When?

When is the right time to call a bit fitter?

A lot of riders call the bit fitter when they are having contact issues, and rightly so. Any unsteadiness, fighting, pulling, sucking back, gaping open, tongue evasions and so on, can certainly be helped by finding the right Bit for your horse.

When you purchase a new horse, along with saddle fittings, shoeing, physio etc, it is also a good time to get a Bit Fitting done so you can start your journey off well, giving the horse the opportunity to be the best it can be.

Where?

I can do the fittings from my base, Pohangina (10 minutes North of Ashhurst), we have a large all weather arena suitable for both flat work and jumping.

Travelling is also an option at a cost, multiple fittings in one area will work out to a subsidised travel fee.. Travelling costs will be discussed prior to consultations to avoid surprises!

Doing clinics and travelling is certainly also on the cards, get in touch if you have an area you would like me to come to.

Why?
Bit fittings are still new to the equestrian world, however they serve a very important role for the horses welfare. Horses went without fittings for a long time, this doesn't mean they didn't feel uncomfortable, horses can be very resilient!
Physical trauma to the mouth can include rubbing on the corners, split lips, damaged tongue, nerve pain, and so on, all can be easily avoided and healed with a correctly fitted bit.
Anatomy of the mouth is also be a big contributor to the finding the right fitting bit, certain features such as fleshy tongue, low palate, short lips, etc will make for a very uncomfortable experience if ridden in the wrong fitting Bit.