The Work Horse 267 



harness, it should be thoroughly repaired in all parts, 

 and if this is done, but little trouble will occur during the 

 year, except for the occasional breakage. A home re- 

 pairing kit consisting of a sewing outfit, riveting machine, 

 together with leather snaps and buckles will enable the 

 average man to repair most of his harness at home. 



In the fitting of the harness, the most important point 

 is to see that the collar fits correctly. If the collar is too 

 short, it cuts the wind, throws the pressure too high on the 

 shoulder, and causes sores on the top of the neck. On 

 the other hand, if it is too long, it throws the pressure a 

 little low, and causes a bruising of the shoulder points, and 

 may also cause a bruising of the withers by pulling back 

 too far on the top of the neck. If the collar is too narrow, 

 it will pinch the neck, irritating the shoulder, and will also 

 throw the pressure too far in on the shoulder. On the 

 other hand, if it is too wide, it will throw the pressure too 

 far out on the side of the shoulder, causing the collar to 

 slip back and forth and make sores. The usual difficulty 

 in fitting the collar is that it is bought to fit when the 

 horse is in good condition before going to work, and as 

 soon as the fat is gone, the collar is too loose. Therefore, 

 special care must be taken in fitting horses to see that they 

 are snug, but still do not pinch in any place. If the collar 

 does not set to the horse's neck, it is very often satis- 

 factory to soak it overnight, then place it upon the 

 neck, fitting it closely with the hames and let it mold itself 

 to the horse's neck. This will usually cause a very satis- 

 factory fit if the collar is the right size. 



If it is necessary to use collar or sweat pads, it should be 

 to change the fit of the collar or to change the general seat 

 of the pressure, as collar pads are usually hot and soft, 

 and stick to the skin, causing irritation which would not 



