Tkaixiao the Colt 163 



I 



heads or necks bv pulling. Pet and reward him when he stands 

 quietly, and leave him tied only a few minutes the first time. 

 Within a very few days most colts will stand tied anywhere. 



GEXTLING THE COLT 



When tied the colt should be handled from both sides; gentle 

 by patting and rubbing the hands about the head, neck, back and 

 legs. If he shows a tendency to kick, use a stick four or five feet 

 long. He should be allowed to examine and smell this stick before 

 his body and legs are rubbed. Continue with the stick until he 

 will stand quietly while being rubbed. The second day, tie an 

 old coat or rag on the end of the stick and repeat the first day's 

 lesson. Accustom him to strange noises, unusual sights and fur 

 coats and robes until he stands without fear. 



At this time the feet should be handled, trimmed and kept level, 

 since many blemishes, such as crooked and cocked ankles, bow-legs, 

 side bones and interfering, are the result of ill-shapened feet. If 

 the colt is well trained to stand, it is a simple matter to true and 

 level the feet. On the other hand, if he is hard to handle he will 

 not be properly cared for. 



DRIVING THE FOAL WITH LINES 



The foal should be driven with lines at an early age. This is 

 not essential, but is a very good practice to add to his early edu- 

 cation. To do this pla^ a surcingle with line rings well down on 

 the colt. Hitch the lines on either side of the halter and pass 

 them through the line rings on the surcingle, keeping them well 

 down on the quarters. Standing on the near side well up to the 

 shoulder, with the right line drawn around the quarters and the 

 left line shortened, command him, " get up." If he does not 

 start, tighten the right line to bring pressure on his buttocks. 

 This will have the same effect as the rope did when teaching to 

 lead, and he will start readily. Circle right and left as well as 

 straight away. Use the command, " whoa," and stop him with a 

 hint from the lines and not a hard pull or jerk. Stop and start 

 him often to give him confidence. 



After he is handy to drive, teach him to back from the lines. 



