292 Stable Vices and Whims 



sure just back of the ears, and the horse naturally 

 lowers his head, when he should be caressed and fed 

 a dainty, as sugar or an apple. Next work the bridle 

 up toward the top of the ears, and if he raises the 

 head jerk it down as before. Do not forget to caress 

 him when he lowers his head, as this is what you 

 wish him to do. Continue until he becomes sub- 

 missive to having the bridle placed over his ears 

 without raising the head. In case he refuses to 

 open his mouth, part the lips at the left side and 

 with the fingers reach in between the bars and tickle 

 the top of the mouth, when he will immediately 

 open his jaws and you can slip the bit into his 

 mouth. 



Difficult to crupper. — This is a very aggravating 

 habit, as the horse clamps his tail down on his 

 quarters so firmly that the crupper is placed in po- 

 sition with much difficulty. The causes of the habit 

 and the methods of overcoming it are similar to 

 those described for the horse that throws his tail 

 over the lines (p. 268). 



Biting. — This is a habit usually caused by irri- 

 tation and rapidly develops into a confirmed and 

 dangerous vice. Improper grooming is the most fre- 

 quent cause of the irritation, hence the most gentle 

 treatment is essential in animals with sensitive skins. 



In confirmed cases, the vice is exceedingly danger- 

 ous, the animals sometimes plunging ferociously 

 upon their victim, trampling him underfoot or 



