CHAPTER XIX 

 THE CARE OF HORSES 



Many things might be written regarding the care of 

 horses, because the subject is a very broad one and covers 

 various items of interest and importance ; but only a few of 

 the more important features of management will be con- 

 sidered in the limited space here available. 



Regularity in the care of the horse is very important. 

 Under ordinary conditions when not on pasture he should be 

 fed at the same hour. It is customary to feed three times 

 daily at regular hours, and water before going to work and 

 again upon return. Grooming also should be done at much 

 the same time each day. Where daily exercise is necessary, 

 as in the case of the stallion and horses not at work, it will 

 be well to give this at regular periods. No animal on the 

 farm adjusts itself to regular habits to more advantage than 

 the horse. 



The grooming of the horse is quite necessary if kept in 

 the stable, although he always responds to this process. 

 Dust and dirt on the skin tend to close up the pores, and 

 thus to a certain extent affect the health and disposition of 

 the animal. Body waste is thrown off in sweating, and a 

 good brushing will remove this, stimulate the skin, and leave 

 the pores open and in better condition to perform their work. 

 If a horse is wet from sweat, it is a good plan to first rub 

 him off with a half round scraper, following with a thorough 

 rubbing with handfuls of dry straw. This rub leaves a 

 horse in good condition for a final brushing. A hard metal 

 currycomb is not a good tool for a horse, especially on his 

 legs and more sensitive parts. It is better to brush him 

 well with a good fiber or hair brush, although a dull curry- 



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