,^-«>J *'3 \.- ^\J ■,h ■^t r "*■'■■>>: '^7^: ■^ ,,W;.>.., ^*W.i TH E TNTKODlrlXG A NEW AND PEACTICAL SYSTEM Educating Horses AND A-MlTrUTf BY O. S. PRATT. •fiNTAINIKO MANY VALrAB&E RECEIPTS AS Y.T^LL AS AM EXPLANATION TO MY CLASS AKB SCHOl AES OP THE THEOBY THEY LBARN OP ME, FOE FUTUPJB EEPEKENCE. REMARKS ON SHOEING, ASD THE RULES OF THE UMON OOUESB, L. I. NEW YORK: PRESS Oy ANDERSON k DELANO. 1869. PREFACE, r is not too miicli to say, that not one horse in A> a hundred, if one in a thousand, in the United States is ever properly broken ; or one in fifty, when offered for sale as a finished horse, entered in the merest nidiments of his education. Hor- ses are very rarely actively, and almost never savagely vicious. Nothing more than this, as a general thing, is required. If a horse will carry his rider without kicking him over his head, or draw him in his wagon or carriage, without 4, THE HOBSE EDUCATOK. kicking it to chiyers ; if he will go off at a walk, increase Lis speed to the top of his gait, and stop again, when pulled upon, without running away ; if he will hold back going down hill, and more particularly, if he will stand at a door without tying, he is held to be fuilv broken, and is willingly received, credited and paid for as such. It is needless to say that such a horse is far fi'om being broken at ail, especially from being well broken, as a perusal of the contents of this book will conyince the most skeptical. O. S. Pi-att. BIOGEAPHICAL KEMAKKS. ^- WAS born iu tlie coimtj of Genesee, State A. (,f New York, The '-Garden of tlie World." I amused myself in my younger days by taming and educating animals of the small kind or order. At the age of twelye years I had a caravan on a small scale of trained and tamed coons, croAvs, squirrels, dogs, rabbits, etc. Such an innate desire had I to see" to what perfection the ed\\cation of animals could be brought, that 2 8 THE HORSE EDUCATOE. it became my constant stiidv. And as I ad- vanced in years, the noble horse claimed my attention, and the subject of subdiiing him by kindness, and in a practical manner, has for some time occupied my thoughts. The result of my observations and study are given in the pages of this volume. INTEODUCTOEY EEMAEKS. 'HIS book contains the best known method of educating, training and taming horses; it is a system conceded by all before whom it has been practiced, as perfect in all its points. Some very valuable ideas differ from E. P. Hamilton, the most important of which is bitting a colt, and has never before been published. I shall also give a few remarks on shoeing, and some valuable receipts for the cure of various diseases horses are subject to. My object in placing this work before the Public is to obliterate many erroneous ideas embraced at the present day, by persons who 10 THE HOESE EDUCATOK. are now ignorant of the fact (and will be till thej receive instructions as taught bj me), that a theory IS necessary to success in the management of a horse. No matter how simple the means used, so long as it brings about the desired effect. Experience teaches ns to simplify the process of handling horses, both for their good, and the benefit to be derived therefrom. In this volume I purpose to give exj^licit directions in regard to the practice of this system, and the means used l)y me in educating and subduing every horse, therebv showing]: the secret of my success. Showing the system as not only superior to all others in tlie effects it produces, but that, if practiced, is a never failing remedy for all vicious and unmanageable horses ; also as being the only safe, sure and reliahle^yay of educating colts, and if always used and practiced, we shall have no more runaways, no more kicking or baulky liorses, T firmly believe that all vicious Jiabits THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 11 horses liaye are tauglit tlieni throiigli tlie ignorance of their owners or trainers, and it is only through patient study and perseverance that common sense teaches us a better practice tlian was ever before given to the Public. To show the horseman's superiority over him is the first point to be gained ; teaching him that you are "man, and he the horse," that through your better judgment 3'ou have over him perfect control ; that his business is simply to do your bidding. An object which can in no way be attained except as you first gain submission on his part, through patience and kindness with a thorough knowledge of a theory both easy and simple to practice, incurring slight expense. Sucli an one you receive at my hands. So easy is it in its use that a boy ten years of age can with its assistance manage the most ugly and vicious of horses with ease and safety, throwing them from ten to twenty times a minute, with his hand in his pockets. 12 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. Persons joining mj diss have the advantage of huying the knowledge which has been acquired by years of study as well as the experience of my own experimenting, as it is a well-known fact that physicians hear of different remedies having been used with success for a disease seemingly beyond their control. They conclude to tr}' them as an experiment on their patient with successful results, and are thereby heralded as the wonder of the age and benefactors of mankind. Thus it is with us. We have tried, and have found a remedy for the vexations in- cident to the management of the noble, but much abused horse. We call oiu-selves the horses friend, because in the use of our instruc- tions he is kindly taught Avhat is required of him. He is first taught that he must succumb to the will of his master. He is then caressed. Show- ing that only kindness towards him is intended, he is thus made to understand what is desired of him, and he is at once vour obedient slave. THE HOKSE EDUCATOR. 13 There are now many works before the pubHc on this all important subject, and many different systems taught and practiced which have failed to please the people. And why? First, because tliey have failed to make their theory simple to practice, easy to comprehend, and practicable, many times using cruel means, thereby disabling the animal, rendering him unfit for use. The carrying into practice, of many of these systems is expensive, the article for use difficult to pro- cure, and in the use of them much muscular strength is required. Therefore, seldom tried more than once. I have the advantage over those who have preceded me, of having wit- nessed their failure, have sought to learn the cause, and guard against the same disaster, till I am now able to introduce an improvement over them all. It is not necessary for me to say this. It is testified too by all the best horsemen the country affords. My reputation is so thoroughly established that it is only necessary 14 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. to let it be known Avlien I will give instructions to a class, and on my arrival, from one to four Imnclred stand ready to purchase tickets. It matters not liow many systems tliey already know, or liow many intimate friends they may have in tliis business, for wliom tliey desire suc- cess. Tliey are each and every one ready to testify to the superiority of this system over all they have ever witnessed, and add, that it is labor saving, and nothing but fun to practice, and before the instructions are half over, are satisfied that they have received more than the worth of their* money, and would not again be placed in ignorance for twenty times the price paid. Xot a day passes, but I am told that I am doing more good, than any one man in this country by teaching men how to save their own and other's lives by educating their horses not to kick, when any obstacle touches their heels, and to stop, as though shot, at the word of command. You are aware that no medicine is THE HOESE EDUCATOR. 15 used by me. Notwithstanding skeptics look on in wonder at the result of my practice on horses brought to me to handle, known to have always been untrue, see me drive them in the street, without quarter straps ten rods ahead of me, stop and start them at the word of command, and back the vehicle with their heels, having seemingly forgotten how to kick, or that they ever had the habit. This, outsiders say, must be the effect of medicine, and will not last. But you, as members of my class, know better, and furthermore that I practice nothing which is not explained in the class, and that every member can perform the same feats, not only on their own, but on every horse that can be produced, no matter what habits of an evil nature they may be addicted to. It is desirable that colts should all be educated in the manner I teach, that they may never be ugly or have any bad habits to break up. The secret of having so many bad horses in 2* 16 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. tliis coimtry is bad management or neglect when tliej are young. Horses are tauglit to be nglj, because tliey are caressed at the wrong time and whipped for doing just what thej have been taught by their master wlio has unconsciously rained them. And after these habits are once contracted, it is very nice to have a remedy to aply. A physician to aply to — my system is the needed remedy. Persons having travelled over the road with an inferior system are no stumbling block for me, because my reputation travels faster than I do, and my friends are made by hearing of me before I arrive in town, and I am welcomed as their benefactor. I am constantly in receipt of letters from various places soliciting me to come and give them instruction. I travel slow, and hope to give the citizens of every town in each county an opportunity to learn this system, for it is a fact that more attention is going to be paid to horses THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 17 and tlieir mauagement than ever before, because the study has at last reached perfection. In my free exhibitions I show that a horse may be taught to do almost any thing but talk. My favorite horse, known as Tom Thumb or the Ladies' Pet, will answer any direct question as readily as a child, and with equal understand- ing of what I expect him to do. He is said to be the best tamed or educated horse ever shown in this part of the country, and the only one ever seen here to walk on his knees which he does with ease ; although it is a feat difficult to perform. He is so perfectly under my control that not a motion of mine during the entertainment escapes his notice, thus he is prompt in his tricks. Naturally possessing a superior intellect and keen perception, he has been perhaps more easily educated than many could have been; but so far as the principles are concerned, any person can teach their own horses to do the same thing, by adliering strictly to the 18 THE HORSE EDUCATOE. expKcit direction herein contained. I have also a white stallion, known as the North Star, educated to drive without reins, guided wholly by the motion of the whip. I do not often exhibit him, because this is not what people care to see. It has been practiced through the country by persons teaching a very different theory. It is not desirable to me that this system be classed in that capacity, as it must be, if I give the same exhibition, nor is it in any way desirable to break horses to drive in this manner, which it is both simple and easy to do, but I deem it more commendable, and practicable, to teach a horse to drive safely icitli reins under good subjection, spirit unimpaired. The beauty of a horse, aside from his formation of body, is his spirit and ambition, at the same time submission to the will of his master. His word being law, and although it is almost impossible to convince thorough horsmen that they do not known it all concerning the horse and his manage- THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 19 ment. TVlieu once they can be prevailed upon to witness an explanation of mj theory, they are my best advertisers. Being known in their community to possess superior knowledge of all the improved systems, which have previously been practiced, they are so pleased to find something different, and so perfect in all its points that they at once urge others to come and be benefited also, and it is thought that if we can teach such men anything, we must indeed know something worth learning. Were it not that it would occupy too much space, I would give for your perusal some of the many testimo- nials which have been presented to me, during my travels. But as I do not expect any to peruse this book who have not previously obtained thorough instruction of this system, it is not necesary for me to say what I can do ; but merely to explain the manner, through which the good results are produced for your future reference. 20 BEMAEKS rOR YOUB STUDY. ^IgipHEX YOU have taught your liorses wliat Jt- "lb is required of them, and appealed to their understanding by convincing them that with sub- mission on their part, kindness is received, the one great point is gained. A horse or a dog may l)e taught almost anything, provided you always use precisely the same terms to express the same idea. Show him what you mean, and have the patience to repeat it often enough, always bear- ing in mind that for us to comjorehend anothers THE HORSE EDtJCATOIi. 21 meaning by motions is very difficult, and we do not expect them to have the reasoning powers which we possess, still I do believe them to be reasoning creatures, possessing a keen percep- tion of right and wrong. Were it not so, they would not so readily learn to refrain from doing that for which they have been punished, or to do the bidding of those they love, and by whom they have been caressed. They possess strong affections, and in a degree manifest them in accordance to the amount of affection demon- strated by then- master. It is also ti'ue, they know by instinct a good from a cruel man. Also that they are quite as well aware, when being driven by a coward, as is the diiver himself or herself, as the case may be. I have often heard it remarked that a horse might be ever so gentle, yet would invariably act nervous when being driven by a lady. Have been asked why it was ? It is simply this : the horse knows his advantage, and realizes her 22 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. natural timidity, and when he really ought to act the best is almost unmanageable. But if a horse is in the habit of being petted and fondled by a lad}^ he soon learns to love and follow her, demonstrating the principle that for himself love is the reward. The effects of rude treatment are noticeable particularly on horses of a sensitive, ambitious nature ; such either fret, or are dangerous when subjected to the management of an impulsive, irritable groom, though extremely docile and safe to a careful, patient person. The great ex- tremes of disposition and character in horses show a peculiar adaptation for different purposes and requirements. The slow, dull, coarse-grained horse, naturally adapted for the cart or plow, cannot bear the active exertion necessary to great speed, while those of a higher or ambitious spirit would not submit patiently to this slow drudgery. No animal has a keener intuition of the feelings, or is more easily encouraged to THE HOESE EDUCATOR. 23 viciousness by tlie indications of fear, or more forcibly held in check by a fearless, confident expression of manner, than the horse. It is not, however, to be inferred that not "being afraid of a horse" is by any means to be considered fool hardiness ; courage and confidence should be dictated by the danger slioAvn. The expression of the eye, action of the ears, lips, kc, indicate clearly the intentions, dictating the hazard to be incurred. Whatever may be the feelings, great boldness of expression and action is indispens- able. This not only aids in keeping resistance in check, but under some circumstances may be the means of preserving life. The control of horses is like that of an intricate but powerful machine, when under the subjection of skillful management. If horses be subjected to skillful and prudent management, they will easily be made docile and controllable ; on the other hand, subjected to rude, imprudent treatment, they are at once liable to become unreliable, hostile and 24 THE HOESE EDUCATOR. impulsive brutes. The generous reward of this skill should be an incentive to every one to acquire a correct knowledge of theu' duty. That there is great loss of life and many lamentable accidents almost daily in every neighborhood from the use of horses that are dangerously vicious and unmanageable, cannot be questioned. One horse will run away, if given the least freedom, another is liable to kick himself clear from the wagon, if a strap dangle against his flanks, the breechin break, or any thing of the kind occui's to excite his fear. One horse will baulk, another goes when and where he pleases, generally pleasing to go anv v>'av but the riMit one. Another can not be harnessed with safety, another will kick, if the re!n touches his hip or is caught under the tail, one will not stand, while being mounted, or while getting into the carriage, another will not back, others are fi-ightened and shear and jump THE HOKSE EDUCATOR. 25 at siglit of a stone, stump or paper in the street, Avhile to others an umbreHa, raHroad track or Ijuffalo robe are objects of fear. There are but a very few horses which are considered tcell hrol'en that have not some habits that lessen their value. It is seen hoAv easily I make the Avorst of horses yield to my control ; and if my instructions are thoroughly practiced, success must inevitably be the result. As I have heretofore said, the great secret of taming horses, is first to get control of them. This must be done by fear. They must be taught that you can and will be their master. Nothing in this regard is so effective as throwing the horse. This has been allowed for years by all successful horsemen who have j^receded me. The first subject to which I invite your at- tent ion is the young, green colt. "Teach him in his you th the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." 26 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. ^Xe must not permit the colt or filly to go wild ai)d run riot until it sliall hive attained its full strength, its full energies and the full sway of its natural ten per unconstrained, without making an effort to train or teach it unt 1 it be tvv'o or three years old, then take it up, and saddle and bridle it by force, and putting it into the hands of s.^me fearless hard-hearted, nnit- ton-fisted, rough-riding fellow, sarce less a brute hi all points of humanity than that which ho professes to teach, expect it to be turned out by hint of whip and spurs. A gentle animal rendered so by brute Adolence. The edu- cation of a colt can hardly commence too young. He should be handled frequently by different persons, and should be made accustomed to whatever is likely to attract his attention when he is put in harness. The more he is accustomed to straps, the less likely will he be to become fright- ened l)y accidental breaking of the harness, by the falling of a trace about his heels, or by THE HORSE EDUCATOE. 27 having the reins ihnnvn ahout his back by a careless driver. Young liorses, while mere foals nursing by their mother's sides, should be accustomed to be fearless; to iced from the hand, to suffer them- selves to be handled, to have their feet handled, lifted and taped with the hands or a hammer on the soles, to be led to and fro by the forelock, to endure the pressure of the hand on the back, to rejoice in being flattered, caressed and spoken to. They should be very early equiped with a head- stall, haying a ring appended to which a holder can be attached, and by these means they can be easily taught to follow at any pace ; the person leading them may adopt walking, running, or st(^pping as he may desire. Punishment at this period should never be resorted to, but rewards should he continually offered. Carry in 3'our pocket bits of sugar, or apples, and give to the little creature with a caress, when it has done wliat is required of it, 28 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. Soon after this a pad may be strapped on the back for a few hoiu's daily, and after a time stirrup leathers, and their stirrups appended to them, and suffered to play about, by which means all fear of such things will be removed long enough before it will become necessary to saddle him for any real purpose. When he is about a year old the colt's bits should be occasionally put in his mouth, and he should be rained up gently to the surcingle and allowed to play with them, or mouth them ; and after this he may stand for an hour or two between the pillars with the rein attached from the colt's bit to rings placed at a proper height in the standards. But here it is necesary to ob- serve, above almost anything in the world, that it is fatal to the formation of the animal's mouth to place the rings too high, or to bear up the head above its ordinary and natural elevation. This is a thing often done with a view to giving a loftj^ carriage to the colt's head, and produce a proud bearing. It does nothing of the kind. It cau- THE HOESE EDUCATOE. * 29 ses the liorse, weary ^vitll liavin^ its head forced into an unnatural position, to bear, to weigh, to hang upon the bits, — to become accustomed to their pressure, and to find pleasure instead of pain from it, so that at the last, it acquires a mouth perfectly unimpressive and muscles set and rigid. Shortly after this the colt should be worked in a circle, Avith a long cord attached to the break" ing-bits in a smooth grass field, by which means he is taught his paces, taught to regulate them, taught to moderate, to increase or diminish his speed, to change his leg, to come toward the operator, or to stop dead short at a signal either of the voice or crack of the whip. For this it requires onl}^ time, patience and good temj^er to efiect, and when effected, half the business is done. No attempt should be made, to i:>ut the colt to work before he is three and a half to four years old, and it would be far better to exact 30 THE HORSE EDUCATOE. no work, beyond what is necessary for gentle exercise, before lie is six years old, this although not at first remunerative, is eminently so in the end. For the two years loss in early life vn\l gen- erally add six to eight years to a horsa's working time. A colt, educated according to the preceding remarks, will not need the treatment contained in the next chapter, but as all colts are not edu- cated when young, it is necessary that I giye a method by whicli they can 1 )e brought under per- fect control. THE COLT AND HIS MANAGEMENT. The first step to be taken is to see that the L t or yard in which you intend to handle him, is clear from all obstacles, v.hieli might injure or serve to attract his attention, as it is natural for a colt to le attracted by all domestic animals, they should hp driven from the enclosure, also all THE HORSE EDUCATOE. 31 persons except the one undertaking his manage- ment: This precaution should be taken for two reasons, first : they woukl attract his attention and direct his mind from you, and secondly by per- mitting the presence of any one not a member of my class would violate your contract. 32 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. TO HALTER-BEEAK A WILD COLT. 'pHE first object being to halter the colt. If Jfc he is not very wild, you can easily do this by working np to the head ; by scratching the neck shp the halter on the head. Should he seem vicious, this may be difficult to do, if not dangerous, and one of the most im- portant requisites is to guard against injury either to yourself or horse, and at the same time to accomplish your work most easily and surely. Your best way of procedure is as follov/s : Take a small pole, ten to fifteen feet long, more or lem as you may find it necessary to safety ; THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 33 drive an eight penny nail three to four inches from the end into the stick, and another nail from ten to twelve inches from the first one, take a common rope halter with a running- noose, pull the part that slips through the noose back about one foot, then hang the part that goes over the head upon the nails, with the hitching-part held in your hanels with the pole, your halter is so opened and hung on the nails as to be easily placed upon the head. If the colt is no+ too much excited, he is easily attracted to notice anything new^ to him; he has no way of ex- amining objects but by his nose, and so he is prompted to smell and feel of things, consequently you will find upon reaching out the halter gently hung (as above) upon the end of the pole, he will reach out to smell of it, and w^liile he is grati- fying his curiosity in this way you can easily raise the stick high enough to bring the halter over and back of the ears, when by turning the stick round the halter will drop from it upon the 34 THE HOESE EDUCATOE. head. This may startle him some and cause him to run from you, but by doing so the slack of the halter passing under the jaw through the noose will draw up and the halter is on the head safely. Your colt now being haltered, your next object is to teach him to submit to its re- straint. Stand about on a line with the shoulder, but some distance from him and give a sharp, quick pull towards you, but instantly slack up on the halter. You have the gi'eatest advantage from this position and by adroitly following up this advantage, not attempting to pull upon the colt when he attempts to inin back from you, he will soon, by a few sharp pulls in this way, learn to feel and submit to the force of your power. As soon as he will permit you to approach and loosen the noose from his neck, using kind words, caress and let him know you do not wish to hurt him, continue to caress him till he will permit you to rub his neck and ears, encourage him by feeding apples and sugar from your hand, TfiE H0R3E EDUCATOR. 35 When he submits so far as to let you handle his head, put on him the Bonaparte or Camanche bridle, made in the following manner : You should have the best manilla three thread rope, made small and strong ; of this take 20 feet, tie a hard-knot in one end of it and a loose knot far enough from the end to reach around the colt's neck, pass the hard-knot through the loose one, draw it up tight, tuck the middle of the rope under the one around the neck, making a loop which you pass up through the mouth, keeping the end of the rope in your hand. A green colt is not bad about taking anything in his mouth if judgment is used, and do not frighten him; sHp the loop up well over the jaws un- der the roof of his mouth, draw up on the loop, and take off the halter you first had around his neck entirely, by taking hold of the end of the cord you will find you now have a means of power in your hands, which will enable you to control the strongest animal with 36 THE HORSi: EDUCATOR. ease and safety, and I believe tlie Bonaparte bridle and its value in managing and training colts cannot be over estimated when used "with judgment and handled with adroitness and skiU. It should never be used so harshly as to excite extreme pain, and yet with a touch that causes fear of resistance. If he should endeavor to iim away from you, give him a quick, sharp jerk, and at the same time say "ho!" al- ways giving him the command before jerk- ing on the cord, repeat this treatment as often as he may make the attempt to get away, when he stoj^s, go up to him and caress him about the head; when he gives ujd to the rope, enough so that he does not try to get away, proceed to teach him to lead with your rope in hand, ste]^ back to his side opposite his hips, and sa}^, come here ! at the same time give him a quick, sharp pull with the halter, he will swing round towards you, and if he only takes one step THE HOESE EDUCATOR. 37 in the right direction, show him by a caress that he has done what you desired of him. Continue to caress him for every step taken in the right direction, and he will very soon learn to follow you at the vrord. If the colt is willful and stubborn, handle him with the Camanche bridle until he will stand quietly, then take your strap (previously pro- vided) in the right hand, holding by the buckle, commence raising the foot next to you, if he resists your efforts, reprove him with the halter. Continue your efforts till you can take the foot in your hand, then slip the strap around below the fetlock ; putting the end through the keeper on the inside of the buckle, draw it up tight, so it will not slip up, then pass the strap through between the horse and surcingle, and fasten it to the surcingle by buckling. By putting him on three legs, he can offer but Blight resistance when pulled hj the head side- ways, and will come around as readily with hia 88 THE HORSE EDUCATOB. legs froe as lie will with one srtapped up. Step back on a line Avith the hips, holding the halter firmly in your hand, and say, come here ! He, of course, does not come, so you pull on the bridle and he is obHged to swing round to you. Step round to the other side and repeat, bring him round by the halter each time, till when he hears the words, come here, he will obey readily. As soon as the colt submits to this step, remove the strap from his leg and rub the foot gentl}'- where the strap has been. Step back, and as before, say come here ! if he does not come readily, give him a sharp, quick pull with the rope, which shows him you can handle him as well on four legs as on three ; continue to caress him for every step forward till he follows readily. THE HoPiSE EDUCATOIL nOAV TO BIT A COLT AND MAKE A BKIDLE. (See Engraving payii A!2.) ^^j^ipHE object aimed at in bitting a liorse is to Sb gi^e an easy position yvith a liigli and gTace- ful carriage of the head ; and, in our efforts to do this, we must be careful not to give him a dead bearing on the bit, or make him what is usually known as a lugger. All the bitting rigs which we have examined, and especially the English made, are objectional as having a tendency to produce this bad result. The rig which we here 40 THE HOESE EDUCATOE. give 3'oii, is entirely free from this objection, and is better calculated to produce the desired result of ease and gracefulness, than any ever before presented to the public. Our rig, instead of bearing on the jawbones, whenever the horse presses his weight u^^on the bit, producing a calloused jaw and indifference to the bit, con- tracts the side muscles of the cheeks on the molar teeth with a pain the horse cannot endure ; he hfts his head, the bit falls on the side rein, and the mouth is at once relieved. Practice has shown that horses bitted with this rig soon ac- quire the habit of gently and gi-acefully raising the head, with that occasional toss, or upv>-ard and downward motion and pla^'ing with the bit, which is the perfection of beauty in a carriage horse while standing in the harness. It is not possible for a horse with our rig, to become a "lugger ;" this bit never bears upon the jawbone with more than a light pressure, and when he attempts to rest his head iipon the bit, THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 41 the pressure on the teeth causes him to desist and elevate the head. He soon dreads to rest upon the bit, and of his own free will, without the force of the rein, carries it up with freedom and ease. 42 THE HORSE EDUCATOE. COLT T\ EAEIXG OUE BITTIXG EIG. SUR mode of bittiuHILE holding the colt, as before, Tvith the bridle, briug the umbrella toward hira, and allow him to smell of it a little, rub it against his head and body, spread it a little, and con- tinue to caress him till you can raise it over his head, and pass it around him as you please without exciting fear. This same proceeding is apphcable under all circumstances. Even as it is said that "familiarity breeds contempt," it may be said of the colt in regard to objects of fear. Let him approach near enough to the dreaded article and he ignores the idea of being afraid of it. In the case of the colt's becoming fami2ia:r ■ THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 51 with the cars, he should be led to them often, and permitted to remain about them. At first, when they are not in motion, and then again when they are moA'ing. And in this way con- tinue till he is familiar with them. In any event, do not fail to repeat 3'our lessons till your object is attained. 52 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. TEACHING THE COLT TO BACK. WHEN the colt drives well to the reins, he _^_^ should be taught to back. This brings in use again the Camanche-bridle. Should he act Ktubborn .after using it a few moments, reverse hj putting the large loop over his neck, which will touch him more sharply. If the colt should become warm after a lesson of five or ten minutes, stop and repeat the lesson any time after he becomes cool and quiet. The colt will soon learn to back prompt^. You may now put on reins and teach him to back by being pulled upon from behind. The lesson should be repeated till the colt is prompt in his l^HE HORSE EDUCATOR. 53 obedience. He may now be backed to a wagon, but at first on a slightly descending grade, grad- ually requiring more of liim till lie will obey promptly. The same is applicable in teaching a colt to draw a load. You can gradually increase the amount till he will draw to the extent of his ability, without comprehending that he has power to do otherwise. After your horse is educated to the use of the harness, you may either allow him to carry his head as nature may dictate, or by the use of the check-rein bring his neck into such position of style as you may fancy. I once heard a friend say that he tamed a very young colt to step upon a shelf or box (arranged about a foot above the stable floor), with his fore feet, and reach for and eat his oats from a box, placed high enough, so that he must stretch his neck, and bend down his head to procure his food. This practiced three times each day, while he 04: THE HOESE EDtCATOR. was growing fasfc, gave a natural curve to his neck, maldng him much admired and of more than ordinary vahie, by one hundred dollars. These little ideas, if carried into practice, will repay one for their time and trouble, maldng an otherwise ordinary looking colt, give an imposing appearance, to gratify the pride of his owner, as well as bring an advanced price when a sale is desirable. It is a true maxim : "As the twig is bent, so is the tree inclined." THE HOPtSE EDLX'ATOR. 55 TREATMENT OF YICIOUS HORSES. f^T is my desire tlirougliout tliis Look, to im- _^press it upon the reader's m^nd, that colts are not naturally licious, and horses are only so through mismanagement when colts. I must now proceed to teach you how to conquer vicious horses, and cure them of their faults. This is an easy matter, requii'ing time, perseverance and patience. I hare never failed to cure the worst of horses in a short space of time, in from one to three lessons, according to the degree of their vicionsness? 56 THE HOESE EDUCATOR. FOR BAULKY HORSES. *His liabit tries the patience of man more (^^ tlian any other, yet by patience and tact it may be broken up. Horses with this habit are usually high - spirited and of a neryous temper- ament. They resist, because we haye failed to make them understand what we require of them, or it may be from a sore shoulder. Oyer-loading, or working till tired out, is particularly the cause with young animals. To wliip, under such cir- cumstances, only excites them to more deter- mined resistance. On the first attempt of your horse to baulk, get out of the wagon, pat him on the neck, examine the harness carefully, first on one side, then on the other. Encourage him at the same time with kind words, and again reseat yourself in the yehicle. and giye the word. THE HORSE EDUCATOR. o7 go : generall}', lie will obey. If he is still ob- stinate, take him from tlie carriage, j^ut up the traces, so they will not drag on the ground, take him by the head and tail, reel him round, till almost ready to fall. This -seldom fails to bring about the desired result. By rej^eating these lessons each day for a week usually breaks up this most perplexing habit thoroughly and lastingly. Another method, advisable to break a baulky horse in double harness, is to take a hemp cord, pass a round under the tail, bring forward through the tenet-ring of the baulky horse, and fasten to the other horse's haim. Thus, when he starts the baulky-one can do no other way than to move with him, and in a short time, if he is hitched single or double, by taking your whip or common stick and put on the back of the crupper strap, the horse will start readily. In the following chapter I w^ill explain how I throw a horse, making him lay down quietly, 58 THE HOUSE EDUCATOR. and almost as easily as when by liimself in the stall. It can be done with perfect safety. And whatever may be the vice to which your horse is addicted, it is a good plan to give him a course of training by throwing him and handling him just as you please, when down, demonstrating to him that it is worse than useless to resist control. It is also the best way to handle and manage nervous horses I have ever tried. After having been handled gently, when down, their fear passes away, and you can do with them just as you please. THE HOBSE EDUCATOIt. 50 HOW TO THROAY THE HOESE. f|LACE upon the animal a strong surcingle, about three inches back of the fore legs; con- nected with this must be a strong crupper. There must be a strong ring about one inch in diameter at the top of the surcingle, or rope in the centre of the back, and another one upon the right side in the centre. This being adjusted, proceed to strap up the left fore leg as follows {See en- graving j^- 58). Take a common quarter strap, pass it two or three times around the leg between the coffin and postern joints, and then buckle the leg close up to the belly. Place around the eo THE H0R8E EDUCATOR. horse's neck a ^ inch rope (or |) loosely, fixing the knot so it will not slip, bring the end down the near side of the head, and through the mouth, back on the off side through either of the rings in the surcingle. The one in the centre of the side, if the first time throwing will give 3^ou greater control with less ex- ertion. Upon pulHng on the rope, standing in any position, the horse must come upon his side, and without injury. THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 61 In practice, all will perceive the decided ad- vantage OA'er any other system. The operation must be repeated fiom ten to twenty times, or until the horse seems entirely disgusted with the controversy. This operation, if properly con- ducted, will have resulted in the obtaininf' control of the horse, and in his willingness to be accommodating at least. The next thing is to teach him the meaning of the word, tvJioa ! and to obey it when spoken to him as a com- mand. This also breaks him to the bridle. Place in his mouth (the cissors, or W bit, with head stall and Hnes attached (an ordinary bit will do, though the one named is preferable, as being more secure) ; now let the horse walk off a few feet, twelve or twenty, and all at once jerk with all your force, accompanying the action with the word, whoa! "WTien he stops, step to his side and caress him. This repeated eight or ten times will teach the horse lastingly the word and the meaning. You must say, whoa! 62 THE HOr.SE EDrCATOn. just before you pull. This treatment of the horse must be repeated, if at any time he grows restive, aiid seems indisposed to obey the com- mand. Sometimes an occasional jerk preceded with the command, and an ordinary bit is suf- ficient to refresh his memory on the subject. This method is also effectual in breaking up the habit of kicking. For this habit I sometimes use a link bit, neycr before presented to the public. It is made of six links, each link one inch in length, making a chain of near six in- ches long. Place at each end of this a 2J inch ring {See enjravinrj of Mcldng rig). With the aid of this treatment you can cure the worst of kickers. And horses in the habit of running away, can usually be cured in one lesson, thus preyenting accidents for the future. It is by this process of teaching, that horses arc driven without headstall or bridle: THE HORSE EDUCATOE. 63 TO CUEE A HALTEE PULLEE. ^LACE on him a common head stall, pnt on him a girth, take a ^th inch rope, 16 feet long, pass the centre of this rope under the tail in place of a cmpper, .twist this rope over a couple 3 64 THE HOKSE EDUCATOR. of times, pass the ends under the girtli ujDon each side of tlie neck, and pass the ends through the noose piece of the head stall under the cheek piece (see engraving), and tie to a strong post, leaving three feet play of the rope. Strike him with a bag. As soon as the horse pulls back, he being tied by the tail to the post, the hurt comes there, and not on the head as he expected; he starts up. For this you caress him, and if these instructions are followed up a few times he is cured (See engraving No. 4). THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 65 PAWING IN STALL. ROCURE a x^iece of chain ten inches in Jl^ length, nm a short strap through one of the end Hnks, and buckle it around the foot above the fetlock. When the horse attempts to paw or kick, the chain rattles againsi the foot and prevents a repetition of the practice. C6 THE HOESE EDUCATOB. A NEW METHOD OF BEEAKING A KICKEE. ^HEow tlie horse (according to direction previously given) from ten to twenty times, till lie is quiet, strike him lightly with j-our foot Avhen down, below where the breeching comes, to tame him, and cure him of being afi'aid to be touched around the hind 2:>arts. Then let him up and back him into the two wheeled rif^- o THE HOESE EDUCATOR. 67 If he still continues to kick, put on the kicking rig, as shoT\-n to you in the en.qraving. When this rig is put on, it punishes the norse in the mouth, diverting his attention from his heels. First attach a rope to the bridle bit ring on the near side, then pass it over the head through the oil' bit ring, then down between his fore legs through under the belly band, and fasten 68 THE HOESE EDUCATOE. to a pulley. Attach another rope to the oft' bridle bit ring over the head through the near side bit ring, then pass it between the fore legs to the pulley and fasten. Now put on straps above and .below the gambol joint on each hind leg with a ring in the straps. Attach a rope to the ring on the near hind leg and pass it through the pulley to the off' hind leg. This is so the horse can Avalk or trot in a natural position. THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 69 TO HAEDEN A TENDEE MOUTHED HOESE. iPROP the bits in the animal's mouth as >low as possible, and not have them drop out, and drive him from two to three weeks with the bits in this way, and when they are buckled up in proper place he is hard mouthed. 70 THE HOESE EDUCATOE. LOLLING THE TONGUE. ^oME horses have the habit of carrying the tongue out of the side of the mouth. This is generally confined to a narrow jawed horse. The space between the molar teeth being too narrow to contain the tongue in the mouth, when the bit presses upon it without coming in contact with the edges of the molar teethj to prevent which the tongue is thrown out over the bit, and hangs from one side of the mouth. To remedy this defect, take a com= THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 71 nion bar bit, and drill a hole on either side about three quarter of an inch from the centre of the bit of the upper surface, then take a piece of sole leather, four inches long and Uyo inches wide, and sprinkle it over with rosin and burn it into the leather. This renders it proof against the action of the saliva in the mouth. Drill tAvo holes in the centre of the leather, corresponding with those in the bit, and secure both together by rivets, so that the leather extends two inches above the bit, and two inches below- it. This, put in the mouth, keeps the tongue dov/n clear of the molar teeth, and prevents the animal getting it over the bit. A horse which lolls the tongue, should never be driven with a snaffle bit, a bar bit is always preferable. 72 THE EOKSE EDUCATOE. HUGGING THE POLE. ^WipHis is a great annoyance to the other ofc horse, and he will probably learn to do the same thing, not from imitation, but from leaning inwards, so as to enable him to stand against the other, lea'^^ii^g on him. I have seen a pair of horses thus going, each leaning on the other, rendering it extremely dangerous in frosty weather, or where the road from any cause may be slippery. This habit may be broken up by securing a piece of sole leather to the pole upon the side where the animal leans, having a number of tacks driven through THE HOESE EDUCATOR. 73 it iu such a manner as to protrude from the leather towards the horse. The moment he attempts to hug the pole the tacks prick him, and he leaves it in a moment and takes his proper position. He makes but a few efforts after the first punishment a few days driving in this manner usually cures him of this habit. 74 THE HOESE EDtJCATOR. UGLY TO BEIDLE. ^OiiE horses are iigij to bridle from liaving been knocked or rougiil}- handled about the head. Horses are occasionally troubled with tender ears and have some tenderness about the mouth ; such animals refuse to be bridled fi'om fear of being hurt ; nothing but kindness and careful handling will accomplish our pur- pose. In such a case w^here the habit arises from previous injuries or ugliness of disposition, take THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 75 a cord, put the end in the mouth, draw it tightly and take a half hitch, this confines the head and prevents the animal from raising it. In this position the horse will allow you to put on and take off the bridle at pleasure. After putting it on, remove it several times, loosen up the cord and repeat the bridling every time the animal resists, draw the cord tightly. On the contrary when he yields, ^caress him, you thus gain his confidence. 76 THE HOESE EDUCATOE. LUGGERS OX THE BIT. QS^ UCKLE a pail' of straps about twelve inclies (^3^ long, with a ring at one end, and a bnckle at the other to the check piece, and let the straps x^ass through the rings of the bits on either side, buckle the lines to the rings on these straps instead of the rings of the bit, this forms a gag similar to the French twitch gag and is a powei-ful means of controlling the month of a hard pnlHng horse. THE HOESE EDUCATOE. THE JUMPIHG EIG. 77 ^lE a strap to the fore feet, below the knees, pass it up under a surcingle, which is previously placed around the body and tie the other ends above the fetlock, to straps enclosed in a ring so one will see that when he attemiDts to jump a fence this fore foot is drawn up under him, and as he sjorings to deave the ground the hind feet will be pulled up, and he will inevitably remain in the lot. 78 ' THE HORSE EDUCATOR. TO CUBE A CBIBBEE ^UT a strip of slieep skin with long wool, about eight inches wide and long enough to cover the front edge of the manger, and tie him in the stall, so he cannot crib anywhere, except on the sheepskin. If this does not cure him, sprinkle on a httle cayenne i^epper. Another remedy is to take a wooden roller, long enough to reach across the stall, let the horse eat his hay and grain from the bottom of the manger, when he attempts k> crib he must inevitably work on the roller which when he places his teeth to crib the roller turns, his lips come in contact with the roller, and he is punished at every attempt, and after a few trials becomes satisfied and will not again attempt to crib. THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 79 TO LEAD A HOESE BEHIND A WAGON. *AKE a stout cord or small rope, and place under his tail cross on the back, run through the rings of the halter ; first hitch him to a post, and by hitting him over the nose with something to excite him, make him pull which will satisfy him of his useless attempts at holding back on the halter. You may then hitch him to the wagon, and 3'ou will find no further trouble in leading him. 80 THE HOESE EDUCATOE. A HOESE BAD TO SHOE. >HE habit of resistance to being shod or ^ allowing the feet to be handled, Hke all others to which horses are subject, is the result of hastj and imprudent harshness. It would seem fi'om the reckless disregard of consequences so generally evinced in handling young horses, as though man doubted his own reason, and would not take counsel of the teachings of prudence. If the feet had been handled gently at fii'st (as I have dhected), and blacksmiths had not vented so much of theh celations in the way of pounding with the hammer for every little movement of resistance in shoeing, this THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 81 habit would never have been contracted. The natural tractability of the horse causes him to yield a ready obedience to all reasonable de- mands that he comprehends. If the feet are jerked up roughly, and without an effort to reconcile him to being handled, the colt will strive to get away or free himself from what he supposes will hurt him. Never hold to the foot with all your might, when the colt is trying to jirk away, for in such a case strength is not your forte, and your struggles only convince the horse of your weakness. Handle the horse in conformity with the laws of his nature, so as not to excite resistance through fear of injury. If the horse does not very much resist the handling of his feet, put the Camanclie bridle on him, and put a short strap on his hind foot, pulling upon the strap will bring the foot forward, and he will probably resist by kicking. The instant he kicks, reprove him with the bridle which is held in the other hand, and so continue until the foot 8ti THE HORSE EDUCATOR. is submitted without resistance. But if your subject is very bad, take a strap or rope about twelve feet long, and tie one end of it in a loop around bis neck where the collar rests, pass the other end back between the fore legs and around the near hind leg below the fetlock, thence back between the legs and through the loop around the neck. Now step in front of the horse, and take a firm hold of the rope or strap, and give a quick pull upon it which will bring the foot for- ward, pull the foot as far forward as you can which will give you the more advantage. The horse will try to free the foot by kicking. Hold the head firmly with the left hand, and with the other hold the strap firmly. Stand right up to the horse's shoulder, and whirl him about you, which you can easily do while he struggles to free himself. As soon as he yields, handle the foot gently, and then let up on it a Httle, and so continue till he will let you handle the foot without resistance. It may be necessary to THE nOESE EDUCATOR. 83 repeat the lesson once or twice, and be careful to handle the foot with the greatest gentleness. If the rope is rough, put a collar on the neck instead of the loop, and fasten your strap to it. Use a smooth soft strap, so as not to chafe the. foot where it passes around it. 84 THE HORSE EDXTATOR. SHOEIXG. ^F we examine the liorse's feet in their natural (Jfc) state, they ^ill be found to be ahnost round and Yerj elastic at the heel, the frog broad, plump and of a soft yielding n ature of the com- missui-es open and T\'ell defined, the sole concave, the outside crust fi'om the heel to the toe in- creased from a slight bevel to an angle of fort}^- five degrees ; consequently, as the foot gTows i*^ becomes wider and longer in proportion to the amount of horn secreted, and narrower and shorter in proportion to the ground surface. If a shoe were fitted nicely and accurately to the foot after being dressed down well, it would be 85 THE HOESE EDUCATOR. found too narrow and sliort for tlie same foot after a lapse of a few weeks. If an nnyielding shoe of iron is nailed firmly to this naturally enlarging and elastic hoof, it prevents its natural freedom of expansion almost wholly, and does not allow the foot to grow wider at the quarters as it grows down, in proportion of the amount of horn grown as before shod ; consequently th® foot is changed by the continued restraint of the shoe, from a nea^rly round, healthy foot to a contracted and unhealthy condition, as generally S( en in horses shod for a few years. The principles which should govern in shoeing are few and simple, and it is surprising con- sidering the serious results involved, that it should be done with so little consideration. The object of the sheer should be in trimming and preparing the hoof for the shoe to keep the foot natural, and this involves first the cutting away of any undue accumulation of horn, afiecting in the least its health and freedom, second ; to •86 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. carry out in the shape of the shoe, that of the foot as nearly as possible, third ; to fit and fasten the shoe to the foot so as to least to interfere with its health, growth and elasticity. The preperation of the foot requires the cutting away of about the i^roportion of horn which, coming in contact with the ground, would have worn off, or which has accumulated since being last shod, if the shoes have been on a month, the proportion of horn that was secreted in that time is to be remoyed, if two months, then theproj^ortion of two months growth; no definite rule can be given, the judgment must be governed by the circumstances of the case, the stronger and more rapid the growth of the foot, the more must be cut away, and the weaker and less horn produced, the less to the extremety of simply leveling the crust a little the better to conform to the shoe, there is generally a far more rapid growth of horn at the toe than at the heels or quarters ; more will be requii-ed to be taken off THE HORSE EDUCiiTOB. 87 there, than of the other parts, therefore shorten the toe and lower the heels until you succeed in bringing down the bearing surface of the hoof upon the shoe to almost a level with the Hve- hom of the sole, be careful to make the heels level, having lowered the crust to the necessary extent, smooth it down level with the rasp, the sole and frog detach by exfoliation, as it becomes superabundant, the sole therefore, would not need paring were it not for the restraining effect of the shoe upon the general function of the foot which is liable to prevent such detachment of the horn. The cutting away of the bars to give the heels an open appearance is inexcusable and should never be done ; in a natural healthy condition the frog has a line of bearing with the hoof and by its elastic nature acts as a safe-guard to the delicate machinery of the foot^ immediately over it and helps to pre- serve the foot in its natural state by keep- ing the heel, spread. It seems to be wisely 88' THE HORSE EDUCATOR. intended to give life and liealtli to the foot- Permitting the heels to gi'ow down, with the addition of high-heeled shoes, raises the frog from its natural position and causes it to shrink and harden, and bears, in consequence, an im- portant influence in setting up a diseased action that it really results in contraction of the foot. If the heels are square and high, and the hoof presents rather a long, narrow ajopearance, and is hollow on the bottom, there is a state of contraction going on, and you must not hesitate to dress down thoroughly. Do not hesitate, because the hoof "^vill appear small. Cut away until you are well down to a level with the Hve- hom of the sole, and if the foot is week, use the same prudence in not cutting it away too much. The shoer must always bear in mind that the sole must not rest on the shoe. Let the foot be so dressed down, and the shoe so approximate, that the bearing will come evenly upon the crust gllthe way around without the sole touching the HIE HORSE EDUCATOK. 89 slioe. This requires the crust to be dressed down level, and, altliougli Avell down to the live- horn of the S'jle, it should always be ^left a little higher. The corners between the bars and crust should be well pared out, so there is no danger of the sole resting on the shoe which is our next consideration. 90 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. THE SHOE. ^V^HE main object sliould be to have the shoe rMEXT OF Trotting ^nd. Racing 0^-EK THE UNIOX COOISE5 LOXG ISJLAND, EuLE 1st.— Natuke of Elxes. — All matclies, or sweep-stakes wliicli shall come off over the course will be governed by these rules, unless the contrary is mutually agreed upon by the parties making such match or stake. 2. PowEK OF PoSTPo>s'EMENT. — In case of unfavorable vreather, or unavoidable causes, all pui'ses, matches, sweep-stakes announced to come off, to which the proprietors contribute, they THE HOKSE EDUCATOK. 109 shall liaye the power to postpone to a futuro day, upon giving notice of the same. 3. QuALincATioxs OF Houses Starting. — Horses trained in the same stable, or owned in part by the same person, within three days shall not start for a purse ; and horses so entered shall forfeit their entrance. A horse starting alone shall receive but one half of the purse. Horses deemed by the judges not fair trotting horses, shall be ruled off previous to, or distanced at the termination of the heat. 4. Entries. — All entries shall be made under a seal, inclosing the entrance money (ten per cent on the purse) and addressed to the proprietor, at such time and place as they have been j)reviously designated by advertisement. 5. Weight to be Carried. — Every trotting horse starting for match, purse or stake, shall carry one hundred and forty-five pounds ; if in harness, the weight of the sulky and harness not 110 THE HOESE EBLX^ATOE. to be considered. Pacing horses liable to the same iTile. G. Distances. — A distance for mile heats, best three in five shall be one hundred yards ; for one mile heats, eighty yards, and for every additional mile, an additional eighty yards. 7. Time Between Heats.— The time between heats shall be for one mile, twenty minutes; for every additional mile an additional five minutes. 8. Power of Judges. — There shall be chosen by the proprietors of the course, or stewards, three judges to preside over a race for purses, and by them an additional judge shall be appointed for the distance stand; they may, also, during or previous to a race, aj^point insjoectors at any part of the course, whose reports and theirs alone, shall be received of any foul riding or driving. 9. DiffepvEnce of Opinion Between Judges.— Should a difference of opinion exist between the THE HOESE EDUCATOR. Ill judges in the startiug-stancT on any question, a majority sliall govern. 10. Judges' Duties. — The judges shall order the horses saddled or harnessed five minutes previous to the time appointed for starting ; any rider or driver causing undue detention after being called up, by making false starts or other- wise, the judges may give the word to start without reference to the situation of the horse so offending, unless convinced such delay is un- avoidable on the part of the rider or driver, in which case not more than thirty minutes shall be consumed in attempting to start ; and at the expiration of that time, the horse or horses ready to start shall receive the word. 11. Starting Horses. — The pole shall be drawn for by the judges, the horse winning a heat shall, for the succeeding heats, be entitled to a choice of the track ; on coming out on the last stretch, each horse shall retain the track first selected ; any horse deviating shall bo distanced. 112 THE HOESE EDUCATOR. 12. Eedees oe Deiyees. — Eiders or drivers shall not be permitted to start unless dressed in jockey style. 13. "Weight of Kidees and Debtees. — Eiders and drivers shall weigh in the presence of one or more of the judges previous to starting ; and after a heat, are to come up to the starting stand, and not dismount until so ordered by the judges; any rider or driver disobeying shall, on weighing, be precluded from the benefit of the weight of his saddle and whip, and if not full weight, shall be distanced. 14. Penalty foe Foul EfDiNG oe DEmsG. — A rider or driver committing any act which the judges may deem foul riding or driving, shall be distanced. 15. HoESEs Beeakixg. — Should any horse break from his trot or pace, it shall be the duty of the rider or driver to pull his horse to a trot or pace immediately, and in case of the rider or driver refusing to do so, the penalty shall be THE HOBSE EDUCATOR, 113 that the next best horse shall have the heat ; if the rider or driver should comply v/ith the above, and he should gain by such break, twice the dis- tance so gained shall be taken away on the coming out ; a horse breaking on the score shall not lose the heat by so doing. ' 16. The Winning Horse. — A horse must mn two heats to be entitled to the pui'se, ujiless he distanced all other horses in one heat. A dis- tanced horse in a dead heat shall not start again. 17. Eelatiye to Heats. — A horse not win- ning one heat in three, shall not start for a fourth heat. When a dead heat is made between two horses, that if either had won the heat the race would have been decided, they two only shall start again ; in races, best three in five, a horse shall win one heat in five to be allowed to start for the sixth heat, unless such hoise shall have made a dead heat ; such horses as are prevented from starting by this rule shall be considered drawn and not distanced. 114 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 18. On Heats and Distances.— If two horses each win a heat, and neither are distanced in the race, the one coming out ahead on the last heat to be considered the best. The same rule to be applied to horses, neither winning a heat and neither distanced. If one horse wins a heat he is better than one that does not, provided he does not get distanced in the race, then the other, if not distanced, shall be the best. A horse that wins a heat and is distanced, is better than one not winning a heat, and being distanced in the same heat. A horse distanced in the second heat is better than one distanced in the first heat. 19. Horses Drat^-n. — Horses draY>Ti before the conclusion of a race shall be considered dis- tanced. 20. Outside Bets. — In all matches made play or pay ; outside bets not to be considered play or pay, unless so understood by the parties. 21. Of Play or Pay Matches. — All monies bet play or pay matches by outside betters are not considered play or pay. THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 115 22. Betting. —Absent Betters. — A con- firmed bet cannot be left off without mutual con- sent. If either party be absent at the time of trotting, and the money be not staked, the party present may declare the bet void in the presence of the judges, unless some party will stake the money betted for the absentee. 23. Compromised Matches. — All bets made by outside betters on compromised matches are considered drawn. 21. Betters or Odds, etc. — The person who bets the odds has the right to choose the horse or the field. When he has chosen his horse the field is what starts against him ; but there is no field unless one starts with him. If odds are bet without naming the horses, be- fore the trot is over it must be determined, as the odds were at time of making it. Bets made in trotting are not determined till the purse is won, if the heat is not specified at the time of betting. 116 THE HOESE EDUCATOR. 25. HoESEs Excluded feom Staettn'g or Distanced. — All bets made on horses precluded from starting (by rnle 19), being distanced in the race, or on such horses against each other, shall be drawn. 26. In cases of Dispute and Improper Con- duct. — In all cases of dispute not provided for by the rules, the judges for the day will decide finally. In case of a trot or match being proved to their satisfaction to have been made or con- ducted improperly or dishonestly on the part of the principals, they shall have the power to de- clare all bets void. 27. The Size of Whips to be Tsed. — No rider or driver shall be allowed any other than a reasonable length of whip, namely : for saddle horses, two feet ten inches ; sulky, foui' feet eight inches ; wagon, five feet ten inches. 28. In Case of Accidents. — In case of acci- dents but five minutes shall be allowed over the time siDccified in Eule No. 10, unless the judges think more time necessary. THE HORSE EDUCATOE. 117 29. Judges Stand. — No person shall be al- lowed in the judges' stand but the judges, repor- ters, and members at the time of trotting. 30. In Case of Death. — All engagements are Toid upon the decease of either party being determined. 118 THE HOESE EDUCATOB. I^ECE I PTS Tlie follo^TQg receij)ts have been gathered from soui'ces entitled to tlie fullest confidence as remedies of value to all owners of horses, and are presented with the hope of doing good. A CUKE FOE HEAVES, NE^^K BEFOEE PUBLISHED. Take a common stone jar, fill it vrith eggs, cover them with cider vinegar, let them stand till the vinegar eats up the shells. Then stir all together. Take a lump of hrne about the size of a goose egg, slack it in hot water, usiftg-ftfee«^ one quart of-^^at«r. Of the lime water add one-half pint to a quart of the egg mixture. Give a tea- cupful, at ieeding-^Bie, in feed, three times a day. THE HOESE EDUCATOR. 119 A EEMEDY TO COYER THE HEAVES. One-half pint of turpentine, 2 oz. of assafoetida, 2 oz. aloes, 4 oz. of Lobelia seed, 1 quart of whiskey, 2 oz. of sal ammonia, 4 oz. salaretus,! oz. of camphor. "Dose, one tablespoonfiil once each day. v^ SCRATCHES. Wash well with castile soap ; then make a soap lather, and add powdered charcoal to make a paste, apply with a brush and let it dry, after which it can be rubbed off. Another remedy : Hydrate of potassa, 10 grains ; pulverized nut- gall, one-half oz. ; white lead, pulverized opium, one-quarter oz. ; lard, one-quarter lb. Wash with soap suds, rub dry, and apply mixture night and morning. Give purging ball. COLIC OR GBIPEB. Symptoms: Pawing, manifesting a desii-e to 120 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. lie down, and without doing so commence to paw again. As the symptoms increase, the ani- mal cannot be kept on his feet, he frequently falls as if shot ; pulse not altered from natural condi- tion. Interrals of rest, together with the condi- tion of the pulse, distinguish the disease from inflammation of the bowels. Treat as follows : Frequent injections of soap and water, and give inteiTially, spirits of nitre, 1 oz. ; laudanum, 1 oz. ; water, one-half pint; mix for drench. This may be repeated in 20 minutes if relief is not obtained. Another remedy, giving instant relief : From 5 to 10 di'ops of chloroform, given on sugar, I have never known to fail giving imme- diate rehef. I have known men to be from home and have their horses taken with this disease and use this remedy, and in 30 minutes the horses were able to be driven. lm^ HOKSE EI)UCATOR. V2X FOE INFLAIMMATION OF THE LUNGS. First, bleed tlioroughly, then give tinct. verat- rum, J oz. ; laudanum, 4 oz. ; tinct. aconite, | oz. ; sliake well and give a teaspoonful every tliree hours, in a pint of water well sweetened, and if the pulse is not reduced in a short time, increase the dose to a tablespoonful until the fever abates. As soon as the horse recovers so as to eat and lie down naturally, keep him on hay, with a few carrots or potatoes, and daily give a bran mash, with saltpetre, crush antimony and sulphur, for a week or ten days, and you will prevent dropsy of the chest, which usually fol- lows this disease. BPATIN. This being a valuable receipt it is worth money to any man dealing in horses : Euphorbium, 5 oz. ; Spanish flies, fine, 2 oz.; iodine, 1 oz., dissolved with alcohol ; seed pre- cipitate, ^ oz. ; corrosive subHrnate, 1 oz. ; quick- 122 THE HORSE EDUCATOB. silver, J oz. ; liog's lard, 6 oz. ; T\-liite tur- pentine, 6 oz. ; verdigris, J lb. Melt the lard and turpentine together, then, while hot, add the others, excej^t the quicksilver, which must be stirred in as it becomes cold. Mix well. When cold it is fit for use. Rub it in well on the spavin every day for three days, then wash ckan with soap suds, and omit for three days ; then repeat for three days, and so continue till a per- fect cure is effected. Should it blister use more cautiously. J BLOOD SPAYIX. One-half pound of blood root ; 1 quart of al- cohol ; 2 oz. tannin ; J lb. alum. Mix and let stand. Shaking several times a day till the strength is all in the alcohol, and bathe the spavin twice a day, rubbing with the hand. I FOE WINDGALLS. Olive oil, 2 oz. ; nitric acid, oz. Rub as much THE HORSE EDUCATOR. l23 in every day, or every second or third day, as will bear without startincr the hair. FOE INFLAMED SWELLINGS OE LAME SHOULDEE. Equal parts oil amber, oil spike, camphor, gum and ether. Should be shaken well before using, and well rubbed in with the hand. HIDE BOUND. . This condition of the skin is usually j)roduced by any derangement of system. Medicine of an alterative character is here indicated. The most successful are sulphur pulverized, 8 oz. ; nitrate of potassa, pulverized, 3 oz. ; black anti- mony, pulverized, 2 oz. ; sulphate of iron, 4 oz. Mix well together and give one tablespoonful twice a day. Another good remedy : Take saltpetre, 4 oz» ; crude antimony, 1 oz. ; 124 THE HOESE EDrCATOR. sulphur, 2 oz. The saltjoetre and antimony should be finally pulyerized, then add the sul- phur and mix Tvell together. Dose, tablespoon- ful of the mixtui'e in bran mash daily. HOW TO DISTINGUISH BETTTEEX DISTEMPEE AND GLAXDEES. The discharge from the nose, if Glanders, "^ill sink in water. If Distemper, it will not. DISTEMPEPu All catarrhal affections are classed by horse OTSTiers under the head of distemper. Common catarrh, epidemic catarrh, larynxitis, bronchitis and all other diseases, accompanied by nasa| discharges, are regarded by horsemen as one and the same. The following remedy is to cure distemper in its simple form, as we find it in colts soon after disease being started. If there is swelling under the jaws, poultice the throat with flax seed meal THE nOESE EDUCATOR. 125 or bread and milk, apply mustard and vinegar, and give internally one of the following powders in feed : pulverized genetian 2oz.; sulph. copper, 1 oz.; pulverized ginger 6 drams, mix and divide into 8 powders. INFLUENZA. For several-years past a disease has been more or less prevalent in various sections of this coun- try, known to the Yeterinary as epidemic catarah or influenza. The symptoms of this disease are so various in different animals, no two being precisely alike, that a variety of opinions are current concerning it and its nature ; and as a consequence, various other diseases are often confounded with it. The usual or leading symp- toms are slight watery or mucous discharges from the nose, eyelids presenting a reddish ap- pearance, matter collects in the corner of the eyes, jjulse feeble, great debility as shown by the quick, feeble action of the heart, a symptom 126 THE HOESE EDUCATOE. rarely absent, membrane of nose much reddened, sore throat and cough, occasionally the feet be- come fevered as in founder, causing much stiff- ness and might be easily taken for that disease. Treatment : This being a typhoid disease re- quires a sustaining treatment or success will be very doubtful. In the early stage of this disease give the first two days ten drops of tincture of aconite or bryonia in a little water, every six hours, after which give a pail of water to drink, and. once a day one ounce spirits of nitre, or two drachms of extract of belladonna ; and give in the feed three times a day, one of the following pow- ders : Genetian root, saltpetre and anise seed, of each 1 oz. ; sulphate of quinine, 1 drachm ; mix and divide into eight powders. The throat should be bathed with mustard and vinegar, or with linseed oil, 3 oz. ; spirits of hartshorn, 1 oz. Mix together. No hay or corn should be given, but scalded oats or wheat bran, with linseed tea THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 127 or oatmeal gruel, should constitute tlie diet. I would recommend a few carrots. But above all good nursing is to be desired, and by following the foregoing instructions a succes-ful result is inevitable. , GLANDERS. This is one of the most fatal diseases to which the horse is subject. It is propagated in the most cases by contagion, the infection being seed from the nasal discharge, not as many suppose from the breath, but according to eminent foreign authors, tlie disease has its origin also in a vitiated state of the blood, and this maj result from improper treatment or neglect of almost any disease to which he is liable. In its early stage it appears to be onl}^ a slight inflammation of the inner membrane of the nose, not however at- tended with the usual florid red, characterizing inflammation, but of a paler hue, and afterwards becommg darker. The first marked symptom is a 6 128 THE HORSE EDUCATOR. discharge from the nose scarcely to be distiu- ^'uished at first from the natui'al moisture, either hj its color or consistence, and generaUj comes fi-om one nostril only, and that from the left one. In appearance it is thin and transparent, closely resembling the natural discharge a little increased in quantity, and sometimes continues in this doubtful stage for several weeks and months. Instances are indeed known, where it has existed for several years before it became fully developed. In such cases it is attended with no loss of appetite, no cough, no apparent illness of any kind, with little enlargment of the glands under the jaw, and a.fc the same time the horse is capable of commu- nicating the disease. Too many of these horses with a decided glan- derous discharge fi'om the nose and adherent glands under the jaw, are found on our roads, or are employed in agriculture, which (although they are otherwise in good health and perform their work well) should not be permitted ; for by THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 129 sucli means the contagion is often widely spread. Xo cough accompanies real glanders in any of its stages, except the last which is usually soon cut short by death. In addition to the preceding tokens for dis- covering at an early period the true glanders from other disorders, let the nostrils be closely examined. In the real glanders the left or run- ning nostril will be found of a deeper color than ordinary, while the other or dry nostril is of a paler color, or almost white. The reader must bear in mind the varied color of the nostril in deciding all cas3S of this character. Also that in c jlds, If the foot has been injured, poultice with flaxseed 13J: THE HORSE EDUCATOE. meal and keep the wound open till a liealtliy action lias been establislied. FOUNLEPv EEMEDY. Give from one to four ounces of saltpetre, according to the severity of the case. For a seyero case draw about one gallon of blood fi'om the neck, then drench with linseed oil. one quart ; lub the fore legs with water as hot as can be borne -without scalding, continuing the washing till the horse is perfectly limber. * noPtSE OINTMENT. Eesin, 4 oz.; beeswax-, 4oz.; honey, 2 oz.: lard, 8 oz. ; melt these articles slowly, bringing gradually to a boil, remove from the fire, and slowly add a little less than a pint of spirits of turpentine, stirrmg, all the time this is being added, and stir till cool. This is an extraordinary THE HORSE EDUCATOR. _ 135 ointment for bruises of the flesh, or hoof, or "broken knees, galls or bites, or when a horse is gelded to heal and keep off flies. CONDITION POWDER. Fenugreek, cream of tartar, gentian, sulphur, saltpetre, resin, black antimony and ginger, of each 1 oz.; cayenne 1 — 2 oz. xill finely pulver- ized, mix thoroughly. It is used in yellow water, hide-bound, colds, coughs, distemper, and all other diseases where a condition powdei' is needed. They carry off gross humors, and purify the blood. Dose — in ordinary cases one tablespoonful once a day. In extreme cases give twice daily. This powder has never failed to give entire satis- faction. TO make magic liniment. Take 2 oz. oil of spike ; 2 oz. origanum ; 2 oz. 136 ' THE HOESE EDUCATOR. hemlock ; 2 oz. Y,'ormv>'ood ; 4 oz. sweet oil ; 2 oz. spirits ammoniac ; 2 oz. gnm camphor ; 2 oz. spirits turpentine ; 1 quart proof spirits. Mix well and bottle for use, cork tight. For sprains, braiseSj lameness of any kind, this lini- ment is unsurpassed. This is the same lini- ment, leaving out the turpentine, which has achieved such wonderful cures for human ail- ment. A more simple liniment can be made by put- ting into spirits of turpentine all the camphor gum it will cut. For ordinary purposes it is fit for use ; but if you ^ish to reduce pain, add as much laudanum as there is turpentine. French paste for bone spavin (will cure) : corrosive sublimate, quicksilver, and iodine, of each 1 oz. with sufficient lard to form a paste. Eub the quicksilver and iodine together, and add the sublimate, and finally add (he lard, nib- bing thoroughly, shave off the hair the size of THE HORSE EDUCATOR. loT tlie bone enlargnient, tlieu grease all around it, but not where the bone is shaved off. This prevents the action of the medicine only upon the spavin ; rnbin as much of tLe paste as will He on a five cent piece only, each morning for foiu' mornings only, and from six to eight days the spavin will come out, then vrash out the wounds with suds, soaking woU for an hour or two, which removes the poisonous effects of the medicine and facilitates the heahng, which can be done by any heahng salve. I perfer ihe horse ointment to anv other. $ LLNIMENT FOR SrAVES' SPLINT CURBS, &G. Oils of spike, origanum, cedar, British and spirits of turp^ ntine, of each one oz. ; pulverized Spanish flies 1 — 2 oz., apply once in six or nine days. RING BONE REMEDY. Pulverized cantharides, oils of spike, origanum. 138 THE HOESE EDUCATOE. amber, cedar and Barbadoes tar, and British oil, of each 2 oz.; oil of wormwood, 1 oz.; spirits of turpentine, 4 oz. ; lard, three lb. Melt the lard slowly, add the acids, stir well, and add the others, stirring till cool ; clip oil* the hair and apply by rubbing and heating in. In about three -days, or when done running, ^\ ash off with suds and apply again. In recent cases two or three applications will cure, old cases require more time. ^ POLL-ETIL A^'D FISTULA. Common potash, 1— i oz.; extract of belladonna 12 drm.: gum Ai'abic 1 — 4 oz. Dissolve the gum in as little water as possible, then, having pulyerized the potash, unless it is moist, mix the gumVater with it, and it will soon dissolve ; then mix in the extract, and it is ready to use. The best method for getting this into the pipes, is by the means of a small syringe. After having THE HOESE EDUCATOR. 139 cleansed the sore with suds, repeat once in two dajs until the callous pipes and hard, fibrous base aronn:T the poll-evil or fistula is completely destroyed. 10 SCATTER POLL-EYIL. Take a quantity of mandrake root, bruise and boil it, strain and boil down until rather thicks then form an ointment, simmering Y\'ith sufficient lard for the purpose, xinnoint the swelling once a day for several day suntii well. It has cured ^heni after they were broke out by putting it- in the pipes a few times ; also annointing around the sore. ANTISPASMODIC TINCTURE. (For man or beast.) Oils of caj;i;>^r, cloves, ]36PP*^i'iiii^^5 annis, of each 1 ouii'jc ; of alcohol one quart. Mix alltogether, and bottle for use. Dose for 1-40 THE HOESE EDUCATOR. horse, 1 ounce eTerj 15 minutes in a little ^-liis- tej and warm water, sweetened with molasses, continue till relieved. Dose for man : one teaspoonful. PHYSIC BALL. Barbadoes aloes, 1 fb; sjrup buckthorn, 3 oz.; codliver oil, 3 oz.; melt the whole and stir till cool. In winter, add a little water, make into 18 -pills, and give every four hours, or as much as will move the bowels. DirRETIC DROPS. These drops are reliable for stoppage of water, foul water, or inflammation of the kidneys. In all cases take sweet spirits of nitre, 4 oz. ; balsam copaiba, 2 oz.; oil of juniper, 2 oz.; spirits of turpentine, 2 oz. ; gum camphor, pulv., 1 oz. Mix all together, and shake well, bottle and it is THE HOESE EDUCATOR. 141 fit for use for man or beast under all circum- stances where a diuretic is required. Dose for Lorse : One oz. in lialf a pint of milk once in six hours. For man : One teaspoonful in a table- spoonfui of milk once in six hours. Be sure to shake the ingredient up well before pouring out for use. SWEE^'Y LINI5IENT. Alcohol and spirits of turpentine of each 8 oz.; camphor gum, pulverized cantharides and tinc- ture of capsicum, of each 1 oz. ; oil of spike 3 oz. Bathe this liniment in with a hot iron, and faithfully follow till a cure is perfected. KERYE AND BONE LINIMENT. Take beef's gall, 1 quart ; alcohol, 1 pint ; vola- tile liniment, 12 oz.; spirits of turpentine, 1 pound ; oil of origanum, 4 oz.; aqua ammoniac, 1 — 2 pint ; oil of amber, 3 oz. ; tincture of cantharides, 6 oz. Mix. 142 THE HOESE EPUCATOR. ENGLISH STABLE LINIMENT. Oil of spike ; aqua ammonia, and oil of tur- pentine, of each 2 oz.; sweet oil and oil of amber, of eacli 1 — 2 oz. ; oil of origanum, 1 oz. Mix. HOOF LINDIENT EOE CONTEACTED HOOF. Yenice turpentine, 1 — 2 pint ; aqua ammonia^ 2 oz.; saltz of nitre, 1 oz.; benzine, 1 oz.; alcohol, 3 oz. Apply to the edge of the hair and to the hoof twice a day for the three fii'st days ; once a day for the next three days ; after that once in two, three, or four da^'s, as the case may require. REMEDY FOE BOTTS. Take oil of turpentine 8 oz. ; alcohol, 1 quart ; Mix and bottle for use. Dose : 4 to 5 oz. hi the horse's feed once a day for 8 days, will effectually remove the last vestige of botts. THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 143 TO PREVENT HORSES BEING TEASED BY FLIES. Take half a pound of walnut leaves or (butter- nut) and pour upon them 3 quarts of cold water, let it infuse one night, and pour the whole next morning into a kettle, and let it boil for a quater of an hour. When cold it is lit for use. No more is required than to moisten a sponge, and before the horse goes out of the stable let those parts most likely to be irritated be- smeared over with the liquor, between and upon the ears, the neck, the flank, &c. TREATMENT OF WOUNDS. Wounds are caused by accidents of various kinds when the skin is much torn from the flesh. If you are at hand while the wound is quite fresh take a square pointed needle, and a waxed thread and sew it up. Be sure to put the needle in strait, one side over against the other, draw the skin tight and tie a knot, cut off the thread,. 7 144 THE HORSE EDUCATOE. and then take another sticli about an inch off, till it is all nicely drawn together. It is quite wrong to sew up a wound as you would a piece of cloth : the thread should be cut after each stich. AVhen you do not see tlie Avound till the place is growing dead and the skin is drawing up, then take oft' the loose skin ; for if j^ou permit it to remain it will leave a blemish. HOW TO CLEAN AND OIL HARNESS. First take the harness apart, having eacli strap and piece by itself, then wash it with warm water and castile soap. When cleaned black each part with the following dye : 1 oz. extract of logwood ' 12 grains bichromate of potash, both pounded fine, put into two quarts of boiling rain water and stir till all is dissolved. When cool, it may be used ; it may be bottled and kept for future use, if desired. It may be applied with a shoe brush. When the dye has struck in, you may oil each part with neatsfoot oil, applied with a paint THE HORSE EDUCATOR. 145 brush. For second oiling use one tliird castor oil and two thirds neatsfoot oil, mixed. A few hours after wipe clean with a woolen cloth, which gives the harness a glossj appearance. This preparation does not injure the leather or stitching, makes it soft and pliable and obviates the necessity of oiling as often as is necessary by the ordinary method. T\lien the harness is removed from the horse, take a woolen cloth or chamois skin, kept for the purpose, and wipe off the dust and all moisture from rain or perspu'ation, and when the harness is nearly dry, rub its damper parts very thoroughly with a second cloth or skin until it is quite soft and pliable. The bits and plated mounting should be cleaned and rubbed with ar slightly oiled rag before the harness is finally hung in its j^lace ; the harness should be protected from dust either by a covering of cloth, or by hanging in a closet. Whenever the leather becomes dr)^ and hard, it should be cleaned and oiled according to the forp going directions. This celebrated Shoe has been iii use over faiir years. It is highly recommended hj the most prominent horsemen and veterinarians in America, For curing Corns and all ailments caused b}' Contraction, it has no equal, Robebt Bon~n'ek says it is the lyesL Shoe invented for Contracted Feet, CORniS. The Shoes are manufactured by TYRREIJ:! & FERREN, BATAVIA, N, Y, iL^:; a^ o m