76 The Care of Animals 



ments" may be laid down, and should always be kept in 

 mind. A horse should never be trusted more than is 

 necessary. A good horseman never runs risks if he can 

 avoid it, and when risks are necessary, he always reduces 

 them to a minimum by care and forethought. Many 

 distressing accidents occur from trusting old "family" 

 horses. Unexpected circumstances are liable to arise at 

 any time that require good judgment, and some strength 

 and skill, in the handling or controlling of horses. The 

 harness and other equipment should be of good quality 

 and in good repair. Children, women or incompetent 

 men should never be left in charge of horses unless the 

 animals are securely tied. Horses should be tied about 

 the neck by a strong rope or strap, the latter passed 

 through the ring of the bit, or by some similar arrange- 

 ment. A horse should always be tied short; if tied 

 long, he is liable to get his feet over the rope, to cramp 

 the vehicle, to get his nose on the ground, to step on 

 the lines or bridle; and if he becomes frightened he has 

 much more chance of freeing himself. In driving, a 

 whip should always be carried; while it may be seldom 

 necessar}^ to use it, yet when it is needed it is usually 

 needed very badly. The lines should always be kept 

 within reach. 



A horse should never be allowed to ^et the ad- 

 vantage of a driver, or to get from under his control; 

 for once he learns that he is superior to the driver he is 

 usually ruined. The driver, by firmness, gentleness 

 and force of character, should control the horse. Aside 

 from the damage which may be incurred by a horse's 

 bolting or running away, an attendant may be hurt by 



