BREAKING, GENTLING, AND TRAINING. 501 



were properly studied and understood. We may mold and 

 fashion His disposition, control his actions, teach him obedi- 

 ence and submission, and Imbituate him to the performance 

 of whatever duty is deemed best for him. If properly 

 trained, he will be safe and true, and utterly free from vice, 

 in almost every instance. 



The process of gentling should be carried on as opportunity 

 offers — ^by lifting his legs and feeling of them frequently, 

 handling his head and ears, stroking his neck and body, and 

 occasionally by opening his mouth. ]N'ot only should all this 

 take place before weaning-time, while the colt is still with . 

 his mother, but a great deal more besides. The bridle may 

 be shortened and the bit^put into his mouth. The bit should 

 be a very small one, and handled carefully, so as not to hurt 

 his mouth. He may be allowed to champ it for a* time, but 

 should never be hitched or led about with the bridle upon 

 the first occasion of its use. After he has become somewhat 

 accustomed to wearing it, as he will when it has been put 

 on three or four times, he may be led about with it, a little 

 longer and further each time. The first few times this is 

 done it should be by the side of his mother, and while she is 

 being led along ; then he may follow at a little distance be- . 

 hind her, and presently he may be taken a few paces in ad- 

 vance of her. 



It should be some time before he as tied. When ready for 

 this part of his training, especially if he is to be made stand . 

 by himself, it would be best to have a good, strong halter^ 

 so as not to hurt his mouth. Be as kind and gentle toward 

 him as possible, but always continuing the attitude of a mas- 

 ter. He must be made to understand that the keeper's will 

 is his highest law, and that no alternative is open to his 

 choice, but obedience alone is possible. Do not suffer him, 

 at any time, to obtain any advantage in pulling about by the 

 halter or bridle, or in running away. One time of the latter 

 occurrence may nearly ruin him. It will take months of 

 careful management to correct its evil effects, and often it 

 forms the beginning of a series of bad habits. As he be- 





