Are horse bits cruel?Yes they very much can be. In my years of a horse owner this has been one of my biggest predicaments! When I first got my horse I was new to them and always used the bit her old owners gave me. Turns out I was using a Tom Thumb bit on her for 5 years before I realized what I was doing to her. I just never viewed a bit as being a form of abuse but now I know so much more knowledge. As a young teen that shows horses and enjoys 4H and pony club with them I want the best for my horse. You see in 4H and pony club bits are required. I show in western pleasure which is judged on beauty and poise of the horse and also uses shanked bits. People don't care that they are using incredibly aggressive bits they just want to win. Its can be very cruel. And I am not hating because years ago I was one of them. And that's where this petition started. When I realized my horses face each time I rode her and stuck that cold painful piece of metal in her mouth I knew she was not enjoying rides. The bits made her jumpy, spooky, and she was always hard to control. I said never again am I going to do this. Now you'll hear "Oh bits aren't aggressive its all in the owners hand", there are so many thoughts and opinions about bits it defanately makes it very hard to know whatto do.There is now many alternatives to bits as natural horsemanship is becoming more popular. I want to use a bitless bridle or just a ahackamore to show my horse in. Plus with each ride that I don't use a bit Abby is a much happier better acting horse than she has ever been. The problem is shows don't allow you to "Not use a bit", they say the bits are your form of control and your horse will beout of control without a bit. People in these pony clubs are trying to teach you how to take great care of your horse yet they are allowing these young kids to handle a horse with a incredibly harsh bit.If I can get enough like minded people to sign this petition that will mean the entire world to me and Abby.
