MOUNTING 1)7 



Prevention is better and more easy tlmn any cure, and in '.Hi 

 cases out of 100 i)revention is possible, and perfect cure impossible. 



1 94. — When the colt has been made really ready for mounting, 

 his breaker will have learned a great deal of what his tem])er is, 

 and will be able to judge what precautions will l>o necessary in 

 getting on his back. 



There are many different ways of going to work, and the 

 experienced breaker will choose the one most suited to the temper 

 and disposition of his pupil. Available convenience too will vary 

 greatly : a common stall, an empty barn well littered, a ploughed 

 field, or even a grass paddock may be used, but we like nothing 

 better than a good sized high loose box, with a clay floor, and 

 some well trodden short litter upon it. 



105. — An empty box about eighteen inches square makes a 

 good mounting block. Let the colt touch it with his muzzle 

 and closely examine it as long as he pleases. Then place it near 

 his left fore leg and step quietly on to it. Pat the colt on the 

 back, and give him plenty of time to take stock of you at that 

 elevation. Then get off the box and mount again repeatedly. 

 Then standing on the box reach your hands over and pat him 

 down the right side. Lean first a little and then all your weight 

 on him, gently repeating anything that alarms him until he is 

 quite reconciled to it. If he is still nervous about your 

 proceedings, get the duster (187) and give him another good 

 rough dusting. This never does any harm, and it usually has a 

 wonderful effect in removing all fear of your future movements 

 upon hira. With your hands lean your weight first in one 

 stirrup and then in the other. Then put your left foot in the 

 left stirrup and stand in it, getting up and down repeatedly 

 Thus deliberately feeling your way at every stage get gently on 

 his back. Pat him on the neck and shoulders and speak to him 

 in a calm soothing voice. Get on and oft' repeatedly. If you 

 have got on so far without ruHling your own or the horse's 

 temper, you may take away the box, and practice getting on and 

 off as long as he appears at all nervous about it, and get him 

 thoroughly reconciled to this important part of his future business' 

 however long it may take, before you attempt to proceed farther. 



