336 



Harnessing the Colt 



particularly in ascending a grade. The breast har- 

 ness is intended for light work only, and if the load 

 is heavy, the horse may choke. 



The hame-tug. — The proper adjustment of the 

 hame-tug adds much to the efficiency of the horse 

 and is an important factor in preventing sore shoul- 

 ders. If the draft is too low, the action of the 

 shoulder while walking gives too much back-and- 

 forward motion to the collar. This is noticeable by 

 the motion at the tops of the hames as the horse 

 walks. This constant motion is likely to cause sore 

 shoulders either at the points or at the top. If the 

 draft is too low, the likelihood to injury is equally as 

 great. Further, the tugs should be of equal length. 

 It is not uncommon to observe one tug hitched longer 

 than the other, which materially lessens the horse's 

 efficiency and is likely to cause sore neck and shoul- 

 ders. 



THE CRUPPER AND BACK-STRAP 



Next in importance perhaps to the bit and collar 

 is the crupper. In training as well as for subsequent 

 use, the large stuffed crupper free from folds is 

 recommended. In fitting the crupper extra care must 

 be exercised in adjusting the check-rein and back- 

 strap, for if either are too short the crupper will be 

 drawn tightly against the tail. Since the under part 

 of the tail is very tender, this is likely to cause soreness 

 and thus lessen the reliability of the horse. The 



