bitting for evasion problem

Question
I just purchased a 6 yr old paint mare.  She was a cow horse, then for the last 2 1/2 years, was a big back yard pet.  She's in an eggbut snaffle, but really hates the bit and lowers her head to the ground to evade.  I had her floated, and resolved the ulcers in her mouth, but I'm wondering if I should temporarily use another bit to get her to raise her head.  I certainly do not want to create a head tossing issue.  Suggestions?  Thanks

Answer
Hi Marji!

You are absolutely right that this can turn into a much worse problem if not corrected now.

To me this sounds more like a bit acceptance problem than just the bit.  An eggbut snaffle is very mild and I assume that since she is a QH you will want to eventually put her in a curb.  You must get her to accept this bit and go in a frame or outline before you try to teach her anything else.

I would cease all other specific training for anything like showing, trails or what ever you want to do with her and concentrate on resolving her bit acceptance problem.

She needs lots of longeing in donut reins (some people call them side reins) to set her head and make her give.  She should be going well in these at all 3 gaits and then you could try riding her in an arena in draw reins also.

This is a tricky thing to train a horse to. If you have never used them or are unsure about your hands and your ability to feel when she is correct and your ability to communicate to her when she is correct...Then, I would say hire a professional trainer who can get her started and then teach you how to carry on with them.

At her age she should have had this put on her so, she obviously has gaps in her education.  You may have to start at the beginning like she is just broke.  Nothing wrong with that and it is really the best thing for her.

Taking the time and spending the money to correct this now is the best thing for her and will turn her into the riding partner you want!

Good luck and remember to always wear an ASTM/SEI approved helmet!

Solange