164: APPENDIX. 



and the second to permanently secure the leg which is looped up. The appli- 

 cation of the straps will be better understood by reference to fig. 58. 



In the first place, if the horse be a biter, muzzle him; then lift and bend his 

 left fore-leg, and slip a loop over it. The leg which is looped up must be secur- 

 ed by applying the short strap, buckling it around the pastern joint and fore- 

 arm ; next put on the surcingle, and fasten the long strap around the right fore- 

 foot, and pass the end through a loop attached to the surcingle ; after which 

 fasten on a couple of thick leather knee-pads these can be put on in the first 

 place if convenient. The pads are necessary, as some horses in their struggles 

 come violently on their knees, abrading them badly. Now take a short hold 

 of the long strap with your right hand ; stand on the left side of the horse, 

 grasp the bit in your left hand ; while in this position back him gently about 

 the stable, until he becomes so exhausted as to exhibit a desire to lie down, 

 which desire should be gratified with as little violence as possible ; bear your 



Fig. 58. 



weight firmly against the shoulder of the horse, and pull steadily on the strap 

 with your right hand ; this will force him to raise his foot, which should be im- 

 mediately pulled from under him. This is the critical moment ; cling to the 

 horse, and after a few struggles he will lie down. In bearing against the ani- 

 mal do not desist from pulling and pushing until you have him on his side. 

 Prevent him from attempting to rise by pulling his head toward his shoulder. 

 As soon as he is done struggling, caress his face and neck ; also, handle every 

 part of his body, and render yourself as familiar as possible. After he has lain 

 quietly for twenty minutes let him rise, and immediately repeat the operation, 

 removing the straps as soon as he is down ; and if his head is pulled toward his 

 shoulder it is impossible for him to get up. After throwing him from two to 

 five times the animal will become as submissive and abject as a well-trained 

 dog, and you need not be afraid to indulge in any liberties with him. A young 

 horse is subdued much quicker than an old one, as his habits are not confirm- 

 ed. An incorrigible horse should have two lessons a day ; about the fourth 



