HANDLING AND MANAGING TROTTERS. 277 



a sort of electrical communication from the driver through, the 

 bit. "Whenever a trainer or driver and his horse " get out " 

 with each other, the sooner they part company the better for 

 both ; neither can do himself justice while fighting the other. 

 Work to be of the greatest benefit in any kind must be entered 

 into with good temper on both sides. 



As to stabling the training horse while in training, the re- 

 quired requisites are plenty of room, good light and ventilation, 

 and, if possible, have each box-stall independent of the others, 

 and each one having its own door and window. The stables 

 should be located on high and dry ground, and quite convenient 

 to the track. I like a southern exposure best, and half-doors, 

 not only for their being more pleasant, but also of affording 

 more freedom to the animals, who often in fine weather like to 

 stand with heads and necks protruding, taking an interest in 

 whatever may be going on, and thereby undoubtedly enjoying 

 life much better than if closely housed. 



These stalls, as well as their occupants, should be kept per- 

 fectly clean and free from all bad odors. Feed and water the 

 animals regularly three times a day, and with judgment at all 

 times ; watch and npte the effect of food upon each individual 

 and regulate the quantity and variety according to circum- 

 stances. Horses differ in the necessary amount of food needed 

 as they differ in the amount of work required. Quality is a 

 great essential in food for the race track. All food should be 

 clean and free from dust, and the importance of good water is 

 equal to that of good food. 



On coming to the stable after the pupil has had his work- 

 out give him a few swallows of water, then remove the harness, 

 throw on the blanket, keep him out of the draft, scrape him off 

 lightly (but not overdo the matter), and watch him closely lest 

 he take cold. Be careful not to use too heavy a blanket, as you 

 do not want to sweat your horse, only to keep him from taking 

 cold. If he is pretty well warmed up when coming to the 

 stable, then, after the scrape, a body wash may be applied, com- 

 posed as follows : 



