HORSES. 89 



in the saddle. Put a narrow or round strap under the 

 throat, and fasten to these reins, on each side, bringing 

 the reins dowTi low. On drawing these reins, the strap 

 u-ill chokfc and stop the horse. 



CARE OF A HEATED OR WET HORSE. 



Walking-. When a horse comes to the stable sweat- 

 ing copiously, he must not stand still, especially in cool 

 weather, as he will be likely to take cold, inflamed lungs, 

 or founder. But, by gentle motion, he will gradually 

 cool, and these evils will be avoided. 



If a horse be wet, he should be walked until dry ; for, 

 in this process, the evaporation carries off" a great deal 

 of heat from the body, and produces chill, colds, and 

 diseases. But by moderate exercise, the heat is kept up 

 till the drying is completed. 



WispiNG. If a horse be wet from water, or perspira- 

 tion, and cannot be dried by moderate exercise, the 

 water should first be scraped out of his coat, and the 

 drying completed by wisping; and it should be done 

 immediately, attending first to the belly and legs. To 

 do this well, requires skill and a strong arm. 



Clothing. If several horses need drying at the same 

 time, and there is not sufficient help, put warm clothing 

 on theai ; but if possible, scrape them first. 



DRESSING VICIOUS HORSES. 



Some horses seem naturally averse to the operations 

 of the groom. But many are rendered vicious by the 

 harshness, timidity, or folly of the keeper. 



Biting may be prevented by tying the head to the 

 rack, or ring outside the stall, or by putting on a muz- 

 zle. Some horses are so prone to biting, that it is dan- 

 gerous to pass near their heads. Some biters are safe 

 with the bridle on, and the bits in the mouth. Others 

 behave very well when blindfolded. But some are so 

 vicious that if prevented from biting by restraining the 

 head, they will beat down their keepers with their fore 

 feet. 



8* 



