206 Training Wild and Subduing Vicious Horses 



under the head-stall of the bridle, then down the 

 opposite side and fasten to the bridle rings by a half- 

 hitch, so that the rope can be easily unfastened no 

 matter how tightly it may be drawn. If there is 

 danger that the straps will slip down over the hocks, 

 they should be supported by a light strap placed over 

 the rump and down to the hock on either side. 



When this harness is properly made of substantial 

 material, it may be used to correct many bad habits, 

 such as kicking, rearing, bolting, running, and the 

 like. Should a horse kick in such a harness, the rope 

 over the head draws the bit up into the angles of the 

 mouth and holds it there until relieved by the trainer. 

 This should be done gently and with patience. The 

 advantage of such a harness is that the horse deals 

 out his own punishment at the instant he violates 

 his master's will. 



Hobbles. — These are used to prevent the horse 

 from kicking. They are often used on a mare at time 

 of service to prevent her from kicking the stallion. 

 To make the hobble, use a soft rope one inch in 

 diameter, and about eighteen feet long, four straps 

 about one and one half inches wide and two feet long, 

 and two rings two inches in diameter. Double the 

 rope at the middle and tie a knot forming a stationary 

 loop about three feet long. Buckle the straps 

 above and below the hocks and through the 

 rings. Now place the large loop over the horse's 

 head and slip it back to the shoulders much as a 



