mild pain to the horse, but in the long run, it would strain your pet. Horses must feel comfortable with what you equip them with. If you need further assistance, you ask for help from the experts.
Expect that some trial and error will happen during the selection process. Get your supplies only from a trusted vendor to ensure quality and durability.
