88 DISEASES OF ANIMALS. 



To PREVENT A HORSE BREAKING A HALTER OR BRIDLE. 



First, strong halter him with one that will not draw, as 

 that often makes his jaw sore ; then fasten him to some- 

 thing which he cannot pull loose, and let him pull ; in- 

 deed, make him pull until he is unwilling to pull any 

 more. You then get on and ride him a mile or two, and 

 tie him so again, and let him stand quiet. To prevent a 

 horse breaking a bridle, put a thin, soft pad under that 

 part that passes over the top of his head, with little sharp 

 nails, so arranged that they will run through the pad and 

 prick him when he pulls. 



To prevent Stumbling. If a horse stumbles or trips, 

 it is a common practice to strike him for it. This will 

 not mend his ha jits, but will add to them, if he has spirit, 

 that of springing forward with dangerous quickness 

 whenever it occurs — as he will expect the lash to follow. 

 The remedy is, to keep an eye upon the road, and where, 

 from stones or unevenness, falling is apprehended, tighten 

 the reins and enliven the horse, but never strike him after 

 the accident. 



To manage a Contrary Race-Horse. If he stops or 

 sulks, go to him, and speak kindly to him ; rub him down 

 the face, using the bridle no more than you can help ; 

 turn him to the right or left, until he starts, as he will be 

 most apt to start, at the second or third motion ; then 

 continue rubbing him in the face, talking to him as in 

 other cases, keeping him quiet by leading him about. 

 Continue to rub him in the face, and use the same tone 

 of voice. 



To manage a Sullen Horse. If a horse lies down, 

 and will not get up, drive a stake in the ground and 

 fasten him down for ten or twelve hours ; then loosen 

 him, work him for about an hour, water and feed him, 

 and he will "know better next time." Or apply your 

 hands to the nostrils and stop his breath, and he will 

 soon start. 



To stop a Headstrong Horse. Connected with the 

 reins have a covering that, by a spring, may be suddenly 

 thrown over his eyes, which will blind and stop him. 

 Or have extra reins extending from the top of the head- 

 stall through rings on the hames, near the top, or D's 



