172 Gait of the American Trotter and Pacer 



contain the proof of the influence of the weight and of the shape of 

 shoes. While it may even before this have appeared as if it was often 

 necessary to use unequal weights on opposite feet, it should be borne in 

 mind that such differences are rarely of a permanent nature. Struc- 

 tural faults unequal hoofs or unequally developed muscles may re- 

 quire such a permanent adjustment, and any faults of gait may be cor- 

 rected by such a course; but it should also be remembered that the 

 normal condition of equality on both fore and a similar equality on 

 both hind should be the best way to balance the horse, if his anatomy 

 is equally well developed at each extremity. 



It should also be remembered that the greater the speed the 

 smaller the changes necessary for a better balance; but the claim 

 that a "rough" gait at slow speed will become "smooth" when the 

 speed is increased is too often based on a deception of observation. 

 By the greater exertion of increased speed, the faults become less 

 visible or audible, but they will remain just the same. Training out 

 deficiencies of gait by driving or working can never be a logical or in- 

 telligent method of perfecting the gait. It is merely a blind-man's-buff 

 illusion of trying to get what we want without knowing where we are 

 at. A temporary remedy is the only proper thing to apply after the 

 fault has been definitely located, and this is always within the mental 

 reach or should be so of a competent trainer. 



Mere weight of the shoe, regardless of the shape of the shoe or 

 of the angle of the foot, has the general effect of increasing the ac- 

 tivity in both fore and hind feet. But as far as its effect on extension 

 is concerned, there seems to be this distinction, namely : 



In fore legs, mere weight is apt to decrease extension and increase 

 elevation. 



In hind legs, mere weight is apt to increase extension and decrease 

 elevation. 



For the difference in elevation and extension so brought about, 

 compare the Figs. 20 and 21. At both extremities weight gives to the 

 feet a better direction and in consequence it steadies the motion of the 

 horse. 



To illustrate the point in question, Fig. 136 may add clearness to 



