KICKING IN THE STALL. 89 



of being governed by reason in the treatment of habits, 

 not only of this type but of any other, must expect a possi- 

 bility of failure with some very bad horses. 



A very good way to work a single balker is to drive first 

 by the side of a gentle horse with the pole, then hitch to 

 single wagon, using two small poles instead of reins to the 

 bit. Now, if the horse does not move promptly when com- 

 manded, a little push on the poles will cause him to start, 

 and soon cause prompt obedience. But I would remind 

 again that patience, delicacy and skill in carrying out the 

 principles taught, are the primary and grand essentials to 

 insure success. I would therefore remind, that great firm- 

 ness, skill and patience should be used in directing and 

 controlling the efforts, since without a judicious application 

 of the efforts the advantages may be so far neutralized as to 

 prevent or greatly diminish success. 



KICKING IN THE STALL. 



This is one of those habits that require great caution, 

 judgment and care in guarding against danger. Let the 

 horse know by some signal or command, of your presence 

 and intention to approach. Many horses of the gentkst 

 character would kick if approached suddenly and unexpect- 

 edly; and again, many horses that are gentle but a little 

 peevish, will not bear being approached without a little care 

 in attracting attention. The motion of the ears and lips, 

 and expression of the eye, will always notify of danger. 

 And here let me warn the reader that however careful he 

 may be in not going too near the horse, there must not be 

 a semblance of fear shown in language or actions. The 

 commands must be low and positive, indicating power. If 

 the horse will not move round and seem to be distracted 

 from a positive intention, stand still, and if the animal does 

 not yield, walk off, carelessly whistling, in such a way that 

 the horse does not see that you feel defeated. 



If you have his attention, repeat the words "get around, 

 or over," with a positiveness that must be obeyed, looking 

 at the eye as if you could and would overcome all opposi- 

 tion. When you see the horse shrink from your gaze, glide 

 up to the shoulder, before the mind can be made to act, and 

 the next instant let the left hand be passed along the neck 



