Abstract: A halter having a continuous headstall strap that fits over the poll of the horse's head and includes a lead attachment ring at the bottom of the headstall strap.

Abstract: An equine training apparatus used in conjunction with: 1) a bridle supporting a bit, 2) a noseband, 3) riding reins connected to the bit, and 4) a breastplate, the apparatus comprising a head communication assembly comprising a cord member having a first end attached to a first O-ring, a second end attached to a second O-ring and noseband connection means between said first end and said second end and dividing said cord member into a first fork and a second fork; a sliding member in slidable engagement with said first fork and said second fork; and fork-body connection means for anchoring said sliding member to any of a breast plate, neckstrap, girth, cinch or the like. The sliding member acts as a pulley about which at least one fork is disposed and, when anchored to body tack via fork-body connection means provides a pivot point about which each fork may act; the sliding member effectively divides force applied through the reins into a mouth force component and a nose force component.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for guiding an animal includes a hackamore for the purpose of riding without a mouth bit, chains or side shanks. Neck reining is encouraged by applying pressure to the neck and the outside of the lower jaw on the same side, which then encourages the horse to bend in the proper direction. Because of the uniquely designed hackamore, the horse is encouraged to stop with minimum pressure. As the neck rein pressure is applied, the plate twists and applies pressure to the side of the jaw, the horse moves away from the pressure providing more control to the rider. Because of the instant release of the pressure, the horse feels the rider's instant and complete release which provides for easier and faster training of the horse. The adjustable nature of the hackamore allows for the rider to fit various animals unique muzzle structure.

Abstract: A combination dog collar and control halter has a muzzle assembly with a cinching muzzle loop that can be operated by tension on the leash to lower the dog's head. The muzzle assembly is removably attached to the dog collar by two side members on the muzzle assembly that connect to two rings on the collar that are disposed on opposite sides of the dog's head. The collar can be worn as a conventional collar. The muzzle assembly is easily attached to the two rings when needed by simple connectors.

Abstract: A bitless bridle for humanely, physiologically and effectively restraining and controlling a horse or other animal at rest and at exercise comprises an elongated strap which includes a center piece at the poll, and two crossover straps at the sides, attachable to a pair of reins providing a direct link between the centerpiece and the reins. The crossover feature of the bitless bridle provides for persuasive, but non-painful, pressure to be applied to the whole of the opposite side of the head of the horse, from poll to chin or for rapid alternate pressure to be applied to both sides of the head. The centerpiece may include a plurality of holes for receiving studs for applying painless pressure on regions of special acuity at the poll and behind each ear of the animal, or may receive a separate sleeve which includes the studs in order to apply pressure over areas of special acuity.

Abstract: A dual hook lead rope for leading and tying an animal, said lead rope comprising a rope having a first and second end, a first fastening device secured to said first end of said lead rope, a second fastening device secured to said lead rope at a point intermediate said first end and said second end, and a method of tying a horse using the described lead rope.