MULETALK PODCAST – A BIT ABOUT COMMUNICATION – ACHIEVING BALANCE & HARMONY

MEREDITH HODGES - LUCKY THREE RANCH

• Different types of bits and the metals used to develop in

equine bits

· Snaffle bits and the different types that are recommended to

use on your mule or donkey

· Curb/leverage bits used in Western riding

· The difference between a curb bit and a snaffle bit

· Bridles and headstalls for your mule/donkey

· Learning to go forward in the beginning of your equine’s

training in a snaffle bridle is paramount to properly

developing his body

· He will learn to carry a rider in a strong and solid frame and

in good equine posture

· The forward training teaches him to stretch his head and

neck forward, to step well underneath his body to propel

himself forward

· Elongate his overall frame to keep the vertebrae in his back

from becoming compressed and rigid

· When he is moving correctly in a straight line, he will have

more suspension and flexibility to his gait

· When he turns, he will be able to bend easily through his rib

cage

· When using the snaffle bit, the direct rein pull coming from

the corners of the equine’s mouth affords him a wider range

of motion with his head and neck

· He is able to stretch his head and neck forward and around in

a properly executed horizontal arc through the turn

· This opens the spaces between his vertebrae, allowing him to

bend his head and neck into the arc of the turn, painlessly

and with greater ease

· The equine that is properly and conscientiously taught how

to communicate through the snaffle bit will be a safer and

more reliable animal to ride and to take into public places

· He has learned to stop and wait for cues (communication

through the bit) and is less likely to bolt and run if frightened

because he understands and trusts the communication

coming from his rider

Mule Talk is an Every Cowgirl's Dream production - www.EveryCowgirlsDream.Com
www.MuleTalk.Net

Meredith Hodges Interviews:
www.LuckyThreeRanch.Com/Podcast-Appearances/