86 Training the Work Horse 



untrained horse out of his senses and he may prove 

 a source of real danger. 



The horse should be driven once or twice before 

 going through the course to familiarize him with 

 frightful objects. At first his attention is taken up 

 by the pressure of the harness, shafts and the ve- 

 hicle following, and he gives little or no attention 

 to objects along the road, which later may frighten 

 him. 



For best results in giving this lesson use nothing 

 but the bridle, surcingle and lines. Since the horse 

 should have the free use of his head he should not 

 be reined. To train the horse to endure strange 

 sounds, stand him in the center of the inclosure and 

 at first have an assistant hold the lines. If the horse 

 has not received the command '^ whoa" at various 

 angles, he should at this time. To do this, circle 

 around the horse, giving the command ''whoa" every 

 few steps. Procure an old tin pan or anything that 

 will make a noise and walk around the horse as 

 before. When in front of him gently start the noise. 

 The first time or two around, it may be necessary to 

 stop the noise as you pass behind the horse, par- 

 ticularly if he is very nervous. Gradually increase 

 the racket until by the fourth or fifth round he will 

 stand while you make all the noise you can. You 

 may now give the pan to the assistant and have him 

 walk in front, making all the noise he can while you 

 drive the horse after him, frequently stopping and 



