318 Harnessing the Colt 



upon the proper adjustment of the bit and bridle, 

 collar, saddle and crupper, each will be considered 

 separately. 



THE BIT AND THE BRIDLE 



The proper adjustment of the bit and bridle is of 

 first importance. A responsive mouth contributes 

 much to the efficiency and safety of the horse. A 

 good mouth is to a large extent natural to a colt, 

 and if properly treated will remain good. When we 

 recall the extreme tenderness of the mouth, the cruel 

 manner in which it is often bitted, the excruciating 

 pain resulting from the irritation of the sores by a 

 poorly fitted bit, we can understand why a horse may 

 lag behind until the parts become numbed, then begin 

 pulling on the bit, bearing down, holding the head 

 to one side, going with mouth open, lolling the tongue, 

 slobbering, tossing the head, crossing the jaws, 

 rearing, mixing the gaits, hitching or hobbling, inter- 

 fering, plunging or rushing when starting, balking, 

 as well as being very restless when standing and in 

 many other ways showing evidence of the discom- 

 fort he is suffering. 



The hit. — As a general rule, in the control of 

 the horse, too much is expected from the bit alone. 

 Many otherwise excellent horsemen imagine that 

 by using a heavy and severe bit they are or ought 

 to be able to do anything they like with a horse, 

 even though the animal has not been properly trained. 



