THE HORSE 149 



It is best not to use the high over-check rein. The over-draw 

 check is used for single harness, and the side-check or bear- 

 ing rein for double harness work horses. 



Keeping* the horse comfortable. One point in good horse- 

 manship is to see that the horse is. properly shod. Every 

 owner should understand how a Ahorse should be shod, so 

 that he can insist on the blacksmith shoeing him properly. 

 Harness should be well fitted to the size of the horse. If the 

 collar is too large or too small, sore necks will result, as well 

 as other troubles. The harness should be kept well cleaned 

 and oiled, not only to prevent rapid wearing out, but to give 

 greater comfort to the horse. Never put a frosty bit into 

 the horse's mouth. Warm it by breathing on it or holding 

 it in the hand. The horse should never be left facing the 

 cold wind, and should always be blanketed when left to stand 

 in the cold. Examine the horse's teeth frequently. A horse 

 can not eat properly when his teeth are poor. Use a curry 

 comb and brush freely upon the horse, especially the brush. 



Laws of the road. A good driver observes and knows all 

 the courtesies of the road. He turns to the right and gives 

 half of the road to those he meets, and all the road, if pos- 

 sible, to a loaded wagon. He permits anyone to pass who 

 wishes to drive faster than he, and, if he passes another, he 

 drives far enough ahead to avoid annoying him by the dust. 

 Recent laws have been made in different states regarding 

 the automobile and its rules in regard to horse traffic along 

 the road, but a gentleman chauffeur and a good horseman 

 need have no trouble about the laws of the road. 



