TRAINING-STABLES. 335 



height of six feet ; the remaining space, from the top of 

 the partition to the ceiling, which should be from ten to 

 twelve feet from the floor, being supplied with iron bars, 

 which will allow the horses to see each other ; and which 

 will make the stable generally warmer in winter, and 

 allow a better circulation of air in summer. A cheap 

 arrangement of shutters, to entirely close up the barred 

 space, will confine the heat to the stables which are 

 occupied. 



Training establishments are usually supplied with sad- 

 dles, of various forms, weights, and sizes ; bridles ; bits, of 

 every form; rollers, straps, knee-caps and boots, and 

 clothing in every conceivable variety ; also with the simpler 

 remedies for the ordinary ailments of horses in training. 

 Before the training commences the horse should be ex- 

 amined as to his health, form, and temper, as well as to 

 his pedigree. This examination is one of the most respon- 

 sible duties of the trainer, and its object is to put him in 

 possession of as many facts as possible as to the points of 

 strength and weakness of the horse, whether acquired or 

 inherited. By the deductions therefrom made, he decides 

 in what way it is best to treat his subject so as to develope 

 his powers, with the least risk of injuring his health or 

 disposition. The average length of time required for 

 training is about six months, during which the horse un- 

 dergoes three different stages of treatment, the object being 

 to remove all unnecessary fat from the external and in- 

 ternal parts of the body, to put the heart and lungs in 

 the best condition for the performance of their functions, 

 and to give, by means of exercise and nutritious food, the 

 greatest possible amount of strength and endurance. 



The first preparation, as far as exercise is concerned, 

 consists mainly of walking, which removes excess of fat, 

 and gives hardness and endurance to the legs. After it 



