152 



METHODS OF HORSE-CONTROL. 



method, as far as I can see, was that the ropes passing 

 through the mouth and under the tail were apt to hurt 

 those parts. 



The employment of the tail-rope (see Fig. 74) is an 

 improvement which I have devised, and which I have 

 found very useful ; although it is by no means indispens- 

 able, especially if the operator be expert. As the surcingle 

 has to be girthed up tightly, I like to use a felt saddle- 



Fig. 74. Making horse lie down. 



cloth or numdah under it, to prevent it slipping forward, in 

 which case it might squeeze the withers, or the crupper 

 might rub the root of the tail. 



In order to make a horse " give in " to the required 

 degree, after he submits to lie down readily with one leg 

 tied up, I like to continue the process with both fore legs 

 free until he goes down without any trouble. 



When horses are properly thrown they suffer no pain from 

 the process. I remember treating a horse for actinomy- 

 cosis, which necessitated my throwing him, when dressing 



