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CUSTOMER COMMENTS  / Heartwarming stories to make you smile
Please e-mail your stories and questions!                                   New comments added  August 25, 2009   Go

Zoe Brooks, designer, with Hazel, the horse who inspired the Nurtural Bitless bridle
I would like to thank the many wonderful people who have
taken time to share their stories and photos. 

The people and horses come from a wide variety of ages and expertise.
Every story shares two common themes:
   - The horses are happier, and
   - The people are happier.

Please enjoy the real life experiences of these pioneers
in the "bitless revolution".  I hope you will join!

Zoe Brooks, designer, with Hazel - the mare who inspired the Nurtural Bitless BridleTM.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 
What people say about ...
 Independent Consumer Report

 First Rides and/or First Use of Bridle 
                See videos of first Nurtural Bitless Rides
 Independent study!  Cinch magazine.  4 different horses, 4 initially skeptical new users
 You can round up a horse and be 'on the bit' with no bit! 

 Gaited Horses - Tennessee Walker gaited like he never has with a bit
 Good brakes on a fast and furious cross country course

 
 
More comments on:
 
Bridles 
 
Training DVD 
  Nurtural Trainer
  Customer Service  
  Questions / How-To's
 
Horse tales - Success    stories or just plain fun

Listen to radio interview with Zoe Brooks     Link to see Press Releases  

Link to the Ultimate Customer Comments - Talking with horses through an animal communicator!

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Cinch Magazine consumer report  Read the full report plus the 'Hot Horse Study'

The Nurtural (Leather ‘Impressive’ bridle tested)

General Rankings (out of 5 stars):    1= poor  2= satisfactory 3=good 4=excellent 5=outstanding 

Base Price (not including shipping):     Good
Versatility
(disciplines):                     Outstanding
Quality of Materials:                        Excellent
Ease of Use
(adjustments, riding):      Excellent
Durability:                                        Excellent
Cleaning:                                          Excellent

Comments:
T
he Nurtural is a cross-under bridle design, with several improvements over ‘flaws’ of standard cross-under bridles
with the use of rubber grips on the noseband, a solid crown piece and a patented circle-x.

With the Nurtural bridle, the hand cues are sent through the reins into the nose piece. As the cue becomes stronger, that signal funnels through the cross-under straps. If the cue is excessive, the horse will then feel the pressure across its poll. The Circle-X feature and solid crownpiece nearly removes all risk of the rein straps becoming uneven, a major plus when it comes to equal pressure and control.

The textured rubber on the underside of the noseband prevents the noseband from slipping out of place. This is a feature especially appreciated as pressure remained equal across the nose, helping to ‘anchor’ the noseband in place- we never experienced a problem with it riding up the nose when properly adjusted.  Because the cross-under straps cannot become uneven during riding, the bridle is especially safe and control is enhanced. 

In Use:
The horses and riders responded well to this bridle.
Hot horses were controlled and relaxed quickly in this bridle.
The Nurtural proved to be able to handle the tasks of controlling horses through varied jumping and schooling exercises with control equal to, or greater, than in a bit.
While dressage work can be accomplished in the Nurtural, we generally preferred side pull style bridles for this particular discipline. Otherwise, this bridle was highly effective, never compromising safety or control.  It is ideal for western and english disciplines alike. 

Conclusion:
The Nurtural bridle is ideal for those who want to school without a bit or are avid trail riders. The design is extremely durable, and the hardware is top-notch. The bridle probably has the best control of the designs we have tested thus far, in the case of run-away or resistant horses.             
Many riders will appreciate the variety of colour and material options available - truly an all-around bridle. 

 

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Independent study!  Cinch magazine!  4 different horses, 4 initially skeptical new users

 

A few months ago, Cinch Magine asked if we would provide some bridles for an independent study. 
The results are now available online.  Here is a brief preview of the rider's comments before and after using the Nurtural Bitless

Note from Zoe:  We have done lots of 'Bitless Challenges' where Gerry and I are present to fit the horses and suggest corrections.  In these 4 cases, we have had no contact at all with the first time users.  This should represent what you could expect as a new Nurtural Bridle user.


Made Horse:
Before:
"I have always been a bit-bridle traditionalist and didn’t expect much from this consumer report. I have to say now, after months of riding bitless, this has been the most humbling experience of my life. It was not the bitless riders, but the bit traditionalist like me that took bitless bridles out of proportion."  
 

After: "Rotating from bitless to bit is effective for training and helps to keep the horse focused and interested as cue signals are frequently changing. If you want to avoid bit hunting and keep your horses for pleasure or for schooling, bitless is definitely a good choice. For lesson stables, I see bitless as a great tool to enhance the amateur rider’s legs and base but can be unsuitable if the rider is not familiar with the horse/bridle and the horse runs away on them."

http://cinchmagazine.com/nurturalbitless-bitlessexperiment.htm

 

Hot Horse:
Before:
 "I had already been introduced to the Nurtural bitless bridle riding one of the other test horses, and had had positive results. Though my previous beliefs would have otherwise told me to stick a bit in her mouth on her first ride in 3 years, I went with my gut and fitted the bitless to her. I have never regretted that move… "

 

After:  "Perhaps we are “never afraid of what we know” (Anna Sewell), but maybe we need to bridge past the stereotypes and misconceptions. Bitless isn’t just for dead-broke, calm horses, but it can be used on virtually anyone. All you need is an open mind, and a willing attitude."  http://cinchmagazine.com/nurturalbitlessbridle-hothorse.htm

 


Green Horse:
Before:
"I have always been quite skeptical of bitless bridles. I never thought I would purchase one in my life, but I had been offered the chance to experiment with the Nurtural Bitless Bridle on my green mare, Annie." 
 

After: "The bitless bridle has proved invaluable for schooling, and has helped calm my mare out on hacks. I find transitioning between using a standard bridle and the Nurtural to be the best for enhanced performance. My mare seems to learn better in the bitless bridle, and I can then transfer those skills over to bitted work."    http://cinchmagazine.com/nurturalbitlessbridlereview-haflinger.htm

 


First Backing:

Before:  "RJ is a young CWHBA warmblood, seeking a future career in show-jumping and low-level dressage. He has a curious attitude, but has typical behaviour of a horse his age- he can be stubborn and easily confused. We will be logging his progress each year as he progresses through training- bitless."

 

After: "The results have been wonderful. RJ is already learning to carry himself properly, and is accepting the bridle well. He has worn a bit, as he will need to be competed with a bit until rule changes occur, but he has not yet been ridden with one. Next year, he will be hacked out and introduced to light trotting."  http://cinchmagazine.com/nurturalbitlessbridle-experiment-warmblood.htm

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Collected canter in a Nurtural Bitless BridleYou can round up a horse and be 'on the bit' with no bit! 

Hi,
I purchased a Nurtural Bitless bridle a few months ago from Robin at Skymark, here in Vineland, Ontario.   I just wanted you to know how pleased I am with this purchase and to include some pictures of me and my horse Red (AKA Devilish Prospect).

Red is a OTTB who was retrained as a hunter horse and basic dressage.  He was two years of the track when I purchased him last August.  He had impulsion issues -no whoa- and was very stiff and bracy. He was a very tense individual.  We had trouble getting any sort of relaxation from him and he was constantly chomping and fighting the bit.  I finally stopped my dressage lessons in frustration and rode in a rope halter for almost two months to break the downward spiral that we were in.
The finess of dressage in a Nurtural Bitless Bridle
But I wanted the finesse of dressage! It is hard to fine-tune in a rope halter!  Someone at my barn had a Nurtural Bitless bridle that was working quite well for her horse and suggested I try one out.  So I did.

It took him a while to get the feel of it, not so much for whoa/go/turn, but to ROUND up.  And yes, for all those skeptics out there whom I've talked with, you can round up a horse and be 'on the bit' with no bit!  Now, Red does need to properly develop the muscle along the topline of his neck, but he iEasy to round up in a Nurtural Bitless Bridles now very easy to round up, working that hind end and carrying himself in a frame when asked.  He no longer is pre-occupied with his mouth and can concentrate on what I am asking of him, giving me things I did not know he knew.
His lower lip actually flops just a little as we go along in a working trot...a far cry from the 'tight mouth' that he used to be.

And foam!  Yes, we get the 'lipstick' foam we all look for as a sign of acceptance and relaxation.

I tried him in a bit twice since beginning to ride bitless, and both rides were a bracy disaster, full of eveBetter relationship, better performance in a Nurtural Bitless Bridlery evasion in the book.  Today, in these pictures, you can see how happy he is working bitless.

Thank you!

Feel free to use any of this text or even my pictures on your website or in any promotional material....This has made a world of difference for my horse!  If only we can convince the Dressage community to allow bitless bridles in their shows, because Red and I would love to show them how it is done!

Angela Vuyk,  Campden, Ontario

Note from Zoe:
Thanks so much Angela! 
One day, before too long, the world will change.  Until then, you can compete in Dressage bitless - for Rosettes and Cash Prizes by sending a video to
www.interdressage.com
Let's show the world that horses perform beautifully in bitless bridles! 
(Please send me a message if you are entering!  I'd love to watch your video and link from our site!) 

 

Update From: Angela
Sent: Friday, August 21, 2009 10:31 PM
To: info@nurturalhorse.com
Subject: first dressage show

Hi Zoe,

Just thought I'd give you an update on me and my horse Red. I was so pleased when I saw our pictures on the website!

We had a little in-house dressage show at our barn earlier this summer that was judged by a Certified OEF Coach 2 who routinely judges all over Ontario. As it was just a 'schooling' show, we were able to compete in our bitless bridle.  For our first time ever showing, we scored a 63% and a 61% for Training Level Tests 1 and 2!  Over and over the judge commented on how she could not believe we did this with no bit.

We even got a 7 on 'submission' and an 8 on our free walk. Not bad for a horse who, when he was in a bit, was bracey, inflexible and tense.

Now we are working on shoulder-ins, counter canter, and extended trot. We have even been schooling in an 11-acre field and jumping ditches for fun!

Thanks again for your wonderful product,
Angela Vuyk

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Fast and furious cross country course, over 2 hours and twenty horses

Hi there from Dublin, Ireland
 
Got my lovely Dales Pony Jack a red Nurtural Bitless bridle, must be nearly 3 years ago now.  I was only just starting him and he has never had a bit in his mouth. We have progressed along great in your bridle and on Sunday took him off to the McKen Run which can get fairly fast and furious.  It is a cross country course that goes on for over 2 hours and twenty horses all out together. Even a donkey would have gotten excited.  He was so good. 
 
I was asked twice if I would have any brakes in the bridle and Jack showed them just how good and responsive he was.
 
We were out for two and a half hours flying over the north County Dublin countryside in the sunshine.  By the end of the day when we were all coming home we got some lovely comments about how good he was in his bitless bridle.  So just to say thank you.
 
Liz and Jack

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Gaited Horses

Tennessee Walker gaited like he never has with a bit. Tennessee Walker gaited like he never has with a bit

 I just tried my new bridle!! :) My horse was so light and perfect!

 He  is a TN Walker and gaited like he never has with a bit!

 He was  so soft  and responsive and stopped immediately!

 I'm taking the tag  off and  keeping it : )

>>> Sent from my iPhone

Note from Zoe:
Thanks so much! 

We'll soon be posting videos of a Tennessee Walker and Paso Fino  Nurturally bitless at the Calgary Stampede

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First Rides and/or First Use of Nurtural  No-Bit BRIDLETM  

See videos of first Nurtural Bitless Rides

Responding even lighter and faster than in the bit!  Good hard run and no trouble slowing
Blue Eyes does well with the 9 grandkids that ride her
My mare is now calm, collected, and stands STILL.  The difference is like night and day!
Driving Clinic "You forgot to put the bit on your bridle!"
Belgian stops on a dime and gives you a nickel change.
Yay! What a feeling!
Collects and will elevate his front.  I'll never use a bit again
"HOLY S**T! THERE'S NO BIT IN HER MOUTH!!!"
Jumped with it, trail ridden, and even took him into our recent Parade of Lights
Problem solved and 13 year old off to the Santa Parade
No Sacrifice of Control/Safety
Well Now You've Gone and Done It!
Less Fuss, More Focus
Proving Other People Wrong
Absolutely Delighted
Skeptical No More
Tried it -- Loved it!!
This I Believe Is The Best I Have Had
Horse Remember That Playing Was Fun
Last Chance Horse & Pony Rescue
What can I say??? WOW!

2007 Canadian Junior Dressage Team's Comments
Communication now clear between horse and rider
Happy, happy customer
Poof! She was a different horse
Dangerous horse's temperament changes
Shire Horse Goes Nurtural
Bridle makes rider feel secure
Hunter/Jumper uses the Nurtural Bitless Bridle
Arizona Ranger uses Nurtural Bitless bridle for police work & Parades
Winning Competitive Trail in Oklahoma
People can't believe that he doesn't "need" a bit. 
2 Mules, 1 bridle, great results...

"Hot" Paso Fino responds well
Teenager rides with confidence and control - winning ribbons!
Won Hunter Pace and
my partner didn’t notice I was riding bitless
I have confidence in her finally!!
His whole demeanor changed
Balanced and relaxed up and down hills, happy, and easy to control
Wow your bridle made a big difference.
Tears of joy!
Green on Green no longer Black on Blue!
Nurturing Down Under

I was thinking of selling my big Belgian.  Now I can enjoy her! 
It was literally the best ride I’ve ever had
 
Well-trained warmblood lunges well
Inexperienced rider in Illinois doesn't have to feel sorry for his horse anymore
Thoroughbred from the track loves to jump in GTA

Forward motion no longer an issue in Calgary
Happy California warmblood has never been ridden in a bit

No more bucking and less nervous in Ottawa
Spreading the word in Vancouver

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Responding even lighter and faster than in the bit!  Good hard run and no trouble slowing

From: Cherie
Sent: Sunday, August 23, 2009 4:26 PM
To: zoe@nurturalhorse.com
 

Hi Zoe!

I ordered the Impressive bridle form you last Monday and received it in the mail on Friday. Wow what a beautiful bridle! I am so happy with the quality of the leather and the way it is made. So I just could not wait to try it out on my mare Baby.

Baby is an off the track Standardbred. I've ridden her in lots of bits but most recently in just a simple French linked loose ring snaffle. No training issues or problems. I am a professional horse trainer and barefoot trimmer so for me going bitless was not really about the common issues that people seem to have with their horses and bits. baby is as soft as they come. In fact you can see video of her on u-tube.

I decided to try your bridle all because of a good friend of mine named Rodger Pyle. He has been riding his horses in the Nurtural for about two years I think. I know he also managed to convert another horse trainer by sending her one of your bridles to try and she became a huge fan. I still didn't pay much attention until this spring when he invited me to ride his mare. She's no beginners horse and I sure was a bit worried about getting up on this fiery appy with no bit in her mouth but I went ahead and rode her. I rode her a number of times over this spring and early summer and more and more was impressed with the Nurtural's feel. 

Well I got to wondering just how it would be to take my mare out of the bit. She's soft already and I wondered if I could get her more soft even.

Like I said the bridle came on Friday and I went out and put it on her on Saturday during a work break. IStandardbred is lighter and more responsive in Nurtural Bitless did just as your video showed. Put it on adjusted it and showed her real quick how it worked then got up on her... bareback. Wow was I amazed. She was responding even lighter and faster than in the bit. Didn't think it was possible. 

Well today I took her out on the trails in this bridle and was pleased to find that I really could not tell the difference between the bitless and my old bit. Had a good hard run and no trouble with slowing her back down. No problems getting her to lift her head during grazing breaks no trouble steering stopping etc. The bitless feels exactly like the snaffle in my hands and to me, I am extremely kinesthetic, feel is very important.

A few of my fellow boarders have noticed the new bridle and a couple are interested in trying it out on their own horses.

Thanks for such a great product and amazing customer service.

Attached are a couple of pictures of my mare Baby aka Simply Noble in her new bridle.

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Blue Eyes does well with the 9 grandkids that ride her

Hey Zoe,

 

Thanks a lot! I already have one of your bridles for my Fjord and I love it. 

 

My boss's paint mare, Blue-eyes kind of barges through a sidepull but I don't want a bit in her mouth, especially with the 9 grandkids that ride her, so I let her try my Nurtural bridle and Blue-eyes did really well in it. 

 

I couldn't get my bridle back and had to buy another!

 

Cherie

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My mare is now calm, collected, and stands STILL.  The difference is like night and day!

 

Just had to share the success I have had with your bridle. My TB whom I just acquired recently was labeled as hot and difficult and her old owner was hesitant to ride her again and risk injuring herself. So the mare was given to me, and in no time at all we were up in the saddle with a Nurtural bridle. My mare is now calm, collected, and stands STILL- something she had never done with her old owner, who was an experienced STB race trainer. Now hacks+jumps. The difference is like night and day!

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Driving in Nurtural Bitless Bridle

Driving Clinic "You forgot to put the bit on your bridle!"

I went to a pretty big driving clinic a few weekends ago. I paid to have a 1/2 hour lesson with the guy who was running it. First he checked over everyone's tack. He went over my harness and cart from horses rump to head. When he got to Indigo's head he said "Uhhh we have a BIG problem" I asked what it was he exclaims "You forgot to put the bit on your bridle!" I laughed, he must have thought I was crazy. I explained and he seemed very interested, asking me questions such as how it made my horse turn or if the horse ran away how would I stop it. In the end he was very impressed and seemed to think I was some sort of magical horsewoman for driving my horse bitless and preventing her from "running away". Here's a picture I have attached.

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Belgian stops on a dime and gives you a nickel change.Belgian stops on a dime in the Nurtural Bitless Bridle

I have a 21 year old Belgian Draft who plowed fields most of his life for the Amish.  He is a ex large draft and bits are too small for his mouth.  Put him in this bitless now he stops on a dime and gives you a nickel change.  He stop throwing his head around, you have more control with him.  He gets used for trail rides at the barn he is at.  He was an angel and always has been with his bitless.  My son just loves the control you get with him now he in the bitless.  Tig is most happier now.  Fantastic Bitless and highly recommended to all my horse friends.  I have a two year old colt and once he ready I will be ordering him a bitless as well. 

Thanks,  Darlene

 

P.S.  Tig has taken blind people on trail rides so I am very confident in this bitless with him having a blind person on his back

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Yay! What a feeling!

Dear Zoe-

I adopted my PMU Draft cross gelding "Scout" back in 2006. I trained him myself using halters and sidepulls exclusively. He lounges, long lines, and ground drives all bitless. Since his wolf teeth are in tact, I did notPMU Draft Cross and owner love the Nurtural Bitless Bridle want to put a bit in his mouth after hearing all the horror stories about flipping over, etc. When it came time to climb up on his back, I wanted  something to gently but firmly guide him without panic or pain, and the side-pulls, hackamores and other gadgets I found in the local tack stores either seemed poorly made or did not fit properly (he had a draft size head).

During some extensive research I found your website. Your product seemed like just the ticket. Though none of my horsey friends were familiar with it, I decided to give it a shot, seeing as how you so confidently offered a 30 day trial period.

My husband ordered one for me for my birthday and I have to tell you, it is fantastic. The Quality in both construction and materials is everything I hoped for and more. I am pretty picky, taking note of everything from length and uniformity of each individual stitch to hardware finish.

I must admit during my first rides I put a snaffle bit on him, leaving the reins to it tied into his mane "just in case" and put the bitless bridle under that. He simply just carried the bit in his mouth, and I never felt the need to use it. I soon felt confident enough to use the bitless bridle only. Yay! What a feeling!

Since then we have enjoyed many wonderful "bitless" rides together.

Thanks for a great product!   Jeannie & Scout

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Collects and will elevate his front.  I'll never use a bit again

Just wanted to let you know that your bridle is pricelessWe have a 15 yo gelding that has been with us 5 years.  He was always resistant when asked to do any maneuver no matter how simple.  He had very stiff movements and was heavy in the front end, he also was resistant to break at the pole and backing was just ugly.  He wasn't a problem horse, just one that seemed uncoordinated.  He seemed afraid of contact with the bit, as he would get nervous and make a huffing sound when asked for the slightest bit of give.  So, we just let the kids plod around on him in the arena with a halter on him.  If he was ridden on the trail we put a snaffle on him and just let him follow -- didn't ask anything of him.

OK, so I bought your bridle and the very first time I put it on him he softened. We have been using it for a month now.  His backing is lovely, giving and breaking at the pole is effortless for him.  His movements are much more coordinated and light.  He collects and will elevate his front.  He moves on the forehand and on the haunch, something he had great difficulty with before.  He moves like a completely different horse.  Everyone that sees him is amazed at the difference.   Woodrow is now a joy to ride. 

Thank You, I'll never use a bit again.  Star

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"Holy S**T!  There's no bit in her mouth!!!"

I have this lady I have known for a few years at a barn I work for. She got bucked off her mare two summers ago and hasn't really got back on her because the bucking problem was physical problems with the mares back. Anyway she has lost a lot of confidence in her riding ability. I was riding my horse in the indoor arena and told the lady when I was done she could ride her.
Now she told me if she started back riding her mare regularly she was going to try bitless. Her mare is really well behaved and I have no doubt in my mind that she would do amazing bitless since she displays the typical headshaking. Anyway fast forward, she's riding Indigo around the arena and was doing really well. After about 10 or 15 minutes her tension melted away and Indigo plodded around like she normally does in the arena. My friend was saying how well she listened to leg and especially rein. She patted Indigo on the neck and looks down and says "HOLY S**T! THERE'S NO BIT IN HER MOUTH!!!" and just about falls over backwards, like she couldn't believe she was controlling this huge animal without a bit and hadn't even noticed the whole ride. Hahahaha, I had to laugh.

So she says for sure she will try the bridle on her mare when she gets back to riding her.

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Jumped with it, trail ridden, and even took him into our recent Parade of Lights

Hello!
    I just recently purchased my Nurtural Horse bitless bridle at the 2008 Royal Winter Fair, and I have to say... AMAZING!! My horse responded to it beautifully! I have jumped with it, trail ridden with it, and I even took him into our recent Parade of Lights (Christmas Parade). There were sirens and fireworks and everything and he was amazing. He listened when I asked him to stop, go, turn; you name it, he responded to the bridle. I am planning on trying to get the allowance to show it this bridle. I would like to thank you for creating such a lovely bridle!
Erika Smith and Beau

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Problem solved and 13 year old off to the Santa Parade

Hi again!
Just thought I would send you an update on Alanna and April - with another picture attached.Allana & April ride in the Santa Clause Parade in a Nurtural Bitless Bridle
Backing up has greatly improved to the point where there are really no issues unless April is just being 'grumpy' that day (after all, she is a mare and has 'her days'). Alanna took your suggestions and they worked great.

Neck reining is getting much better. They are to a point where the times needed to pick up the reins with both hands to correct a turn is very few and far between.

I had to attach a picture of this past weekend - they were part of a local parade. April has just been a different horse since going bitless that we never really thought about changing bridles for the parade. It wasn't until some people expressed concern if she needed the control because this is the first time we've ever done anything like this with her. As you can see in the picture, April was completely relaxed and took the whole thing in stride - to the point of actually dozing off before the parade started moving!

We had absolutely no control issues with her and she was the best behaved horse in the group!

Thanks again!

Cathy (Alanna and April) McDonald,
Trenton, ON Canada

The story behind the story ...
-----Original Message-----
From: Catherine McDonald
Sent: September 30, 2008 10:25 AM
To: info@nurturalhorse.com
Subject: A long, satisfied customer comment, a picture, and (at the bottom) a question.

Hi - thought I would start with some background first! My 13 year old daughter is the proud owner a beautiful 11 year old, Quarter Horse paint named April. She always had plans of converting her English trained mare to the western neck rein with hopes of showing in Western Trail classes someday and got lots of opinions on how to do this. Most of these included converting her from her current Eggbut snaffle to a leverage style of bit. April always fought her bit - throwing her head up and looking like she wanted to spit the thing out all the time - so after having her teeth checked to eliminate that possible problem, we started looking at other bits to switch her to and begin her western training. This spring, just as riding season was getting under way, we were devastated when she came down with Laminitis. A few weeks later, x-rays were done and minor rotation was detected, so riding was off, for the summer at least.

After 2 months April was starting to act like a nut in her small sick paddock,so after consulting with our farrier, we decided to put her back to light arena work. The first ride was just 5 minutes bareback with halter and lead rope. April threw her head up once and looked sort of confused - no bit to fight! That got us talking. The barn owner and another boarder at the barn offered their bitless bridles for us to try. One was the Dr. Cook version and one was yours. To the naked, uneducated eye, both looked fairly the same, but my daughter and I just liked the look of the Nurtural bridle.

I had promised her a new 'outfit' when April got better.  Compared to the light tan colour of her current saddle, the new saddle's darker brown colour needed to have a matching headstall and reins. We got walking through the store and came across the Nurtural display. We hadn't taken the offers we were given to try the bitless bridles yet - but thinking of April's reaction to the halter/lead rope ride - we took the chance and bought a beta in the brown that matched the new saddle almost perfectly.

We got April all tacked up for her first ride in months and my daughter climbed aboard. If April wasn't such a unique colour (strawberry roan paint) we would have accused someone of switching horses on us. Neither of us ever saw her so relaxed in our 2 years of owning her! Fast forward to almost 2 months later and she's up to trotting, loping, and trail riding in her new bitless bridle and you can easily tell both rider and horse are much happier. She hasn't thrown her head once and most of the fighting against/control issues are gone. We've had lots of interested inquiries from other riders at our new barn on going bitless.

My questions are regarding a couple of training issues that existed before the bridle purchase. We asked a coach at our barn but she wasn't sure if doing it bitless was different - she has no experience with your product and would hate to steer us wrong.

April has always had issues with backing up. My daughter has been working on it by applying constant pressure and once she gets one good step back, she releases the pressure and April gets lots of 'good girl' pets. There hasn't been much improvement though, April still fights this, and my daughter isn't sure if she's doing it right. Then there's the neck reining - can an English trained horse be taught to neck rein in the bitless? I was wondering if your DVDs cover any of this? We've had people tell us we need to put her back on a bit, train, then go back to the bitless when she gets it. My daughter is so happy with how she behaves in the bitless she never wants to go back to a bit. She'd continue riding her two-handed English style in that case and put aside her thought of showing in Western Trail classes until she gets another horse already Western trained.

Thanks for a great product! It even got 'caught' in it's first wet trail ride and it was nice to not have to worry about it being the Beta version.

Catherine (with my daughter Alanna and April)   Trenton, ON

----- Original Message -----
From: Zoe Brooks
To: 'Catherine McDonald'
Sent: Wednesday, October 01, 2008 6:41 AM
Subject: RE: A long, satisfied customer comment, a picture, and (at the bottom) a question.

Hi Catherine,

Thanks for your delightful message! I am so glad that your daughter and April are so happy.

To your question about backing up:
That is not a common problem. Usually they back up better. I am not a coach, but has she tried intermittent pressure instead of constant pressure? It is easier for horses to brace against constant pressure. Some trainers talk about ground training and just ‘tickling or annoying’ until they go forward? Give several little pulls until she steps back, then release and praise her. After she will consistently take one step back, then keep asking until you get 2 or 3. And grow from there.

How does she back up on the ground? You should be able to just pull back with both reins under her chin to lower her head until she backs up. Here, if you need to add the pressure of your hand on or pointing at her chest, she will learn more quickly. When you get good long backups with only the reins on the ground, then work from her back.

There are a selection of videos showing people riding bitless for the first time in our Bitless Challenge Clinics. You can see examples from several different horses. Check the backup on the Appy! http://www.youtube.com/user/nurturalclinics  I hope you are on high speed!!

Regarding teaching her to neck rein, I know it should be easy. I have heard from several western trainers who say they can do it in 20 minutes.

There is a wonderful chat group out of the UK with all types of bitless riders from all over the world. If you join the group and ask your questions there, you will get advice from some of the wisest people I have ever ‘met’. http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/bitlesshorse/ 

Thanks again for your message, and please do keep in touch,

Zoe Brooks, Designer of the Nurtural No-Bit Bridle
No Bit! Less Pain! Fewer Problems! http://www.nurturalhorse.com

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No Sacrifice of Control/Safety

My wife ( an Equine Canada Certified Instructor of Beginners and graduate of the University of Guelph's Equine Science Certificate Program) and I purchased our first Nurtural Bitless Bridle on Thursday Sept. 4 at Spruce Meadows' fall Equifair. We tried it out the next afternoon on our Fjord x Quarter Horse Pony. He is a 14.2hh 1000 lb pony with good training but very stiff and inflexible. He took to the new bridle immediately and was much easier to handle , showing none of his stubborn manners. He even gave a good attempt at flexion and kept his head nice and quiet.

The next morning I reset the bridle for my mare, a simple, 5 minute exercise. She is a 10 yr old 1200 lb, 15.3 hh Clydesdale x Thoroughbred who suffered a broken hip as a foal and has, until recently, only been ridden casually as she tends to be very unbalanced at anything but the walk. We are training her up to be a beginner horse for students and have worked to improve her balance by careful exercise and conditioning. She has long standing issues with bits, tossing her head a lot and generally trying to avoid it as much as possible. Without a running Martingale she is almost unridable by anyone not experienced. In the Nurtural bridle she settled down in one circle of the arena to a gentle, rhythmic gait and did not toss her head once…with no Martingale on. To me she feels like a totally different horse, responsive, quiet and attentive to the lightest of contact. She also went "on bit" something she never does, totally different horse to ride, much more balanced and doing walk trot transitions smoothly and with gentle cues. It also felt as if I had installed power brakes, requiring only a fraction of the pressure I usually need to get a balanced stop.

Sunday we went back to Equifair and bought 3 more for our other horses. Monday we tried one on our 5 year old Westfalen x Thoroughbred gelding. This horse has significant head issues from his short career as a stallion. ( Former owners seemed to prefer a chain instead of proper training.) Pecos is very shy around his poll and will go catatonic and just stand still if too much pressure is put on his mouth or head. We worked him on the ground and within a couple of minutes he was responding quietly and quickly to the most subtle of cues. He also was alert and willing to move, seeming to enjoy his work rather than plodding through. My wife could hardly wait to get one on our 3 year old Canadian Mare. The results were grand. She took almost no time figuring out the cues and actually did a controlled turn on haunches for the first time under saddle. My wife reported her responding to gentle touches and she obviously was steering and stopping as well or better than ever.

We are thrilled with the instant acceptance of the bridle by our horses and by the obvious behavioural improvements. My wife's comment was she will never put a beginner on any of her horses with a bit now that she has experienced the Nurtural Bridle. No risk of injury to the horse from a student and no sacrifice of control/safety.

Brian and Alison
Blackie, AB

 

Well now you've gone and done it!

Part I:
I've been working as an animal caregiver at Children's Fairyland in Oakland, California for 8 years. We've always had a pony. Recently we retired our 37 year old Welsh Mountain Pony to a very nice ranch near by. Our new pony, 13 year old Shetland-mix Dori, arrived about 3 months ago. Her previous owner said she was gentle and crazy about getting pets and scratches over the fence. Just what we were looking for as Fairyland is a park strictly for young children, most who have never seen yet alone touched a real live pony. And Dori lived up to her reputation. She just loves standing at the fence and getting up close and personal pets and the hundreds of kids who've been lucky in meeting our new Dori, are absolutely delighted.
Part II:
I decided over a month ago to get some additional exercise and lunging in with Dori as our Veterinarian advised Dori needs to loose about 50 pounds. Her previous owner advised Dori absolutely does not like a bit but has worn a side pull bridle, although a bit sassy under saddle. And so began weeks of on line research into bitless bridles. I talked with equine folks I know, I looked at hackamores, various side pulls, cross unders, bosals and so many others. Your Nurtural website came up on one of my many Jeeves and Google searches. But so did all of the others. Night after night, website after website - but I kept coming back to yours. Finally I had to make a decision and after measuring her as advised by your web page, I took a huge, deep breath and ordered your pony sized synthetic BETA with English reins.
Part III:
It came last Thursday, pretty quickly too - many thanks for that. I was chomping at the bit to try this new bridle on Dori. I followed your fitting instructions to the letter. I worked her from the ground first and her response was instantaneous. No matter whether I asked her to turn left o
Dori in her Nurtural Bitless Bridler right, back up, go forward or whoa, she was highly receptive. And so, after luring me into a false sense of security, Dori allowed me to get on - and I was immediately bucked off. Oh my. I'm a little too old and don't bounce like I used to. I had forgotten that Dori has not had anyone on her back for many, many months and apparently had an involuntary muscle spasm which caused her back legs to jerk in a quick up and down fashion. Not her fault, I was certain. But I did get back on and things went swimmingly. She was perfect with her new bridle.
Part IV:
Today we had Dori back into her Nurtural Bitless bridle. By the way, this bridle looks beautiful. Right outta the box, it looked and smelled like real leather. And on her, it looked even more beautiful. This time I elected to use my seventeen year old volunteer, Micah, who I was pretty sure would bounce much better than I did. Seriously, we took all appropriate safety measures and Dori was unbelievably responsive. Micah was blown away with how she barely had to apply or release pressure before Dori would react. After about 20 minutes of riding in the corral, we moved out to the meadow and did another 20 minutes of lunging. We attached the lunge line to both reinstrap rings on the Nurtural bridle. Dori had a wonderful, responsive and enjoyable exercise session. You could just tell she was having the time of her life.

And so, when I started this email out with "Well now you've gone and done it!" - Your bridle is just what you claimed it was. Dori loves it. Her caregivers love it. And it's natural. Nothing foreign, cold and hard in her sensitive mouth. I really can't see why anyone would use anything else. And I'm gonna talk about it to anyone who will listen. And maybe even if they won't. Attached, is a photo I took today at Children's Fairyland. The kids enjoyed watching Dori and Micah work with her new bridle on and later lunging in the meadow. A terrific day for all of us. Many thanks to all involved in bringing this bridle to Dori.

Yvonne
Animal Caregiver, Children's Fairyland
Oakland, CA

 

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Less Fuss, More Focus

Hi Andrée!
Thanks so much for your quick response to my question. Today, I used my Western training reins instead of my one-piece competition reins. They are a little heavier and they hung just right. The bridle is also losing its stiffness which will make everything hang down instead of flopping out to the side. So far, so good. I love this bridle! My horse isn't resisting and sticking out his tongue. He isn't getting distracted by the bit in his mouth.
If it hadn't been for your 30 day satisfaction guarantee, I would likely not have purchased your Nurtural bridle. I'm usually skeptical about something that I haven't seen used and don't need a gimmick training product hanging in my tack room. Since I ride for pleasure and not for show, I can use whatever works for my horse. And this works so far. I'm not bound by the bit-wearing rule makers at horse shows. I would recommend this bridle to anyone who wants less fuss and more focus.
Julie

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Proving other people wrong

Just want you to know that I have a gaited horse and have been riding him for about one year. When I bought him at the age of 4, he was going in a large shank bit. I knew this was wrong, so I did not ride him until I could get to my trainer who does dressage work (something all new to me) for gaited horses. I have spent hundreds of dollars and many hours trying to round my pony and get him in true collection. Without much luck, he has not shown me his gait until I put this bridle on him. He gaited down the trail like I knew he could. I was so excited I cried for about one hour! He continues to gait freely and lifts me up with his back. So, all these "horse" people in Tennessee that have told me to use a bigger bit have been proven wrong. I love it and am so happy. People that I have been riding with for a year have just now noticed us. Thanks for your wonderful idea.
Paige and Taos, the Rocky

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Absolutely Delighted

Passed along by our Tack Store in FranceRed Nurtural Bitless Bridle - used for endurance competition in FranceEndurance made easy in France - Nurtural Bitless Bridle

Hi Zoe,
Can you do something with these pictures ?

It’s an international endurance rider who is absolutely delighted with the bridle.

This photo was taken at a competition held in France.
Chris

 

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Skeptical No More

Hi Gang,

Just HAVE to share my first ride experience using the Nurtural Bitless Bridle with you. In a nutshell, I was THRILLED! Here's my story…

After almost 3 years of taking lessons and leasing a horse, I purchased my very first horse in November 2007. Being an adult rider (late starter - 40-something), it was important to me to learn all I could about the care and feeding of my black beauty, a 5-year-old Canadian Appy cross named Diamond Jewel. I had read about bitless bridles and was intrigued. Could I develop a solid dressage and trail horse using a bitless bridle?

Just about everyone at the barn thought my new mare was crazy! Early on it looked as though I had my novice hands full. Jewel was a relatively green horse who hadn't been ridden more than a handful of times in the past 2-3 years and prior to that only had 3 months of training when she was 2 or 3. Essentially, she is green. Broke but green. And very dominant and herd-bound. Don't let her looks and teenage behaviour fool you though. She is VERY smart.

I saw the Nurtural Bitless Bridle at the CanAm and was convinced by Zoe to try one. Even though I was skeptical, I've always been one to give anything new a try and the thought of something so much more humane than a metal bit in my horse's mouth just seemed the sensible choice to me.

Having only started working with and riding Jewel in March (long story short, she suffered a neck injury in the trailer ride up from the U.S. where I bought her and was seconded to total rest for 4 months), I was a little skeptical about trying the bitless bridle on such a "handful" of a horse. She bucked and kicked in the round pen, threw me when we tried to canter in the pasture and was difficult to bring around to focusing if her herd buddies were out of sight.

Since getting the green light from the vet in March, I've lunged Jewel several times, backed her 6 times and yesterday, for the first time, after having lunged without incident, rode in the Nurtural Bitless Bridle.

We started off in the round pen figuring this was a nice, safe and enclosed environment. She couldn't go far if she decided to get goofy. Alas, Jewel was great! In fact, I think she didn't know what to do with herself not having a bit to chew on. She just seemed SO happy! I decided to venture out of the round pen on to the country road at a walk. Jewel, again, just seemed so happy and had such a pep in her step. She was so excited she tried to break into a trot and I applied a half-halt and she stopped dead. In fact, my body jolted forward. I laughed out loud. We proceeded again, this time venturing into a wide-opened pasture. Now, if she was going to try anything funny, it would have been in there. But no. I kept her at a walk and she just continued on happy as could be. We carried on around the perimeter of the pasture, then back on to the road and into a nearby apple orchard. Here, is where she threw me the last time we rode. We entered the apple orchard, walked around a bit and finally, I got up the nerve to ask for a trot. She picked up the trot, lifted her head and actually framed up all on her own! I had no trouble steering her. She responded to the lightest rein aids and, again, stopped on a dime when I asked. I was amazed! The other riders out with us were amazed too! In fact, THEY want to try the Nurtural Bitless Bridle now!

Needless to say, I was OVER-JOYED at the success of our ride and to have such a happy horse. I felt totally confident and in control. The Nurtural Bitless Bridle is everything I've read it to be and more! At the end of our ride I do believe, in Jewel's words, she said, "Thank you Mommy! That was so much FUN!"

I CAN'T WAIT to ride again with Jewel in her new bitless bridle. From my black beauty and the bottom of my heart THANK YOU! Zoe, you were absolutely right!

Skeptical no more,

Vanessa
Sydenham, ON

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Tried it -- Loved it!!

Good Day -

I ordered one of your beta, bitless bridles with great anticipation! It arrived in 4 days - excellent service by the way."Double Stuffed Oreo" - In the Nurtural Bitless Bridle Anyway, I put it on my 9 year old Paint mare and she was perfect the first time out. Her stops were perfect and she steers better in your bitless than she did bitted. Her body bends easily into her turns and are very crisp and fluid. I am so thrilled!

I responded to your e-mail shortly after the purchase saying I wasn't addressing any problems with her. She is a very kind and well behaved girl although she has a big engine and loves to go fast, she is very controllable. I was wrong about no problems however. As I said her steering is better in the bitless and her head tossing stopped. That's it, it just stopped. She always fought the bit a little and mouthed it when I asked her to back. She would back up but frequently went crooked. That stopped too. The first time in the BB I asked her to back and she just tucked her head and backed up straight as a stick. The ultimate test was running a barrel pattern with her. Her favorite thing to do! She steered easily at speed, turned each barrel without tucking her head, (probably to get away from the pressure I was putting on the bit to turn her,) ran for home and stopped without hesitation at the end. A very smooth run!

I purchased another brand BB without the x-circle, some time ago. It was not satisfactory at all. My horse found the sliding crown piece very annoying and I had to keep constant slight pressure on the reins to keep them from bowing at the cheek. It just didn't work well at all.

I will also add that I am able to communicate with animals. A tremendous gift that I am so grateful for. Her input is, that sometimes the bit hurt her. Also, because she would over flex when she collected while wearing a bit, it would impede her breathing somewhat which made her nervous. Those are of no concern to her in your bitless bridle. She is much more relaxed in your BB. I guess if an animal can endorse a product Oree just has. :)

Thanks for this wonderful product.

Elizabeth and Oree

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This I Believe Is The Best I Have Had To Date

Hi Zoe & Gerry,Rohan thanking you for the Nurtural Bitless Bridle
I wish to thank you for introducing my wife and I to the No-Bit Bridle. I first tried it on my working mare a Tennessee Walker and then put it on her 2 year old son. 
I was amazed to find that it took about 20 minutes for him to catch on to the neck reining. Since we teach our horses to work cattle and do tricks, we are always searching for the best possible means to subdue any and all artificial restraints and this I believe is the best I have had to date.
Our horses are all Tennessee Walkers so they range in size from 15 HH to 17.5HH. We usually use a soft hackamore for our working horses but I find this No-Bit Bridle even gentler on them and quite easily adjusted to fit other horses during changeovers thus not requiring to carry a second bridal in the saddlebag because one horse likes a different nose pad than another.

Once again I wish to thank you for introducing me to the bridle.

Heather and Bill

Here is a picture of Rohan, thanking you for his Nurtural Bitless BridleTM.

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Horses Remember That Playing Was Fun

Andree,
 
           Thank you SO much for the personal touch! I have had and used the Cook bridle for years now and while I love the idea I didn't love the bridle. Your bridle seems to have fixed the things I didn't like about the Cook bridle. I believe my horse and I will both love it. We've been bitless for years and have recently gone with the natural foot as well. The girl I ride with is an Equine Massage Therapist and we each own two horses. I talked her into going the shoeless route and we've both been thrilled with the results! Our horses truly are much more animated and lively. They move off their shoulder now in a fluid motion and it's wonderful to see! It's like they remembered playing was fun. It might not all be contributed to removing their shoes but one never knows.
            Again, thank you for writing and I just know this bridle will be the one I've been waiting for and I will be writing a comment on your site soon, I'm sure! Thanks again!
        Janet

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Last Chance Horse & Pony Rescue
Attention: Manager/Owner

     We would like to take this opportunity to introduce our Rescue to your company. We are “Last Chance Horse and Pony Rescue.” Myself, Adele Cadeddu and Sharon Allan and a number of people who sit on our board operate this Non Profit Registered Charity. We are located in the Niagara Region. We have two farms approximately twenty-five acres each. There are 21 horses, 7 ponies, 10 dogs and 22 cats. And still we are approached to take more!

OUR MISSION:
Is to rescue animals that are abused, neglected, unwanted or on their way to slaughter. They come to us undernourished, dehydrated, starving and lame or injured. We have nursed quite a few back to good health and found some of them good forever homes. We visit them from time to time.

      But we are in need of kindness and some generosity. We were hoping that your company could in someway help by donation to this Charity Rescue and good cause.

      We have a small number of companies that have donated and their generosity is over whelming. If only we could find a few more to work together with, to help these animals get well and find good homes.

      We would graciously accept, used, returned items, dented, seconds etc. If you
      could donate any of the following items on our wish list, it would be deeply 
      appreciated………………………….

 Wish List:
 
Water troughs, outdoor heated water buckets, feed and water tubs and buckets
  Blankets – turnout, stable, sheets, rain sheets, flysheets, magnetic etc.
  Halters – all sizes, lead ropes, grooming supplies, clippers
  Fly masks, fly spray, fly catchers, fly eliminators
  Pony sizes items – desperately needed – halters, blankets of any kind, fly masks
  Saddles, saddle pads, girths, bridles, bits, reins etc
  Medical sprays & ointments, vet wrap, animal intex, therapy/magnetic bandages
  Salt blocks, maybe even TREATS!
  Supplements – gluscosamine, msm, zev, frrier’s formula, de wormers, Thrush
  Buster, calmers, vitamins, minerals, gates, portable round pen, stall doors, grills, latches etc.
  Fencings supplies – fence boards, posts, paint.

  We look forward to hearing from you!

   Sincerely,
   Adele, Sharon and all the horses.                   Email: adelecadeddu@yahoo.ca
 

Hi Adele & Sharon,

Thanks for your message!

We are currently unpacking stock from a trade show but would love to help out! (As soon as we get organized that is!)

I noticed on your wish list that you want pony sized items desperately. We happen to have a couple of bridles that have never been used – we changed our logo therefore, these (with the old logo) aren’t going to be sold at regular price anyway. We would be more than happy to donate them to your organization.

We would appreciate it if once you receive the bridles that you give us feedback on them, and consider becoming one of our Nurtural Coaches. It doesn’t cost anything; we just like to have people who constantly work with the bridles to be available to answer questions from customers who may happen to be in the same situation as one of our coaches. In your case, it would be for people asking about ponies.

Let me know where to send the bridles, and also let me know your thoughts about being a coach!

We truly admire what you are doing for horses and ponies, as well as all the other animals you care for!

Thanks a bunch!
Andrée - Nurtural Horse

Hi Andree,

We are so excited!!!! We would love to be a coach. We have never been involved in such away. It feels like an honour!
 Thank you. Also we have never had anyone who has donated to the pony rescue, the little ones always seem to get
left out, so you can image how excited we are. It's usually all about the horses.

I'm very excited to try this bridle on one of the ponies here at the rescue, I think its sounds great! We have an older pony
 who has issues with wearing a bit so we usually have the kids just ride him with a halter and shank, but now giving this
 opportunity I hope he will like it! He's a great child's pony but was sent for meat when his owners child out grew him. So
along we came and took the little guy home. He had come to us with lice and rain rot, and very bad teeth. Since we have
 had him his condition has improved so much and now that he can have his own bitless bridle I'm sure he will  think he is a king!
Once again thank you for all your help and if you want to send some brochures I will gladly pass them around when we
go to horse shows and auctions.

We will left you know as soon as we receive them.
Thank you from myself, Sharon all the kids and ponies.

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What can I say??? WOW!

To: info@nurturalhorse.com
Subject: What can I say??? WOW!

I've been meaning to drop you a quick note to comment on the bitless bridle
I bought a few weeks  ago - but guess what - I'm out riding so much I don't
seem to have time :)
 
I have an Arabian mare (Sheza Desert Rose) who is 15
years old (and is unfortunately still green).

What this bridle has done for myself and my horse is nothing short of
amazing
- wouldn't have believed it if I didn't experience it first hand!

The first couple of times I rode with it, my horse was unsure (as I was as
well) of what  to expect.  Each time since then has been a positive
building block
.  With a bit, Rosie would start "dancing" even before you
got on her back.  She would  be concentrating so hard on the piece of metal
in her mouth, she could think of not much else.  I was definitely not
excited about riding her alone and felt very much out of control sometimes.

With this AMAZING bridle, there is no dancing, in fact, sometimes we just
sit in the middle of our ride and chill out.  This was never heard of
before :)  I'm riding her alone, nearly every evening without any issues at
all
.  She no longer spooks like she used to, what you said on your website
is so true - horse spooks and jumps, rider grabs reins to balance, hitting
bit in horses mouth, escalation from there.  There is absolutely none of
that now. 
Everyone is absolutely amazed at the change it's made for both
of us.  She puts her nose in the bridle and is so calm.  I can't thank you
enough!!

I look forward to someday getting a leather bridle, do they come in black?
Also, I'm wanting one for each of my 3 other horses :)  Can't wait for my
daughter to try it out, but I'm pretty possessive, if I let her use it when
we ride, I have to use a bitfull bridle - NO THANKS!!

Yours truly,
Laurie

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_______________________________________________________________________________ 

Communication is now clear between horse and rider

Hi Zoe and everyone at Nurtural-

I finally got a chance to write.  I have had my bb for about two weeks, but due to nasty ice at the farm where I board, I was not able to ride right away.  Finally, this past Sunday and Thursday, I got to try out the bridle.  Here is how it went.

Sunday, Feb 23rd. 
I put on the bridle and Raven seemed normal and not bothered.  I had already played with the adjustments a few days before so it went on quick.  I brought her up to the ring and mounted.  Nothing, she stood quiet and calm.  I asked for a walk and started to "test the steering and brakes".  I could tell she was thinking "hey, this is different", but no fuss or anything.  Perfect stops, turns, etc.  My instructor came up, mounted on "Cougar" who needed some work and she made the comment that Raven looked very, very relaxed.  I brought her up to the trot and she did her normal "camel head", but there seemed less resistance when I asked for her head to come down.  After about two trips around she seemed to be responding and her head was coming in and she was starting to soften some when her hind foot hit the one patch of ice still in the ring, under the snow.  She was startled, I was startled.  However, I had no problems bringing her back to an immediate walk.  After that she wanted nothing to do with that side of the ring and was short stepping and kitty hoping along that side.  Again, I found I had complete control.  My instructor suggested to go out on the trails.  Couger had been bucking off trail riders lately, so he needed some "trail time".  Off we went.  Within minutes, Raven was completely relaxed and didn't mind me taking up some contact (she always resisted in a bit).  It wasn't too long before Cougar pulled his nonsense and tried to unseat my instructor.  Raven simply stood and waited for Cougar to finish.  She barely acknowledged his antics.  Since I figured Cougar wasn't done arguing, I asked Raven many times to stop and put distance between us and him.  Imagine, I asked a 16 had Appendix QH to stop and let her equine companion walk on without her.  I don't think I could have done it with her snaffle.  She would have jigged, fussed, opened her mouth, tilted her-- anything to avoid that request via the bit.  Now, the message came in clear.  I had a firm hold on the reins, but nothing unreasonable.  The second I released the pressure, she walked on.  Cougar did try several more times to buck and rear, and each time Raven barely twitched an ear at him.  I have to say it was the most pleasant trail ride I had had with her at that time. Too bad I couldn't say the same for my instructor.

Thursday, Feb 28.
I came to the barn by 3pm and discovered several of the ladies were going out on a trail ride.  It was a nice day and I was happy to go.  Again, Raven seemed super calm went I mounted up, standing quietly with loose reins while waiting for all the riders.  Off we went, with her second in line.  This time the lead horse was smaller than her and he didn't have the same stride she does.  Thus I was constantly asking for her to shorten stride so as to not be right on his rump.  The last time I went out with these ladies, I had the same issue, but also had a bit in her mouth.  Back then, there was a lot of fussing, head twisting, mouth gaping, jigging-- all the usual "I can't understand you and this thing annoys me" stuff.  I didn't feel like I had complete control.  Now, with the bb, though she was not the happiest to shorten stride, she did so.  There was few minor head flings here and there, but she did as requested.  I truly felt I had complete control if she were to bolt or get nervous. And nervous she was when our trail lead out near some homes.  I don't think she was a big fan of the road and boy was she ready turn tail and run back to the woodland path.  I didn't let her.  Yes, she argued some, but we could now "talk clearly" and she stayed under my control.  I realized not long after she was accepting good contact and was even bending at the poll and moving forward in a big stride.  I was never able to get her to that in the ring with her bit except on draw reins and drop nose band-- and here we were on wood path and she was doing it. 

All I can say is "AMAZING".  Both times, Raven came back to the barn relaxed and happy.  She was doing such funny things as licking her mouth and her lead rope tie ring.  After the second trail ride, she nuzzled my head and ears.  I really think she is liking the experience.  Well, I know for sure that I am. 

Thanks again for making a truly inspired product. 

Carla

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Happy, happy customer

Email received from one of our tack stores in Florida

I sold my first 2 last week to a woman who drove 3.5 hours.  She called me today to tell me she LOVES the bridles!  She bought
one for herself and one for a friend (she bought a black and wouldn't you know it, wanted a dark brown as well but settled for tan). 
They have Pasos.  She said she just put the bridle on the horse, got on and took off.  She had been having a lot of trouble with her
mare tossing her head and grinding on the bit.  She even brought the bit to show me the teeth rubs.  Happy, happy customer! 

I just want to tell you how appreciative I am that you all not only offer such a wonderfully superior, innovative product, which
is an honor to offer, but you guys have been so great to work with and I really appreciate that.  Thanks so much!  I will be putting
my next order in this evening or tomorrow.  Thanks again!

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Poof! She was a different horse

email #1:Melody in the Nurtural Bitless Bridle
Good Morning

First let me apologize for taking so long to write.  I ordered your bridle for my husband for Christmas.  His mare cam from an abusive background and although she rode well she had a bad habit of giving a small buck after he was on her for 10 minutes.  We had tried everything, different pads, saddles, etc.  nothing made a difference.  She could not be ridden bareback as she would buck or kick out when you tried to get on.  Well, we put the new bridle on her and Poof! she was a different horse.  She flexes with no problem and she seems to actually enjoy it.  She no longer kicks out or bucks.  She can be ridden bareback.  You can ride her for hours without any bad behavior.  Thank you so much for this wonderful bridle.
Belinda

email #2:
I will  try to get some pics to you this weekend.  I can't thank you enough for the great results this bridle has brought to us.  Mel is so special, she came to me about 300 lbs under weighMelody happy in the Nurtural Bitless Bridlet.  We did not know then that she was bred.  We got her in August, the vet told us how to fatten her up.  In Jan he came to see her and told us she would foal sometime in April or May.  We were shocked.  We did not know she had been with a stallion.  Well, to make a long story short, on April 9, 2007 she blessed us with a beautiful, healthy little chestnut filly.  We named her Melody's Spring Miracle, Spring for short.  I just got a new job and hopefully soon I can order the the Nurtural trainer to use on her.  She leads pretty good but can be stubborn like her mom.  I don't plan to ever use a bit on her.  I can't stand the thought of putting a piece of hard cold metal in her mouth.
Belinda

 

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Dangerous horse's temperament changes

Dell - bitless bridle changes horse temperamentDeborah Adams is a Grand Prix dressage rider who has competed, trained, and judged for over thirty-five years. One of her current horses is "Adaleah" nicknamed "Dell" who she rescued from a field last year. "Dell" is a nine year old Thoroughbred mare. After starting her basic dressage training it was apparent that temperamentally there was something very wrong in that the horse was explosive to the point of being dangerous. With all of her experience Deb could not determine what the problem was until she discovered that Dell's tongue was scarred so deeply across it's surface that it must have almost been severed when the injury occurred. What abuse the horse suffered we do not know. Not wanting to give up on Dell, Deborah researched bitless bridles and found The Nurtural Horse bridle website. She immediately ordered the bridle, restarted Dell's training with it, and reports that there has not been one incidence of violent behavior on the horse's part. She is calm, looks forward to working, and has achieved a high level of performance in the Nurtural Bridle.

Watch for more news, photos and videos of Dell's progress!


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Shire Horse Goes Nurtural - (Recent discussion on our Yahoo Chat group about a big horse needing a custom sized bridle)

Hi, I am new to the forum and live in the UK. I have a 3 1/2 year old Shire, 18.3hh and growing, that I backed this summer using the
nurtural bridle. I am really pleased with it, the only thing I have found is slight rub marks on the sides of his face where the rings are
and I wonder if altering the position of the noseband might sort that. Otherwise it hasn't been easier to get him started and I wish I had
known about the bridle when I backed my last horse 7 years ago. I am delighted with it and would welcome any feedback from others!
best wishes
Jo

Hi Jo,
Do you have a picture of your horse in his bridle she we can see the fitting and where the noseband lies?

Great for you to back your horse in a bitless bridle, good luck.

Wendy
(Nurtural Tack store owner in the UK)

Hi thanks for your replies - I will get a photo of his bridle and send it to you  I have put a sheepskin noseband on it, as I am a softy and I want to make sure he is comfortable as possible - I am quite sure I am a bit obsessive about him but he is my best friend and I want to make sure everything is right!!  I have attached a photo taken in the summer of him - and me - only just backed!
Jo

Shire Horse in a Nurtural Bitless Bridle Shire Horse happy in a Nurtural Bitless Bridle                      

Hi! I finally got my Internet working and can join this very interesting conversation! What an amazing horse!! Would you mind if
I put your photo on our web site or maybe even a brochure? Thanks so much for sending the photo!
Recommended noseband placement-Nurtural Bitless Bridle
For some reason I cannot link to your original message and issue. It could be that with such a big head he would have done better with a
noseband where the rubber gripping extends lower and the rings are lower. Ideally the noseband rings should come BELOW the lipcrease -
and they are quite a lot higher on him. Lower rings and rein position also gives you improved turning control. If you ever order another
one, let's get one made to measure for your big beauty. In the meantime, your fuzzy should work.

If I can use your photo at our site, I can point this out to others with very big horses.

We had one gal recently add 3 inches to all the straps of the draft bridle - still waiting for photo!

So glad you have gone Nurtural!!

Very best wishes, Zoe

 

Thanks for that - I have dropped the noseband and it is definitely better - I might just drop it another whole and see how we get on!  I would be delighted for you to use the photo - I am very proud of him, he is a very gentle caring chap in spite of his size and I love him to bits.

At some point I would like a proper leather one - currently I have the Beta version - but I notice the importers to the UK don't appear to be doing the Canadian Leather bridle any longer - I also want a driving bridle at some point for when I train him to harness!
Jo

Hi Jo,

Thanks so much for letting us share the photo of your beautiful big boy at our web site so others can see that there really is no limit to
the size of a horse that can go bitless.

I wanted to clarify the noseband ring advice. I couldn't see how to attach a photo to the message (how did you do that?) so I added a
photo to your album showing what I meant. When you are ready to get a leather one, work with Wendy and send us measurements including
"lipcrease to lipcrease, over the nose". Then we can make the rubber gripping part longer and the noseband rings lower. This will put the
noseband rings near the lipcrease as shown in my photo. With the rings and reins there, it gives you virtually the same action as a bit
in the mouth - your signal is at the side of the mouth and it is easier to turn than with the rings higher up on his face.

What is the big boy's name? Did you ever ride him in a bit?

Cheers!

Hi Zoe,
his name is Hendra Trelawny - I call him Trelawny (or Dollop but that isn't a very flattering nickname!)  I backed him in the Nurtural and have never ridden him bitted - I just hate them and wanted to give him the very best start that I could - he is treeless (when I can be bothered to put a saddle on him!) and wont ever wear shoes either.  I will certainly sort out measurements etc when I get a new bridle - hopefully in the spring.   I am very very pleased with the Nurtural and never at any time did I doubt it - I recommend it to everyone I meet but the English can be quite stubborn when it comes to trying something new with horses - well they are in my neck of the woods anyway!  Anything I can do to promote the bridle - let me know!
Jo

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Bridle Makes rider feel secure

I have two of these and don't use any other bridles; and my girlfriends also use them.
 
Also my horses love them, and they make me feel secure on the trail, I can
control my horse much better then side-pulls and even bits....
 
 
Thanks,

 Cindy Hill

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Hunter/Jumper uses the Nurtural Bitless Bridle
 

Hi Andree!
 The bridle arrived , and we tried it on Kasey's head today.  Her coach had a look at it, adjusted it, etc and thought maybe the throat latch should be a little longer.  Allie didn't have time to ride with it today, we are going to try it on the weekend, with her coach watching, to see if it fits to work properly.  Kasey does need to lower her head.    If we need one with a longer throat latch, is it possible to get one?  It is a beautifully made bridle and we want to use it to show Hunter Jumper this Spring.  I have attached a pic of our "big headed" Kasey.  Thanks!  SharonNurtural Bitless Bridle user
                                                                   
Hi Sharon,
The Circle-X under the jaw can be moved forward and back. This should help lengthen those straps. In the box, I believe we sent a pamphlet with fitting instructions. There are detailed step-by-step adjustments with pictures to assure it is being fitted properly.
Hope this helps!
Happy trails,
Andrée - Nurtural Horse

 

Update:
Thanks very much Andree!  We have used "bitless" bridle on my daughter's hunter / jumper for lessons and "fun".  She wanted a nice bitless bridle she could show in next summer.  We look forward to it, and will send you some pictures after it arrives!
Merci Bien!  Sharon

 

Hi Andree!

 Allie rode with the bitless bridle today, no problems.  We just had to slide the "X" more down towards her mouth.  Kasey seemed very comfortable, and was lowering her head  - there is nothing left for her to "fight" in this bridle.  Her neck is noticably more relaxed.  Allie does not have heavy hands, but Kasey has the "memory"  of a previous rider constantly pulling on her mouth.  They will enjoy using this bridle to show hunter jumper! I'll try to get some pictures of them for you.  Thanks very much,  Sharon, Allie and Kasey

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Arizona Ranger uses Nurtural Bitless bridle for police work & Parades

Nurtural bitless bridle in police / parade situationJuly, 07:  Zoe, Thanks for your response. 

I am a member of the Arizona Rangers and I intend to use my horse for police work and parades. I certainly will send you a photo when I get one.  Thanks.  Rick

November, 07:  Zoe, Nice to hear from you. 
“Buddy”, my paint horse has adapted very well to the bridle. 
As you can see in the attached photo, I have him in a public place with people all around him. 
Beside that I used the bridle on Buddy during the nine day, twelve hour days of training at the Arizona Officers Mounted Training course.  Thanks for your interest. 

Rick

 

 

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2 Mules, 1 bridle, great results...

Hi there,
Just received our nylon bridle last week and tried it on my husbands mule - Rusty.
What a difference! This mule just didn't seem to like any bit we put in his mouth.
He was always trying to pull the reins out of my husbands hands, dinking with
the bit, etc. My husband commented that he'd never back up so well and turned so
good. In those moments when they just know that something is going to get them,
it was also way easier to pull the mule around with one rein. I just got done trying
the bridle on my mule and working him in the round pen. He too backed up like he'd
never done before, with very little pressure. He also responded quite well over all.
Though I haven't had a chance to ride him out on the trail with it as of yet. We only
 have the one and my husband is using it.
I would like to order a couple of your Beta Bridles and keep the nylon bridle around for
friends to borrow and tryout.
Hope you're having a great day and I look forward to hearing from you.

Cheers,
Barb Taylor - Clayton, WA  

Buckshot- Nylon Nurtural Bitless Bridle                                Mule Rusty - in Nylon Nurtural Bitless Bridle

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"Hot" Paso Fino responds well
 

Hi Zoe & Andree,
 
Just wanted to let you know.  I just tried my new Nurtural bitless bridle on my newly purchased "hot" Paso Fino. 
We put him in the round pen first and did some work with the lead rope, then put on the reins and rode for a few minutes then on out to the pasture. 
He has not been ridden for about 6 months so was a little unruly at first but I was able to control him well with the bridle. 
He responds well and I think he'll do great with more saddle time under his belt. 

I like the design better than my Dr. Cook bitless bridle but my Walker does very well in it too. 
Now if I could just talk my husband into getting one for his horse.....
Thanks a bunch.
Barbara Porch

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Teenager rides with confidence and control - winning ribbons!

Dear Zoe: I wanted to say it was a pleasure to meet you at the Royal Winter Fair. Here is the story and photo of Nikky and Dakotaroo.

For my daughters 9th birthday April 7th 2004 I got her 4 private riding lessons. After the first lesson she got off the horse and announced that she was buying a horse! With some doubt to her quest I explained the cost involved and that did not deter her. She stayed true to her heartTeenager wins big in nurtural bitless bridle and on June 23rd 2006 we went 50/50 partners on a beautiful palomino paint named Dakota, 7 years old with a beautiful heart, but not very much experience.

Now I thought it was a pretty smart idea to get her bridle that she was used to included in the deal. It was an egg-butt snaffle. Well the thing kept sliding out of her mouth and we were not getting very far, so we changed the bit, and then we- changed the bit and the bridle, and then we changed the bit and the bridle again and so on with not much success in 13 months. The problems we were having were at first she would stop all the time and when we got past that we had a whole new set of problems because she kept turning in- out of the blue when ever she felt she wanted to and because no bit we had tried ever stayed put in her mouth we never had any control.

I ran into a horse girl who started telling us about bitless bridles and how it had changed her horse. I figured we had nothing to lose. In August I purchased the Nurtural bitless nylon bridle because it was affordable and we had already spent so much money on other stuff that did not work- I was skeptical. Happily my skepticism has long since past. It is a pleasure to watch my daughter ride with confidence and control in the Nurtural bridle. It is no longer a challenge to bridle our horse she drops her head and happily accepts her Nurtural bridle.

Nikky and Dakotaroo recently competed in a show, they placed 2nd in the command class because with the Nurtural bridle she understands how to back-up now, and with only 1 day of practice they finished 3rd in the jump class. In their bitless bridle they competed in 7 classes and received ribbons in 5 classes.

Nikky has now found her new quest, she is saving her money for a black leather nurtural bridle and reins.
As for me I am thinking this year I will have some bits tied with red ribbons hanging on my Christmas tree, because I have to do something with them- all they are now is tack box ornaments that I will never use again. Heather Grobbo, Guelph On

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Winning Competitive Trail in Oklahoma

Competative trail ride in Nurtural Bitless BridleRiding to win Competative trail  in Nurtural biltess bridleHallo!   I don't know if you remember me, we talked a number of times and I ordered your bridle down here in Lawton, Oklahoma. In the last year it is ALL I have used on my horse King and it's first true test was at our first Competitive Trail ride.

Each day was 16+ miles and we placed 2nd and 3rd. We went to another CTR this month and placed 4th and 5th.  At one point a wonderful guy I had been riding with rode past me and stared in shock to see no bit in King's mouth and commented on it.  I never once felt I didn't have control of my horse, and I never once felt I was hurting or could hurt my horses mouth when correction was needed.  

Here are some photos from those rides if you wish to use them on your site. People have told me "When youOklahoma competative trail rider loves Nurtural bitless bridle really need it, there will be no stop on that bridle". Really? I reply. When a horse wants to go they can take a bit in their teeth and then who is it that has no stop? I've seen that happen and it isn't pretty. My horse, the few times he got spooked, was brought to an almost Nurtural bitless bridle provides control ... and a halterimmediate stop in this bridle. He is happy in it, can graze easily when we are relaxing and I have no cold bit to warm up on winter days.  

The fact that I can use it as a halter in emergencies has also come in handy on the trail. I don't have to worry about tying him up with a bit in his mouth or dealing with putting on a halter on trail or having to ride with a halter and bridle encumbering his head. Did I mention its pretty darn snazzy looking, too?

Don't ever go out of business!!

Adriane and Shadrack's King   (who are trying to spread the word down here in cow country)

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People can't believe that he doesn't "need" a bit. 

Texas parade ride in Nurtural Bitless BridleDear Zoe,

 

I have a 4 year old Belgian/QH gelding.  I have had him since he was 5 months old. 

I started training him to ride and went through all kinds of bits, sidepulls, bosals, and bitless bridles. 

Of all the products I have tried the Nurtural Bridle is the BEST.  It is most user friendly and easy to care for. 

My horse (All That Jazz) loves his Nurtural Bridle SO much that as soon as he sees me hold it up he gets excited and starts trying to put his own nose in the bridle as if to say "hurry up and put on my bridle, I'm ready to ride!" 

 

It has been easy to train Jazz with this bridle.  We go trail riding, and parade riding in the Nurtural Bridle.  I have attached some photos.  People can't believe that he doesn't "need" a bit. 
And when others ride him they often don't even notice he doesn't have a bit!

 

Thanks from San Antonio, Texas

 

Teresa Nguyen and Jazz

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I have confidence in her finally!!

 

Hi,

My name is Morgan and I am 15 years old, and I happened to come
along to your site. I have a mare MULE and she used to fight the bit
a lot, so I decided to try your bridle. I finally got it and tried
it out just walking under the saddle. She did really well, so I tried
it out with my riding coach and "Trigger" (the mule) did wonderfully.
For the FIRST time with my coach we got to a lope, going in small
circles
. Normally with a bit ( which we tried different bits for a
long time,) she would throw her head in the air and do the complete
opposite of what i asked her to do. But now she minds with the tiniest
of a tug. She's like a different mule. I just want to thank you for
coming up with this wonderful bridle. Me and Trigger have a grand
entry at our rodeo tomorrow and I can actually have confidence in her
finally!!
Thank you so much!


2006-2007 Colfax County Fair and Rodeo Junior Queen,


Morgan

 

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 Won Hunter Pace and my partner didn’t notice I was riding bitless

I bought two nylon Nurtural bitless bridles (1 Arab and 1 horse) from you a couple of months ago.
Josh, my Arab gelding is 16 years old and hadn’t been ridden in about 8
years. I really didn’t relish the thought of jumping on him after all this time with a regular bit.  Just a few days after receiving the bridle from you I put it on him, adjusted it per your instructions and took him to my arena. To my pleasure he didn’t mind me getting on him after all this time. No buck and no spook. I was concerned about control but didn’t have any issues. He seemed to immediately understand and accept the side pull mechanism for turning left and right.  Although he did throw his
head when I pulled back to stop him, the important thing is that he did stop.

My next ride started in the arena but I then took it out across an open pasture. Just a short ride in the open but same result. I rode him a few more times on casual trail rides down dirt roads near my home. Each time he accepted the bridle a little more.  After 5-6 rides the head tossing completely stopped.

Two weeks ago I took him to a state forest with my son and some friends and rode about 6-8 miles. This was the first time he had been trailered from my property in at least 8 years. He did great and I had no control problems.

Today, April 1 I took Josh to the first competition
we’ve ever entered, a 7 mile “Hunter Pace”.  We went there for fun, but pending final results, my partner and I look like the winners with a final time of 1 hr, 39 minutes. There were approx 100 riders. Again, no control problems whatsoever. We went from walk, trot, canter (up and down) with no problems controlling his rate. In fact, my partner didn’t notice I was riding bitless until I told him.

Josh will never know the pain of a bit again and I can ride without fear that my heavy hands will injure or scare him
.

I’m working on neck reining now and will let you know how that goes. By the way, I put the horse sized bridle on my wife’s quarterhorse who had also not been ridden in several years. He was neck rein trained and had not forgotten his training even after all these years. He turns just fine with a light rein on the neck so the bitless bridle turned out to be no different than any other bridle in this regard. He was previously ridden in a long shank curb bit because he could be hard to stop. I rode him once in the arena and then took him on a trial ride and had no problem keeping him at a walk. In all fairness, he is overweight and out of shape and really didn’t want to do anything but walk so I’ll let so know how that goes as well as I continue to work him into shape.

Thanks for making this great humane tool. One of these days I plan to pick up a leather bridle for dressier rides but the nylon is great as it looks as good as new even after the rides described herein even though I haven’t washed it yet.

Tom,  Florida

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His whole demeanor changed

Hi Zoe, Angela here, well I tried the bridle today and he did fabulous!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! His whole demeanor changed.
I even went over a small jump with him for his and my first time with the bitless!!!!!!!!

It was a beautiful feeling and I know he likes the bitless!!!!!!!!!
I love it too!!!!!!!!!          Angela, Ontario

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Balanced and relaxed:

 

I rode my Trakehner mare once in the arena to get her used to the different feel (and it was raining!). There was actually no adjustment period, she easily understood the rein signals.
 

Our second trial was out on a hack with a friend and her OTTB. Spring breezes, bounding herd of deer and wide open cornfields! I had the same or slightly better control than using a bit.

 

The third ride was the real test - 3 other horses, one of which is quite hot and known to get the others excited. The jokes when we left the barn all questioned my sanity having no "brakes". I did have to take hold a few times and tell my mare "steady" once - again, no more than with her usual snaffle. I was curious to see her head though - had I been forced to take a consistent hold with a bosal, she would have had rubs. Other than a bit of sweat under the noseband and crown-piece, there wasn't a hair rubbed. That was the ultimate proof. We had done two hours of fairly strong-paced riding in a group and my mare was balanced and relaxed up and down hills, happy, and easy to control. Congratulations on designing and manufacturing a great product!

Lisa.

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Wow your bridle made a big difference.

I received it yesterday and today I tried it out. I did some bridle work with my horse Breeze and then went under saddle.
I rode her for over an hour. That was first for her.  
I have had her under saddle before and tried to use a different type of bit less bridle but had very little success.  
However today was a whole different story she was wonderful.
Your bridle made a huge difference for Breeze and I.  

I hope you make it Equine Afair this year. The word really needs to get out to more people. I’m sure my wife will be buying one in future for her horse. She’s an Appaloosa as well.  

I will email some photos with bridle on in a few days.    Rodger, Ohio

From Zoe to Rodger: 
THANK YOU!  I love messages like that!
Please do send photos – and I will post your message so others can see! 

I am off right now to see if we can still get a booth at Equine Affair!  Have a wonderful weekend!

Rodger to Zoe:

I'm still kind of shocked. It totally changed her response.
I thought she give me buck or swish her tail turn and try to bite at as before. None of that happened. Not that I tolerate it when she does.
She was totally flexed really easy. I did not take much rein pressure for her to do serpentines. Just a slight pull. WOW!

I'm following the John Lyons approach to training but adding my own twist to it. A little of Monty Roberts methods as well. I think one of these days you going to read about some of well know trainers endorsing the Natural method.

Rodger

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After watching your video on the 22nd, I decided it was time to start Duke in your Nurtural bridle last night (23rd)

As he is an older horse, he is quite familiar with round pen work and join-up was not an issue.  However, since he is generally distrustful of new things, I chose to introduce the bridle in the pen rather than in his stall so that he would have a choice to either be with me and the "new thing" or be put to work.  It took about 20 min for him to make up his mind that he could accept the bridle.  I found it very easy to fit as per your instructions and chose to set the noseband a bit low initially as he is naturally very high headed.  As soon as I had it fitted and asked him to yield, he adopted his usual stiff-necked position.  Then you could almost see the light bulb go on in his head!  He turned his head a fraction and I released the pressure.  He instantly began licking and chewing.  He was onto the concept of yielding his head and then his whole body within minutes!  Much like your stallion, things were progressing so well that I asked for my driving lines and after a few minutes of allowing him to figure out what I wanted, we were ground-driving! 

Now, here comes the most amazing part.  In the nearly two years that I Now he will back up in Nurtural bitless bridlehave had him, I have never managed to have him back up from the bit.  When I would ask for the back, he would plant his feet and fight, throwing his head in the air, thrashing around, anything he could possibly do except give in and move backward.  The very first time I asked him to back in your bridle, he took a step back with only minor resistance.  By the third time I asked, he tucked in his nose and backed up as straight as a poker for about 6 steps and then stood quietly, waiting for what I asked next.  I was ecstatic!  I decided that it was a good time to stop (mainly because I was so happy I was in tears).
 
I cannot thank you enough for the wonderful gift you have given Duke an I this Christmas.  Because of you, I now have a gentle way to communicate with this ultra-sensitive giant of mine.  You have solidified my dream that he will be a "normal" horse again some day.

Although I don't have one, there should be an abundance of digital cameras around here over the holidays.  I will try to get some shots of us working to send you.  As busy as the next several days will be, I am determined to make the time to continue.  Please don't feel that you need to take time away from your family to respond.  I just needed to express my deepest gratitude to you.    Jackie

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Young horse loves his Nurtural Bitless BridleI am a new horse owner with a green broke 5 year old Mustang. Utah is not a wild, difficult, or mean horse. His ground manners are superb and he loves people. But that would change under saddle.  Utah hates riding in a bit (tossing his head, pulling, gnashing) and is very uncooperative while being bridled even by trainers. Since I was so paranoid about hurting him with my untrained hands, I had been riding him in a rope hackamore or just a halter. Needless to say, green on green really does equal black and blue.  After 3 runaways and one bad fall, I was desperate to find something that would be comfortable for him while still giving me the control I need. So, I purchased the nylon version of your bridle. I didn't want to invest too much in case it turned out to some kind of "snake oil" that wouldn't live up to its promise.
 
The transformation has been dramatic! He must like it because  he now lowers his head for me to bridle him and doesn't fuss and fidget with his head while being ridden. His steering and stopping have improved so dramatically that we are now going out on some pretty challenging trails and trotting and cantering more.  Utah is more relaxed and listens so much better. It is the perfect combination of comfort for him and control for me and now we can truly be partners.
 
I have only had the Nurtural bridle for a few weeks, but plan to upgrade to the leather version next year.
 
Thank you so much for your great product. 
 
Best Regards,
Sarah , Shawnee, KS USA

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Nurturing Down Under - Our first Nurtural Bridle in the Land of Oz!

Nurtural Bitless Bridle - horse & owner happy in Australia

I pleased that the delivery was quick too.  I took Jordan out on a trail after showing him on the ground the way the bridle works - people thought I was mad not bit or saddle, but I trusted my boy!  He was a bit unsure and confused at first but for our first ride out I thought he went well.  By the end of the street he began to turn properly - we will work on that, he was a bit grumpy, but he will quickly get used to it. Jordan didn't try to eat grass either which was a step forward.   He still head tossed a bit, but I think it was the weather as it was only in one section of the trail which we were head on to the wind.  Everyone was very impressed and there are lots of inspecting etc.  My friends are going to try my bridle which is promising for going natural with their horses.  Will send some photos.

Later ..I finally have some photos for you with Jordan and his new bridle.  He has no confusion at all after that first ride, and I feel very secure and in control.  He actually has a reverse gear now and I have been able to keep him at a steady trot whilst others are cantering in front which is fantastic.    I may be biased, but I think he looks great in the bridle!!!  Thank you.

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I was thinking of selling my big Belgian.  Now I can enjoy her! 
Link to the full story.  (It would lose too much character to type it!)

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It was literally the best ride I’ve ever had 

Zoe, my old OTTB absolutely LOVES the Nurtural Bridle, and I’m so impressed with it, I’ve recommended it to two friends.  None of us have indoor arenas, so until we get a day that isn’t rainy and damp after work, we’re kind of waiting for them to try it.

I put it on Jordan for the first time, and it was literally like riding a different horse!  He is an older been-there-done-that-got-the-cooler kind of horse, and likes to pull the reins thru your hands.  I think perhaps he was ridden by youngsters he could do this to.  If you fix your hands, he tries to ‘bop’ and is very fussy.

Well, the Nurtural Bridle went on and Jordan gave a toss of his head.  No hitting the bit; no lengthening of reins.  You could see his gears turning…and he was going along in such a contented frame and attitude in just moments.  I kind of figured he’d lean in and follow his shoulder around on the corners, but no!  He bent and lifted into my hands so smoothly.  It was literally the best ride I’ve ever had on him. 

I can’t say enough about this bridle for Jordan…and, as I say, I’ve recommended it to two friends already!  The review won’t go into this issue (it’s in the process of going to press), but I’ll check with Laura when she can insert.  I just got a new digital camera, so I”ll be able to get some pictures to include.   

Thank you again for giving me the chance to try this!  

Elizabeth

Watch for Elizabeth's full review in the summer issue of EQUINE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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Well-trained warmblood lunges well 

Zoe, I've just gotta tell you!  I put the Nurtural bridle on Tuxedo (my 17 hh, green warmblood).  I always lunge him before riding, and he is well-broke to lunge, so I don't know if a green lunge session would work so well. 

I clipped the lunge line onto the two clips the reins go on...I put them together under his jaw and clipped on the lunge line.  I was careful not to pull and tip his head -- and Tux is well-trained -- but he lunged like a DREAM with his bridle onI didn't have to worry about banging a bit around in his mouth.  He lengthened and shortened his stride on command, reached out and down, and in general seemed very pleased with the situation. His wooas were the best I've had in ages, but smooth and steady.

.... I'd just want it clear that Tux is already well-trained to lunge...I don't know if it would be a safe way to start or work with a horse inexperienced to lungeing. 

Elizabeth

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Inexperienced rider happy in Illinois

The no-bit bridle fit and worked great! Stopping, turning and backing up was no problem for my 16 year old pinto mare. I just bought her four weeks ago and had not ridden her until then. I just started riding about two years ago and consider myself a very inexperienced rider with lots to learn. I don't have to feel sorry for my horse anymore!

Thanks, Greg

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Thoroughbred from the track loves to jump in GTA

Thoroughbred (off the track) jumping in Nurtural Bitless bridleHi Zoe,
Thought you would like to see this pic taken today.  Steph is now part boarding Zeus, (the horse in the picture) using the bitless of course.  She gave up Jasmin so other kids could enjoy her since she is now bomb proof. Of course, Laura will let her ride her if she wants, but Steph wanted a new challenge.  She is still riding Mystic for barrel racing.

Zeus is a thoroughbred from the track.  He needs work and conditioning but loves to jump.  Steph says 3 ft to him is nothing and she has jumped him higher but doesn’t want to do too much until he is stronger and more in shape.

Take care,  Gail  (~August 2006)

Update from Stephanie April 2007
So we figured out why Zeus has been acting so out of control. 
As I said in a previous email I'm going in a show, so I've been practicing for it in a bit.  Stupid show people.  They need to learn to accept change.  The problem is, Zeus has his 8-year-old molars  coming in.  Thankfully I can still ride him because of your bitless bridle (did I mention how much I love you?), but because most hunter shows don't allow the bitless bridle I might not be able to show him all summer!  It really bites because we've gotten so good and he's ready for a show.  Laura said we might be able to get them filed and then I'd be able to put a bit in for a show, but life would be so much easier if they would just let me ride in your bitless.

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Forward motion no longer an issue in Calgary

Happy horse in Calgary in Nurtural Bitless BridleI have recently started to incorporate some riding into my 3 year-old's (2 months shy of 4) training.  She was started with a highly recommended trainer and has come along wonderfully!  Groundwork is still a major part of our work, but she has taken this new addition in stride.  The only problem was, she fussed with the bit.  She would play with it, and chew on it and be distracted from listening to me.  I tried riding her in a halter with reins attached to the side and she did better, but it slipped around too much to be effective.  So, when I received my bridle I tried it out immediately.  And the difference was incredible!  She pays (almost - she is a youngster!) complete attention to me and is not stressed out at all.  Forward movement is not an issue anymore - she was so absorbed with her fussing that even walking forward was a big challenge.  She walks around quite willingly, turns, stops and backs up as if she's been doing this for years - and she looks happy too!  When grooming and tacking up, all I have to do is put the bridle on and she will stand as if tied while I brush her and put the saddle on.  Whenever I bring the bridle out, she waits at the gate for it.  So thank-you very much for this wonderful piece of equipment that has made such a difference in our training!  I have a few theories about why the bit was such a problem, but as it appears we will never go back to it, they don't really matter!      Alia 

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Happy California warmblood has never been ridden in a bit

California warmblood in Nurtural Bitless Bridle

I am attaching some pictures of my 3 year old warmblood gelding in the nurtural bridle.  It is probably about his 20th ride in these pictures, and he has never been ridden in a bit.  Using a bitless bridle, he is extremely responsive and supple, and wow, you should see his stride!

This was his first time in the nurtural bridle, and my trainer and I loved it.  It is very well constructed and didn't feel as flimsy as the other bitless bridle (won't mention the brand).  We never had to worry about the straps twisting or shifting while riding.  The main pressure difference seems to be that the nurtural bridle applies pressure on either the left or the California warmblood - dressage in Nurtural Bitless Bridleright side only up to the strap holder (the x-piece, sorry don't know what to call it!), and then the pressure is applied to both sides of the head and the poll.  We weren't quite sure if that would work better or worse, but Royal ended up being just as responsive, if not more responsive to left or right aid requests.

Basically, I love it!  I feel that Royal is just as supple and just as responsive as horses in bits.  I just hope that some miracle will happen before he's ready to start showing dressage so that bitless bridles will be allowed in competition.

Thanks so much, and I highly recommend your product!!!!

Laura

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Happy horse and owner - in Nurtural Bitless BridleNo more bucking and less nervous...
…  We came across a couple of deer sleeping in a field yesterday and when they got up he bolted - I had no trouble getting him under control again.  He has also been bucking a bit on the trail when he gets nervous or excited (he is young) and has not bucked at all with the bitless bridle - so all in all I am pretty pleased.  The whole concept of the bb is less disturbing that the idea of putting a piece of metal in someone’s mouth in order to control them.
Kirsten Woodend, RN, MSc, PhD, Assistant Professor

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Spreading the word in Vancouver
My name is Nora Robinson and I have recently ordered and am anxiously awaiting the delivery of my new bitless bridle!  I am currently organizing a horse show for my barn http://www.bodiceafarm.com/  and we are planning on having a product display area for our local equine companies as well as some from other areas.  I personally ride my horse with a treeless saddle and bitless bridle and would love to see more people exposed to the benefits of this equipment.  The show is on June 24 and as I am sure I will have my bridle from you by then, I will definitely be telling people where I purchased it from!  My question to you is: do you have any information packages you would like us to display for you that might generate sales from our province?  Obviously you can't be here, but the owners of my barn are very much into natural horsemanship and products (and barefoot shoeing too) and I think your product would be very interesting to our local equine community.   …..  Yes my bridle did arrive (last week). I love it, and the quality is very nice.  You bet, I would recommend the bridle and will show it off at our event. 


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Sure, you can post my comments. I am in LOVE with this bridle! Before, with the old bitless bridle, he would fight against the bridle and get worked up--with the Nurtural, the signals are very clear bc of the solid noseband and circle-x and he respects it--he may resist once or twice, but then he seems to realize "hey, she means it!" and then he does what I ask. His performance on the ground has improved dramatically in just a few days. Now that the signals are clear and he is comfortable, he is responding more and more readily and with less and less pressure ( my experience with mustangs is that it is no use asking them to do something that they do not like or makes them uncomfortable--it turns into a fight and you will not win--you have to make it a good experience for both of you!).  This morning, in gusty winds, blowing snow, and zero wind chill, he plowed through drifts down our trail into the woods, something he has steadfastly refused to do in the lines since the snow fell.  He shied away once, I turned him back, and he just stuck his ears forward, and off he went down the trail!  It almost works too well : ) This morning after the woods he was having such a good time he decided he wanted to go right down the road, past the plows and everything.  I was disappointed to cut his fun short, but itDenise Bickel, DVM driving her Mustang in a Nurtural Bitless Bridle wasn't a very safe day to go down the road.  There is a big change in his attitude toward the work!  We already know we will start our new weanling in the Nurtural when he is ready to start ground-driving. 

And yes, go ahead and include my contact info--the way the economy is here, I need all the help I can get! Thanks again! I will let you know how it goes when we get back to riding--way too much snow for me to try that right now.

Thanks-    
Denise

 

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Sorry to clog up your email. I hope to one day have a story as cool as the ones on the website when Brennir is all grown up and trained, but here is my 22 month old Mustang on his second day in the nurtural, being ground-driven around the farm.  He is VERY hard-headed when he decides where he does or doesn't want to go....but the Nurtural gave him very clear signals and he responded very well, going past spooky, snow-covered objects with ease.  I was so happy, and I hope he was too. He certainly stands quietly in the barn aisle completely unrestrained and lets me put it on him with no fuss.  I just had to share these pictures...I am sure you get a lot of emails, but I was so proud of him for doing so well, and he looked so handsome in his pretty blue bridle! -- Thanks!
DeniseDenise Bickel, DVM Driving her Mustang in a Nurtural Bitless Bridle
   

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Hi Zoe, the bridles finally got here an hour ago and I have fondled 
them excessively!!  The quality is very nice, can't wait to try one 
on; it is suppose to be very nice tomorrow, and I have to baby-sit the 
grandbabies, but I think we will get to the barn!!  I will get back 
with you.  Thank you so much for your generosity; we will do our best 
to promote your bridles to everyone we can.  Happy trails, Peg

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Hi There,

I recently purchased your bridle and I love it!!! My horse, Archimedes, is very happy and he has responded so well. Previously to using your bridle I was riding with just the Parelli halter and ALWAYS felt nervous. I did not feel that I had the control I needed to really work him. Now that I have your bridle, Arch has been bending and turning beautifully! Thank you for creating such a great product! (My coach is even “borrowing” my bridle when I’m not using it for her horse!) I’ll take a photo and send it to you very soon.

Thanks again,
Lisa Ntantoulis
London, Ontario
 

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Hi, I'm a natural horsemanship student. I like the look of the nurtural bridle, but have a few questions about it. I currently ride in a rope hackamore, and really love it. However, it is not a good tool for collection etc. Can the nurtural bridle be used for refinement and freestyle riding?  Also, does the nurtural bridle sit bellow the end of the nose bone of the horse (cuting of the horse's breathing if pulled back on to hard) ? Thanks -Victoria

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I ordered one of your bridles and it arrived early last week (quick shipping time too!) I don’t even know where to begin- I am so incredibly happy with the bridle!! And more importantly, my horse is thrilled with it too!!!

I purchased my trail horse “Dakota” in late August of last year. He is a 5 year old draft x. He hadn’t had much formal training before I bought him. I’ve ridden all of my life, but had spent about 5 years away from my horses. It was a huge risk for me getting a young green horse after not being around horses for a while. Last fall, Dakota and I worked daily on exposing him to new things. Living a secluded life deep in the country before I got him, he wasn’t used to many common things (cars, bicycles, etc.) He made great strides on our daily journeys and by the end of the fall was feeling very comfortable on the road and trail. Before winter set in, I found him a companion pony which he instantly became smitten with! (Read: barn sour!) Our rides became more and more challenging with him wanting to jig the entire way home. Before our last trail ride before the ice storm, my old bridle broke (dry rot) and I tried to fit him with pieces and parts from other bridles. Obviously, I didn’t get the bit situated just right in his mouth. We had our worst ride that day- he tossed his head all over the place, reared, bucked, kicked, jigged, danced, snorted- all (except the recently added jigging) very uncharacteristic of Dakota to do. It was an awful ride- Dakota was obviously upset, and I was confused and feeling a bit overwhelmed with my horse!!! We’ve spent the winter working in just a rope halter and trying to re-establish some trust in one another on the ground and on his back. With spring right around the corner, I decided it was time to start searching for a new bridle to replace the broken one. By chance, I stumbled upon your site while looking for a traditional bridle. I think I looked at every single page on your site, crossed referenced it with other sites, and did as much research as I could on bitless bridles. Then, I took a huge leap of faith and ordered one! I have to admit, I was worried that Dakota would tuck his nose in (like he would with the bit) and have his way with me. I was so wrong! Dakota is FABULOUS in the bitless bridle! He is relaxed, responsive and just generally much happier! We went out on our first real ride of the year today- the same ride we did at the end of last year when he was so angry- and what a difference! He walked back to the property calmly (despite being happy to be out and about in the warm weather) and I was able to turn him, stop him and back him with absolutely no problem at all!!! When I take off the bridle, he still opens his mouth as if to drop the bit out- it cracks me up!! Thank you for creating such a wonderful product- I am so happy with it!!! I wish I would have known about these years ago for my retired trail horse, she would have loved it also!

Looking forward to many more fun and happy rides without a bit!!!

Thank you again!

Stef Costello and Dakota in New Hampshire, USA

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Hi Zoe,
Just wanted to let you know that I love the bridle! Val was a doll! The other girls at the barn even rode her in it! She framed up nicer than in the bit and had a much nicer trot! I will send you some pictures! No one even knew it was bitless!
Thanks

Ashley Schultz
Zoo Casuals Inc
 

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