A BIT ABOVE
Certified Bit fitter specializing in hunter, jumper & equitation
Optimal Comfort, Improved Performance
Your equine partner deserves to feel their best so they can perform at their best.
Very often, bit and bridle-related pain under saddle are mistaken for behavioral issues. As a Certified Bit & Bridle Fitter, my goal is to evaluate your horse, identify specific pain points through an oral exam, and test new bits during an under saddle evaluation to find the best fit for your horse.
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A poor-fitting bit and bridle can manifest in a variety of ways. Some common issues you may be experiencing include resistance to bridling, head tossing, bracing and resistance to contact under saddle.
If you're experiencing this...
Using a bit and bridle that’s properly set up for your individual horse will ensure an even distribution of pressure across the horse’s mouth and head. This will eliminate distractions caused by discomfort, and transform your horse into a more comfortable and willing partner.
here's how I can help...
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bit & bridle fitting sessions
offered in-person within 50 miles of Birmingham, Alabama and virtually
In-Person Sessions
book a session at your barn or at a horse show
contact to book
Travel included within 50 miles of Birmingham, Alabama
Virtual Sessions
book a session at your barn or at a horse show
Travel included within 50 miles of Birmingham, Alabama
In-Person Sessions
what to expect
Each in-person session begins with an equine head palpation, evaluation, and oral exam. After examining your bit and discussing your riding and training goals, we will try 3-5 bits unmounted and under saddle or on a lunge line. During this phase of the session, we may also test different bridle setups.
When we find the perfect fit, you may choose to take the bit on trial for up to two weeks or purchase it at the end of your session.
how to plan for your session
Most sessions are 60-80 minutes. Please have your horse in the barn and groomed prior to our appointment time and be prepared to ride or lunge your horse so we may test a variety of bits and bridles after the oral exam.
Sessions start at $100
Travel included within 50 miles of Birmingham, Alabama
contact to book
Virtual Sessions
what to expect
Virtual Sessions are done via a Google Meets Meeting. Clients are required to submit photos, videos and a detailed questionnaire prior to our meeting. After reviewing your photos and videos, I will mark up the provided photos to show exactly where the bridle does or does not fit. During our meeting, I will show you examples of improper fitting vs. correct fitting so you can visualize the difference. From there, I will recommend bits to try with your horse and can ship you a trial.
how to plan for your session
In addition to a completed questionnaire, I will need 3 clear pictures of your horse’s head with the bridle on (left side, right side, head on) as well as a 3-5 minute video of your horse under saddle at the walk, trot and canter in each direction. If you jump, please include jumps off the left and right at the appropriate height.
virtual Sessions start at $50
contact to book
BIT & BRIDLE TRIALS
How It Works...
- Your two-week trial begins the day of your session.
- IF YOU are happy with your trial bit, I will facilitate the purchase of your new bit and YOUR TRIAL DEPOSIT WILL BE DEDUCTED FROM THE TOTAL COST OF YOUR PURCHASE after you return your trial bit. PURCHASES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
- If you do not purchase your trial bit or bridle, you may ship them back to me for a full refund (client is responsible for paying for return shipping).
- All trial bits are safely sanitized after trial use.
laura packer
Qualified Bitting Analyst with a certification in Qualified Bit and Bridle Fitting by the Academy at Neue Schule
As a lifelong horsewoman, I’ve always been fascinated by bits and their mechanics. After years of working with horses on the rated hunter/jumper circuits in Pennsylvania and Maryland, I transitioned from an office job to a full-time equine career after receiving my QBA certifications. To date, I am one of only two bit and bridle fitters in the USA with the QBA certifications and the sole specialist in hunters, jumpers, and equitation.
Whether you’re a competitive rider or a pleasure rider, your horse’s comfort is paramount and greatly impacts their performance and overall well-being. Every horse deserves anatomically appropriate equipment to reduce the likelihood of pain and discomfort.
