In Person Bit and Bridle Consultation:

​

Katie works with horses and riders to select a bit and bridle that is comfortable and fits properly. This begins with an assessment of the current bit and bridle, then an examination of the horse's facial structures, as well as the way the horse goes under saddle, and any training challenges that are apparent.  

​

She will then assess the shape of the palate, the size of the tongue, look for any bruising or sores in the mouth (In a recent Danish Dressage Championship, almost 50% of the horses were found to have evidence of mouth damage). After assessing horse's head and mouth conformation,  and watching it be tacked up, the horse will be ridden in its normal bit and bridle.

 During the ridden assessment, Katie looks for clues as to whether the horse is comfortable or uncomfortable, for example, unsteadiness in the contact, head tossing, short stride, lack of engagement of the hindquarters, being above or behind the bit, etc. ​

The next step is trying a selection of bits and bridles, and finding the one that fit the horse and help it be most accepting of the rider's influence.  

Katie uses Neue Schule, Bombers, Fager,  and Herm Sprenger bits. She carries a limited selection of Bombers bits for clients, as lead times on Bombers bits can be quite long. The other manufacturer's bits are generally easy to purchase online and have within a week. 

Reach out to schedule a bit and bridle fitting session or clinic

​

​

Online Consultation:

​

The online consultation process is similar to the in-person process, and can be done live, with video conferencing, or if the internet connection or cell service doesn't permit a live version, Katie can work with photos, videos, and a history to make solid recommendations!

​

What's needed for an online consultation?

1)Photo of the inside of the horse's mouth with its current bit

2) Photo showing the horse wearing current bit and bridle

3) Short video of horse under saddle showing the challenges the horse/rider team is working on

​

​