314 Stable Vices and Whims 



feed and lie down at once, and he should not be dis- 

 turbed until he gets up of his own accord. It has 

 been suggested to suspend a five-pound weight se- 

 curely fastened to the tail, so that it will hang about 

 four inches above the hocks. It is stated that the 

 strain of the weight impels the horse to lie down. 



Trotting in stable. — This is a habit in which the 

 horse executes a movement somewhat similar to the 

 trot ; that is, he moves from one pair of diagonal 

 feet to the other. While the habit has no serious con- 

 sequences, the noise is rather annoying and the horse 

 uses up energy, which lowers his efficiency as a working 

 animal. The principal cause is lack of regular exer- 

 cise, as hard working horses are never troubled, and 

 it is of rare occurrence among those given sufficient 

 exercise. 



Weaving. — This is a habit somewhat similar to 

 trotting in the stable, the horse weaving from 

 side to side, sometimes raising his feet at the same 

 time. It is brought on by lack of exercise and stand- 

 ing in the stable. It uses up much energy and les- 

 sens working efficiency. It is overcome by regular 

 exercise and hard work. 



Switching tail in stable. — This aggravating habit is 

 caused by improper training, particularly poHng. To 

 overcome the habit, give the horse a thorough poling 

 as in overcoming kicking (p. 254) . Then with the pul- 

 ley bridle (p. 193) attached, go over him carefully with 

 the brush. If he resists, punish with the bridle. It has 



