Handling previous to Training 51 



and patience are preferred to the use of the twitch, 

 and will overcome most horses. In case the horse 

 is very sensitive to the touch and it is not safe for 

 one to get near to caress him with the hand, other 

 means must be devised. The English use a so- 

 called '^ third hand/' which is a stick somewhat simi- 

 lar to a walking stick or cane. With such a stick 

 rub the horse along the top of the neck. The dan- 

 druff collecting about the base of the mane often irri- 

 tates the part so that it itches, and the horse enjoys 

 having it rubbed or scratched. After he has be- 

 come familiar with the stick on top of the neck, pass 

 it back, touching the withers lightly or not at all, 

 and rub the back, the sides, the rump and the like. 

 After a few minutes' work with the stick, the horse 

 learns that he is not going to be harmed and will 

 permit himself to be rubbed with the hand. 



The horse is now ready for the halter. Choose a 

 strong leather halter, preferably one that has been in 

 constant use, place it on the animal's head and tie 

 securely in the stall. He should be left in the stall 

 for some time in order that he may become familiar 

 with the halter. 



TRAINING THE HORSE TO LEAD 



After the horse becomes accustomed to being 

 handled, and familiar with the halter, he should be 

 taught to lead. As this is a very important matter, 



