horses bits

Question
Hi i have a pony who is very strong but loves his jumping! I curently ride him in a hackamore but he leanes on my hands a lot, even though its not in his mouth. (the only reason he is in a hackamore is that he broke his jaw 3 months ago and the vet advised to put him in that gor 3 months for it to heal, and now its been 3 months) but When we aproch jumps he flings his head in the air and goes hollow in the back, which is the reason he knockes fences down. Have you any idea what type of bit to use in him, maybe one that uses poll pressure or something? We have tryed a pelem befor but he just fights it back, although it was a straight bar which he seemed mot to like. Please help me, i really need some advice!! (he is a very easy pony and will take any type of bit, but after time may fight it)! Please help!

Answer
Tabitha,

I apologize for the lateness of my reply. I had a 'cardiac event' the other day. This is the best question I have had since joining AllExperts and your use of the word, "please" gives it even more importance.
That said, this is not a simple reply. There are several factors in play here.
First, this is a bold and brave pony. He/she will never be easy.
You seem to be asking for a 'magic' bit. There is no bit that can solve your problem.
First thing is a complete evaluation and prognosis of your Ponys injury. A broken jaw could be some pretty serious stuff. You need to evaluate this injury now.
The mechanical hackamore is another issue. They are used by many, in all disciplines, but almost exclusively with problem/control issues horses. The Pony shakes his head. He is trying to escape the influence of the hackamore. These devices have curb action, load binder power, and work on all pressure points. Not properly adjusted or fit, they can cut off a horses wind. This is not an equipment problem but more accurately a rider problem.
When he is shaking his head prior to a jump, he is protesting the conditions you have created for him. He can not round his back under these conditions. I would seek out a coach. Someone who knows. All jumping horses need  to be able to use all there assets to clear obstacles. When your hackamore cuts wind off or does not allow your Pony to use his body/neck in the way he needs then he will protest. (head shake) You need coaching on the release point that will allow this Pony to do his job. If you are not holding he has nothing to shake against. Contact must be maintained but interference will only create failure. This is a fine line, enabled by your Ponys ability but my best advice for you is to get a Coach.  The 'Good' ones, your bold Pony are always a challenge but ultimately they are the most rewarding. Big hearts take big hearts to realize their potential. Never underestimate the rewards of a good 'Coach'.
You never said where you are, this can be big.
All the best with your Pony. Love to know it all worked out.
Anything I can do, please ask.
Happy Trails.

Bill Gibson