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BIT EVASION
Dear Cindy,
I just got your book and I really enjoy all
of the mule information. However, I have
another question. My mule is evading the
bit by putting his head on his chest when I
ask him to turn. I have tried several bits
including: a Tom Thumb, grazing bit, mullen
mouth Pee Wee bit, and most recently a Billy
Allen type bit. I had his teeth floated and
his wolf teeth removed earlier this spring.
I have tried being gentle to firm.
When we begin riding he does everything
right-stops, backs, and turns. Then he
decides he is not going to turn, and puts
his head down to his chest. I am assuming
this is his way of saying "we are done". I
feel really out of control when he does
this. Today I decided to lunge him when he
did this, and then I remounted. I didn't
want him to think we were done when he pulls
this stunt. How can I safely handle this in
the saddle? I would like to hit the trails,
once this stops, and I feel like I can steer
him properly. This is his only problem.
Thanks Sharon.
Hi
Sharon,
I am
assuming you are riding Western from the
mention of the curb bits. Keep in mind
that a mule's back is not round as
compared to the horse. The mule's back
is more flat. This makes it difficult
for him to turn with ease. I would use
a snaffle such as an O ring or D ring or
full cheek. You will want to use your
leg to aid your mule in turning. Say,
you want to go right. Pick up on the
right rein and pull toward the right
slightly back toward your hip (not your
waist). Apply your left heel at
the girth to encourage your mule to move
to the right. Use your right heel to
help "balance" the right side by placing
it slightly behind the girth as you tap
your left heel to move his body to the
right. Are you with me? Make sure you
are not over doing smaller circle work.
It takes time to build up your mule for
this type of work.
Your
mule will work better with praise and
reward throughout his sessions. I
suggested a snaffle because your mule is
using evasion in the western curb and
that tells me he is not ready for a curb
bit as of yet. It sounds like your mule
is doing nice work for you. Keep
your sessions under 30 minutes.
There will be times when your mule is
very willing to work beyond 30 minutes;
be sensitive to your mule and keep
things positive.
Let
me know how things work out for you
Sharon -- thanks for your email.
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Warning!
Under Missouri law, an equine professional is not liable for an injury to or
the death of a participant in equine activities resulting from the inherent
risks of equine activities pursuant to the Revised Statutes of
Missouri. Your participation in training your own mule or horse by
following the advice given in this column and throughout Every Cowgirl's
Dream web site is a risk that may result in permanent disability and even
death to you and/or your animal. Advice in this column is given
through 20 plus years of professional and private mule training experience.
The unique personality of your animal and the individual reader's skill
level will vary greatly. This column is not a substitute for a
qualified mule trainer in your area. Always utilize a professional and
knowledgeable trainer to assist you. The author asks each reader to evaluate his or her skill level, athletic
ability and mule sense prior to attempting any training
technique. By submitting your question, you agree to having your
inquiry and answer posted on Every Cowgirl's Dream web site and possibly
published in upcoming literature and books.
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