826 rarey's horse-taming. 



No. 2 in tlie riglit. See Fig. 52. This demands more self- 

 possession than strength, as bojs, and even ladies, have 

 successfully laid down large horses, and few or no serious 

 accidents are recorded. The struggle rarely continues 

 longer than from five to ten minutes, and no horse has been 

 known to hold out for more than fifteen minutes. 



It is not necessary to oppose the horse by violently 

 pulling on the bridle, but merely use the reins to steer him 

 away from the walls of the enclosure ; or, if he be obstinate, 

 he may be compelled to walk backwards until he is tired 

 out. When he finally sinks forward on his knees exhausted, 

 you can, by pulling the off rein firmly, bring him over 

 upon his left side. If he make a second attempt at resist- 

 ance, so much the better, as his subjugation will be more 

 complete after he gives up. 



When completely subdued and upon his side, begin to 

 caress and soothe him, rubbing his head, neck and legs, 

 speaking kindly to him as you move about him, and 

 he should be repeatedly stroked and handled wherever 

 he is disposed to be "•touchy." Any articles he is in- 

 clined to fear may be brought to him, and placed upon 

 him, such as a Buffalo robe, umbrella, saddle, or harness. 

 Mount him yourself quietly, to convince him you will 

 do him no harm. After all resistance has ceased, you 

 may remove his straps, and continue the rubbing and 

 your soothing attentions. If he attempt to rise, you may 

 hold him down by the head, or by doubling up a fore 

 leg, as at first, but if he is too quick for you, do not con- 

 tend with him, but let him rise, and again tie his feet, 

 and Iny him down. After working with him thus for 

 an hour, encourage him to rise, and, after an interval of 

 a few hours, repeat the lesson ; indeed, two or three les- 

 sons per day may be advantageously given to an obstinate 

 animal. After each, and whenever he shows submission, 



