3 2 4 FAULTS OF TEMPER. 



reins, or by giving him a good turn at the head and tail 

 method, the effect of which may be completed by the use 

 of the rope-twitch. By teaching obedience to the word 

 " steady ! " (see page 118) we can, with a degree of 

 certainty unattainable by any other means, make the 

 horse stand like a statue, by mere word of command. 

 The rope-twitch can be so readily and easily applied, 

 is so effective in its results, and is so free from evil con- 

 sequences, that its application is of the utmost value in 

 rendering horses docile. Having made the refractory 

 horse acquainted with the meaning of the word " steady ! " 

 we may take hold of the loose end of the rope-twitch and 

 direct an assistant to proceed to handle, saddle, mount, or 

 otherwise try the temper of the animal, whom we should 

 punish by jerking the rope and uttering the word " steady ! " 

 the moment he makes the slightest refractory movement. 

 Each time the punishment is inflicted, the objected-to 

 action should be recommenced, and the punishment re- 

 peated until obedience is obtained, when a caress and 

 encouraging word should testify our approval. We should 

 continue this instruction until we have made the 'animal 

 thoroughly obedient. The noose-twitch (see page 122), 

 from the ease with which it can be applied and taken 

 off, is particularly useful for making horses steady for 

 mounting and dismounting. If time is pressing, or if 

 we are unable to accomplish our purpose by less severe 

 methods, we may make the horse lie down and keep him 

 on the ground (see page 149) until he "gives in." 



DIFFICULT TO BALL OR DRENCH. 



Aided by the rope-twitch (see preceding paragraph), 

 I have never had any trouble in making refractory horses 

 take a ball or drench. Mr. D. C. Pallin, A.V.D., informs 



