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Merrill Equine Solutions

Sheila (Merrill) Belzil

Hay Lakes, Alberta

Contact Information:
info@merrillequinesolutions.com
merbel@live.ca

WHY BITLESS?
I asked myself a similar question about six years ago. But my question was 'Why bits?'

Call me lazy on the first hand. But I was getting really tired of looking for a 'better' bit. Interesting thought. What did I mean by 'better bit?' Well you know, the one that would sit comfortably in my horses mouth, the one that would give me correct halts, correct bends, proper flexion! How important is that? Very important. Why? Because everyone else was doing it. Funny! The moment I typed that bit of truth, a stark realization comes to mind. My brain being held hostage by popular beliefs. Beliefs that actually held little more than a history of tragic or futile endings. My brain, capable of moving independently but choosing to settle back and do it the 'hard' way because...'everyone else is doing it.'

How blind! So call me blind on the second hand. All I ever really had to do was open at least one eye and stand near a training paddock as some poor soul and their magical beast tore by me with nostrils flared and eyes turned skyward. And you should have seen the horse!

But neigh, I chose to see a grand parade of horsemanship. Yeah, I wanna be just like that! So impressive! And I was like that ... for decades!

Every working relationship I had, with every horse was painfully similar. Don't get me wrong...I loved them all...but the truth is I have always wanted more than just 'love'. My apologies if this bothers you...so call me greedy.

BUT...when the relationship was not a 'analytical classification followed by an itemized declassification on the fundamentals of horsemanship...it was like watching paint dry!'

To simplify, imagine a line in the dirt ten-feet in front of you. That is as far as you can go for your entire life with this horse.

Oh sure, I could get out there and bring home a ribbon. Ride lots, pour on the show sheen, get my teeth cleaned (ya know..for that winning smile), and finally, get a better bit!

And I certainly would memorize those show and breed regulations and for the sake of that ribbon, stay within the lines!

BUT such a ribbon would give me such a false sense of achievement. Purely a personal statement...relax.

What I am talking about, what I endeavour to attain is a 'working relationship WITH my horse, any horse.

A relationship with correct and progressive growth. A relationship based on clear communication that is mutually comfortable and mutually rewarding.

That means the horse gets to be happy too! :P

I am a Canadian Bitless Bridle Distributor
BBE (Bitless Bridle Exhibitor)
BBAC (Bitless Bridle Associate Clinician) for Dr. Cook's Bitless Bridle


What is a BBAC? BBAC's are individuals appointed by Dr. Cook who are active horsewomen and horsemen and regular users of The Bitless Bridle. Our first priority and motivation is to educate and enhance the welfare of the horse and rider. We demonstrate a sound knowledge of the scientific foundation of the bridle and the rationale for removing the bit. We understand the concepts of the bridle so we are able to assist and advise with its fitting and usage.

I invite you to browse this website and learn more about Dr. Cook's Bitless Bridle. I further invite you to email if you have any questions.

The Port Lewis Workshop Saddle Testing and Fitting System is

The Gold Standard in Saddle Fitting


We Test English / Western Saddles

How The saddle Fit System Works

This saddle fit system..will revolutionize saddle fitting!

Let the Port Lewis Impression Pad tell you the TRUTH about your saddle.

The world's first comprehensive saddle fit system...that allows you to test the TRUE fit of your saddle.

The Impression Pad evaluates rider,  horse and  saddle...and while they are in motion.


The Impression pad evaluates your fit in 18 separate locations under the tree. 9 sections under each tree bar.

Your saddle will be tested...front to back and side to side. And equally important...You will be able to immediately see the test results as they are indicated by the Impression Pad. But we don't stop there!!

We can then provide you  with a  custom fit!

Using our Port Lewis Correction Panel Kit. You can also retest and easily change a fit to accommodate
the changing shape and special needs of horse and rider at any time.