October 2022 Issue

Page 16 October 2022 EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN The Dr. Cook Bitless Bridle was developed after years of research. The design allows gentle, effective control with pressure that is distributed evenly around the horse’s head. Sometimes when you just can't find a bit that works trying the Dr. Cook Bitless Bridle could be the answer to your problems. Going Bitless, no matter what discipline you are in (English or Western), even for a short period of time can be like hit- ting the refresh button on your computer. It’s also great to have a bit- less bridle on hand for situations such as being able to ride right after having your horse’s dental work done, or long trail rides where they can graze and drink without the nuisance of having a bit in their mouth. And being able to take the bit away allows you to make sure your horses Can Your Horse Benefit from Riding in a Dr. Cook Bitless Bridle? bad behavior is not related to the bit you are using. Older horses with severe tooth loss will be much more comfortable bitless. Going bitless is great for lesson and therapeutic riding programs where the rider has not yet developed the skills necessary to ride in a bit. Transitioning to bitless requires a surprisingly small amount of effort and time, some- times horses adjust even in the first ride. We suggest you start in a small, enclosed area (round pen, indoor arena, etc.) The Dr. Cook Bitless Bridle is marketed all over the world and used in all disciplines. Available in English & Western styles starting at $69.95, it’s easier than ever to go bitless. Made in the USA out of pre- mium American materials. To order-www.bitlessbridle.com or call 877-942-4277. By Susan Strawser, owner Fry’s Equine Insurance Agency We don’t like to think about it but it is important to insure your horse. This is not only a way to protect your financial investment but it is also a way to protect your horse in the event of an accident or sickness. Mortality insurance provides coverage on the life of the horse and includes theft and some colic surgery coverage. These policies are fairly standard throughout the insurance industry. The differences in these policies are the medical options Insurance Helps You Concentrate on What’s Important – Your Horse that cover required treatments and surgeries. You can purchase major medical endorsements or surgical-/colic-only endorse- ments. For some horses, you may want loss of use (in the event a horse is injured and can no longer perform his intended use) or fertility coverage. Colic surgery can run any- where from $8,000 to $20,000 (and sometimes higher depending on the circumstances). Insurance helps shoulder that cost so you can get back to what is important – working with your horse and enjoying your time together. (Continued on page 17)