Catching a Horse 285 



Troublesome to catch. — This refers to the horse 

 out at pasture refusing to come when called, or refus- 

 ing to allow one to approach him. It is very annoy- 

 ing to corral such an animal. The habit is due to 

 improper treatment, usually when young. It is 

 not uncommon for boys or thoughtless persons to 

 throw sticks or stones at young colts to make them 

 run. In this way the horse learns that by fleeing 

 when any one comes near, he avoids such objects 

 as are thrown at him. To overcome the habit, 

 treat the horse gently, take an ear of corn, an 

 apple or a little sugar to the field when you go 

 after him and be sure to give him the dainty and 

 caress him when he comes to you. If you catch him 

 by offering the corn, then refuse to let him have it, 

 he is not likely to let you catch him again ; hence give 

 him the dainty each time and he will soon reward 

 you by coming when you call him. 



