The Bitless Bridle™ UK
User's Comments
Feedback is listed with the most recent comment at the top, so you can easily see the latest when you return. The Bitless Bridle™ has been available in UK since October 2004 - there are lots more rider's comments, dating back to 2001 and covering all disciplines on BitlessBridle.com USA
If you would like to comment on The Bitless Bridle™ please email your comments (& photos) and we'll add them to this page.
Or if you would like to post your own comments about any of our products, go to the product you purchased in the shop, select 'reviews' (bottom left of each product page) and enter your comments.
To share your bitless experiences with others, go to Nagtrader Forum
More photos in The Bitless Bridle Gallery
To find comments regarding something specific, say Headshaking or Dressage, use Ctrl + F and type the word into the box provided.
Note: These comments are all "from the horse(owner)'s mouth" and not edited in any way.
Read what famous author Joe Camp (Benji books, Soul of a Horse...) says about going bitless
I just wanna say I have a really happy horse!!! 16hh of treeless, bitless pleasure. Ryan took to the bridle like a fish to water, its as though he's always smiling when we school and ride out, he's more forward going and he seems to have come out of his shell. So thanx...really,
The other thing i would like to mention is that, because the Dr Cooks Bitless Bridle is kind, I play more with Ryan in the school. So it's given us both more confidence.
Mia, Harwich, Essex - November 2008
hello, thank you. bridle recieved yesterday in good order, i have used it 3 times so far and the initial results have lived up to the web site 'blurb' ,
my pony had been badly abused, and was refusing the bit out of fear and the memory of pain. she is still very nervous in general, but quickly took to the bridle. it has very good steering, and we are working on a good signal for stand - as she swings sideways then gets frightened when asked to stand , but this is her and not the bridle - . she is learning that it will not hurt her, and will even let me put it on with out fuss - a bitted bridle she would rear and run back when i tried to put it on her - . an encouraging start, thanks - it was worth the wait!
Raychell, Farnborough - July 08
On the leather bridle i fitted the item as per instructions and rode my 12 year old thoroubred eventer in our arena for first time. he found it a strange experience and was heavy in hand and did not steer so well, after around 4 sessions of 30 mins he was really getting the hang of it !! and now 6 hours further on he is great on the steering and much more forward going and confident in his x/c jumping where before due to his soft mouth was very tempramental about jumping whereas now he is very keen to do it, a remarkable change in a horse ive owned for 15 months and had almost given up on as having no future in sport but would be pensioned off as an allround hacker . so from this brief story of my experience you can see im as happy with it as my horse is !!
Derek,Dunfermline - July 2008
Just had to send you this link to our ID - completed his second hunter trials yesterday both barefoot and bitless and yes, my 5’2” daughter could hold him in it, but them you already know that, it’s the others we have to convince.
Cheryl, Turriff, Aberdeenshire - May 2008
I bought a 15.3 cob called crackers last april and when i got him he was in a double bit and a martingale, and was thoroughly miserable. I was a novice rider but still decided to get rid of the martingale and put him in a regular snaffle.
Crackers would shy at anything and canter off in all directions. I had three bad falls and many scares. Whenever i asked him to trot/ canter he would swish his tail in anger and i usually had to tap him with a whip to get him going.
My wife, who also rides found your site and with the money back guarantee offered, i decided i had nothing to lose.
From the first time i put him in his new leather bitless bridle Crackers was a different horse. He trots and canters with the slightest touch of the leg and is so much more forward going. The shying has completely stopped and so has the tail swishing. I do not need to carry a whip any more and i would never put him back in a bit. Ever!
Thanks for a very informative website that talked us into giving the bridle a try. If anyone else is deciding whether to buy this bridle i would unconditionally recommend it and with the money back guarantee they can buy in total confidence. They won't be returning it though!
Mark Gowing, Romford - May 08
Due to a nasty riding accident I lost all my confidence on my two horses, a Fjord and a Poney Landais. Part of the problem was on-going head shaking and resistance which freaked me out when I started to ride again. All that has beeen fixed by the BBs.
I have had two BBs for coming up to a year now and both my horses love them and I can steer and stop far better than in a bit.
In order to help me further on better behaved horses (my two have different issues nothing to do with bits) I have started going to a local riding school. I live in South West France. Of course all the horses have bitted bridles which I now detest. My latest horse resists having the bridle on and has a martingale to stop him tossing his head up. I was told that you couldn't touch his ears. I decided to go and do ground work sessions with him and within 5 minutes desensitised him to having his ears touched. In fact he started to fall asleep! I then desensitised him to my BB and again in 5 mins I had it on him. On the second session I went up to his box, and put the BB on with no fuss. I then long reined him in it for 45 mins. He was superb! My instructor arrived for our lesson and asked me "You're going to ride him in that?!!" "Yes" I said and did so. He was fantastic. No chomping at the bit as he had done the lesson before, no trying to bring his head up, no martingale, just great steering and stopping.
She was well impressed! She tells me that he does the head rearing mainly in canter. As we are far away from that yet, I shall just see how it goes and get someone more experienced to ride him in the BB to test the canter. My confidence is growing by the day on lots of different horses provided I'm allowed to use the BB.
What is really sad is that the rest of the week he will have to put up with that bit he hates and children and beginners tugging at his mouth. Surely all riding schools should consider this as first choice, especially for novices.
Thanks for the best piece of tack in the world. I'm afraid I've become a BB zealot (not many of us where I live)
Polly-Anne, St.Clair, France - May 08
I have been using the Dr Cook Bitless Bridle on my horse now since early March 08. We've schooled, hacked, SJ and XC in the BB.
I'm very pleased with it and haven't used a bit since! My horse goes better in it, she wasn't a difficult horse in a bit in that she didn't buck, bolt or anything like that, she was just "tricky" in the school (which is the polite word my instructor used to describe her!).
She is happier in her mouth and works consistently in an outline now without me having to do anything particularly which wasn't the case previously. She was reluctant to work into the bit and had to be cajoled carefully into working.
In my first lesson with the BB 10 days after I had it, my instructor's comment was "well that's the front end sorted then!". At the end of the lesson he said he thought it would help in her walk and trot but wasn't so sure about her canter and canter/trot transitions. After our second lesson he now has seen that she has improved in all paces in the BB and commented on the improvements!
(He now only has doubts on how it will work with lateral work - however, I intend to surprise him in our next lesson!).
I have had an indoor jumping lesson in the BB, and the comments at the end were that there were doubts as to whether the BB would work well enough to turn her and check her etc quickly enough - since then I have competed her in SJ and we were placed - so the BB can't be doing too bad!
I have also had a XC lesson where other particpants commented on the ease with which I was able to turn and stop my horse.
It hasn't been a miracle cure and as time goes by more and more improvements have become apparent. A couple of years ago she injured herself quite badly in one hock and just as that recovered on the inside of the other hind leg. After those injuries she had problems on the right rein for a long time which eventually appeared to resolve themselves. When I first rode her in the BB, she was very unconfident on the right rein and it took a few rides before she was happy on the right rein. Also, she then started to fall out of the right shoulder badly particularly in canter. The BB showed up where she and I had been relying on the bit to cover up her problems on the right rein.
I am glad to say that in trot we don't have any difficulties on the right rein now and canter is improving every time!
It's just so nice to be able to ride her like a "normal" horse and not like walking on eggshells to avoid her hollowing or becoming upset. We can now do usual things like a succession of quick canter and trot transitions while remaining round and without her becoming agitated and upset.
I would definitely recommend the Dr Cook BB to anyone - what do you have to lose when you have a 30 day period within which to return if you are not happy with it!
Andrea (Bowen Therapist), Cardiff - May 08
We can't thank you enough for the bitless bridle. Our small, thoroughbred mare did not like the bit much and you had to be very light with your hands, but even then you got the head held up high and sideways most times!! Knowing that she hates being restricted, we decided less was more for her and bought the bitless bridle from you. What a difference, she listens now and no more problems with her head. She is so responsive and calm it is really unbelievable. I have had a hand operation and my novice husband has even been able to ride her in the sand-school for me and she has behaved perfectly.
Many, Many thanks
Jo, Aberdeenshire - April 08
I started riding both my teamchasers (one intermediate, one open level) in bitless bridles mid February.
They both have benefited enormously from the switch, the grey used to make a noise at hard work, especially canter work uphill, his breathing is much improved and he is a lot less resistant when I ask him to stay behind the horse in front, particulary in front of a fence.
The brown open horse head shakes so minimally it's hardly noticeable, I'm hoping that in time the trigeminus will settle down altogether. I've also got steering and brakes, whether he's in front or behind and although he needs a sheepskin cover on the noseband to stop it rubbing, that's just the sort of horse he is, allergic to lots of things, highly sensitive to everything else.
I find that being a regular competitor I get a lot of interest from other people in my bitless riding (also they're both shoeless, which adds to the interest).
Lissy, Marlborough - April 08 [LIssy is a vet who is also qualified in chiropractic and acupuncture]
Was just looking at your website and reading some of the comments. I wrote to you when I got my BB over a year ago to say how pleased I was with my BB. A year later and I still feel the same. Lily is still going well and responding well.
I have been busy singing the praises of the BB in my new yard and trying to get as many converts as possible; the bridle has been borrowed and used. My daughter also rides her mare in the BB and has done for the past year. She would never change back to a bit either.
Judith, Bonnybridge - March 08
Wow!!!!! Am I pleased I tried this. I now throughly enjoy riding my horse, she is so relaxed and happy. My arms have returned to their normal length, my back doesnt ache all the time the horse has stopped spooking at everything, we are both happy!!
Natalie, Manningtree - March 08
Thought I would let you know how my Highland got on trying the Dr Cook for the first time........one word FANTASTIC!
I have a much happier boy, he walks out much faster, carries his head better, he flexes his neck, doesn't buck going into canter, better transitions.........BEST OF ALL.........he is no longer one sided (which means I'm not having to readjust my seat all the time), nor does he lean (oh my arms are in heaven).
When we finished schooling he didn't (for the first time ever) rub his head/muzzle against me or anything else - he was just feeling really comfortable which was wonderful.
I am taking him for a hack in it Wednesday so I will let you know how we got in an open space!
I have been putting off buying one for ages, I have emailed you in the past on several occasions with questions - now I am really happy I finally took the plunge.
My youngest Highland will now be backed this year in a bitless. Do you have any tips in using the bridle for backing or does it simply make things easier? [Makes things easier since the horse's concentration is not disturbed by the discomfort of a bit]
Emma, Marlborough, Wilts - February 08
On behalf of Harry, our 11 year old 16.2 hh ID gelding I would like to thank you for transforming his once very sad existence.
I bought Harry in July 2007 from a kindly lady who had, in turn, rescued him from the hands of a less than responsible owner. Thankfully she took pity on him but couldn't afford to keep him herself, and thank heavens my daughters and I were online at the right time, spotted the ad and found he was only 5 minutes from our house! To cut a very long story short, upon examination by our vet, it was concluded that Harry had more than likely been punished for not wanting to wear his bit in the past, and had either been twitched each time, or even hit over the head. He came to us with a hackamore as another bit wasn't even a remote option, but he always looked uneasy, stiff and actually rather sad.
Having spent many hours pondering our options with Harry, we decided we only wanted the best for him. He is the most trusting horse with the kindest eye you will ever see, and my two daughters and I took it upon ourselves to spoil him rotten! I found the BB website, and even though I think I'd heard of Dr. Cooks in the past, the bridles really didn't register with me. But on that occasion, knowing Harry needed TLC, it was a no-brainer, especially after reading all the glowing testimonials. I ordered one the very next day (black leather, padded of course!). OK so I ordered the wrong size to begin with, underestimating the size of my big guy's head (XL for Harry please!!), but entirely my fault, and I received a replacement in good time and in good humour!
That was about 2 months ago, and I can confidently say that Harry has never been happier. Gone are his uptight, worried moods. He'll walk along stretching his neck out luxuriously, his bottom lip flaps and he even lowers his head to have the bridle put on.
I only tried a "proper" canter for the first time today as we have been gradually working on his fitness and taking things slowly. What a test - in a wide open space with two fairly wayward horses cantering/galloping alongside! He was so excited - but I had total control, both in terms of brakes and steering! I didn't want it to end, and I had a stupid grin on my face for a long time after! I could tell my two companions were impressed as they hauled their horses up in their bits, complaining of sore arms - my aim is to convert them to bitless, and I think today's ride helped tremendously!
Harry's life has changed dramatically these past few months, culminating in his wonderful Bitless Bridle. Ours, in turn, have changed simply having Harry in our lives, and the icing on the cake is knowing he's comfortable and happy. He is one contented boy - thank you so much!
Jill - Bristol
January 2008
I don't need to tell you that my horse took to his new bridle like a duck to water - all my expectations were exceeded. What I do need to tell you is that I am the ONLY person I know in my area that rides bitless. In fact, unbelievably, I am yet to encounter one person that rides bitless. What I find amazing is that not one of my equestrian suppliers stock them (ok, you can get them on the internet but go to a shop and you are unlikely to find one.)
I get riders passing me, staring at my boys empty mouth like we have dropped in from another planet. I get the usual negative comment about their horse being too highly strung and explosive to wear one, trying to give the impression that this makes them so much more competent than me ... somehow! (at this point I try to stifle a yawn I have heard this so often) - as if an unsettled, fizzy, fidgety horse is exactly what they have intended to make and I think 'pants'! Some riders love a horse that shows off, gets wound up and that they can reasonably 'control'. Power freaks. And there's no reasoning with them.
I personally get my buzz from being totally in tune with my horse, trying to do what's best for him and him being chilled out, happy and enjoying life - knowing I have done everything possible to make him happy and content. He's a big boy, 16,2hh IDXCob and I have not doubt whatsoever that if he wants to exert his strength over me I would not stand a chance.
He was a newly broken 4 year old when I got him, ridden in a Happy Mouth snaffle. He showed traits which could be contributed to his age and inexperience, napping, shaking his head, headshaking, trying to buck when asked to canter ... I couldn't put my finger on what was wrong but my intuition told me that he wasn't in a happy place. Having had him checked for the usual - teeth, saddle, etc, I did some research to try to find an answer (some people said to change his bit so I researched my options and read about going bitless). It would have been so easy to gone for another bit but ...
I gave him, as all other bitless bridle users have done, the benefit of the doubt and tried one If more people did what we have done the history of bitting would be just that ... history. I am at times lost for words that more people do not research and then try this wonderful concept.
I was told in no uncertain terms by someone who has lived and breathed horses all his long life that I was an absolute idiot to ride a horse without a bit. That this was the only way to control a horse. Not sure about you, but I'm not into controlling, just finding that happy place where me and my horse are at one. And we seem to have found it.
I have no doubt things could have worked out so very differently. As an experiment, some months ago I put his old bridle on. He immediately stiffened, head up stiff through his neck and back and was uptight and edgy. He napped before getting out of the yard. When I asked for canter, he swished his tail and tried to buck. He was very unhappy. I dismounted (I was about half an hour from home) took his bit off his bridle, adapted the reins and rode home without restraint. This had an immediate response. He chilled out, relaxed and once again became my steady, calm, reliable bombproof boy I know.
My boy, who is now rising 6 is fabulous. He is so relaxed that at times his bottom lips droops and makes a flapping sound ... if I didn't keep him going I swear he would fall asleep mid-ride. He is known on our yard for being the steady, calm, reliable, bombproof horse. Contrary to popular belief, he has got some go in him and could give plenty of other horses a run for their money.
For anyone out there who is researching this concept, please give it a go. You will be presently surprised, and on behalf of your horse, I thank you sincerely.
Alison - Ditcham, Nr Petersfield, Hampshire - January 2008
Just wanted to say thank you, thank you, thank you. I must admit that I purchased my bb several months ago and after giving my mare a really good trial before I gave you my comments, this is now the time to tell you that I have a completely different horse. Before in canter she would throw her head around and up and down (not exactly comforting when you are travelling at speed, which at 17.3 she has a long stride and can eat up the ground). She would spook at the slightest thing and do the most amazing spins. I have always been concerned about her bitting, she has a large fleshy mouth and needed a 61/2 to 7 inch and even then it did not look comfortable. I knew there was a problem as putting on the bridle was a battle of wills, she would throw her head in the air and pull back, this was one very unhappy lady. Over time I was losing more and more confidence about riding, even making the most pathetic excuses not to go out. Luckily I have a brilliant sharer who rode 3 to 4 times a week so my girlie was getting exercised.
I saw your web page and thought what the hell, its money back, give it a go. Since then we have never looked back, my girl accepts the bridle and our hacks are a wonder. She is attentive, does not throw her head about, if she does spook, which is rarely now, she is immediately back to normal instead of the half an hour huffing and puffing with extended nostrils and jogging. She actually listens to me instead of doing her own thing. The main thing is that I am more relaxed now, which of course filters through to her as well. My confidence is back to normal, We are again a happy pair of bunnies.
We had a dressage day at the yard, no one could go out because of the foot and mouth and we actually took part. She was so excited but completely controllable. Had a wonderful time and scored 56.4 which is not bad as we had done absolutely no practice as the weather had been terrible for at least two weeks before and I had never done dressage before, just committed the test to memory and went for it. We made a brill team, she had a wonderful time, you could actually see that she was standing taller and prouder. Its just a shame that I would not be able to take her out to the local riding club as its bits only. She will never ever have a piece of metal in her mouth again. I have always been against bits anyway and this has now proved the point that they do little but give people confidence that they can yank and perhaps get their horse to stop.
There are so many people out there who think that a bit is the most essential part of their tack, they do not even want to listen when I extol the virtues of my bb, 'oh my horse would never go in one of those things', 'you are riding for a fall if you continue to use that bridle' are just some of the things that get thrown at me, I know that my girlie is happy, and if she is happy then so am I. I enclose a picture of us just having come out of the school after the dressage, she is happy and relaxed and so am I. The only problem is that my sharer will not try the bb, she says she is not confident enough, this is the person who will ride through a military operation, we have a lot of these on our local commons, but who is too afraid to use the bb. Me the biggest wimp on the planet uses it with all the confidence in the world. I keep working on her and hope to eventually wear her down.
Keep up the good work.
Rosie, Surrey - December 2007
Dear Sheila
I've done it! I've now hacked out William, my adopted 25 year old Welsh Cob gelding TWICE in the bitless bridle, and the second time I used my bareback pad as well, which was actually scarier as he is very bouncy and has a bony back into the bargain. We didn't go very fast, but he COULD HAVE DONE as I took him onto grass and asked for some action. Being an ex-driving Section D, the action was all up and down rather than flat out. He probably will take off with me sometime in the future as he has done before and bucked as well out of sheer high jinks, but that was with a bit, so if he's gonna go, he's gonna go. A piece of metal in his mouth is not going to make a difference. He only runs for fun and that's allowed!
Dee, Stirling - November 2007
Just to say thank you, thank you, thank you. Lally was a proper madam in a 'normal' bridle, she would nap, spin, buck, bite and generally just be a right mare. The day my bitless arrived we went out on a hack - I know it could of all gone horribly wrong - but she was like a dream. Ok she still has her moments but don't we all? She is now a total pleasure to ride and trusts me totally. Whereas before she needed more than a little encouragement to do anything - now she is forward going, inquistive and a pleasure to be with. It has helped our relationship 100% and we are now a team - rather than just a horse and rider. She even puts her head forward to go into the bridle when I am tacking her up - something she would never do with the old one! It makes me feel so proud of her I could cry.....
A friend of mine said I was brave to use a bitless - I just think she is stupid not to!
I will send a photo of her later when she is all done up - so to speak!
Lucy, Shrewsbury - November 2007
Thought I would send you some pictures of Joe (NineteenNinetyNine) a 10 year old ex-race horse who is sired by Warning a famous Miler.
I have been riding him since December last year (2006). He was almost uncontrollable over jumps, jumping fast and flat (National Hunt style). The bit in his mouth did not help as he used to pull or lean on it, as he had been trained to in his racing career.
In June this year, we decided to have ago with a bitless bridle, just the plain black leather Dr.Cooks. This seemed to improve things massively. We carried on the jump training and got him popping over the jumps nicely, no rushing or pulling.
In July we did a few show jumping competitions (90cm), where we got placed.
The fun really started in August, when we did our first British Eventing Intro competition. I used the bitless for both the Show Jumping and the Cross Country. We got round steady and clear.
Since then we have done three more BE Intro competitions, where we came 7th, 3rd and 5th.
we have also done well in two hunter trials (XC only), where we have come 4th and 1st.
We can't wait till next season, where the fun can start again in march.
If it wasn't for the help of the bitless then I really believe we could not have achieved any of this.
I have two new bitless bridles now one black and one brown (both the padded variety). Looking to try them on my other horses also.
I hope you can show some of these on your web site.
Olly, Leicestershire - November 2007
Hi, I bought a bitless bridle two months ago [for my 15yr old Welsh Cob Arnie] and we have not looked back. Neither myself or a level 3 BHS trained instructor could stop Arnie in the sand school in a pelham last year. I have done alot of ground work with him over the winter and tried many many bits including mylers and came to the conclusion that I could put barbed wire in his mouth and he would run through it if he so desired. The first few times I put on the bitless bridle he opened his mouth and would then look at me as if to say whats missing. The first time I rode him in it he kept sighing and now pushes his head into the bridle so hard that I have trouble keeping hold of it! He is a very enthusiastic energetic welsh cob who over the years has developed a hard mouth although I think its not the horses mouth but their learned habits with the bit that count. He has a very fleshy mouth and responds very badly to both single jointed bits and straight bits I think they all pinch his mouth and lips. For the first time I have brakes and a less stressed horse who does no longer jog all the way home sideways!!!
Ann, Poole - November 2007
I would like to thank you for the best piece of tack I have ever bought. I now have three bitless bridles for my very fizzy Chestnut TB mare called Lucy. I thought that I had the worst behaved horse at our yard. Everyone thought I had out horsed myself and many times I went to bed crying, knowing that I couldn't control my horse. She broke two bridles and three head collors and would take off with me in fields. I had all the right things checked, Teeth, back etc and still she flung her head into the air and fought me all the way.
I stumbled on your website by accident and along with the support of Parelli, bought a bridle on 30 day trial. I promise you I was shaking with nerves the first time I tried it out on Lucy and she actually turn her head to look at me as we walked up the track to the fields. Almost as if to say " You so have forgotten something here"! I took her to a gallop up hill and let her go. She galloped to the end of the field and I asked her to trot and then walk and she did!
We walked home on a long rein and she looked so happy and relaxed and I now have a changed horse. She listens to me and actually respects my voice commands. She will follow me everywhere without being tied and stop when I stop, walk when I walk. I can now ride her without any bridle, halter in the menage and she will stop when she feels me stop. Thank you. I have the horse of my dreams
Alexandra, Bath - October 2007
Just thought I’d drop you a line to say how impressed I have been so far with my new Bitless Bridle, purchased about 4 weeks ago, and to let you know that I do not wish to take advantage of your 30 day money back guarantee.
I had been having trouble with my 16.3hh Irish Draught x Thoroughbred, Nocky, fighting with the bit (pulling at the reins, poking his nose out and getting generally cross!) and after 7 years of ownership decided to look for something different. A few people at my yard had suggested trying their hackamores but I decided to do a bit of research myself and thank goodness I did else I would not have stumbled across the Dr Cook’s Bitless Bridle
Although I have yet to take him to where he enjoys going full steam ahead so far I have had no trouble steering or stopping, and thank goodness no tugging my arms out of their sockets! We still have some manners to learn (eg standing still while waiting to cross the road) but that’s another problem. Also, at the moment we are being driven demented by flies so I’m hoping once they have gone we’ll calm down a bit.
Anyway, thanks again. I have attached a picture for you to see. Your comments with regard to fitting would be appreciated. (It has rubbed the hair off slightly where the crossover straps pass through the rings on the noseband but he is prone to anything new rubbing him and it hasn’t broken the skin.) Let’s hope I can say bye-bye to his bit forever! [Recommended Cashel Foam Pad to lift the O rings off the face and stop the rubbing]
Janet, Sandhurst - September 2007
Hi Sheila - just thought you might like to know about my horse Joey. My partner Oliver has been riding Joey for almost a year because I am busy with another youngster getting him up to scratch for competition. I got Joey a BB a couple of years ago and Oliver has very recently started jumping Joey in the BB and doing really well because he hasn't got a bit to lean on! He did his first ever British Eventing One Day Event last month and did really well so he decided to take him in another one yesterday and guess what he came 7th! Obviously he had to do the dressage in a snaffle, but he did the showjumping and cross country in the BB and went clear in both, had good control and no time penalties. Bearing in mind this is a Thoroughbred ex-racehorse who can be a bit full of himself (to say the least!) we are absolutely thrilled! We got some good photos of him (clearly showing he is in a BB) so I will forward them on to you later and I think you will like them!
Oliver said he is really pleased with the BB and would hate to ride him in the showjumping and cross country with a bit![Photo taken at British Eventing one day event on Wednesday 19th September 2007 at Brooksby near Melton Mowbray]
Tracy Lander, Markfield - September 2007
Dear Horselovers,
I would like to offer a great big thank you to all who are spreading the word that bits are a thing of the past. I have been riding over 50 years and have always thought that bits were barbaric.
Having used the Dr Cook’s bitless bridle on my ex-chaser for about a year, I am now using one on my ex-hunter and feel obliged to tell you how impressed my horse and myself are with your bridles.
Today we have hacked out for a couple of hours, jumped a few logs etc, encountered an extremely dangerous - according to Beagle - buzzard on the track and I had no problems at all controlling him when he spooked. The wonderful thing about your bridle is that the horse settles back into the normal gait without fighting the bit or becoming ‘fizzy’. I assume this is because no damage to his mouth has occurred so he soon forgets the incident. On behalf of my horses and myself I would like to offer our grateful thanks to you all. (This is a great compliment from someone whose hometown is Walsall, the home of the master saddler).
Just off to put my bits and bridles on ebay!
With gratitude from an elderly horselover
Barbara Smith, Walsall - August 2007
Thank you for exchanging the bridle so quickly. We've tried it a couple of times from my other horse on this horse and she responded well. The bridle arrived today, we put it on her tonight, took her showjumping and she came 2nd! She went around so quietly and controlled and did the jump-off neatly and well. My daughter is totally convinced and says it's now the bitless forever! The only problem is that she can't compete in the dressage with it. Thanks for everything.
Bryony, Axbridge - August 2007
...the BB is the most effective and kindest bridle I have ever used.
Jane, Bacup - June 2007
Have just about come to the end of my 30 day "trial" of my bitless bridle, and have to report that my TB is going very well in it. Many people on the livery yard where I keep him thought I would have no brakes or steering, and I had accepted this view until the day his bit came apart in his mouth when we were out hacking and I had to improvise a bitless bridle arrangement! Having used my Dr Cook's for a few weeks now I'm not sure I would ever go back to having a bit - I've found I certainly have as much control without one, and a happier horse. My only problem now is that it makes his nose and poll sweat in hot weather or when he's been working really hard - any suggestions?
Susan, Penrith - June 2007
Sheila replied: "Regarding the sweating - some people feel that leather causes less sweating than synthetic, but personally I haven't found this to be so (having used both beta & leather BBs on my horses). I think the fact of the matter is, that horses will sweat under anything that is close fitting - ie saddle, girth, and of course the noseband on the BB. I don't think you need to worry unduly about this."
Well its been nearly 2 years since I bought my first bb for my fizzy thoroughbred mare Kizzy (fayley, Cornwall, Aug 05 in your feedback).
Just thought I’d update you on my other mare, Isha, a dutch warmblood rising 5. I bought her just before her 4th birthday and she’d just been conventionally broken. I had to try her out in her owners tack and she went as well as could be expected for a newly broken youngster; very babyish, lots of mouthing of the bit, a bit of bucking, some head shaking and the usual ‘rubbery’ feel when responding to the reins.
As soon as I got her home I tried her in the bb and after only 10 minutes she’d grasped exactly what it was all about. The lovely thing about the bb is it seems to result in an immediate acceptance - she lost that ‘baby rubberyness’ – she settled into the bridle, was very happy for contact to be taken up and responded wonderfully to turning and stopping.
She’s now coming up to her 5th birthday and we’ve started competing at local shows, we had two wonderful clear rounds at our first outing with complete trust and control despite the many exciting distractions of a first show.
I’m still amazed and disappointed at the responses I get from other riders, all of whom show a curious interest in the bb but say ‘oh my horse would never go in that!’ or ‘my horse is so strong, I’ve tried every bit there is and he’s still uncontrollable, he’s be lethal in that!’. It’s very hard to try to explain that my mare is just a normal horse, I’m only an average rider, we’re not a once in a lifetime miracle!
I also get some curiously sympathetic comments like ‘oh what a shame, does she not go in a bit then?’ My response to that is, ‘Not her, I don’t!’
In summary she’s a wonderfully happy young girl, yes she has her moments of spooking, bucking in excitement and gets strong around other horses… and is 100% willing to please in her bb.
All of my horses now go bb (and barefoot). I had a wonderful time at a car boot this spring where I go rid of all my old bridles and bits – I’ll never go back.
My other convert is Bron, a mare rescued from a Belgian meat sale, previously only ever been used as a working draft horse – again she took to the bb immediately (the only initial confusion was being able to see behind herself for the first time, she’d only ever been out in blinkers before!), my little cousin can stop her in the blink of an eye with the slightest touch to the reins.
Fayley, Cornwall - May 07
I bought a bitless bridle a few months ago from you and today competed my ex-racehorse for the first time in a dressage test with it, although we had to compete HC as my riding club only allows snaffles. We got the highest mark by eleven points! The same judge who said that the horse was tense, agitated and not going forwards last year said that he was relaxed, forward going and with three good paces yesterday, so it has definitely made a massive improvement!
Everyone who knows him commented on how well my horse was going and there was interest from other people in the bridle.
Katie Booth, Cumbria - May 07
Here are some pics of my daughter riding our Welsh section D pony - Ula - on one of her first outings in her new Dr Cook bitless bridle. She is a very strong and willful pony, always fidgeting and snatching the reins, a real madam - she has earned the nickname 'ooh-la-la' at our yard. We have tried many different bits in the year we have had her, mainly 'nice' ones but had been advised by well meaning instructors to either put her in a stronger bit or a grackle noseband to stop her crossing her jaw and evading the bit. Having ridden her out myself in a flash noseband I found she was listening more to me but I felt she was suffering, and when I saw the awful rubs on the sides of her mouth I was convinced we were doing the wrong thing.
I had been toying with the idea of a bitless bridle [and a treeless saddle] but my daughter who is Ula's main rider was totally against both. However I bought the bridle as we had nothing to lose [the 30 day guarantee is marvelous] and we haven't looked back - it is fantastic. Ula, always a fantastic jumper, is jumping bigger and bolder than ever. She is relaxed and can now actually stand still in company, no more snatching at the reins and circling. She is so relaxed in fact that she is almost asleep, bottom lip dropping. My one big regret is that the BSJA does not allow bitless bridles in the junior classes, shame, Ula and Lamorna would wipe the board! I have emailed the BSJA asking if they plan to change the rules but have had no reply yet.
The best thing is that the aforementioned instructors have both been amazed and conceded that the bridle does indeed work. One said that she actually thought we were mad, she thought that Ula's problems were just her being awkward and that we would have no control whatsoever in a bitless bridle. She now realises that most of Ula's problems were due to the bit and the discomfort in her mouth, they really can't believe how well she is working in it. Two more sceptics converted! We will definitely be sticking with the Dr Cook from now on, even if she can't compete in it at least she will be comfortable for 6 days out of 7.
Thank you so much for your help and advice in choosing the correct size.
Sue, Penzance - May 07
Thankyou so much, I have a lovely cob who was fine in the bit, she just got very strong and I don't like hauling on her mouth!
Now I have tried her in the bitless I don't think I will ever put any horse in a bit again! She gives me a collected canter on hacks and is completely fab in the school! Thankyou, Alice
Alice, West Sussex - April 07
I just thought I would drop you a quick note to let you know how pleased I am with my Dr Cook bridle. I've had it since Christmas and I love it. My horse Ginger adapted really well to it and we haven't looked back. He is very responsive to seat and voice which I think helped with the transition from bitted to bitless.
Although we never had real problems with a bit, he can be quite strong-willed and the Dr Cook definitely avoids the jaw crossing and many of the "discussions" we used to have. We hack, school and jump in it and Ginger seems very happy and relaxed. He can sometimes be spooky and inattentive out hacking and I found it hard to get his focus back on me if something did spook him. Now though, I feel we have a different level of communication and we have much fewer sticky moments and more connected ones!
He is very much a different horse to ride without his bit. One of my friends at the yard has also now bought her horse one after having a few goes with Ginger's....!
The idea is spreading!
Gill, Leeds - April 07
Just wanted to email you to tell you of yet another success with the bitless bridle! My girl thought it was great having no bit in her mouth and was relaxed and more alert throughout our whole ride.
I didn't have an enclosed place to ride her first in it and although she tried to walk away by herself the first time she has soon got used to the different pressure from the bridle and responds to it better than her old RUBBER PELHAM!!!! Everyone doubted how I could go from such an extreme bit to none at all but we did and I have a happier horse, so thank you!
In the photo you can see she is alert and bright, normally with a bit in her mouth she would be tense, jog the whole ride and have her head up in the air..so see for yourself!
Charlotte, Chulmleigh, Devon - March 2007
Dear Sheila,
I am so happy writing to you this afternoon!
We had a wonderful St. Patrick’s Day here, we took part in the parade in a local town (more pictures to follow) and I am beyond thrilled to tell you that Toddy was absolutely wonderful in his bitless despite pipe and marching bands, streamers, balloons, umbrellas (very scary things) and even a couple of donkeys! He continues to get happier and happier as every day goes by. We all thought he looked very spiffy in his new leather BB - although he may never be that clean ever again! My friend Fiona is saving up to go straight to leather for her mare by the way, pictured with us here.
It was fascinating when people noticed he had no bit. Some were worried I might not be able to control him if I needed to, but then they talked about how calm he was in the crowd. Oh, if only they knew!! It is truly hard to believe this is the same horse who scared me to death in January bolting; doing the awful, head down, bat-out-of-hell gallop he used to do – which by the way, I have not seen ONCE since we got rid of the bit; jumping, hacking – perfect. Some of our friends who knew Toddy before were quite ‘iffy’ about him keeping his head in the melée around the parade, but somehow I knew that the new, happy and more trusting Toddy would be just fine – and he was. I was so proud of him.
We’re having great fun jumping, which he loves, he gets very excited; and saying that, I have found that for brakes with Toddy it is much more effective if I rein alternately side to side rather than pulling back brute force, he responds much better when I ask him that way, no head shaking, no arguing, he just pulls up. We’re thrilled (pardon the pun) to bits! - and look forward to even more success stories in the future.
P.S. Molly got a 1st. last Friday night with a double clear on Ralph: the first red rosette this year in the yard and it was a bitless ride!
Trish, Castle Horses, Dunleer, Co Louth - March 07
I got my BB last week and have been using it each day. I have a 16.2hh Standardbred mare. I have tried several combinations of bits and nosebands on her and have never felt that she was really happy and comfortable, no matter what I tried. She was a head shaker and was always ready to rub her face on her leg as soon as she got back to the stables. I used to release the noseband and remove her bridle as soon as possible. She has always been good to ride and would never run off but used to fuss with the bit when we were out hacking.
I have used the BB both hacking out and also in the school. I have always felt completely in control and Lily walks calmly without head shaking or fussing, as she has nothing to fuss with!
My daughter rode her today and jumped her, and could not believe how good Lily was. She is going to order a BB for her mare.
To purchase the BB was certainly the best decision I made and I feel so glad that Lily now has no horrible metal bit in her mouth. It is really funny when I tack her up, she still opens her mouth for the bit and looks puzzled when nothing goes into her mouth!
Judith Delissen, Bonnybridge, Scotland - February 2007
received the bridle last week, tried a short ride to start with to get my horse used to it, followed later in the week by a decent hack. Well what can I say. My horse has been virtually unrideable due to head shaking for the last twelve months. He has cut two tush teeth lately so has not been ridden for 4-5 months. A friend who uses the bitless bridle suggested I give it a go, nothing to lose with the money back gaurantee. Well you are not having it back. My horse has never moved so freely or happily. I have the horse I bought two years ago now. I am so pleased, I was resigned to him being a companion, at 6 years old. Also even my husband, not very horsey, noted how relaxed and happy he seemed. His carriage was superb, ears forward and alert, forward going, for a big cob- not seen that often on him. Long may it continue, can't wait to do some long distance rides on him this summer.
Jo, North Yorkshire - February 2007
Dear Sheila and all at Bitless Bridle,
My horse has been barefoot for a few months now, and rather than try just ONE MORE SADDLE I decided to use a Christ sheepskin premium bareback pad which is amazing, although it took a little effort to find a girth short enough as well as small leathers as the D rings for stirrups are lower than on a saddle. Also, today was my first day trying my bitless bridle ----- and it was BLISS, utter BLISS!!!!!
I have a piebald cob with a mind of his own which usually involves napping in the school, and he did nap, as it is to him like breathing, ESSENTIAL but we got on soooooooo much better in the bitless bridle, and I felt I could correct him with his napping without hurting him and then him wanting to buck due to pressure of the bit. He went so much better than usual. Two weeks ago I was in the school alone and he was bucking me and swishing his tail and generally intimidating me as I am a novice rider, and here we were going well just two weeks after I was afraid to ride him!!!!
I would recommend bitless to ANYONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sanda normally tries to avoid the bit when tacking up by raising his head, but does not put up too much of a fight, but immagine how happy he was when the bitless bridle was on and there was NO BIT!!!!!!!!!!! He was definitely more comfortable and I was definitely more confident. Thank you for your excellent customer service and fantastic product!!!!
Melanie, Shepperton - February 2007
This is a quick note to let you know how i am getting on with the bridle i purchased from yourselves a few months ago. Absolutely brilliant, i have a 16.3 thouroghbred cross who up until now could be a bit of a handful, i always felt she was never quite happy and still had so much more to give. Your bridle has made so much diffrence to my horse its amazing, its just as you describe i have MORE control than ever, not that i acually need it now because the fight is over my horse is comfortable and a lot softer.
I cannot recommend this bridle enough i love the fact that it is completely painless to my horse and i would not dream of riding without it. please feel free to print my letter if you want to you can also pass on my telephone number for those who still feel insecure about riding without a bit. Thank you so much. [Anyone who would like to talk to Mandy, please contact us for her telephone number]
Mandy Clifford, Norwich - January 2007
Hallo and Happy Bitless New Year!!!!
After much deliberation I purchased one of the leather bitless bridles just before Christmas. My doubt at that time was whether it was possible to coax my wayward point-to-pointer, with 'attitude', to behave in an acceptable manner by giving him the freedom he demands on a regular, head-banging basis.
Well .... I am delighted and amazed to say that I am still alive and I am now an extremely happy owner/trainer of a reformed horse!!
The difference in his behaviour was immediate and the improvement has increased on a daily basis over the last 2 weeks in the most unbelievable way! He has stopped trying to evade contact and his head is now where it should be and not level with my eyes. As a result he no longer expends all his energy fighting for control and could probably get a four mile trip quite easily, let alone the 3 miles we need.
Thank you, thank you .... I am now living in the hope that the 'powers that be' will ultimately offer the option of running point to pointers in bitless bridles. In my horse's case it is a safer alternative to running him with a bit!!
I'll let you know how he gets on this season!!
Jane Wood (Devon) - January 2007
To be perfectly honest I just can't believe the difference in my very strong (and very strong willed!!) 17.2 warmblood who I hack out every day. I have had him in a dutch gag but he was becoming increasingly unhappy and agitated when out - with lots of head shaking and fighting against the bit. He's a very big horse with a mind of his own so I was a little nervous on the first day and just prayed that I was doing the right thing! He responded to it brilliantly, he listened to my commands, was less spooky and at last I felt I had brakes! I have ridden 5 or 6 times since and he is just perfect - so calm and contented both out and in the field. I'm convinced he would say 'thanks mum' if he could!
I will never use a bit on him again and am busy trying to convert all my already very impressed friends! - What was once normal now seems really cruel. So thanks for a fantastic product and I look forward to receiving my leather one when they are in stock.
Sherry, Norwich - January 2007
Babette completes 2000km with The Bitless Bridle
Babette's book about their first journey is now available - click on the book cover to find out more and to purchase...
Having completed a second pilgrimage on horseback [see details of first], this time along the Via Francigena from France to Rome, we are still absolutely convinced that the bitless bridle is the best solution for our horses.
Ex-race horses often come with a number of behavioural problems, and our two French Trotters were no exception. Lubie, the mare with most racing experience, either avoided the bit entirely or leant on it with arm-wrenching force. Gwen, who had been rejected as being unrideable at the age of three, had no experience of the bit at all and I saw no point increasing her tension by introducing it.
Since then we have covered over 3000 kilometres, sometimes in the most extreme conditions, and always with the bitless bridles, which provide gentle control and minimal stress for both horse and rider. True, we have had to adapt our riding styles, both in terms of long distance riding and the greater emphasis on weight and leg-control, which we find is needed with the bitless bridle, but this can only be an improvement.
In short, we find the design of bitless bridle to be absolutely fit for purpose and expect to continue using it with our current horses and in the future.
See www.pilgrimriders.com & www.pilgrimagepublications.com for more information.
Babette Gallard, France - December 06
I was emailed an article about Dr Cook a couple of years ago and was fascinated but only bought one recently for my newly backed Exmoor. She went very well in it and seemed to instantly respond despite it being different to her usual full cheeked french link. She is extremely strong but I had control even on her first pleasure ride when she ended up charging after other horses.
The real delight has been getting one for my Dales pony who is 16 and ridden in a happy mouth pelham with two reins. He is very high spirited and bouncy ( complete Thug actually! ) and he always tended to chuck his head about but I put his new bridle on and just took him straight out on a hack.. no problems, good brakes and no snatching. fantastic.
I have never liked to have strong rein contact anyway so the feel of the bitless is wonderful, so light and easy and it makes me aware of all the other signals I use in communicating with my horses. I have just hunted him in it for the first time today along with a friend who was also using one for the first time and it was brilliant. Both of us were delighted. A few alternate pulls brought him back to me straight away... and they could have a nibble of grass without any trouble!!! and both of them were so relaxed on the way home..no pulling or the usual jogging. I now look at horses with bits in their mouths and it seems all wrong. 3 people have bought your bridle on my recommendation and all have had great results on what have been very difficult horses. They will be writing to you too! I will keep encouraging people to log on to your site and learn. There seems to be a huge amount of resistance to new ideas in the 'established' horses world but I hope that the more people use the bitless bridle the more we can demonstrate that you dont necessarily need to put metal in horses mouths to control them.
Many thanks to Dr Cook!!!
Jessica, Merlin and Meg, Suffolk - November 07
We are both amazed by how much more control we have now. I only tried the bitless because my horse has a small mouth and a large tongue although he went fine in his mullen mouth pelham I wasn't happy that he was as comfortable as he could be, I had tried a scawbrig on him but had no brakes, no steering and as he is 17hh it was a little bit scary. My sister has only just got her pony and has trouble finding a bit he would go happily in, she tried snaffles, pelhams and kimblewicks, so evetually we decided to take advantage of the 30day money back offer and give bitless a go.
We have nowhere to school this time of year so we went straight out for a hack. Neither of us had any trouble at all. I had more brakes with less effort and was also safe inthe knowledge that I wasn't hurting my horse!! My sister can now steer!! She had loads of trouble her pony had learnt so well how to avoid the bit and now he has to turn when he is told!! He isn't very happy about it but he is only a youngster, but at least we know that his mouth isn't being hurt now.Hopefully if the weather is better next weekend we intend to try them out on Dartmoor and have a good gallop, I'm hoping the bridle is going to help my horse with his breathing, we think he may have been hobdayed and when he is galloping makes some really horrible noises, he didn't sound as bad as normal when we had a canter on Sunday. I must admit I have no worries about stopping though!!
Thanks for all your help.
Jody, Devon - November 06
Your move has finally prompted me to write ...I have been meaning to do so for a year now ! I bought a bridle from you this time last year and have ridden in nothing else since. My horse is comfortable, responsive, lighter and it makes me think about using my body more effectively so all in all a great success. In fact it makes me twitch now to think about putting anything in his mouth other than a carrrot !
So thanks for that and good luck with the move.
Kelly, Esse, France - November 06
Got my bitless bridle yesterday and tried it for the first time.
My boy, Iolo, went barefoot on Tuesday last and took to it with no problems whatsoever (2 days resting, 2 days in hand and then was hacking out and schooling as usual!). He's 1/4 Shire x thoroughbred and is quite tough!
So... grasping the nettle in both hands I decided to go for it and be iron free.
Iolo has never really had a problem with a bit but has also never seemed really happy. I've tried him with a Sprenger KK ultra and a happy mouth but he always seemed a bit fussy and always seemed to fight the bit before going collected.
However... yesterday was amazing! Not only did he not fuss at all with the BB, he settled down immediately and went rounded without being asked! All of the head shaking and pulling on the reins disappeared immediately and he just settled straight into the schooling. Steering and braking were fantastic. In fact, Iolo took to the BB as tho' he'd been using one all his life.
No stress, no trauma, just business as usual but just the good bits!
Given him the day off today to rest his feet but will be riding him out tomorrow and I can honestly say the thought of hacking out in the BB doesn't worry me in the least
He can't jump for a few weeks yet (until his feet are hardened off) but I'm really looking forward to it and I'm sure he'll love the new found freedom.
Thanks for everything - wish I'd done it sooner!
PS Another of our horses, Autumn, went barefoot several months ago. She had been diagnosed with arthritis and DJD of the coffin joint. The prognosis was that she would only ever hack in straight lines on soft ground and would be on daily bute.
Since going barefoot (thanks to our trimmer, Helen Thompson) she's only had 1 bout of lameness (which was cured with 3 days stable rest) and hacks and schools beter than she ever did! She lives out 24/7 and doesn't have daily bute (but we do give her a 'buteless bute' supplement). She's happy over grass, uneven ground, school surfaces and large gravel and we're starting to condition her on (pretty uneven) tarmac. Everyone is amazed at how well she looks and we've had lots of comments on well she moves now. However... unlike Iolo, Autumn's transition was a lot more traumatic and took months rather than days but was well worth it in the end. It wasn't easy and there were times when we wondered if we had done the right thing, but seeing the results now and how healthy Autumn is, it was definitely the right way to go.
Looks like she'll be getting a BB pretty soon and joining the iron free gang as well!
Thanks again
Next day...
I rode Iolo out last night (in the semi dark). He was set off by a couple of poines galloping past, did 3 strides of canter and stopped immediately I asked. Not only great brakes, but he immediately relaxed and continued walking with a low head position.
Really, really impressed with the BB and won't go back to using a bit.
Thanks for all your help
Bern, Homer Green, Bucks - October 06
I recently purchased a bitless bridle and have used it 4 times and I will NEVER go back to using a bit again, it's great and I am sure my horse appreciates it although she does think ah - no bit means it's grazing time.
I am a mature novice rider who bought my first horse a couple of months ago, so I was very anxious about not being in control minus the bit !
I decided to go for it and use it when hacking without any schooling, we both took to it like a duck to water - Mona is a well behaved horse and ex riding school but did tend to spook at things and swivel round, she appears more confident now and she responds really well without the bit.
I would be more than happy to endorse the bitless bridle and sing its praises to one and all.
Converted Val
Val, Aberystwyth - Sept 06
Update from Caroline
I contacted you a couple of months ago to say how pleased I was with my new bridle and you asked me if I had a photo of Bronwen wearing it. Apologies for the delay but I attach a photo of us enjoying ourselves at a local xc competition (I have asked permission to use the photo).
I am completely sold on this bridle, we have competed in it all summer and have been placed at xc, sj and working hunter classes, where the bridle arouses a lot of interest. Bronwen is really happy in it, and although she still has her nose net on practically all symptoms of her headshaking have disappeared.
Now I just want a leather version for the show ring. Top of my Christmas list!
Thank you - this bridle really has made a big difference to me and B.
Caroline, Bath - September 06
I thought you might like to hear about how well the bitless performs under stress. I bought a bitless bridle from you in April when I took delivery of my new horse, a 16.1 Trakehner mare who turned 4 last month. She was backed last year and ridden on in a bit before I bought her. I have been bringing her on slowly, hacking her out every day in the bitless without any problems and she has always been very well behaved, apart from the usual young horse playfulness, so the bitless bridle has never really been tested, until now….
I took her out earlier this week, on a very windy day, across the top of the South Downs. Our slow canter turned into a full-on bolt when my jacket started making flapping noises in the wind (I have never worn a jacket on her before). She went into a total panicked fight or flight response, going flat out with her head in the air, rolling her eyes back to try and find the flappy thing that was obviously in pursuit. We have never previously gone out of a slow canter so this was rather unsettling on many counts, to say the least! I found that pulling on both reins at the same time made not a jot of difference, so I let her head go completely for a few strides then started to pull alternately at the left and right rein whilst talking to her. She did start to listen to me and I was able to get her back to a walk after a fairly short stretch. She is quite fit and would have gone a long way before she would have been tired out (or tripped over something); she definitely stopped
because I asked her to.
I think that the fact that I was able to pull her up without inflicting any pain contributed to her apparent unconcern once we had stopped. She was not sweating or hotted up at all and I walked her for 100 metres or so then went into trot across the rest of the field without further incident. I have been riding for 40 years and had many horses take off with me but never before with a horse showing that degree of genuine fear. I was very impressed with how well the bitless worked and will continue to use it without any concern about its ability to get me out of any future ‘incidents’.
Melissa, Steyning - August 06
Hi, my name is Emma and I would like to tell you of my experiences of the bitless bridle. My horse ia a 15.2hh thoroughbred cross, and is extremely flighty and highly strung. Very few people would get on her with a gag in her mouth, so you can imagine their surprise when I turned up bitless!
Initally, Harmony threw her head about and I was unsure whether this was the right thing for her. However I persevered and she is better than ever in the jumping ring. She is still very fast, however she can now turn on a sixpence and her jumping technique is improving. We are affiliated and were having problems previous to using the Dr. Cooks.
Now she even jumps with her ears forwards, something she never did before, and doesn't snatch her head on landing.
I only have one minor problem with it - cross country. Put her in an open field and she is still a maniac! However I am happy to xc her in a bit as we don't do it very often, and do everything else in the bitless.I meet a lot opposition to my bitless bridle which is quite dissappointing. I find that many people in the horsey world don't like change or things that are different, and would rather be negative about it than just come and aske me about it!
We actually won a jumping class the other day, which I put down to her being happy in the bitless. I have included a picture of us jumping at Woolley show in the British Novice - with her ears forwards!
thanks
Emma, from Barnsley - August 06
When we first got our horse she bolted all the time and bucked for no reason. We knew she was locking her jaw against us but we only knew of the hackamore and because we did not know how to use one we would just cause pain.
We changed to a milder bit in case she thought it was too strong for her. It got slightly better but she still bolted and bucked. We then went to an equestran shop where we asked for advice about which bit to use and he told us about your bitless bridle.
My mum and I both thought it was a great idea because we had always hated the notion of putting a cold piece of metal in our horse's mouth and then pulling. We then got our new bridle and she has not bolted since and doesn't buck half as often. Thank you so much for making this bridle!! My mum and I were desperate and now our uncooperative horse is a complete angel.
Anon, SW England - August 06
i just wanted to write a short note to thank u for your patience with my order and let u know it was really worth the waiting: the bridle works great. i'm riding my mare with parelli training and i definitely feel this bridle is the appropiate solution both when u want a little more accuracy in arena figures (and your horse still isnt to the 3rd or 4th parelli level) and when u need a little more definite control in outdoor situations (rowdy groups, outdoor galloping in groups...). my mare is definitely happier without a bit in her mouth and her motion is much fluider. thank u so much for promoting such a great invention.
Gabriella, Italy - August 06
I have had a 15.2 TB gelding for the last three months. He was as good as gold when we tried him out and so calm. He arrived at our field a few days later and was introduced to the other geldings and we gave him a week to settle in before we started riding him.
We tacked him up and mounted him, he went beserk, jumping, pulling, trying to take off, unridable really. This happened on the few occasions we tried with him. Then he broke head collars lead ropes when he saw the bit (happy mouth) just impossible to tack up let alone ride.
I called the vet to get his teeth and back checked (he went beserk) he was sedated so heavily to be rasped but still she could not finish the job at the back. His teeth were in a right mess amd the back was all ulcerated. He went on bute for a week.
We then thought he would be fine but no, once again head collars and lead ropes snapped and it was getting dangerous, he just went into a mad panick.
He was terrified of the bit his breathing would start, veins standing out i was at my whits end.
My beautiful horse easy to catch, a pleasure to handle, gentle with chaildren and dogs but un-ridable or so i thought.
Enter the Dr Cooks bitless Bridle - UNBELIEVABLE - went beserk the first time he saw it, and the second but the third attempt calm and cool so we used it as a head collar to get him used to it during feeding.
To cut a long story short Bobby is like a different horse, when he feels weight on him he doesnt want to run away he just stands there relaxed and chilled. He walks to command (walk and trot) and will stop with a gentle pull and a voice command (wow).
I still have a lot of schooling to do with him and he is unfit but his life is so much better now he is actually enjoying it and so am I. I am sure the other girls girls in the field thought I was mad getting such a device for him, but the feedback is so important for other people with problems like i had, it was reading them that made me decide to purchase one and the 30 day money back offer. Well im not sending it back and everyone i have met cannot believe the change in him and im actually riding him without any fight in him whatsoever.
Thank you for giving me Bobby back.
Paula, Northampton - 22 August 06
hi sheila just a note to let you know how marnie went on in her first competition since we nealy lost her to pleuro-pneumonia in January.
we took her to a dressage competition held by Chapel and District Riding Club. what a lovely friendly group they are, and wonderful grounds. she was entered for the prelim 14 and novice 24, in for a penny in for a pound!!
Athene only got the test sheets the day before so was unable to practice the tests. Anyway Marnie was a star on the day, Athene didnt ask a lot of her, as she has only been back to ridden schooling exercises for a short time, ( it took a while to slowly bring her back into work, she was so poor after her illness).
She got two 5th places, with a score of 61.7% in the prelim, and 65.9% in the novice.
The judge of the novice wrote:-
"a very obedient horse who works well with you in a team. some stiffness in bends caused her to fall in and lower some marks, but well done with no bit!!"
the comments about the stiffness are quite correct, and we are still working on this, but gently. however, i think we need to explain to more people how easy horses are to ride in the Dr. Cooks, but athene says, " hey, if she thinks i did well, thats ok!!"
Soll and Ben couldnt go as soll had a touch of colic, and they didnt want to travel ben alone, but they are booked in for the next one - both bitless.
Margarets horse turbo is a different horse altogether in the BB, he no longer jogs all the way home, he walks with a better stride than he has ever had, and he doesn't mind being behind others when we go for a gallop, unheard of in his bitted past!!!
Pat, Glossop, Derbyshire - August 06 (Pat was appointed as a BBI in 2007- more about BBIs)
Pat also wrote the following, in answer to Carol "Do you have any dressage instructors in your list of converts ?"
In answer to Carol from Hereford, I am an instructor and teach people and equines who participate in all kinds of activities. Many have now gone bitless, and are finding their horsey partners are much happier, both in general and in performance. They have no problems in working 'through, in an outline', however, this should not depend on the bit / bridle but on the horses ability, conformation, and fitness to perform. (Some of the 'Naturally trained' horses are ridden in high school movements, without bridle or saddle, beautifully.) Unfortunately this is one of the many areas where their is confusion over the use of the bit, often due, I think to the terms used, such as ' working on, or to, the bit'.
It is still necessary to obtain the permission of the show/competition organiser, to enter in a bitless, silly I know, but I don't know of anyone who has been turned away yet, and if they do say no, ask to enter non-competitively [HC], this will show the bridle off, gain interest, and show how well the horse works with it. It is often difficult to persuade people of the advantages of the BB, esp. if they compete, and some instructors are so very closed minded about anything that is not 'traditional', that you feel like screaming, but if we can all show others by example, like Carol has done, then things can only get better.
Pat
Pat may be contacted via Sheila at Bitless Bridle UK and is available for bitless instruction in the Glossop area, Derbyshire / Cheshire borders.
Not sure when I last wrote to you but every time I go for a hack on dear little Sifwa I thank you for my bitless bridle! He is getting braver but today he was quite spooky however if he decides to spin I can stop him right away. I hack out by myself now (I think I told you I wouldn't even get on last year) the bitless bridle seems to suit him well because when he gets jumpy or suddenly thinks he can't cope and turns to flee I can stop him calmly and quickly, then he just stands still, gets his confidence and off we go. It is not relaxing but I know I can do all the "scarey" object training I like at home, it is being alone in an unfamiliar place that my horse finds so hard, I know I just need to ride him more. I tell everyone how wonderful your bridle is and that I feel so much safer with him in the Dr Cook bridle than with a bit but they are unconvinced, it is such a shame because I am sure horses prefer it.
This message sounds like my horse is a nut case, he is actually pretty good in company now but still lacks confidence when we are alone. I know it will come with practice and it is so good for me, our problems in the past were because we were both scared. Now I can take control and Sifwa is actually very calm and sensible if I just understand his fears, give him time to get brave and let him walk forward by himself. I know every time we go out on rides he is learning independence, I just wish I could do more rides. I also ride 2 Arab mares in the bridle but not as often as I should.
If you remember you suggested I contact charlie Girdlestone, she has been trimming the horses since October and my mare with problem feet is much improved, thanks.
Liz, Horsham - August 06 (bridle purchased October 04)
Thank you. As promised, the bitless bridle arrived this morning. I was pleasantly surprised at how well made, soft and beautiful it is. If I may, I would like to give you some back ground on us so you have a better understanding of why I have ordered it.
I bought my pride and joy Arab, Athalon 18 months ago as an unruly 2 year old colt. I worked at the farm where he was bred and fell in love with him the day he was born. I only dreamed one day he could be mine, and after 20 odd years of loan horses and riding other peoples troubled horses (that no-one else wanted to ride), I put in a bid and actually became the proud owner. He had run free with 8-9 other colts up to this point and was quite a handful, but I persevered and after he was castrated, he began to settle a little.Unfortunately some 6 months after buying him, I hit very hard times and had to relocate from Devon to Suffolk. There was no way I was giving up my boy and so he came with me. I struggled on with him without the support of my riding friends and family who we had left behind in Devon. Needless to say, trying to break a 3 year old single handed, with no schooling facilities or company of other horses (he lived alone) was very difficult for both of us and my confidence began to fade. Athalon tried really hard for me, but the more my confidence went, the worse the combination of a green horse and confidentless rider became. I sent him away for a month to a recommended horse trainer, which cost me a small fortune and got us no further forward. I then turned him away for 6 months whilst I considered my options.
Selling him on has always appeared the most sensible thing to do, but we have a bond and I felt (and still do feel) a sense of obligation to him now. I could not be 100% sure of where he might end up and how he could be treated, so selling is not a real option. So earlier this year, I went to look at a different training yard that was closer to home so I could be very much involved in his training. I went to assist the work with him 3 - 4 days a week under the careful eye of the great trainers who have encouraged us and helped us get over this hurdle. After 6 weeks, and the money running out, I brought him home. We go out riding and he is much better and more confident than last year, but something doesn't feel right. We go for lessons once a week, but I can feel that he is not happy, so progressing onto the next level of schooling, which for us now is cantering is feeling more and more daunting.
He constantly chews on his bit and throws his head up with the slightest contact on his bit. I have been told I am too heavy handed with him, but his reaction is very severe and very unnerving and I am not a complete novice and can feel how much pressure I am applying and would not expect quite such a reaction. I am convinced it is his bit that is holding him back. I looked through books on bitting and alternatives and was horrified at some of the suggestions. I felt, that if my heavy handedness was part of the problem, then I should consider giving up riding him altogether rather than keep putting Athalon through this torture and torment every time I ride him. I was again googling for solutions when I came across the Dr Cook website. After reading all the information and other peoples experiences, I knew I had to try this bridle.
My youngster hasn't been ridden since Sunday, when my visiting instructor friend insisted (to my disapproval) of putting the flash band on him to ensure he closed his mouth and listened to instruction. as he was constantly fighting him and throwing his head around. I have to say, Athalon absolutely paid attention and schooled in a near perfect circle and was very obedient, but looked totally unhappy, under duress and totally unnatural. As I said, I would rather not ride him at all than ride him under those conditions. I had already pre-booked a lesson tonight and have forewarned my instructor, that I am coming with a new bitless bridle. He sounded quite skeptical, but is open minded enough to agree to have a look and give me a lesson in it. I can't tell you how excited I am to try it out. I have printed off lots of literature about it to give my instructor so he has the same information that I do.
I will let you know tomorrow how it all went.
Next Day
The 2 instructors were ready and waiting to see what I had found. Initially, as I tacked him up, there was of course the comments about the pressure behind the poll with bit less bridles, and the pressure of the action of bit less nose bands etc, but as I started to explain how it works and we pulled and pushed (with Athalon standing quietly) various parts to see how it all worked, the doubts were becoming fewer and fewer. They too liked how it looked, and could see how gentle it is.
My instructor was doubtful about the brakes, but was the first to try Athalon out in it. After riding in it, the instructor felt that the brakes were as good if not better, and could feel the turning coming, but understandably, said Athalon would need a little time to adjust to the new command language for turning. Then it was my turn. The real driving force for me, was to be able to ride my horse without guilt or fear that I was hurting him. I felt so much more confident using the BB and had a much more enjoyable lesson, and could really feel the difference in Athalon. Interestingly, he threw his head a little to begin with (when the instructor was riding him) and I believe he was looking for the bit to resist against, but once he realised there was nothing there to hurt him, he went on nicely.
He still dropped his head down to his knees when I began to work him a little harder, but hopefully this will improve as his muscles get stronger (he is only 4). The biggest thing I noticed was after we had finished, and the instructor and I stood in the middle of the school debating this bridle for quite some time, instead of him trying to rub against something (usually me) and lunging his head forward to get his reins, and fidgeting like a toddler who is bored, he stood so quietly like he didn't have a care in the world. Another habit he had was after every time I asked him to halt, he would want to scratch his nose on his knees, which he didn't do once last night! Usually, when I take the saddle off him, there are a couple of sweat patches, (he is quite fit) but yesterday, he showed no signs of any work out at all, which again leads me to believe that a lot of his energy was spent fighting and figuring out the big lump of metal in his mouth. The bridle got the thumbs up from the instructors, and at their request, I left them with all the literature I had printed off about it. Unfortunately, I didn't get the attachment you kindly sent until this morning. But I did take the fitting instructions with me.
One question I have, is that when I fitted the bridle in accordance with the booklet, the instructor felt it should go up 1/2 inch as he felt it would interfere with the horses breathing where I had it should I do fast work? He mentioned that I should be mindful that there is an extra nasal flap in Arabs which is why they are able to flare their nostrils so much. I had it sat just below the premaxillary notch which I could clearly feel under my finger. They raised it to sit just above this. I have to say that I had the benefit of reading the literature before hand (which they did not), but being the the wimp that I am, I didn't insist it stayed where I had put it, may be you could just clarify this for me. [The attachment sent to Ruth was THE ‘WHY,’ ‘WHAT’ AND ‘HOW’ OF FITTING THE CROSSOVER BITLESS BRIDLE in which Dr Cook explains clearly the anatomy of the horse's face and why the noseband, when positioned as recommended, cannot possibly interfere with the horse's breathing - you may download the article here in pdf format]
I am going out on a hack with a friend tonight and have no fears of using his new bridle. I hope and am sure that we will go from strength to strength with my new found confidence.
Ruth, Ipswich - August 06
I am very pleased with the bridle. The change in attitude is very big. I bought the bridle for my Welch Cob but I am riding my pinto mare now with the bridle. She was always very difficult with pinned ears and always saying NO !
Now she is very willing. I never had problems with a bit but I did not realize how much it must have hurt her! Even with the Parelli halter I didn't see such a big change and I didn't trust her with only the halter.
I will never ride with a bit again!
Linda, Antwerp, Belgium - July 06
Many thanks for sending my draft horse size bitless bridle so quickly.
What a change it has made to Henry!! He was always ridden previously in an English Hackamore, but he is a much happier horse and far more relaxed since he has been using his new bitless bridle.
It is a truly fantastic product. Henry is gaining in confidence every day, is much lighter on the forehand and developing a nice outline.
Many thanks again
Sarah Watson & Henry, Somerset - July 06
I've had my Dr Cook bridle for nearly a month now and I certainly won't be returning it! Rose my Arab mare is so much more relaxed and happier in it.
She was never happy with any contact on her mouth. Going into canter I had to drop the reins or she would get silly, tossing her head. Even standing at, for instance a road junction, her head would be poked in the air,mouth open and fidgeting about generally.
She had a French link snaffle which was the best bit I'd tried on her but I knew she wasn't comfortable or quite happy. When I used to put her bridle on she'd open her mouth and draw her tongue back and pull faces! Now she stands half asleep while I tack up and I'm sure she's smiling! We can now canter calmly round the stubble fields no stress and trotting much more relaxed.
We did a pleasure ride last week a good test, she went so well. I only wish I'd found this bridle sooner as her whole attitude has changed for the better. At first she wasn't keen on the snug noseband, she didn't wear one before, so I have it a bit looser than it maybe should be but she never gets strong so it's fine like that. I've put sheepskin round noseband too, but now the leather is softer I'll take it off. I've always had a super little horse but now she's even better, even whinnies when I bring her tack,she just loves to go out!
Thank you so much for an amazing bridle.
Jackie, Thirsk, N Yorks - July 06
i have recently gone bitless with the dr cook bitless bridle and just wanted to come on and say that this is the best single peice of equipment i have ever purchased for my horse and thank you to the developers and suppliers of this nifty piece of kit.
i have always had serious problems with my horse and the bit, he has always been very evasive when being tacked up and indeed used to run to the back of the stable with his head held high in the air and would start panicking just at the sight of the bridle coming. if i could finally get the bridle on him and get on his back he was a nightmare. always panick stricken and tense and would grind his teeth constantly until i got off him. riding him was a nightmare as he was extremely tense and highly strung. hacks were tortuous as all he wanted to do was gallop home.
i attempted allsorts of different bits including going down the vulcanite and happy mouth roads which helped a little but not much.
at the start of the year i started to consider going bitless and was looking into hackamores which ive always looked upon as torture instruments, but this was my final option, either that or ride in a headcollar for the rest of his life! then a friend came to me and suggested i have a look at this new type of bridle that was only on the internet. i had a look and was impressed, it was just what i was looking for so i placed my order and impressivly it arrived 2 days later. i went straight to the yard and introduced my horse to it, he had a sniff and done the usual back of the stable, head up routine. i went in and got it on him took him out and had probably one of the most exciting rides ever! he bucked, reared, jumped around like a lunatic and after a few minutes settled down to a lovely pace at trot. i couldnt believe it there wasn't even any teeth grinding! the next day i came up and went to put it on him, there were no struggles, no running to the back of the stable and no head up in the air, he just stood there until i got it on, total success!
that was in february and i have since had no trouble with it or him, we regularly school and hack and often do a bit of jumping now as well.
my experience with this bridle has led me to state that so long as a horse is free from pain or injury i will be happy to get on any animal with this bridle to show its true potential. i have since had about 15 other owners aproach me and borrow the bridle to try their horses in it, about a dozen of these i rode myself first. with the exception of 2 all said that their horse went better in it. some substantially so and some less so, but they all saw an improvement. the 2 that didnt see an improvement had smaller horses and meant the bridle didnt fit properly and both said they'd like to try with a properly fitting bridle.
Donny, Cumbernauld - July 06
[Donny can be contacted via the Nagtrader Forum]
I've tried the bitless bridle on my 15.2hh Arab cross and his walk to trot transition was much improved - previously he used to buck every time no matter who was riding him. Admittedly he did buck as usual the first time as I think he was expecting the discomfort but the more transitions I did the more relaxed he got, and no more bucking. He has also stopped trying to turn and bite my feet and head-shaking so the bitless bridle has definitely made him a happier horse (and me a happier rider!). I have been suffering with a back problem recently so haven't been riding much and have been a bit tense in the saddle but the BB gave me more confidence as he wasn't so tetchy and was less likely to buck.
I've also long-reined the Shetland using a small noseband and she behaved brilliantly once she realised she could move as it was also the first time she'd had her full harness on!
I've definitely been converted and will recommend it to friends.
Alison, Bourne, Lincs - July 06
I recently bought the western bitless bridle from you and I have to say I am delighted! I have three horses at the moment, one a friend's I am looking after who is 20yrs old and has always been a 'pulling' jigger and quite a tiring ride. This improved when we started using my treeless saddle last year and now in the bitless bridle she is fantastic, relaxed and easy going.
It also fits my very green cob who has never been happy with a bit and is now forward going and confident and I have introduced it to my youngster who has taken to it really well. As she has all her teeth coming through it has to be better than putting a piece of metal in as well!!
Lynette, Abermule, Montgomery - July 06
Bitless Bridle - one year on
I purchased one of your bridles almost a year ago and noticed an immediate improvement in my mare's attitude and performance. One year on and we're now doing things I could only have dreamed of prior to going bitless. Previously her behavioural problems were so bad we rarely made it off the yard as I simply refused to take her anywhere.
Here we are after a 9-mile charity pleasure ride we did a fortnight ago (Megan is actually smiling for the camera!). We got some very funny looks from the other participants as almost everyone else had deliberately put stronger bits on their horses for the event. Control was never an issue for us and Megan really enjoyed herself and was completely relaxed the whole time. We raised £175 for the Brooke Hospital for Animals.
Last weekend I took her to her very first show and we came 2nd in our Dressage class. These particular show organisers promote natural horsemanship and actually banned the use of whips and spurs at their show, therefore riding bitless was no problem and was positively encouraged.
I'd just like to confirm that we gallop whenever possible (because it's fun) and brakes have never been an issue with this bridle. I only need to think stop and shift my body weight to get the desired response.
I no longer jump (due to a previous injury), but a friend of mine jumps Megan for me on a semi-regular basis. She uses herself much more confidently over jumps than when she was bitted, hence her jump has become increasingly bigger and bolder. In addition to show-jumping, my friend has done XC with her bitless. My friend has never ridden bitless before and thinks it's great.
Susan Deans, Aberdeen - July 06
Going Bitless
I recommend it to anyone still hesitating. My horse stands perfectly still to have the Bitless Bridle slipped over his ears. Out riding he listens to my body and hands and communication is much improved. Riding past the 'dreaded pigs' last week it was clear that he is concentrating more and that he seems to find it easier to overcome his nervousness without the irritation of a bit in his mouth. My rein contact is also more consistent.
'Bitless' appealed to me for some time but I talked myself out of it with 'if it isn't broke don't fix it', as Pallo was never a problem to tack up or ride, but now his whole behaviour is saying: " Thanks, that feels much better"
Marianne Tims
Congham, Kings Lynn - June 2006
A while a go I emailed you asking for advice on whether a Dr Cooks would be suitable for my mare and I just thought you might like to know how we've got on with it. I've had my beta bridle for about two weeks now and I am really pleased with how she's responded to it. She is now completely happy with the contact, working in an outline happily in walk and trot (instead of the usual tense neck and poking nose), our canter work is even getting better too (always our worst pace). Her headshaking seems vastly improved too although I am still riding in her nose net at the moment.
I had hoped for an improvement in the two points above but the difference that I wasn't expecting and that I'm most amazed by is the change in her attitude. She was always a really spooky and nervous mare, hacking out was always a trial as she was always so tense - expecting a monster around every corner. Now her attitude couldn't be more different, I took her out yesterday and she seemed genuinely happy to be out - really striding out (away from home rather than just towards it as in the past) and hardly spooked at anything, only having a bit of a close look at a couple of things and not doing any of the vertical leaps she used to do at every piece of string in the hedge. My saddler came up yesterday and was very interested in the bridle, commenting on how well she worked in it and on how she seemed a lot more friendly than last time he saw her.
I just wondered if anyone else has commented on this? I have to say that so far this bridle really has surpassed my expectations, and then some!
Caroline, Bath - June 2006
i bought my bitless about 2 weeks ago,rebel throws his head around and i have difficulty stopping him using a bit so tried in an english hackamore,he didnt even know i was trying to stop him in it,so a german hackamore was tried and it did stop him out hacking,my friend and i decided to do some long distance rides which we all love doing but rebel gets very forward going on them,its hard keeping him to the pace id like him to go at,and once he reared with me,on another ride he pulled that much the shanks rubbed his cheeks.
i love reb and decided to look for an alternative so after trawling the net for a few weeks i found the dr cooks bitless bridle,i must say looking at it on reb everyone in the livery yard thought i was mental taking him out hacking in it (so did i) but wowee he actually responds better in it, he seems more relaxd in it to the point even his trots not at racing pace, although if he gets exited it does speed up but only twice did i feel id lost control but using the give pull he came back under control although gave a coupla bucks to show he didnt like the idea,ive also jumped him over small fences in it and he turns great in it.
yesterday i did a pleasure ride in it,was very tempted to swap to the hackamore for it but stuck to the bitless,i was worried about doing a 14 miler in it as he really is a nightmare to ride with strange horses but although he wasnt an angel he settled quite quick and didnt freak out at strange horses passing,we parked up right near the paintball bit so all we heard was the popping of guns,so i used it to tie him up and after 5 minutes hed settled enough to eat which suprised me as he never eats from leaving yard to arriving back,he was a pleasure to ride and he was obviously so much more relaxed.
im so glad i bought your bridle and put my horses welfare and mine in your hands.big thanks to dr cook from rebel and i.
Mandy, Castleford, W Yorkshire - June 2006
Just wanted to drop you a line to let you know how disapointed my daughter is in the bitless bridle I recently bought. Her superfast (beat the speed cameras in trot) pony has turned into a steady Eddie overnight, needless to say I am delighted (an so is she really!). Lucy is a 13.2 cob who is about 20 and who was rather abused in her last home by teenagers over jumping and over galloping her. As a result Lucy thought that everyone wanted her to go as fast as she possibly could at all paces. She had absolutely no bend making corners extremely precarious, and would jump a trotting pole on the ground at top wing level.
I only got the bitless for Lucy as the noseband size I needed for my other pony was out of stock but I didnt want to wait so thought I would give Lucy a go (thinking that her current troubles were from her past experiences). Our first thoughts on Lucy and the bridle were -'well she's no harder to stop and she does look happier'. Since then (4 days and about 5 riding hours) Lucy has made massive improvements in all areas. Her trot has slowed to within acceptable limits and for the first time she is beginning to understand the principle of a half halt, she is developing a bend and is cantering in a straight line( as opposed to sideways). She is also happy to trot over a trotting pole even if its on the first hole. My daughter even rode with another horse last night and managed to keep Lucy quite steady (a definate no-no before).
Getting Lucy to go steady across a piece of tarpaulin would have been impossible bitted but after a bit of 'should I shouldn't I' she just plodded across as you can see from the photograph.
I wouldn't send this bridle back even if you paid me and my only regret is taking a couple of months to decide whether or not I should get one. Oh I almost forgot Lucy has stopped sticking her head in the air to be bridled - she still opens her mouth when I take it off but I guess some habbits die hard.
I cant wait for my noseband for the little pony - his problems are a bit more serious as he refuses to go forward and will rear if pushed but I now have every faith in the bitless and will let you know how I get on.
Many thanks from me, my daughter and most of all Lucy.
Tracy, Cumbria - June 06
I am getting on really well with both bridle and saddle thanks! The saddle is very comfortable and i have done a three day trek on it with no problems. The bridle gives me as much control as with a bit, plus the added bonus that Guapo can stuff his face with grass everytime we stop! I have introduced him to jumping in the bitless bridle - open field, cross country course, 16hh four year old! He bucked around a bit but i never felt out of control.
Emily, Shropshire - June 06
Well you've definitely got another convert !
I tacked up in 5 minutes last night - unheard of. Beau did not put his head in the air once, even when I put the reins over his head to begin with - that used to tense him up and then the head would go up and he'd clamp his mouth tight shut, but not a sign of it.
We had a short lesson with a friend whose an AI and very into dressage, and it was interesting for her because she's never seen bitless, so it's a bit of a learning curve as regards giving a little tweek to ask to come on the bit !!!! However, he did seem to understand and taking up a contact did not cause an issue either. He was relaxed the whole time and I was dead chuffed.
Do you have any dressage instructors in your list of converts ? I imagine it's as controversial as driving bitless - how do you communicate with the horse if you've got no bit to communicate with ? I'm really looking forward to this summer and finding out - and I think Beau is going to enjoy it as well.
Carol, Hereford - May 06
Just thought I'd drop you a line with some feedback. We bought a western style bridle with soft [rope] reins from you almost 2 weeks ago, for my rising 4 arab gelding.
It arrived early the next day, and I was amazed at how lovely it looks - the internet doesn't do it justice!
We took him out on the saturday, and my mum was honoured with the first try. She's only ridden him once before, so it was a test for both of them and the bridle, but they had no problems at all. Jack took to it like a duck to water, and they had steering and brakes immediately. Much more subtle and responsive steering than the natural hackamore we were using.
And it looks rather snazzy too, attached are some pics of a very relaxed and happy boy. I think the noseband is too high in the pics, I've dropped it a hole, and need to tighten it, but we like it!
The only minor complaints I have are that the reins don't look very smart, compared with the beautiful bridle - they are very comfy and so are staying, but if you were bothered about 'matching', they don't work very well. [matching split western reins are available] And the other thing is, when the straps come through the rings on the noseband, then 'turn back' to attach to the reins, the leather doesn't match the rest, as it's the underside you can see. Not sure what you could do about this, except maybe use rolled leather for that section? It might help to reduce any friction so releasing pressure sooner as well....just a thought!
Overall, we are very happy, and will definitely recommend it to anyone who'll listen. My mum is almost a bitless bridle convert now!
Thank you for all your help.
Kelly, Bradford - April 06
Bitless Bridle UK's reply to Kelly:
Regarding the reins - most people feel that the rope reins look good with the Western style bridles, but obviously it's a matter of personal taste. We do have the matching split leather reins, but unless you are an accomplished Western rider, you sometimes end up with a lot of spaghetti!
Regarding the underside of the leather showing on the crossovers after they have passed through the O rings - this is the same with all the leather bridles and people just accept that that is how it is! Once the leather is worn in a bit, the difference between the topside and the underside is not so marked, but I know what you mean. We have in the past considered rolled leather for the crossovers, but it is not so strong as flat leather especially for such an important part of the bridle. The friction where the leather passes through the O rings would probably cause the stitching of rolled leather to wear quite quickly too.
On the question of release: it may seem that the BB is slow to release perhaps because you see little or no movement in the crossover straps at the level of the 'O' ring on the noseband. But a lack of movement (there is little in the first place... the "O" ring does not function like a pulley system) does not mean that there is no release of pressure. This is very easy to test. Simply stand by your horse's head and place the fingers of your left hand under the crossover strap as it passes up the side of the cheek on the left side of your horse. Now, with your right hand, apply tension and release to the reins. You will find that the bridle produces a convincing squeeze and release. The same 'release' can be detected at the poll, across the nose, and under the chin. In fact, though release is imperative with the bitted bridle, because pain has been caused in the first instance, there is not the same need to be concerned about release with the Bitless Bridle as no pain is caused. Nevertheless, be assured that 'release' does occur.
Just had to write to tell you that we have ridden both horses three times in their new bridles, and already I have noticed a considerable difference in my own horse. I was actually able to tack him up outside his stable today as he no longer runs away from me and he was so calm. His dressage work is more active as he is no longer afraid of his bit and will use his full power to produce the correct outline. He has not sweated up at all on either of the times he has been schooled and usually he looks as though he's been round Badminton after half an hour. He no longer hesitates, continually needing to go for a poo, in fact he hasn't been during schooling at all and today I knew I had a really happy horse to ride. I am able to untack him outside as well with no panicking about the bit dropping from his mouth. He is not as nappy either, and is so much more willing for everything. He is quite content to canter around the field without breaking into trot, or even feeling as though he is going to. I can't believe the difference and I am so sorry for him that I took so long to give him what he wanted.
My daughter trusted her bridle enough after one ride to school her pony bareback yesterday and he went beautifully, really working from behind and bringing his hind legs under him. We tested her brakes on Friday as she assumed he would be harder to stop. I trotted across a large field towards home and she waited until we were nearly across and then put her own pony into canter. She did say she'd never gone so fast, but crucially admitted that she could stop him! I hope I have managed to sell her on it, but the crunch will come next weekend as we have a hunter trials. Wish me luck and thank you a million times. I will send some pics soon.
Cheryl, Turriff Aberdeenshire - April 06
I love bitless bridles! I am 11 and my pony used to be really GRUMPY in her bit but when we got the bitless it was like she was a different pony.
from Megan
Megan, Yorkshire - March 06
Bridle arrived yesterday, many thanks. Couldn't resist urge to run out and try straight away. I'M COMLETELY SOLD ON IT!
My first try left me confident enough after only 10 mins in the school (testing for braking and steering,) to head out for a long hack. As I say, more to follow but I have never felt my horse's back move like that, or seen her in true self-carriage with all the CORRECT muscles evidently being utilised with nothing more than the true use of my seat and leg aids. I can't claim to read my horse's mind, but I certainly felt that I was riding a horse that was sighing with relief (she actually kept on sighing while we hacked!), and was happy to be ridden. Blah, Could go on for hours!
I will write further about all the things I felt / discovered with her in the bitless bridle.
Elizabeth, Fintry, Stirlingshire - March 06
Just a line to say how pleased I am with my mares bridle.
The difference was almost instant! although I considered myself a sensitive rider it seems now all I have to do is "think" and she responds.
I am about to start a new endurance season (my mare is advanced level) and am looking forwards to a freer moving horse, will let you know how she does.
Linda, Wrecsam, North Wales - February 06
I felt I just had to write to let you know how I got on since riding my mare in a bitless bridle. It’s only been a week, yet the difference in Rose is totally amazing and there is no way I’ll be sending this bridle back! We haven’t yet solved one of our problems, but numerous others have totally disappeared. I had hoped for some improvements, but I never dreamt the result would be as good as they are, particularly in such a short space of time.
Since last summer Rose had been doing frequent dead stops from trot and canter with no obvious cause. Each time she slammed the brakes on she would either tuck her nose into her chest, or more commonly, raise her head, tilt it on one side whilst frantically moving her tongue about. Rose’s tongue would be bunched up behind the bit, saliva would hang out of her mouth and she was tense and unhappy.
Thorough checks by the vet and physio couldn’t shed any light on the problem and they gave her a clean bill of health. Her teeth and tack were fine, she looked in great condition and at rest she exhibited no symptoms. It was so frustrating that no-one could find the cause of the problem or suggest anything that could help.
Rose does have a pollen allergy and riding her in a face mask and nose net did help a bit, but even once the winter set in, we were still having problems.
The stops from trot and canter weren’t as frequent so I was able to do more with her, but Rose still wasn’t happy. She yawned when I went to put the bridle on; she kept putting her head on the side, frantically moving her tongue about, she was very difficult to turn as she’d put her head on the side and resist, and her tongue had been constantly protruding for a couple of months.
She’d always gone so well in the French link snaffle, but something had changed and the bit was distressing her.
I read up on the Dr Cook bridle and it sounded like just what we needed. The moneyback guarantee was also enticing as it meant I wouldn’t waste a lot of money if it didn’t help.
One lady at the yard thought I was mad for hacking out with no bit, and I’m sure she had visions of me being dumped and Rose bolting back to the yard. But I was confident I would have no control problems, after reading about other people’s experiences.
We duly set off out on a familiar hacking route, and I was soon grinning from ear to ear! Rose felt so incredibly balanced and light as she was no longer on the forehand and for the first time in months she was totally relaxed and happy. There was no tongue protruding, no raised head or frantically moving her tongue about. Stopping was no problem and turning was amazing as Rose turned with only the lightest of pressure and there was no head tilting or resistance. Canter was a problem for a couple of days, as Rose stopped if I asked her to go on, but now she is much more willing and the feel she gives is amazing. We seem to float along and we cover the same routes quicker than usual, thanks to Rose’s new relaxed flowing stride.
I can’t believe what a massive improvement there has been, and our only remaining problem is still the dead stops from canter. These still happen very frequently, but at least Rose doesn’t tuck her head in or throw it on the side frantically moving her tongue about. In fact I’m now beginning to wonder if it’s a habit she’s got into, and that once she realises she can now swallow happily etc, she won’t feel the need to stop. [Suggested Julie tries stopping Rose before she stops of her own accord, to try and break the habit.]
Apart from this problem, Rose is now going so beautifully and it is thrilling to have her feeling so relaxed, happy and keen to hack out. I never would have thought a bit could cause so many problems, but I only have to look at my happy little horse to see how much good going bitless has done for her. Even people we meet out on our hacks have noticed that there is no longer a tongue sticking out of her mouth!
I’m now looking forward to the weeks and months ahead, and I would thoroughly recommend this bridle to anyone having problems with their horse. It has certainly done wonders for us.
Julie, King’s Lynn, Norfolk – Jan 06
I bought my Beta Dr Cooks in August last year and I love it. I use it on three horses and they all go well in it and have good brakes!
My little mare was a terrible headshaker and this has virtually stopped since using the Dr Cooks. Another great benefit of beta is it always looks good and is so easy to maintain! This is Sophie wearing hers.
Amanda, North Yorkshire - Jan 06
Here is an update of how we’re getting on with the Bitless Bridle (bb) now that we’ve had it for quite a while and bought a second for our other horse who is a REAL handful, young, stubborn & very very strong.
My horse has really taken to it and I don’t think I’ll ever go back to using bits again, there just doesn’t seem to be much point! He does every thing with this bb just as well or even better as when he’s in a bitted bridle.
Our other horse Cannon (by name & nature) is also beginning to learn to be a calmer horse whilst being ridden in it. We know that there will never be a piece of tack that will be the miracle all horse owners hope to find but it is allowing us to tackle his attitude without making it any worse by continually jabbing him in the mouth with a bit, we have DEFINITELY got as much control using the bb as we did using a bitted bridle. We rode him out for 3 ½ hours today and my girlfriend was totally gob smacked at how well he was behaving (relatively speaking), we think this bridle has given us a real tool to work with, infact it has so impressed us we’ve decided to go barefoot & treeless to see if that will also help with his wilfulness and we’re convinced it will.
This piece of tack is a real help & if it helps Cannon it will help most horses. To reiterate what I said in my first feedback note, it really gives you a massive feel good factor knowing that your schooling your horse without hurting him.
Terry, Walsall, West Midlands - Jan 06
I have recently bought a cob, rising 3, broken in very young and possibly a bit heavy-handedly. Although I won't be riding him much for the next few months I still need to take him about in hand and maybe have very short rides so he doesn't forget everything.
I bought him with the tack he was wearing when I tried him - an eggbutt snaffle (with rubber bit protectors for some reason) and a running martingale. This last I especially couldn't understand as he went with his head down. I never used it. But it was obvious that he hated the bit - fiddling and fussing all the time, and raising his head when I bridled him. You notice these things far more on your own horse than on a riding school horse.
I've bought a Dr. Cook's. After the first time, when he realised he wasn't going to have anything in his mouth, he stopped raising his head when being bridled. The only time I've ridden him so far we were following a younger, excitable horse and my risk assessment was that we weren't safe, so I asked my horse to stop so we could go home. He stopped whenever I asked him, even though he wanted to follow the others, and turned for home with no objections. This demonstrated that not having a bit does not mean not having control; if I have a problem with steering or stopping it will be from some other cause (like my own riding). I'm so glad to have this opportunity to start him off pain- and fear-free right from the beginning. Incidentally he also arrived with shoes, which I immediately had removed, and he goes much better without those, too.
Jill, Wrexham - December 05
Buffy is my homebred, 4 year old part bred appaloossa. I've been riding her in the Dr Cook's for a few months now.
I suppose what I like about the Dr Cook's is that it allows me to get through Buffy's attitude with will alone, not pain. She has attitude to spare (her antics include foot stamping and biting my leg when asked to do something she doesn't want to do) but she is also very capable and with patience will make me a lovely horse. Using the Dr Cook's bridle I can be in control and in charge without causing her any pain.
Buffy goes with a much steadier head in the Dr Cook's compared to how she used to go with a bit, I have also found it easier to control her speed within gaits and achie
