Hi -

I realized I never gave a 'proper' introdution when I first posted, so here we go.

I'm a dressage and eventer from the Twin Cities in MN.  I've always had barefoot horses, although not 4-point trimmed.  I haven't been able to find an affordable 4 point trimmer, so I'm learning it myself.  I'm also a U of MN student (Biochem/Animal Science), and have been reading many scholarly articles about hoof and leg anatomy.  During my research, I saw a reference to Dr. Cook's book, and began researching the Bitless Bridle and its applications to dressage.  I had no qualms about jumping or hacking, but was faced, as are many, with the question - "What about being On The Bit?"  While it took some considerably digestion of classical and modern dressage theory, I decided that indeed the bitless should work, improve upon the system even, and mine should arrive in a couple of days.  I was never comfortable with the amount of contact that dressage trainers suggested that I ride with (I prefer not to touch my mare's mouth at all, really), and this seems like the perfect solution. 

If anyone has a used copy of Dr. Cooks book on problems induced by bitting, I would love to purchase it.

I plan to document my transition with my green Anglo-arab mare from a loose ring french link copper inlay Myler to the bitless bridle, supplement with scientific info from scholarly journals and Dr Cook's book, and publish in our local eventer mag, Cross Country (publication for Central States Dressage and Eventing Association).  More visual presence = overturn of FEI ruling against the bridle.

Let's hope all goes well! 

Any insight or advice from fellow dressage riders would be greatly appreciated. 

Thanks!

Katie