168 MOUNTED INSTRUCTION 



It is absolutely important that the load is distributed evenly between 

 the six horses. Some draft horses will try to pull the whole load, others 

 are laggards. The lead and sw^ng must always remember that their 

 pairs must by steady pulling keep the wheel team and carriage from 

 stalling. 



The use of the whip, and spurs, or the '"twitch," is not recommended 

 for use except for most exceptional cases. 



YOU CAN DO ANYTHING WITH YOUR HORSES ONCE YOU HAVE 

 THEIR CONFIDENCE IN YOU 



1. Impress thoroughly upon the men that the secret of success in 

 handling horses is patience and kindness, which gains their confidence. 

 Explain that a horse is an animal with very little brains but an excellent 

 memory, and is extremely nervous. Harsh treatment or a kind act are 

 never forgotten. From the very beginning instil a pride in the men in 

 the appearance and care of their horses and their equipment. 



2. The object of horsemanship in the army is to enable the driver to 

 so condition and ride his horse that the animal will be able to carry 

 both rider, and load the required distance in the required time, with 

 the least injury to both driver and horse. 



3. Horses require gentle treatment. Docile but bold horses are apt 

 to retaliate upon those who abuse them, while persistent kindness often 

 reclaims vicious animals. Train your horses by reward and punish- 

 ment ; in 99 cases out of 100, punishment does more harm than good. 



4. Before entering a horse's stall and when coming up behind him, 

 speak to him gently, then approach quietly. Noise and confusion 

 excite a horse just as much as surprise. A good driver sliould take 

 infinite interest in his horses and study their wants and peculiarities. 



5. Never kick, strike about the head, or otherwise abuse a horse. 

 Severe disciplinary measures will be used to eliminate any abuse of 

 this kind. A horse has a good memory and remembers ill treatment. 



6. Never punish a horse except at the time he commits an offense, 

 and then only in a proper manner. A cross angry voice will stop a 

 horse kicking on the picket line, while an encouraging voice will help 

 send a willing horse forward. A driver's reprimand to his horses 

 should be sharp and firm, but never harsh. 



7. Give the horse an opportunity to drink before leaving the picket 

 line or stable, and before putting the bit in his mouth. In cold weather, 

 warm the bit before putting it in the horse's mouth. A horse cannot 

 drink his fill with someone on his back. All the horses must go up to 

 the trough together and stay until the last horse has drunk his fill. 

 Orderly watering is a sure indication of a well disciplined organization. 



8. Never take a rapid gait until the horse has been warmed by gentle 

 exercise. A horse should always walk the first mile from stables and 

 the last mile in. 



9. When a horse is brought to the stable or picket line in a heated 

 condition, never allow him to stand uncovered : put a blanket on him 

 and rub his legs, or walk him until he is cool ; if he is wet, put him under 



