Q: My horse is recovering from an abscess in his mouth and I have notbeen able to ride because he finds the bit painful.
I am reluctant to use a hackamore as he’s quite green and I only usually ride in a very gentle snaffle.
Are there any alternative bitless bridles that are slightly gentler than a hackamore?
Lynn Russell replies : There is a product on the market called the Gentle Touch No Bit Bridle.
It is much less severe than a hackamore and features a cross-under strap that puts gentle pressure on the poll, nose and side of the face when a rein aid is applied.
Made out a webbing material, the bridle is available in pony, cob and full sizes.
It costs £34.95 with reins and £24.95 without.
For more details contact HTS Equestrian (tel: 01933 277515 or visit www.htsequestrian.com