Bitless bridles - Pepsi's verdict

I bought a bitless bridle at an auction sale in Listowel. Brought it home and eventually tried it. The first time, I tried it with a young horse that I've been riding and frankly, he was really confused. Going from a very simple western style headstall to head bondage was a little overwhelming for him.

So, tonight, I tried it with my faithful mare Pepsi. Pepsi was born on the farm 17 years ago - our first baby here. Her mother was a sorrel grade quarter horse type mare and her father was a bay coloured registered Appaloosa. We got a small black mare that has the energy of the Energizer Bunny and is willing to try just about anything - at least once.

She waited patiently while I got the bridle adjusted properly and really liked the fact that it's black, like her. She enjoys matching accessories. It took her a couple of turns and stops to catch on and then we were off on a trail ride. She loves the fact that when it's time to stop for a rest break and some grass, there's no bit in her mouth to limit grass consumption ;)

I actually bought the bridle for DeeDee, our minimal white overo mare, but she hasn't had a chance to try it out yet. DeeDee acts like her feelings are being hurt when you use a bit, so we often just attach reins to her bridle when we ride. (No, it's not her teeth - we have them floated :)

Anyway, I'll let you know how the next experiment goes :)