96 HORSESHOEING. 



them down from time to time. In old and stiff horses the 

 feet should not be lifted too high, especially in the begimiing 

 of the shoeing. 



Vicious horses must often be severely handled. Watch 

 the play of the ears and eyes continually, and immediately 

 punish every exhibition of temper either by jerking the halter 

 or bridle vigorously, or by loud commands. If this does not 

 avail, then if soft ground is at hand make the horse back as 

 rapidly as possible for some time over this soft surface; it is 

 very disagreeable and tiresome to him. To raise a hind foot 

 we may knot a strong, broad, soft, plaited band (side line) 

 into the tail, loop it about the fetlock of the hind foot, and 

 hold the end. This often renders valuable service. The 

 holder seizes the band close to the fetlock, draws the foot 

 foi-ward under the body, and then holds it as above de- 

 scribed. The use of such a band compels the horse to carry 

 a part of his own weight, and at the sam« time hinders him 

 from kicking. Before attempting to place this rope or band 

 about the fetlock, the front foot on the same 'side should be 

 raised. 



The various sorts of twitches are objectionable, and their 

 use should not be allowed unless some painful hoof operation 

 is to be done. The application of the tourniquet, or " Spanish 

 windlass," to the hind leg is equally objectionable. 



Those horses which resist our attempts to shoe them we 

 do not immediately cast or place in the stocks, but first have a 

 quiet, trustworthy man hold them by the bridle-reins and 

 attempt by gentle words and soft caresses to win their attention 

 and confidence. 



Tichlish horses must be taken hold of boldly, for light 

 touches of the hand are to such animals much more unpleasant 

 than energetic, rough handling. Many ticklish horses allow 

 their feet to be raised when they are grasped suddenly without 

 any preparatory movements. 



