162 The Horse Tddustijy in New York State 



two or three years, when the rapid method can be used if neces- 

 sary. The colt should be broken to both single and double harness, 

 and should be exercised sufficiently to make him handy and safe. 

 He should not be worked steadily until he is matured. 



HANDLING THE FOAL 



The little foal should become acquainted with his master while 

 he is very young. He is, by instinct, inquisitive, and will work 

 his way up to you ; if not frightened or hurt he can very easily 

 be caught and held. The proper way to catch him is by placing 

 one hand under the neck and the other around the buttock. 

 Handled in this manner he will not struggle and will soon learn 

 to stand quietly and fearlessly. 



TEACHING THE FOAL TO LEAD 



A light, well-fitted halter should be placed on the foal just be- 

 fore weaning time to accustom him to it before he is taught to 

 lead from it. Attach a small .rope, about five feet long, to. the 

 halter, then take a rope about twelve feet long and make a large 

 loop in one end that will fit over the buttocks at the base of the 

 hams. With a rope in each hand, give the halter rope a gentle 

 pull and command, " come." If he pulls back give the buttock 

 rope a gentle- pull ; when the pressure is felt he will naturally 

 step forward. After a few steps, place the hand on the nose band 

 of the halter and command, " whoa." Every-day lessons will 

 soon render him handy and he can be led without the buttock 

 hitch. To teach him to back, place the hand on the nose-band of 

 the halter and the other hand against the breast and command, 

 '' back." If he refuses, apply pressure on both nose and breast, 

 and he will quickly learn to obey. 



TRAINING TO STAND TIED 



The training of the foal to stand tied should come next. Place 

 a rope, with a ring in one end, around the loins, forming a slip- 

 noose, with the ring on the under side of the body. Pass the rope 

 between his fore legs and tie so that the pressure on the loins will 

 be felt if he pulls on the halter. Care should be taken not to 

 have too much pressure on the halter, as colts often injure their 



