JOHNA.SEAVERNS

¥ifebster Family Library of Veterrnary Medicine

Cummings School of • terinary Medicine at

Tufts Ufji versify

200 Westboro Road

North Grafton, MA 01535

THE

NEW SYSTEM

OF

EDUCATING HORSES

INCLUDING

IN-STRTJCTIONB ON FEEDING,

WATERING, STABLING, SHOEING, ETC.

WITH

niACTlCAL TREATMENT FOR DISEASES.
I LLU STRATED.

INCLUDING A

LARGE NUMBER OF VALUABLE RECIPES

NOT I5EF0RK PUBLISHED.

BY D. MAGNER,

Author of the New System.
ELEVENTH EDITION, REVISED AND ENLARGED.

WITH AN APPENDIX.

ROUSES POINT, N. Y.:

LOVELL PRINTING AND PUBLISHING CO., Printers.

1876.

Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1871,

By D. MAGNER,

in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.

jKI* Inquiries for this book, or concerning other business, addressed to Prof
D. Magner, BufFalo, N. Y., will receive prompt attention.

PREFACE

Since publishing my first book in 1864, comprising only 64 pages, I
have made many important improvements, until it is now conceded that
my system of Educating Horses, is the simplest and most practical in
the world. To harmonize with my work, I have found it necessary to
repeatedly revise and enlarge it, making it comprise many times the
; mount of matter contained in the first.

My principles of subduing vicious horses constitute an entirely new
feature of my success, wholly superseding the throwing-down prmcipie,
found to be so valuable by myself and others.

Included also will be found the most reliable and practical treatment
for the care and cure of sick and lame horses, &c. I have expended
over ^5,000 in the study of Veterinary Practice alone.

My unquestioned experience and success, in addition to the value of
my equipments, comprising the most beautiful and valuable troupe of
Educated Horses in the world, is a guarantee of qualification and res-
ponsibility that entitles me to a confidence that cannot be accorded to
those who, without reputation or experience, may engage in the busi
ness from motives of policy.

I introduce simple common sense principles that make the successful
control of even the wildest and most vicious horses, not only possible,
but easy for any one of ordinary strength and intelligence to do, which
are as humane as they are effective and valuable.

D. MAGNER.

PROF. MAGNER'S EDUCATED HORSES.

The portraits of my horses and ponies, on the opposite
page, all stallions, which was cut from a painting of them,
made from life, by one of the most eminent artists in the
country, and is a perfect representation of them, will give a
better idea of their beauty and value than any worded des-
cription I could give. They are conceded by all who have
witnessed their performances, to be the finest, most beauti-
ful, best educated, and most valuable troupe of horses ever
owned, for the purpose of giving free exhibitions by which
to amuse and interest horse men and others in my efforts ;
and never before, perhaps, was there so fine and valuable
an equipment used in illustrating and teaching the science
of educating horses.

These horses are not only of the most varied character,
but their performances are unquestionably the most exci-
ting and interesting ever exhibited in this country, showing
all the peculiarities of driving without reins or bits, and
show a sagacity and intelligence in the ring that is conceded
to be most wonderful.

TuRCO, the farthest on the right, is a black stallion of
Duroc-Morgan blood. He is nearly fourteen years old, of
beautiful form. He was, when a colt, remarkably vicious;
at four years old, having resisted all efforts to break him, he
was purchased by me of Esq. Cole, of Smithville, Jeffer-
son county, N. Y., in June, 1861. He was trained by me
in Smithville, and among the most interesting features of
his training was that of driving to carriage without bridle
or reins. The performances of this horse excited the great-
est attention in all the principal towns and cities of the
north and east. I trained several horses to drive with him,
and he has been driven and exhibited, double and single,
by me, through the principal towns of twenty-three states.

0 PROF. MAGNER*S EDUCATED HORSES.

This ceasing to be. a novelty, by the number of horses
soon after so trained by others, who assuming the most ex-
travagant pretensions, made it no better than a burlesque, I
superseded it with other and more interesting features ol
performance under canvas, as now exhibited by me daily.

This fine horse has shown some peculiar features of saga-
city. He will not allow a stranger to loaf around him, will
allow any one to approach, feed, water and clean him, but
curiosity seekers who may show any timidity in going near
him, are soon reminded that he is not to be trifled with,
but is perfectly docile.

GUI' :P ODE«.I>,

GiFFORD, the black horse on the near side, is of Mor
gan blood, ten years old, and is one of the most beautifully
modeled, as well as one of the finest performing horses in
the country. Have owned and exhibited him for nearly
five years, both north and south. Among his most remark-
able feats is that of acting vicious or gentle at will. He
will play sick in the most natural and wonderful manner,
even groaning from apparent intense pain.

:^XjX3Vi:> ^xxjXj-s*.

Next on the off side, to the left, is represented Blind
Billy, which is acknowledged by all witnessing his per-
formances, to be not only the finest modeled pony, but the
most wonderful performing blind horse in the world.
Billy is now nine years old, mahogany bay color, fourteen
hands high, and weighs nearly 900 pounds. H^ is as above
stated, totally blind, and has been so for four years. He
does everything by word of command only, and not the
least interesting peculiarity of his performance is the atten-
tion with which he waits for and promptly obeys every
command. He will run the ring, turning right or left,
go lame, walk on his knees, kick on his knees, look for and
find a handkerchief, jump clear of the ground and kick,
walk on his hind feet around the ring, or turn right and
left in circles while standing erect on his hind feet. He
will sit down like a dog, turn right or left while sitting on
his haunches. All this, and much more, he does in the
promptest manner, at the word of command. He is
acknowledged not only to excel all other horses, blind or

PROF. MAGNER S EDUCATED HORSES.

iiot, by the difficulty and variety of his performances, but
surpasses as well all horses known, by his wonderful perform-
ances of squealing and laughing, at the word of command.
The sum of Seven Thousand Dollars has been offered and
refused for this beautiful and wonderful animal. He is un-
questionably, the rarest, finest, and most valuable perform-
ing pony in this country, if not in the world ; and the

witnessing of his performances the
interesting novelties of the day.

most instructive and

The best Trick Pony in the Worid.

The nearest on the left is the Spotted Pony, Tommy.
As his appearance shows, he is the smallest and most cun-
ning of the group. He is eleven years old, weighs 720
pounds, bright bay color with white spots, extending back
on each side of his body, and is a perfect model in form.
Tommy is the clown of the lot. He is in himself a whole
show, and the amusement he excites by his unique per-
formances is really side-splitting; it is not so much what he

8 PROF, magner's educated horses.

does as the way he acts out his performance that so
intensely amuses. He is as apparently innocent and gentle
as can be; even allowing a child to go under, around, or
over him. Should a rider even fall under his feet, he will
either carefully step over him or stand still until the rider
gets up; yet in an instant by the merest signal, his whole
nature seems to be changed to the character of a vicious,
dangerous stallion, with ears back, mouth open, eyes flash-
ing fire, and every hair on his body on end, he will clear
the ring of all intruders. At such a time there are but few
of the most courageous who will dare to enter the ring, so
apparently dangerous does he appear; yet as quickly at
command will he assume his former gentle appearance, and
play with any one or go around the ring for presents. The
sagacity he exhibits even in this is almost wonderful, for
if given no attention he will pass by without apparently
noticing a person, going directly to those of the sunniest
nature by whom he delights being caressed, always showing
preference for well dressed and good looking ladies, for
whom he seems to have a great fondness, acknowledging a
caress or a present with the politeness of a courtier, by
a bow of the head.

It is, however, in his great contests with riders that he
shows the most wonderful sagacity and power, throwing or
not a little boy easily and quietly as commanded, but send-
ing the smartest and best riders flying at will from his back.
It is in his great performance of ^^ throwing the boys'' that
he brings down the house with almost insane applause. I
have seen at such times the most habitually grave men and
women laugh and scream with delight, until the tears
coursed down their cheeks, and in many instances of per-
sons lying down upon the seats, or rolling upon the
ground, yielding in their paroxysm of excitement to the
uncontrollable impulses which seized them. When the elo-
quent preacher and senator from Ohio, Mr. Garfield, who,
with his friends and faculties of the Hiram College,
attended one of my exhibitions in that place; so great was
his pleasure while witnessing this great performance of
Tommy's, that he rolled, clapped his hands, and shouted
with delight.

The following from the Cleveland Leader, in speaking of
Tommy's performance during one of my exhibitions in that

PROF. MAGNER S EDUCATED HORSES. 9

city, will better illustrate the excitement and interest which
his performance excites :

"But the most laughable scene took place when the spot-
ted wild horse, Tommy, was introduced. He presented
every appearance of a wild steed, and ran restively about
with distended nostrils and fiery eye, his mane bristling
like the quills of a fretful porcupine, but at the approach of
his master he became as tame as a lamb. Every one was
invited to try their equestrian skill on Tommy, and all who
tried were thrown to the ground, tenderly, but in the
twinkling of an eye. Mr. Magner offered $500 to any one
who would ride Tommy one minute. Several tried, but

Tommy, in his famous act of tlirowing the Boys.

none were rewarded with success. One ambitious gentle-
man threw off hat, coat and vest, and said he ' would be
d — d if he didn't ride him.' Tommy was too much for
him. He was thrown several times, and finally concluded
that he had better let Tommy have his own way. ' '

Thus it is seen I not only give the most interesting exlii-
bitions free under canvas, but being the author of my own
work, and handling and controlling the wildest and most
vicious horses daily in illustrating my system, and devoting
too, my whole attention to this end, that I am inaugurating
an era of interest in the study and kind treatment of the
horse, which is in the extreme, commendable and valuable.

THE NEW SYSTEM OF EDUCATING HORSES,

There are so many who claim precedence as authors of
the New System, etc., and that, too, in increased propor-
tion to the ignorance and inexperience of those engaging
in the business as a matter of speculation, that a few words
of explanation, in relation to the part I have taken and of
my success in this field, becomes necessary as a matter of
duty and justice to myself and public.

I have now been before the public over eleven years,
constantly employed in imparting a knowledge of such
principles of educating and managing horses as I found
to be most simple and practical. I claimed and adver-
tised a NEW SYSTEM from the start. In the winter of
1863-4 I wrote and published in Utica, N. Y., at the
Herald office, an exposition of my treatment called *^The
New System," copyrighting the same under that title.

Sometime afterwards I sold to Mr, A. H. Rockwell, for
three hundred dollars, the right to republish this work under
his own name, a copy of the contract of sale of which I have
still in my possession.

Mr. R. very unjustly, in the revision of this book, implies
having taught me, of having trained the horse Turco I then
owned, etc.; when the -fact was, I was over a year on the
road before I met or heard of him, I had trained and
exhibited this horse nearly two years before he saw him. To
Mr. Rockwell undoubtedly belongs the merit of giving pub-
lic exhibitions of the feature of driving a horse in the street
without reins with a whip. But Mr. Bunnell, of Wellsboro,
Tioga county, Pa., emphatically claims that his wife trained
this horse to be guided and controlled by motions of a whip,
and repeatedly exhibited him at County Fairs before selling
him, and before being purchased by Mr. R. This is not,
however, any discredit to Mr. Rockwell, being too simple a
feature of training to be regarded as much of an achieve-
ment; and besides, he has proved himself a gentleman of

NOTICES OF THE PRESS AND PEOPLE. 11

too much skill and merit to have the admission now of this
fact injure his standing or character.

I also gave a gentleman named R. P. Hamilton, the
privilege of republishing one of the earlier editions of my
book, which he did under his own name, a copy of which
edition I have in my possession.

[I met and cultivated the acquaintance of Prof. Hamilton in Ohio,
in the winter of 1866. Between this gentleman and myself, there had
during our acquaintance been maintained the warmest feelings of
friendship, contributing to a more than ordinary interest in each other's
success and welfare.}

In March, 1868, I started a resident of Batavia, N. Y.,
named O. S. Pratt, in the business, selling him two trained
horses, one of them a gray trick pony called Billy, and
a fancy advertising wagon. At the same time I sold
another gray trick pony, named Tommy, to a gentle-
man named Graves, a resident of Lockport, N. Y. This
pony was afterwards purchased of Mr. Graves by the said
Pratt, and are the same he still uses in his business.

Mr. Pratt, who makes some pretentions to character, I
learn, advertises himself as author of the New System, etc.
He certainly was not identified as a horse man before the
above date, having kept a grocery in Batavia previous to
the above time, which he sold for the express purpose of
buying his outfit, as stated, and engaged in the business as
a mere matter of speculation.

I am known in the principal portions of twenty-three
states, extending from Maine to Mississippi, including New
Brunswick. I am the author of my own work, have

TRAINED AND OWNED, AND DO OWN THE FINEST AND MOST
VALUABLE StUD OF HORSES IN AMERICA.

To illustrate and prove the interest I excited by my suc-
cess in this field, years ago, I will insert here a few sam-
ples of the many flattering notices I received from the
people and press of that period :

From the Utica Morning Herald, Jan. 23, 1863.

Horse Training. — In the afternoon Mr. Magner gave a few persons
an opportunity to witness his process of training horses, at the barn of
Mr. Roberts, near the cemetery, Mr, R.'s stallion, Ethan Allen, which
is known as the most vicious horse, in this part of the State, was taken
in hand, and in 20 minutes, Mr. M. had him completely under control
so that he could handle him precisely where and as he pleased, and
manage him without bridle or halter. Among other apparently very

12 NEW SYSTEM OF EDUCATING HORSES.

hazardous things, he passed beneath the horse between both fore and
hind legs. An unbroken colt was also operated with, and was brought
under complete subjection in considerably less time than the stallion.
A committee of competent judges present, expressed great satisfaction
with the result, Mr. Magner has a system of his own, which he con-
fidently thinks to be superior to any other known. He guarantees that
he will subdue any horse, however vicious, and break them of'all such
bad tricks as balkiness, kicking, biting and running away. He is
quite a young man, has a good address, and seems to possess much
more than ordinary intelligence. We think he is likely to become
famous in his profession. Of course we would not be justified in giving
the details of his system.

The above mentioned horse had bit and struck Mr. Roberts six months
before, so severely and so desperate was his fury, that it was with the
greatest difficulty two men drove him off with rails, but not until Mr.
Roberts had an arm lacerated and oroken, and was insensible from his
injuries, from which he had not yet recovered. The hoi'se ran loose in
a building, being fed and watered through a window, and so vicious
that he had not been taken out or handled, nor could his owner or any
one go into his room with safety. Indeed I was entreated by the
committee comprising Mr. Butterfield, (now Genl. Butterfield or his
brother,; Mr. Golden, (Merchant,) Editor of Herald and others, not to
go near him — that they would do all they could, to interest the public
in my favor, if I would not. But the success above stated, will show
with what ease and quickness I made him obedient to my will. He
was used and driven afterwards perfectly gentle, by his owner. The
Utica Herald, Mr. Roberts, or other gentlemen named, can be referred
to, for proof of this statement.

From the Kennebec Journal, Augusta, Me , Feb., 1864.

Mr. Magner, the author of this philosophy, and who proves himself
to be one of the most expert and scientific horse tamers and trainers in
the world, has, during the past week, delighted and astonished the
good people of Augusta and vicinity by the admirable and perfectly
successful demonstration of his system in subduing and controlling some
of the most vicious and ungovernable specimens of the horse fraternity
that could be found among us. The manifest and acknowledged im-
portance of this art, and the desire of the public to understand and
witness the results of its application, induced a crowded attendance of
all classes on Mr. Magner's practical illustrations of his theory. All
who attended came away fully convinced of, and perfectly satisfied with
the correctness of the principles and workings of this new system. Even
the meml)ers of the Senate and House of Kepresentaiiv."-, and the mem-
bers of the Executive Council took a leisure hour, laid by the affairs ot
State, forgot their parliamentary squabbles, and found both amusement
and instruction in witnessing the skill and consummate tact with which
Mr. Magner handled ihe hitherto incorrigible subjects brought forward
to test his new doctrine. Crowds of our most intelligent citizens were
also in attendance, and became decidedly and thorougly satisfied that

NOTICES OF THE PRESS AND PEOPLE. 13

Mr. Magner's system is all that he claims for it, and when applied, will
be effectual in bringing the wildest and most stubborn horse into com-
plete subjection and docility. A large class of pupils united in order
to profit by Mr. Magner's instruction, and learn the best modes of
applying his theory to practice, and as a matter of course, the hardest
and most vicious horses that could be found in the neighborhood were
brought in for him to subdue; all of which were completely tamed and
brought into such a state of docility as to astonish those who saw it.
So satisfactor}'^ and perfectly successful were his instructions and experi-
ments to every one who attended, and so efficient and useful did his
principles and modes of procedure prove themselves to be in training
and subduing horses, that the officers of the Second Maine Cavalry were
influced to invite him to give a course of instruction to those of the
regiment who could be spared from duty to attend. In this, too, he
was perfectly successful, as in all other instances. The most dangerous
of vicious horses are those frisky, nervous, touchy kickers, whose heels
are always ready to greet you whenever you approach or attempt to
harness them. One of this class was brought forward, of so desperate
a character that her owner cautioned Mr. Magner that he would expose
himself to danger and probable injury if he was too familiar with her.
In a very short time he had her so effectually subdued and conquered
that he could do anything he pleased with her — ^jump upon her back,
slide off behind her heels, handle her feet, and place himself in any
position he pleased around her without her offering the least opposition
or showing the least disposition to bite or practice her old tricks.

It may be thought that the practice of this mode would require great
strength and size of body. On the contrary, Mr. Magner is a young
man hardly of medium size, and of a very modest demeanor. But he is
coQipact of form and muscle, resolute, prompt and decided, though
kind and patient in action — requisites more essential in dealing with
the many crabbed and cross grained brutes that are often brought for
him to tame, than herculean strength or size of limb and body. He
was strongly urged to stay longer in the city and repeat his course to
another and larger class, but his prior engagements prevented a com-
pliance with the request.

In his tours through the country in the fulfillment of his mis-
sion of good to so useful an animal, we commend him to the friendly
attention of farmers and horsemen, who will find his principles of great
value, in this necessary art. We look upon this mode of horse training
as an art wonderful for the sure and infallible results which follows its
appliance.

Maine Farmer, Feb. 24, 1834.

His practice is guided and aided by common sense applications of
most simple mechanical means and new principle of control, as will
convince the most stubborn and willful horse that there is a power
above him to which he is soon glad to submit. It is all done quietly,
no whipping nor thrashing ; no mauling, bawling nor swearing, as has
too often heretofore been the custom in such cases. Herein is one of
the great and invaluable improvements which Mr. Magner introduces

14 NEW SYSTEM OF EDUCATING HORSES.

in the art of bringing the horse under complete control of man. We
make the remarks for the purpose of calling the attention of our
farmers and owners of horses of Maine, to these new improvements of
such vital importance to their interests. We have taken pains to give
them a personal investigation. You will find Mr. Magner a modest,
unassuming young man, and no humbug, and we cordially advise every
one who can, to obtain his lectures.

Portland (Me.) Transcript— 1864.

Mr. Magner, the Horse Tamer and Trainer, has been in Portland
during the past week, and has created a great stir among our horsemen.
So great was the interest excited, that Mr. Magtier formed a school,
which was largely attended by those interested in such matters, includ-
ing many of our best citizens who have fine horses, and seems to have
been altogether satisfactory. Such success in so brief a period is quite
unusual. His exhibitions have been very interesting and have satisfac-
torily demonstrated his ability to bring the most unmanageable horses
entirely under his control. An innocent colt, fresh from the country,
was introduced, and in a few minutes acted the part of a well trained
horse; then came a spirited mare, whose stubbornness was not so readily
but no less surely overcome; an old stager, which had for years defied
every farrier in the county, but after five minutes training stood quietly
as a lamb while his feet were handled and hammered in true black-
smith style; a splendid animal, whose principal fault seemed to be
unusual fright at the sight of an umbrella, in a very short space of time
stood unmoved as one of those articles was placed before him and
moved about his body, and when at last it was held above and dropped
upon his head, he appeared to regard it with far more of complacency
than fear; a puller on the bit was beaten at his own game and yielded
handsomely. Whatever the tricks and eccentricities of which the ani-
mals brought forward were guilty, they found more than their match in
the horse tamer, who did not in a single instance let a horse pass out of
his hands till he could truthfully say, "I have you, sir." He was asked
to test his skill still further on a vicious mule which was brought in and
turned loose in the ring; he was indeed a villainous fellow, and not at
all agreeable in his manners, refusing to be bridled or handled, and
meeting every one who approached him with an undesirable display of
his heels — but in less than fifteen minutes his whole demeanor was
changed, and he i-emained perfectly quiet while he was again and again
naltered, mounted on all sides, and handled from head to foot, and
finally was led out perfectly submissive. The change was wonderful
and called forth great applause. — These exhibitions are, as we learn,
foreign to Mr. Magner's custom and general purpose, which is, not to
exhibit <^eats in horsesmanship, but to make the people practically
acquainted with his system, and thereby create increased interest in
raising and managing horses. He is soon to start out into the towns
of this State, and we hope farmers and horsemen will give him all the
f'ttention which his theory and his success merit.

NOTICES OF THE PRESS AND PEOPLE. 15

Mr. Magner is about thirty years of age, is rather below the ordinary
height, has a stout, muscular body, a sprightly piercing eye, and speaks
with a clear voice and convincing manner, and in deportment and ap-
pearance is altogether a gentleman; and it is only just to say in his
behalf, that in Portland, as well as in several towns which he has
visited, he has won for himself and his method of managing horses
great favor, and many are now carrying out successfuly the instructions
which they have received from him.

Portland ( Me.) Advertiser— 1864.

Rarey Nowhere. — Mr. Magner, whose equestrian feats have excited
the wonder of our citizens, has left the city in order to fulfill numerous
engagements in the country. It is yery fortunate for him that this is
not an age when men are executed for witchcraft. Had he lived in
Salem in 1692, and exhibited, as he has here, his power over refractory
horses, he would have been hung, as sure as fate, for a wizard. In-
deed, we are not certain that he does not practice some sort of witchery
in his management of horses. No one can form an idea of his won-
derful power over them until he witnesses proof of it. To see a horse
furious, stubborn, defiant, with a very devil in his eye, in a few
moments, by some mysterious power, calmed down, rendered docile,
patiently submissive, and allowing every liberty to be taken with him —
in a word, the evil spirit which had possessed the animal, completely
exorcised — you can hardly credit, although the marvelous transforma-
tion takes place under your naked eye. A knowledge of Mr. Magner's
theory of subduing the horse must be invaluable to all owners of the
animal. The horse has been the gentleman's special study. He has
made himself acquainted with all his characteristics. He has but to
look upon the animal to discover his faults, and straightAvay, by a
miracle, as it were, he corrects them. It seems almost too much to
believe, and people will not believe it until they see for themselves
proof of the gentleman's success.

I WOULD MOST RESPECTFULLY REMIND, that whatever my
success a few years ago, I have since then introduced new
principles, and made improvements which enable me to
produce results now in the education and reformation of
horses, in many instances in a few minutes, which it would
have been most difficult, if not wholly impossible for me to
have done a year or two ago, the proper application of
which will enable results in the reformation of vicious hor-
ses, that is even now wonderful and almost beyond belief.
I have, during the past summer and fall, taken horses in
hand, in Ohio and Michigan, that had resisted all efforts of
the best horsemen, who practiced the treatment of all oth-
ers who have traveled in the business, as well as that I used

16 NEW SYSTEM OF EDUCATING HORSES.

years ago, and in every case controlled and drove them
easily and safely in less than an hour. I have now a
conception of this great and important science, which long
experience and careful study only will enable, the value of
which I prove by the successful results exhibited, and the
high appreciation of my instructions by all giving me
attention.

I have devoted the best part of my life exclusively to the
development of this science, besides expending a large
amount of money in the study of veterinary practice, under
one of the ablest Veterinary Surgeons in America, Dr.
Wm. Somerville, of Buffalo, N. Y., whose certificate will be
found below ; thus insuring the undisputed reliability of
my efforts and of making my work of great practical value
for reference.

From Dr. "Wm. Somerville, Proprietor of the Buffalo, N. Y.,
Horse Infirmary.

"This is to certify, that D. Magner, Esq., served un-
der me nearly two years, during 1868 and 1869, as an
apprentice to learn and be instructed in the Veterinary
Profession. I consider him well qualified to treat success-
fully all Diseases in Horses, and able to practice as a skill-
ful and competent Veterinary Surgeon.

WM. SOMERVILLE,

Vet. Surgeon, Member of two Veterinary
Colleges, and of 2i^ years practice,
Buffalo Horse Infirmary,
127 Erie St., Aug. i, 1869."

No one desires more earnestly than I do, the success
and encouragement of any one who may prove, even to a
limited degree competent to teach reform in the treatment
and care of horses. There is need enough of wholesome
practical effort in this direction, and after the prolonged
and arduous struggle which I have maintained during the
best part of my life, in this trying field of professional enter-
prise, I feel more like retiring to the quietness and pleasure
of private life than continuing in it longer. Hence I am
above any feelings of envy. I have felt compelled, in
this edition of my book, to make these explanations, but

NOTICES OF THE PRESS AND PEOPLE, 17

more for the satisfaction of those who have and may give
me attention, than for the gratification of my feeliigs.

The few following notices from a large number of a
recent date, will show the appreciation of my system of
treatment by the most critical horsemen in the country.
From people too, who have given attention to all those who
have traveled in the business, from Mr. Rarey, down to
the present time, showing the great appreciation of my ef-
forts over that of all others, proving that my principles
of treatment are most effective and practical yet brought
into use.

From the Michigan Horse Breeders' Association of Jackson,
Mich., May 6, 1871.

We, the undersigned officers and members of the Michigan Horse
Breeders' Association, and citizens of Jackson, have attended Prof.
Magner's lectures on the education of horses while in this city, and
endorse him to the people of the State as a reformer of great merit.

His treatment reduces the education of horses to a definite and fixed
science, ensuring not only the most humane, but the most wonderful
results in the control of wild and vicious horses. We have witnessed
the effect of his treatment in the control of a large number of vicious
horses, and have no hesitation in saying his system is the best in the
world.

S. S. VAUGHN, President.

J. A. ROBINSON, Secretary.

GEO. SHERWOOD, Treasurer.

DAN. B. HIBBERD,

C. C. TURNER.

Endorsed by the following eminent citizens of Jackson.

A.' j"^'pA?rrL?NE, } P^"oP"^t0rs of Hibbard House.
M. KNAPP, Livery and Horse Dealer.

B. J. JOHNSON, Member of City Council.
CHAS. MESEROLL, City Marshal.

W. L. SEATON, Postmaster and Member of City Council.
ROBT. KNOWLES, County Clerk.
JESSE HURD. Proprietor of Track.
JOHN GOODYEAR, Livery and Sale Stable.

C. C. POND, Broker, and 50 others.

From the Jackson, MiCh., Patriot.

Prof. Magner gave his last exhibition and lecture in this city on
Saturday afternoon last, and as usual, a large number were in attendance

2

18 NEW SYSTEM OF EDUCATING HORSES.

at the opening exhibition, and at least two hundred members of his
class were present to listen to the closing lecture, and witness some of
his wonderful feats of subduing and managing horses. At the close of
the lecture, one of the members of the class offered the following reso-
lution, which was received with applause, and adopted without a
dissenting voice :

Resolved, That we, the members of Prof. Magner's class, hereby ex
press to him our high appreciation of his instructions in his system for
the reform and elevation of horses, which, in our estimation, is incom-
parably superior to any system ever brought before the public. By this
system, the management of the horse is reduced to a definite and exact
science, and we desire most heartily to commend Prof Magner to the
confidence of the public, and to express to him personally our thanks
for his patience, his thoroughness, and his gentlemanly bearing, while
engaged in his profession in this city.

From the Adrian Weekly Times, April 13, 1871.

During the present week. Prof Magner, the celebrated horse tamer
and educator, has conducted his classes in this city. He has created a
genuine furore among all interested in horses in this city, and his
reputation has extended to a circuit of country, and persons have
attended his classes from over twenty miles distant. He has succeeded
in subduing and rendering perfectly tractable some horses who have
resisted all previous efforts of horse-breakers and others to reduce them
to submission, and his wonderful power over horses excites the most
astonishment from those best posted in equine care and treatment, and
the exhibitions of the trained stud of horses which he owns and carries
with him, are superior in interest to the choicest features of the best
circus traveling. In every place he has been, the professor has received
the most emphatic and cordial endorsements.

From the Toledo Blade.

As a practitioner and teacher of the science and art of training
horses, the professor is without a rival, and has won the confidence
and admiration of the public wherever he has been. No one can
understand the seemingly magical power which this man seems to pos-
sess over the horse kingdom, until he witnesses one of his exhibitions,
and we are free to say that a knowledge of Mr. Magner's theory of
training horses will be invaluable to every owner of the animal.
Wherever he goes, his lectures should be heard and his experiments
seen. While in Toledo he had for his classes many of our best citi-
zens, and all feel not only fully satisfied, but endorsed him, as will be
seen, in the strongest manner.

Happening into the tent one day, we saw the Professor training a
noble, but desperately stubborn horse, owned by Mr. R. Mott. After
operating with the animal but a brief time, his very nature seemed

NOTICES OF THE PRESS AND PEOPLE. 19

changed, and on being driven by his master, was kind and obedient as
the best of horses.

The readers of the Blade can rely upon the fact that the Professor is
an upright, honorable gentleman, possessing all the wonderful skill he
claims.

From the Toledo Commercial.

Monday, the last lesson of Prof. Magner to his class in Toledo, was
given. His success here has been unprecedented, and his teachings
unparalleled in their line. What the members of the class have learned
could not be bought of them for ten times the sum paid by them for the
instruction. He goes to Adrian, Michigan, from here, and we bespeak
for him there a hearty welcome and the usual success attending his
efforts. The professor is a man of his word, professing no more than
he performs, and doing good wherever he goes. In his teachings he
not only learns his scholars, but benefits the horses, by introducing a
more humane and gentle course of treatment, and therefore merits the
name of benefactor to the brute race, or a niche beside the renowned
Bergh. We congratulate the Adrianites on their acquisition.

From the Cleveland Leader, Feb., 1870.

After the exhibition, the regular lesson and illustrations began by a
lecture of about twenty minutes duration, wherein the professor
explained the cause, symptoms and cure of many of the diseases to
which the horse is peculiarly liable, and set forth the matter in so clear,
forcible and simple a manner as to disarm any prejudice or want of
confidence in the man, if any such prejudices had been previously
formed. But the great sensation of the evening was yet to come, for
which all were anxious, as many present knew the vicious nature of the
beast to be subdued — in fact there were one or two present who had
had good cause to ever remember the great runaway and kicker known
as the " Malone Horse." He is a gray gelding, perhaps sixteen hands
high, of great beauty and strength, and a will and determination rarely
found in the purely American breed of horses. The horse was brought
into the enclosure, and caused general comment by his magnificent
style and grace of movement. His owner was present, and after look-
ing at the animal for a few moments, and dreading to see him pass into
other hands to manage, hesitated at the last moment to give his consent
to the application of the system. Mr. Magner, determined to have a
subject for his class, asked the price of the horse, which was announced
to be $500. " I'll take him," said the professor, and at once handed
over the amount. This movement on the part of Mr. Magner was un-
expected, as most "horsemen" who have visited us generally preferred
to "work up" other people's horses, rather than their own. But Mr,
Magner knew the value of the animal before him, and knew the value
of his system, and was further aware that ^1,000 was ready for tht
horse the moment that he could be driven safely before a trotting
wagon.

20 NEW SYSTEM OF EDUCATING HORSES.

At this stage of the proceedings the excitement was intense, and
many speculations were indulged in as to who would prove the victor,
the man or the horse. In less than twenty minutes from the time that
Professor Magner laid his hands upon his subject, the horse was as gen-
tle as a lamb, and as easily controlled as the most reliable family horse.
Among other efforts to prove that the gray gelding was completely
broken, the professor, without reins in hand, mounted the wagon, and
catching the animal by the tail drove him around the ring at a fearful
pace, drawing the wagon upon the heels of the horse in such a way as
to strike them with a force that could be heard at the farthest end of the
room. The class was astonished, declaring that they had already
received more than the value in useful knowledge of the price of their
admission.

From the Cleveland Herald of Feb. 26, 1870.

Professor Magner last night gave an exhibition at his hippotheatvon,
which was in every respect a success. A success in giving complete
satisfaction to the large audience attracted, and in realizing a good sum
for the Dorcas Society, a benevolent institution for the benefit of which
the entertainment was given. This is the second donation the profes-
sor has made to charitable institutions of our city. When he leaves us
his visit will not only be remembered on account of the skillful
methods of training horses, which he has imparted to a large class of
students, but also for deeds of charity done in our midst, which will
make his name ever associated with pleasant recollections.

At the close of the last lecture of his course in Cleveland, the
following resolution was moved by Hon, Silas Merchant, (President of
City Council,) Avhich was carried by acclamation of the entire class :

Resolved, That we, as members of Prof. Magner's class in this city,
deem it but a just recognition of his skill and success in teaching us his
system of educating horses, which we regard as the best ever shown us;
and for his gentlemanly demeanor, that we are fully satisfied with his
instructions, hereby endorse him and his system of educating and treat-
ing horses, to our friends and the public.

The following well known gentlemen and citizens of Cleveland,
endorse Prof. Magner and his system, and can be referred to:
J. P. ROSS, Proprietor of American House.
H. NOTTINGHAM, Esq.
W. W. CRAWFORD, 51 Euclid Avenue.
GEN. J. W. FITCH, Kennard House.
J. D. KEEGAN, Druggist, 3 Euclid Avenue.
R. P. WATERBURY, Akron Stove Co.
H. W. LUETKEMEYER, 150 Superior street.
J. SCHRIBER, Tobaaionist, 113 Water street.
GEO. E. ARMSTRONG, of Alcott & Horton, Wholesale Dry Goods,

149 Water street.
E. N. KEYES, Real Estate Agent, 1 Rouse's Block.

• NOTICES OF THE PRESS AND PEOPLE. 21

SILAS MERCHANT, Iron Founder, River street.

L. B. FRENCH, of French & Keith, Wholesale Dry Goods, Water st.

S. S. COE, Secretary of Cleveland Insurance Co., corner Water and

Superior streets.
W. P. HORTON, of Alcott & Horton, Wholesale Dry Goods, Water st.
A. S. ROBBINS, Wholesale dealer in Photographic Stock, corner Su

perior and Seneca streets.
GEO. H. BURRITT, Collector of Customs, Custom House.

E. THOMPSON, Wholesale Grocer, Bank street.

JAS. BENNETT, Liveiv and Boarding Stable, Champlain street.

W. D. GUSHING, Agt.'Erie R. R., 131 Superior street.

WM. EDWARDS, Wholesale Grocer, Water street.

AMOS TOWNSEND, Wholesale Grocer and President of City Council,

City Hall.
H. COLLINS, Proprietor of Weddell House.
H. HURD, Wholesale Grocer, Water street.
GEN. D. T. CASEMENT.
O. STONE, Esq., Scovill Avenue.

F. W. BELL, Wholesale Lumber Merchant.

C. W. COE, Proprietor of Cleveland Mills, 268 Scovill Avenue.

T. ELWOOD, Livery Stable, St. Clair street.

H. P. WEDDELL, Esq. , Banker, Bank street, and 500 others.

Buffalo Commercial Advertiser.

Horse that Kii.led One Man and Injured Several Others. —
We yesterday afternoon visited the amphitheatre of Prof. Magner, the
noted horse tamer, on Carroll street. We found there a large number
of our most prominent citizens and horse owners, and all manifested the
greatest interest in the doings of the professor. By way of blending
amusement with instruction. Prof. Magner exhibits before his class and
visitors, his educated horses and ponies, who seem to possess a degree
of intelligence absolutely marvelous.

After the exhibition of these animals, interpersed with remarks of an
instructive character from the professor, a horse belonging to the Omni-
bus Company — a most vicious brute, with a disagreealjle habit of biting,
and striking with his fore feet; from which those in charge have not
been able to remove the collar or bridle for over three months — was
brought for treatment. We understand, by the way, that this horse (a
large and powerful bay) once killed a man, by biting and trampling
him under foot, and recently bit the hand almost off the person having
him in charge. In twenty minutes, in the presence of between two and
three hundred persons, Prof. Magner reduced this brute to perfect sub-
jection, so that the groom and himself harnessed and unharnessed him,
put their hands in his mouth, and handled him in every shape with
perfect impunity, the formerly furious beast being as docile as a kitten.
It was a wonderful exhibition, as we can bear testimony.

We can have no hesitation in recommending Prof. Magner and his
mode of treatment to all interested in horses, as one who can and does
perform all that he pi-omises.

22 NEW SYSTEM OF EDUCATING HORSES.

The above horse is now gentle, as shown by the following letter :

Buffalo, Dec. 21, 1869.
Prof. Magner :

Dear Sir: — I consider myself in duty bound to drop you a few lines
respecting our once vicious horse, " Man Eater," as we called him. I
have often s,iid what a good thing it was we did not shoot him. He
was taken out of the stable twice for that purpose, when I, on both oc-
casions, interceded in his behalf. He is now one of our best horses, as
docile as a lamb, and the drivers all like him. We work him double
and single, as required. All this was caused from your few minutes
tuition. Vou are aware of his past history. For weeks previous to
making your acquaintance we could not get a man to harness him, and
two of our drivers were disabled by him. When you visit the city,
please give us a call.

Believe me, yours very truly,

M. FORDE, Agent,
Buffalo Omnibus Company.

At the close of Prof. Magner's lesson on Thursday last, all present,
(nearly fifty,) among whom were the following well known gentlemen :

RICHARD BULLYMORE, Esq.,

C. L. WHITING, Esq.,

Z. BONNEY, Proprietor of Bonney's Hotel.

H. COURTER, Courter House,

W. C. SHERWOOD, Esq.,

E. UPSON, Carriage Manufacturer.
DR. GEORGE S. EVARTS,

J. O. ROBSON, Esq.,

it was unanimously resolved, that " we commend Prof. Magner to our
friends as a reformer of more than ordinary usefulness; that his theory
of governing and educating horses is the most practical, humane and
valuable in its results we have ever witnessed; can be learned and
practiced by any one of ordinary intelligence. He tamed a wild mare
in our presence in ten minutes, and, among other feats, he made her
sit down twice and lie down four times in a minute without touching
her."

In his class on Monday, August 9th, comprising nearly one hundred,
among whom were the following well-known citizens :

GEORGE W. TIFFT, Esq.,
JUDGE MASTEN,
MAJOR DICKEY,
C. J. HAMLIN, Esq.,

F. W.TRACY, Esq.,

It was resolved by acclamation, that " we fully endorse Prof. Magner
and his system, and believe every one owning or interested in horses

NOTICES OF THE PRESS AND PEOPLE. 23

will find it to their advantage to learn liis system of treatment. In our
presence he put a halter on the most vicious horse in the city without
touching him, and, by its use and that of a whip, made the horse lie
down and get up three times, then stood off ten feet, and, with his
hands in his pockets, laid the same horse down ten times in a minute.
In les.; than twenty minutes from the time he commenced his treatment
with his hoj^e, he took off and put on repeatedly the collar and bridle,
without exciting resistance or any indication of viciousness from the
horse. The same was done by the driver, to do which before would
have been at the hazard of his life.

PRELIMINARY HINTS-CONDITIONS OF
SUCCESS, ETC.

If horses could be guided and controlled in their educa-
tion by the use of a bit and reins, it would not be necessary
to resort to any other treatment.

But as this cannot be done excepting in the training of
those of the mildest and most docile disposition, it be-
comes essential to success to know what to do to insure the
perfect docility and obedience of any and all horses of any
extremes of viciousness, in harness or not.

We see, too, that horses of energy and pluck are often
easily spoiled by the most trifling causes exciting their fear
and resistance, and that unless subjected to proper treat-
ment, they are liable to become unpleasant, dangerous or
worthless thereafter, for use.

Overcoming all those possible difficulties with ease and
certainty implies a knoAvledge of those conditions and prin-
ciples of education and subjection by which the horse can
be easily taught and guided into perfect docility and obedi-
ence at will.

This, it is seen, by the principles taught, and herein
explained, can be easily done, and it is for the purpose of
directing special attention to some of the more important
conditions influencing the application of my treatment that
I am induced to write. out such preliminary hints, forming
this chapter, as my experience suggests, the careful perusal
of which I would urge.

The Horse by nature is averse to the control of man, and
as he cannot know the various ways it is intended he is t«
serve the wants of man, he must be taught, and to success
fully teach him implies making him passive to contro.
without exposing him to injury or abuse, requiring —

First, That the nervous system is not so disturbed and
perverted by fear and excitement as to rouse the fears and
vicious part of the nature into controlling action.

EXCESSIVE FEAR MUST BE PREVENTED. ' '2.5

Second. That there is a clear understanding of such
principles of addressing the reason as will convey to it
most clearly the idea of what is required to be done.

Third. That there is a knowledge of such principles of
subjection as will enable guiding and controlling the ani-
mal in such ways and to such extremes as may be desired
in his education.

In a word, the superior strength of the horse must be
fully and unconditionally held or made passive to control,
any excessiveness of the fears and passions prevented, while
the reason is addressed and won to a perfect understand
ing of what is required to be done. Experience proves
that horses resist control to the degree they learn it possible
to do so.

EXCESSIVE FEAR MUST BE PREVENTED.

That excessive fear, even, of a few moments' time, from
any cause, may so derange and excite the mind as to spoil
and pervert the character for life. That the excitement of
the passions only stimulates resistance and confuses the un-
derstanding. That almost any horse can be taught and
made to do anything of which he is capable, if properly
shown and treated kindly and patiently. On the contrary,
if excited and abused, his whole nature is stimulated to
resistance. Hence, if we would not excite resistance or
excessive fear, of objects or other causes, we must bring
them to notice in such a manner as to both prevent excit-
ing the fears and convince the horse of their harmless
character until fully reconciled to their presence.

Fourth. The inability of the horse to understand articu-
lated language, implies the necessity of conveying to the
mind clearly the idea of what is required to be done.

Fifth. That the great strength of the horse is so neutral-
ized znd controlled at will, as to make prompt submission
to man a necessity.

Now while my principles as I have illustrated and proved
will enable avoiding all those supposed great difficulties in
training and handling horses, and cause results that in
many instances appear wonderful, it must be evident they
are, as well as all other principles, only rules, by the use of
which certain results are to be secured, and their chief
value in practice must depend upon the judgment used in

26 FIRST IMPRESSIONS ARE STRONGEST.

applying them. But if as I have shown, and as the ordi-
nary observation of daily experience clearly proves, fear is
excited and the will aroused in securing obedience, the
resistance of the animal is stimulated, the legitimate
authority and control of the trainer or driver weakened or
neutralized, and the necessity for force greatly increased,
to a degree very often that wholly spoils the animal.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS ARE STRONGEST.

The first impressions made upon the mind or nervou.5
system of the colt, are the strongest and most lasting, rs.
colt or horse of even a good disposition, it is seen, may be
made a reckless, foolish, kicking maniac, by being greatly
frightened, from some cause in itself, perhaps trifling, but
forced to notice in such a way as to excite and derange the
nervous system. And when it is seen that even the life of
a sensitive horse may be destroyed by being gi eatly fright-
ened, we can see to what a degree the nervous system can
be deranged at times by causes which, if the animal were
subjected to the precautionary treatment shown, would
excite no fear, and hence no resistance, thereby preventing
as well as overcoming easily, what would appear to be an
almost insurmountable difficulty.

Equine nature is so constituted that it will submit pas-
sively to conditions of resistance or restraint, it cannot suc-
cessfully resist or overcome, or by producmg such impres-
sions upon the mind as will prevent an inclination to resist.

This is the law of natural government or supremacy to
which all the lower animals yield, the smaller and weaker
submitting to the stronger, and indeed, this is the funda-
mental basis of successful human government. Hence, the
reborts of military power or studied scientific application of
destructive force as shown in war and its penalties, and
hence the effort to attain a knowledge of more destructive
means to repel or overcome resistance.

HORSES SHOULD BE EDUCATED— NOT BROKEN.

But we see, as in the successful education of the horse,
this principle must be so modified, that he will not be inju-
red or abused, not even excited to any extreme, as this

HORSES SHOULD BE EDUCATED NOT BROKEN. 27

would neutralize and destroy the very object of our efforts
to make a strong, gentle, submissive servant to our wants,
which is our real object to attain.

But the common plan of doing this by attempting to hold
and force a horse m harness, and whipping if there is re-
sistance, is from the nature of things, inadequate, defective
and cruel, since there is not necessary physical power to do
this with any degree of certainty, and the aggravation of
the whip, in conjunction with the natural fear of the
animal, stimulates resistance, and thus without adequate
precaution or power, the difficulty to be overcome is so
greatly increased as to cause failure and trouble, the cause
of which is usually attributed to a bad disposition. But if
the animal is first made passive to restraint by proper treat-
ment, control becomes simple and easy, since the mind can
now be easily won and guided without fear or resistance
into such habits as may be desired without exciting resist-
ance or subjecting the animal to injury.

Now this is exactly what my system enables doing, de-
veloping to a practical basis those principles of necessary
power, while there is a clear understanding of what is re-
quired to be done impressed upon the mind, which is at the
same time aided and encouraged by the most powerful
appeals to the better part of the nature, until prompt will-
ing obedience is secured and fully established. This has
been the object of Schristian, Offutt, Rarey, and others,
to accomplish, but in vain, as shown by the simple method
of throwing shown by all those including Rarey, by redu-
cing vitality, as shown by South Americans, the Indians on
our western plains, and the Chilians. Of course, very
remarkable and satisfactory results were and can be often
shown by these methods of subjection, but from necessity,
coming far short of those essential points aimed at, and so
necessary to that perfect success, which we are able to do
by my treatment, which enable results in many cases in
less than an hour, entirely impossible to accomplish by such
or any other treatment heretofore in use.

SUBJECTION— OLD METHODS OF.

The rudest and most injurious methods of subduing hor-
ses are those which tend directly to lower the strength or

28 SUBJECTION — OIX) METHODS OF.

destroy life. Hence the different methods of taming or
breaking horses in general use from time immemorial. The
first account we have of any horse being subdued was that
of Bucephalus, in the time of Alexander the Great, about
300 years before Christ. A subject, we are told, presented
this horse to the Emperor as a gift, but he (the horse) show-
ing a very vicious disposition, Alexander ordered him to be
taken away, when young Alexander stated what a pity to
lose so fine an animal for the want of a little address,
adroitly mounted him and rode him off at the top of his
speed. The greatest alarm was manifested for the safety of
the Prince, and the joy of all was great when he returned,
the horse perfectly gentle, and he safe. This horse became
famous for his wonderful sagacity. We are told that when
he died he was buried with honors, and a city was given
his name. The same principle of subjection, with slight
variations, is still practiced on the pampas of South Amer- .
ica, and on our western plains. They catch the horse with
a lasso, throw him to the ground, saddle and bridle him,
and ride him with whip and spur, until completely ex-
hausted and perfectly submissive. South Americans square
off the ends of the hair of the tail, after the horse submits,
to indicate that he is broken and again turn him loose.
The same principle is in use among the Indians on our
western plains, and with equal success. The Chilians tie a
refractory horse in the stable and whip him until he lies
down or falls down, usually requiring about forty-eight
hours. He is then tried, and if refractory the process is
( ontinued until he becomes gentle.

Bleeding, physicking, want of sleep, starving, want of
water, intense pain, choking, &c., &c., will enable this
end; but, as will be seen, this treatment is not only dan-
gerous but injurious, often breaking down the animal to
such a degree as to become comparatively worthless, or
made so treacherous as to require being broken over again
almost every time used. There is a belief among many,
even of intelligence, that a certain peculiar something in
the way of medicine, will make a horse gentle, following a
man anywhere. Catlin, an Indian traveler, states with
gravity, in his account of Indian customs, &c., that after
an Indian breathes into the nostrils of a horse, he becomes
his slave, following him' like a dog, &c. I have handled

KINDNESS — ITS IMPORTANCE. - 29

all sorts of horses, and have shown results in the way of
successful control of mustangs, mules and vicious horses,
which I defy the ability in any one to produce by any such
treatment. My experience tells me that breathing into
the nostrils or giving any medicine of which we have any
knowledge, will fail to make the mind of a wild or vicious
horse passive to control, to any marked degree. The oslets
which grow upon the inside of horses' legs, ground and
blown into the nostrils in connection with oil of Cumin,
Rhodium, Anise, either or all, constitute this great secret ;
but as good an effect can be produced by giving apples,
sugar and salt in equal proportions, oats, or in fact anything
of which the horse is fond. This is however only in part
an illustration of the value of some of our most essential
treatment in the successful management of certain peculiari-
ties of disposition.

KINDNESS— ITS IMPORTANCE.

I will call more special attention in another part of this
chapter, to the importance of kindness as an essential to
true success in making horses of a natuially wild and ner-
vous disposition safe and gentle. We see that a horse of a
sensitive, plucky nature, may be excited and roused into
the most determined resistance or viciousness by a little
exciting abusive treatment. That the more the bad part of
the nature is excited, the more determined and reckless the
resistance. Excitement heats the blood, blunts the under-
standing and stimulates the passions, and as a consequence,
increased nervousness and resistance is the result.
^ Under such circumstances a horse will go beyond his
natural strength in resistance. Hence, the mustang, or
other horse, broken by exciting, exhausting force, such as
running, extreme whipping, &c., is not only liable to be
seriously injured constitutionally, but soured in temper.
Good illustrations of this are shown in high strung mares
and horses, which may be whipped severely for kicking.
Though perhaps weak and broken down from abuse, they
will squeal and kick with the true recklessness of malignant
hate. The very expression of the eyes shows kick. So with
the balker ; the whole nature is intensified in rebellion.
But how different if the better part of the nature is won by

30 PECULIARITIES AND EXTREMES OF DISPOSITION.

kindness. The expression is softened, there is a natural
wilhngness excited to do whatever is properly and carefully
shown; but if in addition to this the mind can be held and
controlled at M^ill, thus lessening the confidence and pow-
ers of resistance, obedience can be secured and won with a
quickness and ease that is surprising.

This is the true principle, as I have shown, as it enables
addressing and winning the full cooperation of the under-
standing and better nature, without exciting resistance, or
to so limited a degree as to be easily overcome, and really
implies teaching the horse m a reasonable practicable man-
ner in accordance with the laws of his nature.

PECULIARITIES AND EXTREMES OF DISPOSITION.

The extremes of intelligence, temper, size and texture of
body demands attention, when attempting to train or sub-
due a horse. And here this apparently threadbare subject
reveals an apparently new and most interesting field for the
careful student.

We are told in Genesis, that after all the lower animals
were created they were brought before Adam to receive their
names; and whatsoever he called any animal, whether beast,
bird, fish or reptile, that was the name thereof. In a word,
all representing the different stratas or modifications and
extremes of his own higher or lower nature. Hence, in
understanding his own nature, he could readily comprehend
that of theirs. There are not only classes but modifications
in each family, each representing some type or modification
of others becoming clearer to the observation in the do-
mestic animals. For though each family, in a general
sense, preserves its own peculiarity of identity in size, color,
disposition, &c., yet no two of any family are exactly alike,
each showing some peculiar phase of distinction. Hence,
one ox, cow, dog, or other animal, is seen to be more
vicious, wild, or difficult to manage than others of the
same family, and vice versa. The horse shows these peculi-
arities of extreme sometimes to a most marked degree.
Hence we see there are horses so docile, fearless and man-
ageable that they can hardly be made to do anything mean,
submitting to being handled or driven in harness from the
start without trouble, while others are so flighty, foolish or

PECULIARITIES AND EXTREMES OF DISPOSITION.

3]

vicious as to be scarcely manageable by the most skillful
prudence and effort.

Now if you will, look closely, for example, at the head
and eyes of any horse showing a marked trait, you will
find, confining your observation to even the eye alone, a
corresponding peculiarity of it to that of the animal the
horse most similates in character or disposition. To illus-
trate — a large brown eye
rather flat set well out in
the head, eyelids thin, ex-
pression mild, but sensitive,
which is peculiar only to
the naturally gentle horse,
you have the counterpart of
the sheep or gazelle, the
most innocent and gentle
of all the domestic animals.
The same is noticeable in
the dog of mild, gentle
character, as well as other
animals. A small, round,
clear eye, set well into the
liead, or eyelids heavy, ex-
pression stolid or learish,
you have indicated a sulky,
unreliable, mulish or bull-dog disposition. Notice the
head of such. You will usually find it rather narrow
between the eyes, long from eyes to ears, ears inclining
to lop back, head rather low between the ears, and nose
rounding. Rouse this temper and the sulky unrelent-
ing pluck of the bull-dog, hog or bear is shown, which they
most similate in form and expression. The first, though
greatly excited, remains plastic, yielding readily to control,
hardly resisting the most severe abuse by attempting to do
more than try to get away. Whereas the second becomes
so stubborn, as the Wood becomes warmed, as to stand sto-
lidly in defiance of the most severe whipping, or plunges
Tnadly forward, regardless of consequences. As kickers or
' -alkers they will contest every point stubbornly if warmed
up and excited, though submitting readily to restraint if the
blood is permitted to become cool, and the better part of
the nature is appealed to.

Naturally Intelligent and Gentle.

S2

PECULIARITIES AND EXTREMES OF DISPOSITION.

Dull and Treacherous.

When the eye is

large, et^en, full, but

clear or dark in color,

restless and sensitive

in action, a flighty

unreliable character

will be exhibited — Is

a free driver if a bright

bay or sorrel, liable to

pull hard on the bit

as the blood becomes

warmed by exercise

and excitement.
If the eye is good,

round and clear, scin-
tillating as if it were

fire, the eyelids drawn

down, or the eyes partly closed, a kind of listless expression

of the head, you have the unusual but possible temper of

the tiger or feline character, the temper of which if you

rouse and excite,
above all others, will
be the one which
will almost set at
defiance your most
persevering efforts.
You can throw him
a hundred times, he
will lie down easily
but jump up prompt-
ly ; he will barely
yield to the next
principle of subjec-
tion, which is by far
the most simple and
powerful, but in de-
fiance of all you can

do, when a little rested, he will perhaps kick or run

away as recklessly and determined as ever, all the whipping

and pounding your temper, if aroused, may cause you to

inflict will do no good, and only make the matter worse.
I would here say that as soon as you discover this dispo-

Sensitive and Flighty.

PECULIARITIES AND EXTREMES OF DISPOSITION. 33

sition, stop exciting coercive treatment, subject at once to
passive treatment. As soon as there is submission, work
slowly and quietly, and the difficulty you were by the pre-
vious treatment only intensifying, you will soon find to
disappear, and the animal become perfectly gentle, but
must not be whipped. [See cuts of illustrating natural
extremes of disposition.]

Note. — I have had many illustrations of the wonderful resistaHce
that may be excited in horses of this disposition by treatment that will
heat the blood and rouse the temper, and showing the value of treatment
that is wholly passive in their management. A few of the most marked
cases I will refer to in tliis connection : An eight-year-old bay pony, by bad
treatment made to kick, resisted all efforts to break, and was an incor-
rigible reckless kicker; was entirely passive, but if touched around the
flanks or hind parts, would squeal and kick most desperately. As a
means of illustration, subjected to first and second methods of subjec-
tion. Quickly throwing would do no good, and as predicted, only
roused resistance. She yielded readily to the second method, submit-
ting to being touched around with a pole in any manner, and I pro-
ceeded at once to carry out control by restraint upon the mouth, and
drove her successfully, preventing her kicking. But as soon as she got
over the surprise and effect of this treatment, she resented all effort to
control i:er, kicking in the most desperate manner. I knew that while
irritated and excited she would resist all effort to subdue, and bought
her to make a satisfactory experiment. I subjected her the next day,
privately, to the same treatment in the most careful and thorough man-
ner, but all to no purpose. She proved incorrigible, the most despe-
rate animal I ever saw.

I worked this mare with great care and thoroughness, as a matter of
trial, but all to no purpose. Never before did I see such reckless de-
termined resistance. I carried coercive treatment to its utmost limit,
and for the first time in all my experience, found a horse -that by sheer
pluck would resist it ; yet yielded readily to the milder and more flat-
tering course, which though working slow, made a radical reformation.
The whole aspect of her nature became changed as the blood became
cool, and ulitmately proved one of the most docile, manageable ponies
in the country.

Seconjl> Case. — A four-year-old colt, a natural kicker ; would kick
any body or any thing. Had resisted all efforts to break her, and was
worthless ; was brought twenty miles for me to handle ; would kick
and balk, and was one of the worst I ever saw — an interesting case. —
She resisted the usual regular treatment, resisting all effort, compelling
finally, a resort to the slower and less exciting course, and as she be-
came cool grew out of all resistance, becoming a safe and gentle mare.

Both of these cases resisted so determinedly in illustrating my regu-
lar treatment, that I purchased them to enable me to handle them in
private, with the results above stated. Have had many cases of this
temperament that were regarded as invincible, having resisted all

a

34 PECULIARITIES AND EXTREMES OF DISPOSITION.

The milder and more sensitive, the less abuse and excite-
ment will be borne. The more stubborn and combative
nature, the more force, and even abuse will be borne, but
mingled with the wild character, force that will heat the
blood, will excite resistance. Hence, a mild, sensitive dog
or horse can be managed best by gentle flattering treat-
ment. The bull dog, mule or stubborn cart horse will take
the whip and care bnt little about it. But a little excite-
ment and punishment would only rouse to aggression the
bear or hog, and animals showing the intense courage and
pluck common to the more untamable nature will resist all
but the most intense means of pain. Hence we see that
gentleness and kindness is the course, and the only course
advisable with the horse, dog, or other sensitive animal.
Those of a more positive disposition call for both force and
encouragement, while the lion, tiger, elephant, &c., must
be made to feel the most intense means of pain. Hence,
those of the wild class, such as tigers, &c., are subdued by
burning and pounding with red hot rods. The elephant is
subjected by having spears stuck into his body, and hooks
stuck into the ears, &c. But it is seen the effect of care-
fully encouraging or kindly treating is, with rare exceptions,
very marked, and is only to be superseded when force be-
comes necessary.

As a rule, the larger and finer the brain is in texture, the
more docility and intelligence will be exhibited; and the
smaller the brain the less the intelligence, and the more
determined the resistance to control. In proportion as
there is predominance of the lower and more savage charac-
teristics of animal nature, there is more natural resistance
and difficulty to subdue, but proportionately more vitality
and powers of endurance may be anticipated. To the de-
gree that the animal intelligence and sensibility are in
excess of the coarse and stubborn traits, there will be propor-
tionately more tractableness and docility, though, perhaps,
the hardiness and vitality may be somewhat less. The sheep
and llama, for example, having but little of this coarse,
combative nature, will not bear abuse. We are told the

others, but in every instance have succeeded by the usual course of
disconcerting oi passive treatment. All these bad cases require the
most gentle and encouraging after treatment, to fully wear out of the
mind all impulse of resentment and enmity previously excited.

IMPORTANCE OF PREVENTING FEAR. 35-

llama, if overloaded, will lie down discouraged and die, not
resenting the cruelty in the least. The camel, of a less
sensitive nature, will toil patiently under the heaviest bur-
then, submitting meekly to almost any extreme of abuse;
while the ass, mule and mustang, having a larger share of
the combative disposition, are more obstinate and willful,
and are usually more difficult to subdue and manage, and
always call for more force in their subjection than is called
for in the control of those of a mild, sensitive disposition
More vitality and endurance may, however, be always an
ticipated in proportion to the predominance of the wild,
combative disposition. They are the horses, above all
others, that call for great skill in their early training es})e
cially, and any imprudence or abuse by which the fears and
passions are much excited, is almost sure to excite a pro-
portionate degree of resistance and trouble.

IMPORTANCE OF PREVENTING FEAR AND
RESISTANCE.

One of the essentials of true success is that of vigilance
in guarding against accidents or preventing resistance. A
little carelessness or imprudence under favorable circum-
stances is liable to precipitate a degree of resistance, or a
calamity it is often difficult if not impossible to prevent or
overcome after being excited. The dropping of a lighted
match carelessly in a heap of shavings, led to the burning
of the city of Portland, a few years ago. The burning of
a little straw in a cow stable, caused, it is supposed, by the
upsetting of a lamp, led to the burning of Chicago. Nearly
every great and lamentable accident involving great destruc-
tion of property and loss of life, is usually traceable to
some minor defect or carelessness.

That delicacy of judgment which detects danger and
takes measures to prevent accident, gives a great advantage
in attaining success, but when this is combined with skill
which enables overcoming the difficulty easily and effect-
ually, the most perfect success must result with anything
'ike ordinary effort.

36 HORSES SHOULD BE PROVED BEFORE USING.

HORSES SHOULD BE PJROVED BEFORE USING.

Hence, if a colt is wild or vicious, or learned to run
away and kick, making control hazardous and doubtful, it
is essential to true success to subject him to such necessary
treatment as will assure of his perfect docility and safety in
handling or driving under the most exciting and dangerous
circumstances, as it is then that perfect docility becomes
most valuable, and is as much a true necessity in guarding
against accident, as the making of steam boilers so strong
and testing them by such increased pressure as will insure
against the possibility of exploding under the pressure ne-
cessary in use. It is no excuse to claim that the horse got
suddenly frightened, kicked, and ran away, making control
impossible. Such a possibility should be guarded against
by subjecting the horse to treatment which will both pre-
vent and overcome such a possibility, which can be easily
done by the ordinary course of subjection. Hence, when
a horse is impulsive and dangerous, liable to kick or run
away, or is at all doubtful, he should not be driven until
subjected to this necessary precautionary treatment, and is
not to be hazarded until made thus safe. There is no more
necessity or sense in hazarding an accident by the use of
horses that are so unsafe that they will not submit to the
most ordinary causes of excitement, such, for example, as
being touched by the wagon or cross-piece of shafts, fear of
top umbrella, refusing to be obedient to the most ordinary
restraint and guidance of the bit when pulled upon, no
matter how excited, than there is in hazarding a boiler
known to be so weak as to give way under any greater pres-
sure than is barely necessary for ordinary use.

But in tracing back causes of unusual derangement, we
should look back, too, to those of a constitutional charac-
ter, inherited from the sire or sires by causes which excite
or derange the mind or nervous system, as the condition
of the mind at the time the sires were brought together,
must largely influence in forming the character of the colt.
Hence the stallion, though of a gentle character, if excited
and maddened at the time of so using, will almost with
certainty cause the colt to be naturally vicious. So in rela-
tion to the mare; if subjected to exciting, abusive treatment,
the disposition of the colt must be affected by it. Many

REMARKABLE ADAPTATION OF HORSES. 37

interesting statements of facts, proving the truth of these
assertions, have been made to me by farmers and breeders
at different times, after attending my lectures, to such
causes of possible derangement, and which it is essential to
guard against.

KEMARKABLE ADAPTATION OP HORSES FOR
DIFFERENT USES.

Marked extremes and modifications of size, disposition
and character, show fixed laws of adaptation. We see this
is not only true in the adaptation of different classes of
domestic animals for special uses, but even in those of the
same family. Thus

THE ESQUIMAUX

have not only a dog, but a dog of peculiar nature, exactly
adapted to their wants. No other domestic animal could
endure the intense cold of that region, or could live so far
North with man, and this dog must and does perform the
different duties of guard, assistant, hunter, fisherman, etc.,
and, in extremity, supplies, both by his body and his skin,
both food and raiment for his master.

THE LAPLANDERS

have the reindeer, which is also singularly adapted to their
wants, the most reliable and only beast of burthen capable
of enduring the rigors of so cold a latitude, supplying them
with milk, butter and cheese, their flesh making the best of
food, and their skiii the best o^ clothing.

THE PERUVIANS

have the llama, or alpaca, which is accustomed to climb the
mountains, carries heavy burthens over the Andes, and fur-
nishes them with milk for their children, wool for clothing,
but best of all, meat for food. The

INHABITANTS OF THE DESERT

have the camel, or dromedary, for crossing the arid, sandy
plains, carrying heavy burthens, and bearing within them-
selves a supply of water to last them for a week. They
have also the horse, lithe, active and enduring, capable of
traveling with great fleetness for days, on the most scanty
fare.

S8 NATURAL ADAPTATION REGARDED.

NATUKAL ADAPTATION KBGABDED,

This remarkable adaptation to climate and condition,
as seen not only in the animals named, to the wants of the
people among whom we find them, is also wonderfully
exemplified in the horse, showing great size, weight and
strength, mild, docile and patient disposition, exactly
idapted for the slow, slavish drudgery of the plow or cart.
His anatomical structure and coarse, heavy muscle show
him to be fitted for and adapted only for strong but slow
action. The fiery, quick, active horse, on the contrary, has
not only a form adapted for speed and great endurance; he
has a more oblique and thinner shoulder, longer arm and
hip, and more lung power. His whole structure is of a
finer, lighter and stronger character. He does not put on
fat easily, and is more sensitive, intelligent and active, simu-
lating the grey-hound in appearance and action, compared
to the heavy, slow Newfoundland dog of an entirely con-
trary conformation. From these extremes there is an endless
variety of modifications, showing not only marked traces
of distinction of family, for strength, activity, endurance
and action, but in disposition, ranging from the smallest
Shetlander to the large Norman or Flemish horses, in size,
intelligence, temper and density of texture from that of
the quick, fiery barb, to the slow, dull, sluggish cart horse.
Hence the necessity of selecting the larger, slower and more
patient character for slow, heavy, slavish work, and the
light, active, hardy, enduring character for great fleetness
and endurance, as, for example, shown in the use of light,
hardy, lithe, active horses used on the desert or plains of
our own country, for speed and endurance, and the large,
slow, Norman or Flemish horse for slow, heavy work. In
a word, anything of an ordinary discrimination should
designate the necessity of selecting horses for the work they
are by nature best adapted. Want of regard to this law is
the cause of not only much annoyance, but of great loss to
farmers and others.

This is not only true in the selection and use of light
boned, sensitive, delicate constitutioned horses for slow,
heavy work, or subjecting high-strung, nervous-tempered
ones for such a purpose, when slower, stronger and more
patient animals should be used. So, in relation to using

NOT BEING AFRAID OF HORSES. 39

slow, heavy horses for fast driving or riding, and so, also,
the greatest and most unpardonable want of judgment and
prudence is shown by gentlemen in the selection of horses
of the most unreliable character, for a purpose requiring the
greatest docility and perfection of character.

The most lamentable and common causes of accident and
loss, result from the want of exercising proper descrimina-
tion and judgment in the selection of horses more especially
adapted by nature for their use.

Thus, if a horse is not or cannot be made perfectly reli-
able for carriage or family use, or for any purpose involving
much danger to life and property, he should be discarded
or changed for one that is safe and reliable. But as these
naturally excitable, hardy, plucky horses are really the best
and most valuable horses when properly educated, the great
value of my treatment can be appreciated, as I conclusively
prove. I can even reform and make perfectly gentle the
wildest and most vicious horses that can be found ; and that
it must be the fault of the reader if he cannot be equally
successful. I see and handle horses almost daily, that are
used for carriage driving, so unreliable and dangerous in
character, that it would be true economy to shoot or give
them away, rather than hazard accident by their use.

NOT B£3ING AFKAID OF HORSES.

This is a common expression, and is most always
prompted by fool hardy ignorance. A wild mustang or
mule would strike or kick without regard to being firm and
courageous in manner or not. A determined horse that
has learned to kick and run away, can do so in defiance of
any control that can be exerted upon the mouth by the
strongest of men with reins. If there is danger of a horse
kicking or resisting control from excessive fear or other
cause of resistance, being recklessly venturesome, without
having taken adequate precautionary measures to prevent or
overcome such viciousness, is only incurring risk; it is the
part of true success to guard against or break up, before
taking any doubtful chances which can be easily done by
my treatment. It is assuming too much for any man to
attempt driving and controlling a wild, reckless, kicking,
runaway horse, by the control of reins and bit, as a strongs

40 NOT BEING AFRAID OF HOI^SES.

determined, runaway horse can run away in defiance of the
power of several men by pulling on reins with any bit
m use. I could refer, if necessary, to hundreds of horses
of so bad a character as to resist all control in double or
single harness, by any means that could be used, to two of
the worst cases of which I will refer to here, out of a large
number I have handled, even during the past season.

An eight year old bay horse, owned by Mr. Gates, a
livery keeper of Garrettsville, Ohio. This horse was raised
by Mr. Gates, had a right to trot fast, but in defiance of all
that he could do up to the time handled by me, he could
no be controlled in harness. The united strength of ten
men, the owner stated, could not hold him if in the least
excited or touched with a whip; yet in twenty minutes was
driven by me gently, and so thoroughly gentle and man-
ageable as to stand by word of command, regardless of any
excitement, even whipping, and has been driven in double
and single harness by Mr. Gates and others for nearly a
year, (Nov., 1871,) and drives safe and gentle. One of the
most remarkable however, was a six year old colt, owned by
J. P. Collins, Esq., proprietor of track in Toledo, Ohio.
This colt resisted all control in harness, pulling so recklessly
against the bit, that control was out of the question ; yet
was driven perfectly gentle by me in forty minutes, and
remains so. These horses could run away with any horse
hitched with them in double harness; it was considered as
impossible by any means to drive them in single or double
harness without running away ; yet the once handling to
which each was subjected by me, proved sufficient to make
them quiet in single or double harness.

I stand ready to handle and drive horses of the wildest
and most desperate character, and take such in hand almost
daily in illustrating my lectures, yet I never have an acci-
dent or get run away with. Now, although I do this as a
matter of business in the pursuit of which I take in hand
some of the most desperately reckless horses in the country,
I would not think of hitching up and driving a horse of
even ordinary bad character as is usually done, knowing
my control to be too doubtful and limited to do so safely.
This is the prudence I would urge upon you to exercise when
necessary, as it is one of the essential points of true suc-
cess as well as in guarding against and preventing accident

GREAT THOROUGHNESS NECESSARY. 41

Of course there are circumstances, and they are ahuost of
constant occurrence, that call for courage and firmness of
the highest order, to divert the attention, and hold a dis-
position to aggression in check. Horses of courage and
intelligence are sometimes wonderfully acute in their per-
ceptions, and the least expression of weakness or want of
confidence would encourage them to resistance if not
dangerous aggression. This is seen most clearly in
stallions.

The horse always reveals his intentions by the actions
of the ears and muzzle, and the expression of the eyes, as
plainly as could be done by words. If they are thrown
back, the lips curl, eye half closes and glisfening with an
expression of defiance, there is danger. In approaching
such a horse, the better way is to stand still just beyond
the reach of the animal, looking straight at the eye, show-
ing undoubted confidence and power in the actions and
expression of the features and language, authoritatively
commanding to get round or take care. The degree of
attention and submission to command, will enable deter-
mining with great certainty, how far it is safe to venture,
but under any circumstances is the eye, in such a^ case, to
be taken off that of the horse. The firmness and delicacy of
judgment often necessary in approaching and handling some
horses, must necessarily be of a high order to prevent resist-
ance, if not aggression and injury.

GREAT THOROUGHNESS NECESSARY.

An important requisition is being thorough in what is
attempted to be done, and never to feel that there cannot
be success. The worse the horse, the more careful and
thorough must be the efforts. Want of reasonable perse-
verance will, I imagine, be the principle cause of failure it
there is failure.

Fifteen out of every twenty men, who may attend my
lectures, would toil arduously and patiently for days and
even weeks for the pittance of a dollar or two a day, who
would scarcely submit to the patience and effort necessary
to break or reform a valuable horse, for example, of balking
or kicking, if it required a half day's continuous effort,
though the effort would enable increasing value of the ani-
mal from one-fourth to one-half.

42 GREAT THOROUGHNESS NECESSARY.

There are also many who are disposed to sneer and find
fault with the writer, should they fail to even a limited
degree in accomplishing those marked results illustrated,
and which have been shown to be so easily accomplished by
his treatment as to be beyond comparison with any other
treatment in simplicity and effectiveness.

The consideration of an hour or two's time and a few
dollars' cost, seems to be an equivalent that demands such
effectiveness in the treatment given, as to scarcely require
an effort to reform horses of the most vicious character.
Like the conceited, ignorant, laboring Irishman, who man-
aged by years of the most severe labor and rigid economy
to save enough to take him to America, had such a hallu-
cination impressed upon his mind of the ease and luxurious
plenty to be found in this great, free country, that after
landing in New York he would not deign to pick up a five
dollar gold piece which happened in his way in the street.
It was not worth stooping for. Be Gorra, he would go to
the whole heap which he imagined somewhere beyond, and
when he found it necessary to work at fourteen shillings a
day, which was just twelve times more than he ever received
for a day's labor in Ireland, he cursed the freedom and
sneered at the privation, suffering and loss by which this
grand, free country, with its illimitable resources, were won
and given for the use and benefit of the poor and industrious
of all nations, for little more than the cost of coming to it.
So many ignorant, conceited men who have not the expe-
rience, discrimination or judgment to appreciate and use
with becoming patience and effort, the knowledge which I
have made available to them for virtually almost nothing,
which has cost me the best part of my life to develope, at
a cost of labor, anxiety, danger and money, that with rea-
son would appal those of the most stern resolution, energy
and strength, and but few, indeed, who would have the
courage even to attempt, would succeed in passing through
without failing. The truth is, more or less failure and dif-
ficulty is necessary to become skilled and successful in the
performance of any important duty, and the same is, to
some extent, true in the application of my system. When
I tell the reader that the ability to write these pages, and
whatever of skill and success I have attained, has been
grown into me by the hard, stern attritioa of an unaided

MORAL BEARING. 43

floating life among strangers, almost continually subj^t to
those perverting influences which are its natural concomi
tants. And yet I am made only the more mindful by ex-
perience that I am wholly indebted to those necessities of
my condition, which seemed to call continually for the
exercise of my greatest energies, not so much to attain suc-
ces as to prevent and overcome the trials and failures to
which I was almost constantly liable. This is the lesson
which true success in any channel must teach, and in no
direction is it taught more forcibly than in the proper exer-
cise of this great and important duty.

Human nature is so constituted that it calls for great
trials to develope its great and profound resources. Every
difficulty, rightly considered, only stirs into still greater
action its latent powers. Every act of dissimulation and
dishonesty discovered leads to a closer perception of the
actions and intentions animating others under like circum-
stances, but they are rightly considered only the elements
necessary to brighten and strengthen the mind to steadier,
stronger, more uniform and successful action. As the
steady wielding of the hammer by the blacksmith developes
more size and strength in his arm, and proportionately more
strength and powers of endurance.

MORAL BEARING.

In its true significance, this duty is really one of the most
interesting and instructive we are called upon to perform,
constantly revealing to the mind the true latitude of its
powers and responsibility. In studying the instincts and
habits of the horse, we are reminded of many of the laws,
aptitudes and peculiarities of our own nature; for, while
we are trying to control and regulate the actions of the
horse, we are bringing into play certain principles of order,
command and control in our own minds.

The more we observe this the more true and important it
will be made to appear to us. We soon find that we first
need to control ourselves to be able to control the horse,
and we see, too, that the more perfect and reasonable the
control which we are capable of exercising over ourselves
is, the more perfect and reasonable the control we are capa-
ble of exercising over the horse. Hence we see that the

44 MORAL BEARING.

scierrtific study and training of the horse is ahnost continu-
ally leading the mind to an insight of the most striking
laws of our own minds. -

Now, when we proceed on fixed laws, this exercise begins,
and the more we see and understand that skill is involved,
the more we feel that real responsibility and skill are de-
manded to insure success. We see* that certain elements
are necessary: i^oolness, firmness, steadiness of purpose,
energy, perseverance. We have brought all these qualities
into exercise; we have cultivated and strengthened them
in ourselves; we have seen the importance of not showing
fear, the impropriety of exhibiting anger, hastiness, re-
venge, etc., and the importance of keeping uppermost
feelings of kindness, forbearance, etc. Thus, when we
proceed on right principles and according to the real laws
of the case, we are all the time cultivating the better side,
and restraining the worst side of our own nature.

View the subject as we will, it excites strong incentives
to self-improvement, offering the most frequent suggestions,
and presenting a repetition of motives for the cultivation
of all our highest and best powers.

THE WILD COLT.

When we remember that the first impressions on the
mind of the colt are the strongest and most lasting; that
his resistance is prompted by fear and an ignorance of what
he is required to do, we see that the first point to be ac-
complished, is to make him so gentle that he will not try to
resist being handled without frightening or abusing him.
Imagine yourself in place of the colt; a timid, innocent, sus-
picious child, and realize what the treatment of any one
should be to enlist your confidence and obedience, and you
will see that gentleness, kindness and prudence in not
exciting the fears are paramount considerations. If the
colt is afraid of you and resists your control, it is because
he apprehends danger from you. Now the quicker you
force him the more you must abuse and excite him, hence
you must make up your mind to be patient — take your time,
following up carefully, one point after another, until there is
entire docility, allowing being touched or handled behind
as may be desired without exciting fear or resistance.

If possible, have a room or yard, about twenty-five or
thirty feet square, or even larger. See that all causes of in-
jury are removed, and get the colt into this enclosure very
quietly; if he is wild and nervous, see that no hens, dogs,
etc., are in the room. Say to your friends, it is necessary
to your success, and is a condition of your instruction, that
you must be alone.

Of course the colt must first be haltered. If not very
wild, this will not be difficult to do. But if very wild or
vicious, this may be difficult and perhaps dangerous, and
you should always carefully guard against injury to yourself
as well as your horse, and at the same time you may
accomplish your object just as surely, if not as easily. Take
a light pole ten or twelve feet in length, or as much longer
as you can use to advantage, if the colt is very wild or

46 HALTERING THE COLT.

dangerous, and drive two nails into it, about eight inches
apart, the first about an inch from the end, with the heads
bent a little outward from each other. Take a common

Haltering the Colt.

rope halter with a running noose, pull the part which slips
through the noose back about two feet, and hang the part
that goes over the head upon the nails on the end of your
pole nicely, keeping hold of the hitching part, which must
be as long as your pole. Your halter is now so spread and
hung upon the stick as to be easily put on to the head. If
the colt is not excited or frightened, as you extend the hal-
ter towards him he will reach out his nose to smell and
examine it, and while he is gratifying his curiosity in this
way, you can bring the slack part under his jaw and raise
the pole high enough to bring the halter over and back of
the ears, when, by turning the stick half way round, the
halter will drop from it upon the head. This will frighten
the colt a little and cause him to run from you, but this will
only cause the slack part passing back of the jaw to be
pulled up, and the halter will be securely adjusted.

Being haltered, the colt must be taught to submit to its
restraints and control. Take a position at the side on a
line with the shoulder, and give a quick, strong pull towards
you, instantly letting loose on the halter until you get the
same position again. You have the greatest advantage from

HITCHING. 4^

this position, and by adroitly repeating the pulls as he will
bear, until he will come without being pulled upon. Should
you pull slow and steady, he will resist and pull against
you, and may even attempt to throw himself down; this
you will avoid by giving a quick pull, and letting loose in-
stantly. As soon as he will yield and come round promptly,
get on the other side and repeat in the same manner, until
he will follow you readily on either side without pulling.
Be careful not to pull ahead until there is prompt submis-
sion sidewise. You can then gradually pull a little more on
a line with the body until I he colt will come promptly in
any direction, to the slightest pull upon the halter. If the
colt is of a quick, gentle disposition, he will soon learn this
lesson thoroughly; but if very young, or of a slow, sulky
disposition, great resistance is likely to be shown for some
time. If the resistance is very obstinate or reckless in
character, you may resort to the simple course of subjection,
which will soon compel obedience. This you have been
taught how to do ; if there is not prompt obedience to the
second method, (being careful not to tie too short,) resort to
the first, then again to the secoftd, until submissive.

When there is submission you should encourage by ap-
pealing to the affections. Rub the head and neck, and give
presents of something of which fond, until all excitement
and irritation subside. The eye will gradually grow mild
in expression, and there will be an apparent indifference to
being handled. A coarse, harsh or loud voice is terribly
irritating to a sensitive or spirited horse or colt, and must
by all means be held in check. Speak in a gentle natural
tone, softened by kind expression, which will do much
toward securing the confidence of the animal and repressing
his fear. With some colts it will be necessary to repeat the
lesson in leading two or three times, to ensure prompt
obedience.

HITCHING.

When the colt will lead kindly and promptly, he may
next be taught to stand hitched. To prevent his learning
to pull at the halter, take a piece of strong cord, about a
third of an inch in diameter, twenty-two feet long ; double
it, and place the centre under the tail; bring both ends

48

BITTING.

forward, cross and twist them three or four times over the
back, knot them in front of the breast, and pass them

Hitching.

through the ring of the halter and tie to the manger or post.
Hitch in this way until the colt refuses to pull back, even
if frightened a little ; after learning to submit in this manner,
which he will soon learn to do, he will stand hitched by
the common form of halter.

BITTING

Is the next step in educating the colt, and implies teaching
the colt to submit to the restraint and control of the bit,
giving as much style to the carriage of the head and neck
as the form and temper of the animal will bear. Put on a
common bridle with a smooth snaffle bit, without reins, and
allow him to. go as he pleases, in a yard or field, for half an
hour or more, which may be repeated once or twice, to
make the mouth accustomed to and hardened to the bit.
Next jjut on a surcingle with check and side reins, buckling
the reins at first so long as to bring but little restraint upon
the mouth. After being on thirty or forty minutes, take it
off. At each repetition buckle the reins a little shorter,
until the head is submitted up and back freely to the check.
It seems needless to introduce details of a bitting harness.
Any simple construction of the ordinary kind will answer
very well, and the style is so generallv understood that a

BITTING THE COLT.

49

description here is unnecessary. The object being to bring
such restraint upon the bit that the head will be held up
and back most natural and easily, without giving freedom
to the head except in the direction of the reins. Care
should be taken to have the throat latch so loose, that there
will be no pressure of it upon the throat when checked up.

Bitting the Colt.

The gag-runners should be well up near the ears. Care
must be taken not to bring too much restraint upon the bit
by buckling the reins so short at first, as to endanger causing
the colt to throw himself over backwards and break his
neck. It is bad policy to keep a colt checked up too long
at a time, as it becomes tiresome, which would cause a
resting of the head upon the bit and thus form the disagree-
able habit of lugging. If, however, the colt should fight the
restraint of the bit or check, it should be left on till the fit
exhausts itself and he shows a disposition to submit to its
restraint.

Short lessons at first, and gradually keeping on longer as
the mouth becomes hardened by the bit and the colt will
bear it without fatigue, is the best course.

After the usual course of checking up in this manner,

4

50 DRIVING IN HARNESS.

take a piece of cord about eight or ten feet in length, of the
common sash or clothes line size, as strong and pliable as
you can find. Tie a large hard knot in one end, and about
twenty inches from this knot make another tie, passing the
knot end around the neck as near the shoulder as possible.
Pass the other end of the cord through both rings of the
bit, back of the jaw and back through the loop around the
neck, and draw up the slack. Now stand in front of the
head, holding the cord tightly with both hands; give a
quick, short pull down and back, which will cause the head
to be thrown up and back. Repeat, until the head is given
up and back freely at the slightest pull. Now, when the
reins are attached to the bit' and pulled upon, the restraint
is precisely the same as before; and after repeating this
lesson a few times, the head will be freely submitted to the
control of the bit, and a beautiful carriage of the head
secured, even without a check.

DRIVING IN HARNESS.

I would say here in this connection, that there is an
almost unaccountable stupidity exhibited in the usual
method of training colts. There is the greatest care taken
not to frighten by having the heels touched for fear of ex-
citing resistance ; whereas, this is the very point that should
be accomplished most thoroughly in the first place. The
hinder parts should be broken, as it is term, until there is no
fear of being touched by anything. This is the first point
I look to and accomplish most perfectly, safely and quickly
by my second course of subjection, and which is one of the
real secrets of my success in driving wild or kicking colts
so quickly to shafts without breeching. Look to this point
in the first place, then teach the colt to summit to the gui-
dance and control of tbe bit, and you accomplish by two
movements, quicker and better, what it takes so long, and
is done so unreliable by the usual course of treatment.

When the colt is gentle and taught to submit the head to
the bit, the next step should be to teach submission to the
guidance and control of the bit with reins. I would state
here that if the colt is well bitted, submitting the head to
being checked high, there will not be much inclination to
kick or resist, hence, the custom of putting on a bitting

HITCHING THE COLT TO POLES. 51

harness on a wild colt, checking the head up tightly. This
treatment will work well in most cases; being a powerful
means of subjection, the majority of colts or those not very
bad, will work to harness quite well by checking up tightly
for a. while. Colts of a sulky, plucky nature are liable to
resist it, and throw themselves over backwards. If the
back part of the head should strike the ground heavy in
thus falling, there is great danger of the animal being
killed, as the back part of the head under where the bridle
and halter comes, is where the first bone of the cervical
vertebrae (atlas) unites to the head or oxipital ; an appa-
rently very slight concussion or injury at this point will
break the neck and destroy life. This must not be
hazarded, and besides it is needlessly cruel. The course I
advise in the first place, enables making the colt perfectly
gentle with perfect safety in a few minutes, enabling, if even
desired, putting the colt in harness and driving with perfect
safety, especially if the precaution is taken of driving
around a few minuutes in harness before attaching to
wagon; but if the greatest certainty is desired at the
expense of a little patient care, subject to the mild course
of bitting in addition, but little more is necessary to do
than drive him in harness a few minutes, turning right and
left, and stopping until obedient, when he can be easily
driven to shafts.

The proper course is to put on the harness with smooth
snaffle bit in bridle, tie the tugs into the breeching, run the
reins through the shaft lugs instead of the terrets, now get-
ting directly behind the colt you can easily rein and keep
him before you in driving until obedient and gentle to
'reins. Of course there must be patience and care in pro-
portion to the temper and natural resistance shown until
successful.

HITCHING THE COLT TO POLES.

If the colt is at all uncertain, it will be policy to work
slowly and carefully, as one mismove while attached to a
wagon might cause damage to wagon and injury to the colt.
The simplest, cheapest and surest plan of teaching the colt to
become safe in shafts, is to drive first in poles. Get three
SLENDER POLES, two^of them about twelve feet long each,
the third about seven feet in length. Lay down the poles

52 HITCHING THE COLT TO POLES.

small ends forward in the .form of shafts, about twenty
inches spart, the back ends about six feet apart. Lay the
short piece across about six feet six inches to seven feet
from the forward ends, and tie on with pieces of cord.
Hitch the colt into these poles, attaching the tugs to the
cross piece by tying with cord, and drive around until there
is perfect submission to them, guiding promptly to the reins
and submitting to the poles striking the flanks or heels
without exciting the least fear. But in the early driving of
colts, great care must be used not to force too freely to
back, as this may cause the habit of backing too freely,
turning around and running back from the slightest causes
of fear of anything in advance, in driving to wagon or
sulky. Great care should be taken not to drive the colt
too much at first, and at no time sufficient to produce
exhaustion. Neither should his strength be taxed too much
by drawing heavy loads, until he has become accustomed
to the noise and restraint of the wagon and learned to use
his strength as required. Let his drives be moderate at first,
both in gait and distance ; gradually increasing the distance
as he will bear without fatigue. After learning to walk well,
let him trot a little, gradually letting him out faster and a
little farther, as smooth pieces of road give opportunity;
restrict these little outbursts of speed at first to the limits
of a few rods. Let him dash out a short distance, then
gradully slacken to a walk, speaking kindly and en-
couragingly. After a while, let him out again, pushing,
perhaps, a little faster and farther, being careful not to
crowd to breaking. It must not be expected because your
colt is perhaps a good mover, that he will be a fast trotter.
But if he does show a loose open gait, do not by any means
spoil him by attempting too much at first. There is usually
too much anxiety to try a colt's speed and bottom, and he
is often pushed, overdone, and spoiled perhaps, before his
powers are half developed.

A colt must not be crowded too much in educating to
harness. He cannot be expected to submit quietly to the
irritation and excitement of harness and wagon, or drive
like an old horse, without experience and practice. He
must grow into the position as it is were, and a reasonable
patience and effort is necessary to ensure this. The great
trouble witli most people in training colts is, they attempt

DOUBLE DRIVING BACKING RIDING. 53

too much, and thus make haste slowly. The quickest and
surest course is that I give. It will always enable working
a colt safely at most in a few hours.

DOUBLE DRIVING.

It is generally the custom to drive the colt at first in
double harness by the side of a gentle horse aecustomed to
harness; the colt should be put on the off side. The whip
should be held over the old horse, to keep him up to the
movements of the colt in starting, but the gait should be
kept moderate.

After driving well on the off side, he should be reversed
to the near side, there being less danger of becoming
frightened from getting into or out of the wagon, or of
seeing things while being passed to or from the wagon, by
being more from view on the off side, therefore to lessen
the probabilities of being frightened, it is preferable at first.

Let the driving be moderate, and the load light, and, by
all means, if the colt is of a sensitive or nervous tempera-
ment, the greatest mildness must be observed. Loud
''yelling" or cracking of the whip should not be permitted.
A little imprudence of this kind is often the cause of very
serious mischief with timid, young horses.

BACKING.

x\fter learning to drive well, teach the idea of backing by
pulling on the reins steadily, and saying "back." If there
is resistance give a quick, sharp, raking pull, which will move
the colt by the pain and force of the bit backward, repeat-
ing until there is prompt obedience. If there is much
resistance put on breaking bit, which will soon secure
obedience, but under any curcumstances do not make the
colt back too freely, especially if the mouth is sensitive.

RIDING.

If the colt is not of a very bad character there will be no
resistance to being rode after the first lesson of subjection.
If there is, attach a short strap or a piece of rope to the off
fore foot, throwing the othet end over the back. Take a

54 RIDING.

short hold of this strap with the right hand, while the left
grasps the near rein of the bridle firmly. As the head is
pulled around, the horse is made to step sidewise, and the
instant the foot is relaxed it is held up by the restraint of
the right hand on the strap, which is instantly drawn upon.
The colt is now on three legs,
and unable to resist. Jump
lightly on the back, press the
feet against the belly and flanks.
As there is submission release
the foot, taking a firm hold of
the reins, which should be held
short. Move the colt forward,
and as there is an indication of
resistance pull upon the strap
and reins, which will disable and
disconcert the horse from further (Mounting the Coit.)

opposition to being rode. If the colt will not move for-
ward, request an assistant to lead him by the head for a
short time. So long as there is any indication of resistance,
keep on the strap. One thorough lesson is usually suffi-
cient, though some colts may require a repetition of the
lesson.

When it is desired to mount, let the left hand rest lightly
on the mane, a little forward of the withers, holding the
reins between the thumb and fingers. Throw the right
hand lightly on the back, the body close to the horse.
Now spring lightly upward and forward. The instant of
doing so, let the right hand glide forward until the elbow
strikes the back bone, when the weight of the body is to be
instantly balanced upon the right arm, which will enable
sufficient strength to make the spring continuous, and the
body is easily brought into a sitting posture. This is slight
undertaking, and a little practice will give the ability to
mount the highest horses with apparently wonderful ease.
To mount on a saddle, stand by the side, a little back of
the stirrup, the face towards the horse's head. Take a short
hold of the reins between the fingers, grasping into the
mane at the same time, put the left foot into the stirrup,
throw the right hand over the saddle and press it against
the off side, throwing the weight of the body on the left
foot, and you can lift yourself into the saddle easily.

HANDLING THE COLT's FEET. 55

HANDLING THE COLT'S FEET.

If the colt is of an ordinary good disposition this can be
done without resorting to special means. Stand well up to
the shoulder, put the left hand on the shoulder, pressing
forward gently, which will relax the muscles controlling the
leg, with the right hand, instantly grasp the foot below the
fetlock and lift it up, removing the left hand and bring
under the foot to aid the right hand. To handle the hind
feet, let the right hand glide gently from the shoulders back
to the hip. At the instant it passes the point of the hip,
bring the left forward upon the hip. While doing this, the
right hand is being glided down the leg gently, until it
strikes the fetlock, when the left hand should be pressed
firmly against the body at the point stated, which will relax
the limb, and the foot can be easily brought up by the right,
the left is lowered and passed down the limb on the back
part of the fetlock. Or the foot can be raised and lowered
a few times with the right hand, while the left balances the
body by pressing against the hip until there is perfect
submission.

If there is resistance, take up the fore foot, request an
assistant to hold it up for you, while he at the same time
holds the colt by the halter or bridle. Tie the end of a
rope or strap around the hind foot, above the fetlock, at the
instant of doing which let the hand glide along to the oppo-
site part, until six or eight feet from the foot. At the same
time request the forward foot to be let loose, the assistant
holding by the halter. Now pull upon the strap, which
will bring the foot forward, and at the instant of attempting
to kick, let go, and so repeat until the foot is submitted to
the restraint of strap. Then slip behind and pull the foot
back, and as before yielding at each effort to kick, let go,
until the foot is submitted freely. Now take the foot from
the control of the strap to the hand and handle gently.

If there is very determined resistance, tie the end of your
long strap around the neck, near the shoulders, pass the
other end back between the fore legs, around the hind foot,
but under the strap around the neck, and draw up on it, at
the same time holding him by the bridle or halter. The
colt may be frightened and jump to get clear of the res-
traint. Should he act very much frightened, slack up on

56 HANDLING THE COLT S lEET.

the Strap until the foot is almost back to its natural posi-
tion. Then as he will bear, again pull a little shorter, at
the same time pulling him round in a circle by the head,
until he ceases struggling to get the foot loose. You may
now pull the foot farther forward, and hold it as before,
until he will stand quietly. Now step back a little and pass
the hand down the hind leg. Slap the hand upon the leg
a little until there is no resistance, then take it in the hands.
If there is no resistance, undo the end of the strap and
allow the foot a little more freedom; at the same time while
holding the foot by the strap, pass the hand from the hip
down the leg quietly, rubbing and caressing until able to
take it in the hands.

Handle the opposite leg in the same manner, until there
is perfect submission. Should the colt resist having the
feet handled with much determination, or prove very
vicious, the regular subjective treatment will be necessary.
Those of a wildish mustang disposition are the most obsti-
nate; there is once in a while one of this class that will call
for pretty thorough and patient treatment to make gentle.
They are not only so plucky, but so strong and enduring
that they are disposed to resist control of the feet at all
hazards. It is of great importance that colts are treated
with great kindness; giving apples, a little oats, etc., after
submitting the feet or being otherwise handled, as the real
cause of trouble is fear, and winning the confidence by a
little flattery in this way has a powerful effect in disconcert
ing the attention and winning the confidence, and thus of
teaching obedience. All this is now so easily done when
necessary by the ordinary subjective course, that it seems
needless to dwell on minor conditions and details ; you
must bear in mind that bad cases call for a little work and
patience, and that you must be not only thorough, but pru-
dent, to be successful.

EXCESSIVE TEAR-CAUSES AND TREAT-
MENT OF.

"^^^■'W^^

...^^-^^^(i^^

Fear requires raore than a passing notice. It is the cause,
or principle one, of the most dangerous and difficult habits
to break up, showing a disease of the mind, or mania, and
as such its consideration is at the foundation of the princi-
pal bad habits to which horses are subject. Fear causes the
colt to resist control, to kick, run away, resist an umbrella,
robe, cars, and all unusual objects and sounds. These
marked derangements are often the result of causes in
themselves of a trifling character.

Thus, a colt is suddenly excited by the appearance of an
umbrella, and it is afterwards an object of terror to him. A
horse may be driven for months, or even years, but at some
unlooked-for moment the breeching perhaps breaks, allowing
the shafts or cross-pieces to strike the heels, perhaps causing
the unsuspecting animal to spring, kick and run away.
The impression by this one act makes a wagon an object of
terror, and he refuses contact with it afterwards, and thus
3*

66 EXCESSIVE FEAR.

through all the ramifications of character, the same in-
tensity of fear and resistance is shown to a greater or less
degree, in proportion to the sensibility of the animal and
the intensity of impression made upon the mind. ' The in-
tensity of the impression may be even so great as to destroy
life. Several instances of such a fatal result have been
brought to my notice. In Ligonier, Ind., a few years ago,
a fine horse dropped dead from excessive fear of the cars.
Such an occurrence took place in Chicago a few years since,
and during the burning of that city one such instance has
been authenticated.

All impressions, it is supposed, are made upon a series of
concentric nerves in a certain location of the brain, called
ganglige, which retain and throw them off by reflex action
under like circumstances. Being of a primary character,
when excessive in strength, they subvert and control the
reason, and thus the character is strongly marked, if not
controlled by them.

Hence the many instances of insane fear and resistance
resulting from being once frightened.

I could refer to many instances of such insanity coming
under my own observation. A bay mare, owned in Green
Castle, Pa., in 1865, was entirely fearless of all objects but
a robe, the appearance of which would make her furious.
When seen at a distance of thirty feet, she became so reck-
less as to break away from all restraint, plunged against a
heavy door, breaking it down, and ran away. When brought
back, I took her in hand. When shown even a corner of
the robe at a distance of twenty feet, she would plunge,
squeal, strike and kick in the most reckless manner. The
shock to her nervous system was so great that I feared she
would not bear it, and it was only by the most careful treat-
ment I was able in forty minutes to bring it near and throw it
upon her, and ultimately she did not care anything about it.
When in Cleveland, an interesting case of this character,
owned by Dr. Keegan, was brought me. Many years before,
when standing in the street, the wind blew a blanket from
the horse's back, falling under him, and it so frightened him
that ever afterwards a blanket could not be brought near
him. This horse was entirely fearless of all other objects,
could be driven up to cars, but a blanket was to him an
object of the greatest terror, iresisting its appearance by

EXCESSIVE FEAR. 59

kicking, striking and even squealing, in his phrenzy to get
away from it. With a little care I succeeded in breaking
up the impression so effectually, that he allowed a blanket
on him afterwards. We see, in all cases, that excessive
feat is excited by forcing or bringing the object to notice
too quickly or unexpectedly, causing so intense an excite-
ment of the fears as to derange the understanding. If, in
the first place, these derangements are the result of shocking
the nervous system by the suddenness and violence of the
impression, the prevention of such derangements can be
secured by bringing objects and sounds liable to excite, to
notice slowly; and, second, in overcoming them, that
there is power to control physical resistance at will, to
enable convincing the reason of the harmless character of
the object or sound. The feelings become blunted by the
presence or repeated contact with the object or sound. The
greatest causes of danger cease to attract notice by familiar-
ity with them. The family living on a by-road in the
country, who would notice every one going by in their
isolated position, in a city where people pass almost con-
stantly, would soon become unmindful of even greater
causes of excitement. The principle is the same with
horses. Hence, omnibus, hack or other horses that are
almost constantly in the vicinity of the cars soon become
unmindful of them, the exception being those of a very
sensitive character, or by being greatly frightened at first.
Hence, military horses that are forced to submit to the
firing of small arms, cannons, drums, etc., soon become
regardless of such excessive noises and excitement, and
soon become perfectly gentle and obedient to control
under such circumstances. It is common, too, for horses
that are very sensitive in the country when subjected to the
constant bewildering excitement of a city to become as un-
mindful of what is passing around them, as others accus-
tomed to use in such a locality. The change of character,
too, that may be produced by proper subjective treatment, is
remarkable, many marked proofs of which I have illustrated
in my own practice. To one marked case I will here refer :
In October, 1868, a six year old horse, owned by A.
Smawley, of Petroleum Centre, Pa., was brought to me for
treatment. This horse was of so remarkably wild and des-
perate a character that he was known by the name of

6U TREATMENT OF FEAR.

*'Wild Pete." He would scringe and jump at the least
touch or appearance of anything strange; he would not
stand to be cleaned, could not be harnessed, and to attempt
putting him in shafts would excite the utmost desperation,
jumping and kicking clear of restraint at all hazards. He
was one of the most desperate acting horses of the kind I
ever saw. Indeed, anything touching him behind, even a
touch of a whip, would make him jump and kick regardless
of consequences. Yet, after subjecting him to two ener-
getic lessons of less than an hour each, I could drive him
to my buggy with perfect safety, and he could not be made
to kick or resist control. So perfectly docile did he
become, that he was let for driving in the livery, and has
proved a very superior and safe carriage horse. As a rule,
however, constitutionally timid horses yield slowly, and
require careful as well as thorough treatment. I could refer
to many interesting illustrations of this character did space
permit,

The rule should be, not to excite the mind excessively
from any cause, and to gradually, as the animal will bear,
bring the object to notice, at the same time associating with
such causes of fear the greatest kindness by giving presents
of anything of which fond.

If there is much resistance or danger, physical control is
to be made undoubtedly by the course of subjection, hold
ing your point until perfectly successful, repeating the
treatment until all resistance ceases. The better to give a
practical understanding of details, I will include in this
connection the treatment in accustoming to a few of the
most common objects of fear, which will enable an under-
standing of the treatment necessary for anything else.

A ROBE.

While held under careful restraint, let the robe be brought
up gently to the colt's nose. After smelling and feeling ot
it in his own way until satisfied, rub it gently against the
head, neck and body, the way the hair lies, as he will bear.
Then stand off a little and throw it across the back, over
t]ie neck and head, gradually stepping farther, until you can
throw the robe upon him as you please. Repeat the lesson
several times.

TREATMENT OF FEAR. 61

AN UMBRELLA OR PARASOL.

While holding the colt by the halter or bridle, as may be
necessary, bring the umbrella to his nose gently, rub it
against the head, neck and body, as he will bear, spreading
it a little, repeating the process of rubbing, and so continue
gaining little by little, until you can raise the umbrella over
the head, and pass it around the animal as you please,
without exciting fear or resistance.

SOUND OF A GUN.

First, commence by snapping caps a short distance from
the horse, gradually, as he will bear, approachmg nearer,
until you can snap caps while the gun is resting upon the
back, over the head, etc. Then put in a little powder, and
at each repetition increase the charge until you can fire oif
a heavy load without exciting fear.

RAILROAD CARS.

Let the animal see them at rest, then gradually lead or
drive him up to them, even to smelling them with his nose.
Now, as you have *an opportunity, drive the horse around
while they are moving, working up nearer as you can, and
at the same time turning him around so that he can see and
hear them from different directions. This lesson should be
often repeated, being careful not to crowd beyond what the
colt will easily bear, until they cease to attract his serious
attention.

OBJECTS EXCITING FEAR WHILE RIDING
OR DRIVING.

Should the horse show fear of a stone or stump, or any-
thing of the kind, he will naturally stop and stare at the
object in an excited manner. Should the cause of fear be
great and sudden, he may attempt to turn round and run
away. This is to be guarded against, by sitting well for-
ward on the seat, and taking a short hold of the reins, at
the same time speaking calmly and encouragingly to the
horse. Bear in mind the horse has a great advantage over
you, that his excitement is liable to precipitate his whole

62 TREATMENT OF FEAR.

Strength against you at the least sense of freedom, or addi-
tional cause of excitement ; that once resisting control in
this position, he will try to do so again at all hazards, under
like circumstances.

Speak encouragingly to the horse, but keep a close watch
upon his actions. In a short time the extent of his alarm
will not only be perceptibly lessened, but he will become
calmer, and almost disregard the object. Then drive nearer
as he will bear, exercising the same patience and care. At
each effort to get nearer, the horse will become apparently
as much frightened as at first. Keep pushing a little at a
time in this way, as the horse will bear, until you can drive
up to the object, or by it, and you not only leave no bad
irrtpression upon the mind, but gradually overcome the dis-
position to become frightened.

Sometimes a horse will dislike a wheelbarrow, baby wa-
gon, turkeys, etc., but the treatment is the same. When
the excitement is not so great as to endanger successful
resistance, and the horse is disposed to "play off, or sol-
dier," it may be advisable to apply the whip a little sharply,
but this is to be avoided when it is seen the resistance is
wholly induced by fear, and the animal is not lazy.

Some horses while driven to carriages, will not bear the
noise and excitement of other horses being driven up be-
hind. This is principally on account of the horse's inability
to see and understand the cause of the excitement, or it
may be owing to the fault of the driver. Some one drives
up rapidly behind, perhaps wishes to ''go by," to prevent
which the colt is hallooed at and whipped up to prevent
such a result. This may be repeated a few times, and the
consequence is, if a spirited horse, the habit is acquired of
rushing ahead to avoid the punishment expected under such
circumstances, and very often, too, a horse is forced into
this habit by being run into from behind.

USING BLINDERS.

It must be remembered that the blinders in general use
so cover up the eyes as to make it impossible for the horse
to see things plainly sidewise, or at all from behind, which
tends to increase the fear, as we are convinced, when we
see that to overcome the animal's fear of any object, the

TREATMENT OF FEAR. 63

first and most obvious point is to give him an understand-
ing of its appearance and character. Blinders are admissible
only when there is a desire to conceal the defects of a large
head, and to cause a naturally lazy horse to drive steadily,
by preventing him from seeing when the whip is about to
be applied.

MUST SEE THE OBJECT FROM DIFFERENT
POSITIONS.

It is one of the peculiarities of the horse to understand
and be reconciled to an object or cause of excitement only
from its position and circumstances as brought to his
notice. This seems to be on account of the horse's rea-
soning powers being so limited as to be unable to retain
the same understanding of the object beyond the position
from which it is brought to notice.

Every progressive change of position requires almost the
same care and patience as that preceding. For example,
if in teaching a horse to submit to an umbrella, if it were
shown only from the near side, upon carrying it to the off
side, would inspire nearly as much fear as at first from the
near side, or there may be an aversion to some particular
object, or resistance may be inspired only under certain
circumstances. You may succeed in getting a colt gentle
to be rode from the near ride, but an attempt to mount him
from the off side, would in all probability be resisted.

If a horse is afraid of an umbrella while in harness, he
may be taught to care nothing about it out of harness, but
if not taught to feel and understand its character in harness,
would be apt to be as much frightened at it in that position,
as if he knew nothing about it.

This seems to puzzle many well-meaning men, and is
often the cause of much disappointment.

A horse that is afraid of an umbrella, is brought forward
to illustrate the management of such habits. In a short
time the horse will bear the umbrella over and around him
in any manner, without seeming to care anything about it.
The owner is pleased with the belief that his horse is bro-
ken, when in harness at some future time, he raises an
umbrella behind the animal, and is astonished to find him
almost as bad as ever, and he is disappointed. But when

C4 TREATMENT OF FEAR.

It is seen in' the first place that it is often necessary to
repeat the treatment, that expecting the animal to be broken
of the habit by a single indirect lesson, only tends to defeat
success. For without ability to control the horse, every
attempt to force upon him the object of aversion only
inspires greater resistance, because taught to a still greater
degree to resist control, and a sense of freedom always tends
to increase the animal's fear of the object. Now the efforts
of the owner to control the horse directly in a position of
so great disadvantage, may produce exactly this result, and
then from an ignorance of the cause of failure, believes it is
impossible to overcome the habit.

The lesson must be repeated, as long as may be necessary
to the end of perfect success, or the horse once excited is
liable to drift back to being almost as bad as before.

SUBJECTION.

Educating horses successfully, implies showing and teach
ing what is required to be done in such a plain, practica-
manner, that the horse is made to understand clearly what
to do. This implies showing by actions, when he does
right or wrong, restraining or reproving for resistance or
doing wrong, and caressing and rewarding for doing right,
repeating with patience until the animal can understand the
meaning and object of his restraint, that he is not to be
hurt and only required to do what he is commanded. This
is an absolutely necessary condition, as horses do not
understand articulated language, and cannot understand
what to do unless shown. Hence, we caress and reward
by giving something to eat of which the animal is fond,
learning him to associate kindness and freedom from pain,
by yielding obedient to demands made upon him. But it
is seen all horses are not gentle enough to be approached
and handled to enable doing this. That a man has not
strength enough to control or restrain a wild or vicious
horse with any degree of safety or certainty. To make
such so gentle and submissive to control, that they can be
safely and easily handled and educated, constitutes the
science of subjection.

EXCITEMENT NOT ADMISSIBLE.

There is one law in the subjection of horses requiring
special attention, and that is, that the more excitement
caused in forcing obedience, the greater and more persis-
tent must be the resistance. The object being now to fix
upon the mind such an impression of power as to make the
animal passive to control; at the same time not only
intensifying the impression by such treatment as will cause
the most pain, in exact proportion to the resistance made
but appealing to the reason and better part of the nature as
directly and forcibly by acts of kindness ; but if in doing
this the passions are excited, proportionate resistance must
result, which may, in the mo-e plucky peculiarities of

66 SUBJECTION.

disposition, endanger breaking down the animal to over-
come ; and even though there is submission to force, there
is likely to be renewed resistance after the exhaustion, or
the animal becomes cool, unless the better nature is imme-
diately won into cooperation of the efforts by kind encour-
aging treatment. Hence, when it is desired to bring all
the powers of the animal into play, we see the blood is
warmed up either by stimulants or exercise.

Trotting horses are exercised before racing j if animals
desired to fight are not in the mood, they are provoked
until excited; men who are under the influence of liquor,
or from any cause are excited, would fight with a reckless-
ness they could not be induced to do when sober and the
blood cool, consequently there must and will be increased
resistance to the degree, the bad part of the nature is
excited.

This is what Rarey and others tried to accomplish and
evade by the different methods introduced, of controlling
horses such as lever bits, checking the head high, tying up
one or both legs and throwing the horse down. That
shown by Rarey (disabling and throwing) being the simplest
and valued most highly, the object being to exhibit physical
power to the mind, but if the horse happened to be of a
sulky, stubborn disposition, passively submitting to the
force to which subjected, the impression of power would
not be adequate, and if very vicious could not be made
sufficiently positive to ensure anything like uniform success,
especially in the breaking up of such habits as balking,
kicking, running away, etc.

Were it admissible to subdue horses by lowering their
strength, success would be easy, as this can be and often is
done by any of the following means, such as bleeding, phy-
sicking, want of sleep, violent exercise, pain, starving, want
of water, etc., that will lower the strength and depress the
energies, will accomplish the same end.

CHIIiIAN AND SOUTH AMERICAN METHODS.

It is on this principle that the people of South America
break horses; they catch the wild horse with the lasso,
throw him to the ground, saddle and bridle him, then ride
tlie animal with whip and spur until exhausted and submis-

CHILIAN AND SOUTH AMERICAN METHODS. 67

sive, they then square off the ends of the hair of the tail to
indicate that the horse is broken, and again turn him loose.
The Indians on our western plains practice the same plan.
The Chilians tie the refractory horse in the stall and apply
the whip right and left until he lies down or falls down
from weakness; the horse is then tried, and if refractory
the process is continued until he becomes gentle. The
same process is practiced by certain traveling horsemen in
this country; turning the wild or green colt loose in a small
enclosure and applying the whip until submissive. Ot
course a horse must be whipped terribly to force obedience
in this way, and in the treatment of some is liable to sour
and spoil the temper. The farmer has learned that if he
can tire and exhaust a colt he is much less sensitive, not
likely to kick or attempt resisting control. Horses that are
worked hard or after a hard journey are much less sensitive
or excitable than after being idle for some time. The
exceptions being (for there are exceptions) those of pecu-
liarly excitable, hardy nature, that seem to increase in
energy as they are warmed up.

The usual course in this country is to put the harness on
the green colt, after perhaps being bitted by checking up
tightly, which is repeated a few times. The colt is
attached by the side of a gentle horse, allowed to go and
wear in to becoming accustomed to the harness and obe-
dient to the control of the bit. The excitement and
possible resistance induced by this course without adequate
ability to control by the reins or bit, leads to the many
habits of balking, kicking, running away, fear, etc., in har-
ness. Should the animal become frightened or resist
violently without adequate precaution or power to prevent
resistance, some one of the many bad habits to which
horses are subject is produced. These results, it is seen, I
can easily prevent and overcome by my treatment, ■v^iiiich
enables accomplishing the end desired in the simplest, most
practical and humane manner, thereby enabling me to con-
trol even almost at will, horses of the most vicious and des-
perate character

68 SUBJECTION.

IMPRESSION UPON THE BRAIN.

As it is the impression that is made directly upon the
mind that controls and moves the animal; it is not only
necessary to control the animal at will, showing exactly
what is required to be done, but that the cooperation of
the better part of the nature is won by the kindest and
most encouraging treatment, and which constitutes the
next most powerful lever of making horses docile and man-
ageable. Indeed, a proper application of the efforts with
the advantage only of kind, encouraging treatment will
enable of itself to show very successful results, and is abso-
lutely indispensable in the treatment of sensitive or
naturally wild horses. I show not only just how to
guide and control the horse to any extreme desired, but
hold this control with scarcely an effort, by encouraging
obedience through the feelings in the most powerful
manner. Now throwing or any of the treatment in gen-
eral use will not enable this with any certainty; but throw-
ing is a valuable auxiliary, and properly done, enables
creating a very strong impression upon the mind of some
horses. I will here give the details of the proper method of
doing it.

First, have made a strong leather surcingle, long enough
to go around the body of the horse, to which have attached
a strong back strap and crouper. On the off side of the
surcingle, about eight inches from the back, have a two-
inch ring; from this ring to the back strap at the hip have
a strong double strap extend. Now put on this harness,
which will be like a bitting harness.

Next take a common hame strap, pass around the near
fore leg and over the surcingle, buckling only short enough
to allow the foot to come in a horizontal position, or the
strap can be tied around the arm and foot. . This done,
take a cord eighteen or twenty feet long, of the strongest
kind you can get, about ^ inch in size, if strong enough;
tie the end into a knot ; about twenty inches from this end
make another simple knot, but do not draw it tight. Now
pass this end over the neck, put the end knot through the
tie, or other knot, and draw close. The ol^ect is to have
the cord fit around the neck some distance from the head.
Pass the other end of the cord through the ring in the side

WORST HORSES.

69

of the surcingle ; at the same time let the cord at the othei
end extend through the mouth. When the cord is now
drawn tight it will be seen to pass from the neck through
the mouth back through the ring, and by pulling on the end
held in the hand the head will be drawn to the side. The
leg on the opposite side being tied up, when the cord is
pulled upon the horse must roll over on his side. This plan
will enable throwing a horse very easily, and will enable
doing all that is possible to do by this principle of sub-
jection.

This principle of subjection does not work well in the
control of horses of a naturally sulky, mulish disposition.
Hence it will be found, balkers, very determined kickers,
and especially those showing the positive reckless temper
of the mustang nature, will resist it, and constitutes only
one good step in exhibiting physical control, though not
so reliable or effective as the other treatment (shown and
illustrated in my lecture.)

W^ORST HOUSES.

The dull gray, bright
sorrel, and nervous
tempered black, and
sometimes a bay, if
showing much of the
wild nature, will ex-
hibit the most plucky
resistance. If the
eyes are small, set
well into the head,
ears long, inclined to
lop back, head flat or
nearly so between the
ears, head rather nar-
row and long, you will
find if wild or vicious,
the most determined
resistance, usually acting very sulky and indifferent to the
whip or other means of pain, as the blood becomes
warmed up.

The second course of subjection works best in the control

Bad Disposition.

70

SUBJECTION.

of this temperament. The first may be tried, but in the
event of great resistance and the animal becoming very-
warm, give sufficient rest to permit the blood to become
cool, when you will easily succeed by working carefully aijd
thoroughly, encouraging obedience by kindness.

The naturally sulky, wild, desperate disposition, very
rare, but always shown by a middling large eye, well formed
nead and countenance; the ears are thrown back, the eye

sullen, requires the
most care and thor-
oughness, and must
not be hurried too
much, and not at all
if greatly warmed
up, as such, under
such circumstances,
become intensely
reckless. If kickers
or balkers, perplex-
ingly sullen and de-
termined, passive
treatment will en-
able controlling such
easily, always en-
couraging all you
can for obedience by caressing and giving presents of
apples, oats, &c., &c., and above all, you are not on any
condition, to stop as soon as the animal submits. Keep at
work now, treating in the kindest manner until the nervous
system becomes cool, and the horse is fully reconciled to
your control.

You are not to consider a horse broken because submis-
sive to control after being handled once. Test carefully
after getting cool, and if necessary, repeating until certain
of success.

Let me impress upon you here the necessity of being
thorough. It is not by any means safe to be otherwise.
Make it your business to do well what you attempt to do.
A man of much less than ordinary ability can accomplish
almost wonders by trying and being thorough. The man
who will not try, and not only try, but be persevering, is
not worthy of success.

Sensitive and Flighty.

WORST HORSES. 71

The greatest cause of failure, will be want of care and
patient perseverance. If we can force and win the obe-
dience of a horse in a given time, that is the treatment
to pursue to insure perfect success in the reformation of that
animal. Like the doing of anything else, work enough
must be done to secure the end aimed at with certainty.
A horse may submit to control in the most perfect manner
after a course of treatment, yet not be half broken. More
or less repetition of the treatment, with careful, prudent,
encouraging management will be necessary to insure that
uniform success in the performance of this great duty,
which its delicacy and importance demands.

BREAKING HORSES, ETC.

RUNNING A^W^AY.

This habit may be induced by a great variety of causes —
principally by becoming frightened in some way, though
often by the horse learning to pull against the bit so hard as
to defy control, and therefore at the least cause of irritation
disposed to pull ahead and run away. When actuated by
fear, the resistance is usually so sudden and violent as to
induce a degree of resistance to the restraint of the bit we
(lave not power to prevent or control. Some-times, too,
the horse will spring sidewise, or turn around in doing this,
and will so learn the trick that at the least excitement he
will spring into a sharp run. All this resistance, it is seen,
results from defective training of the mouth, and is virtu-
ally surmounted when able to force so great a degree of
control by the bit as to break up all disposition to resist
restraint when excited.

Running away is a very serious and dangerous habit, and
all such predisposition should be thoroughly broken up
when manifested. If very bad, tone down resistance by
subjecting the animal to a course of subjection; after which
put on the breaking bit and force the most thorough sub-
mission to the slightest restraint of the reins.

Let this be very thoroughly done. Then hitch to wagon,
making the horse stop whenever called upon or pulled upon
by the reins, until there is no disposition •to resist, though
subjected to the greatest excitement, as there is once in a
while a horse that will try with all the courage and pluck of
desperation to run away after once learning the habit, and
it is so important that the greatest docility and submission
of the animal is in this position secured by the control of
the bit. I will allude more especially to the details neces-
sary to success. After the animal submits to the primary
course of subjection and control by the bit is attempted,

TURNING AROUND. 73

T^ork slow. Let the horse move on a slow walk at first.
Call whoa sharply and instantly after surge with the quick-
ness and energy of the crack of a whip, with the reins upon
the mouth; repeating and increasing the speed of the ani-
mal as there is submission, making one point after another,
until the animal can be put on a run and will stop instantly
at command. Even then you are not to feel too sure of
having accomplished your purpose. Test carefully when
cool, and assure yourself of the most perfect submission and
docility before incurring any risk. This is really the
important point in assuring of success, not only in the
breaking of horses of this character but in all others of a
bad character. Some horses subject to this habit will yield
readily to the use of the four ring bit. The foot-strap is
also a valuable auxiliary, but the breaking bit is in advance
of anything else in doing this.

TURNING AROUND.

If the horse turns around, drive first with harness, whip
up sharply, then make him stop, always pulling in the
opposite direction from that the horse usually turns, until
there is not only the most prompt obedience to the com-
mands in going ahead, but ready submission to control,
right or left, or in stopping, as may be required. Some-
times the habit is contracted of pulling so hard on the bit
as to resist control. In this case all that is necessary to do
is to train the mouth once or twice with breaking bit, or
use the four ring bit, and the habit will be broken up. If
one rein is pulled upon, pull sharply on the opposite rein,
and repeating at each indication of such a purpose until the
head is yielded freely and evenly.

In reviewing the common causes of this habit, we see
that two objects must govern the efforts. First : To over-
come or neutralize the exciting cause of resistance — usually
some cause of fear. Second : To make the mouth perfectly
submissive to the most delicate restraint of the bit ; it being
essential that the exciting cause should be removed, while
the power to control resistance must be increased.

I will in this connection add, that there is no part of the
training of horses which should be done more thoroughly,
or tested moi^ carefully, than this of teaching proper

74 RUNNING BACK.

submission of the mouth to the bit. Yet I will venture to
assert none is more imperfectly or ignorantly attempted ;
and that the more experienced and intelligent horsemen
should regard doing this difficult, when there is so much to
indicate to the most ordinary observer the method of doing
it with ease and certainty, seems strange. And yet, per-
haps, this is not so strange, since it has been very much of
a puzzle to do this at all, and really in its true aspect shows
more real science than can be illustrated by any other fea-
ture of my treatment, since upon this must depend ulti-
mately the readiness and success with which horses can be
guided and controlled in harness.

It is essential in training a horse well to the bit, that the
idea is given correctly of submitting the head up and back
when pulled upon. Also, that the horse should be made to
understand exactly the meaning of every signal of guidance
and restraint. In training the mouth, the exact idea can
be conveyed by being particular in repeating the same kind
of reproof, by pulling sharply whenever there is an attempt
at pulling hard. There is soon not only prompt obedience
to restraint of the bit, but there is no disposition or confi-
dence to resist control. Remember a horse cannot under-
stand the object of such restraint, if there is not uniformity
of action and language. Yet most people talk to their
horses in the most careless manner. If there is an intention
of approaching a horse, the usual word is "whoa! " In
driving, when it is desired to make the horse go slow,
**whoa" is the usual word, and the consequence is the
animal does not know what is meant by "whoa." Every
action and word should have a special meaning, and they
should never conflict, that the understanding may not be
confused. "Whoa" should be an imperative command to
stop. To go slower requires the use of some other word.
Even every motion of the whip should have a special mean-
ing. If the horse is managed with care in this way, he
becomes almost a machine, that yields submission to the
slightest touch or word of command.

KUNNINQ BACK.

To break up this habit, there must be established a tho-
rough fear of the whip, so as to induce going ahead when

KICKING IN HARNESS. 76

commanded. Put on harness, and tie the tugs into the
rings of the breeching rather short. Drive around with the
reins, giving a short cut with a good bow whip around the
legs once in a while, if not prompt. As the horse learns to
spring ahead when commanded, pull a little on the lines,
gradually repeating until he will pull quite hard on the bit
to go ahead. Make this as thorough as possible. In
driving repeat and carry out this, going ahead promptly,
whipping up sharply once in a while if necessary.

The main point to make with horses of this character, is
to create a thorough fear of the whip. To do this well while
driving with harness, whip around the hind legs sharply,
until the horse will start ahead promptly when commanded.
Now, attach to wagon and gradually work up with whip
until there is prompt obedience. The foot strap may be
put on if there is any possible danger of the horse running
back when hitched.

KICKING IN HARNESS.

This is apparently the most dangerous and difficult habit
to overcome, to which horses are subject ; yet it is a habit
that yields readily to my treatment, but requires care and
thoroughness and a large share of common sense in deter-
mining how much must be done and when to stop. This
cannot be learned by any fixed rule, since there is such a
great difference of extremes shown in this habit that it is
not safe to venture a limit of what and how much must be
done. I have often broken horses of kicking, of apparently
the worst character, in twenty or thirty minutes. Then
again, one scarcely confirmed in the habit may require very
much more time ; and a few extreme cases, of apparently a
mild character when not excited, would call out all my
resources for hours, to make the subject yield safely to con-
trol. I broke a horse in Maine of the worst character, of
kicking, by a few pulls upon the war bridle. At all events,
the owner informed me, months afterwards, that the animal
remained perfectly docile. This horse would kick at any
body or anything.

But I found a horse in Mississippi, which was perfectly
gentle to ride or handle, would only kick when to wagon, yet
he was the most terribly persistent kicker when in harness

76 KICKING IN HARNESS.

I ever saw, or ever expect to see. All ordinary treatment
was only as play to this horse. Circumstances made
it necessary to break up the habit, and I felt compelled to
do so, and succeeded only after three lessons. Never did
a horse resist more bravely, but I succeeded in making the
animal so gentle as to submit the wagon against the heels
going down hill, and he was driven by me a week after
being broken, in the presence of a large concourse of peo-
ple, proving safe and gentle afterwards.

Breaking of kicking, as with most other habits, requires
thoroughness in what is attempted. If there is more fear
than willfulness, the fear must be thoroughly overcome. If
based upon willfulness, that must be mastered at any
hazard. In either case, put through a careful but thorough
course of subjection, exciting resistance by rubbing a stick
of some kind against and between the legs until there is no
resistance; now put on harness and breaking bit, and com-
pel perfect submission to its restraint. Let the hind legs
be touched as before, and at each indication of resistance,
punish sharply; with the reins back the animal against a rail
fence or anything convenient. If there is perfect submis-
sion, back into the shafts of the wagon, or bring the shafts
over the back gently. This is a step requiring much cau-
tion and firmness. Stand at the left shoulder, grasping the
rein near the bit firmly, and as the shafts are brought for-
ward, and the cross-piece comes in contact with the legs, if
there is much sensitiveness shown, give him a sharp, quick
jerk upon the reins, which will at once disconcert the
horse, and at the same time throw the head so high as to
make it difficult for him to kick. Force this point well,
until the contact of the wagon is borne, when the harness
may be attached. Now drive around gently, stopping and
starting repeatedly, carefully observing how much forcing
the horse will bear. If there is no indication of serious
resistance, follow up by driving around, until there is per-
fect submission. At each repetition of being hitched to a
wagon for a few days, let the horse be backed against the
cross-piece several times until it is borne without flinching.

This precaution of testing repeatedly is absolutely essen-
tial to prevent and overcome any growing sensibility or
confidence of ability to kick when driven, until there is not
discovered any disposition to indulge in the habit.

KICKING IN HARNESS.

77

If this will not do, repeat the lesson of subjection which
the reader has been shown, and if there is any doubt about
submitting to the shafts without danger of an accident, get
TWO POLES about twelve feet each in length ; lay them
down on the ground so that the small ends will be about
twenty-two inches apart, and the large ends are six or seven
feet apart. Next get a piece of pole of the same size, lay
across and tie firmly to the side poles just far enough from
the forward ends so when the horse is hitched in the tugs
are tied to this crosspiece with pieces of cord. Hitch to
this without holdbacks, and drive around, repeatedly stop-
ping and backing the horse against the cross-piece until
there is perfect submission. This driving in poles may be
repeated if thought necessary, remembering that it is ab-
solutely necessary to make every step sure before the next
is attempted.

A great advantage of repeating the lesson is, that the
sensibility of the mouth is so greatly increased that the most
plucky horse will scarcely dare resist the bit after being
severely punished a few times. If the horse yields, but is
doubtful or appears touchy and sensitive once in a while,
you may be able to make your point by putting on the foot
STRAP, which is an excellent means of controlling a doubt-
ful horse, in making this step.

This is simply disabling
and controlling one of the
fore feet, by a strap
which is passed over the
belly-band and back to
the wagon as a third rein.
Simply pulling upon this
at the instant there is an
attempt to kick, throws
the horse off his balance
and disables him from
doing so. It must be
borne in mind that much
depends in making sub-
jection thorough; no mat-
ter how good or proper the treatment, the horse must
be made to yield unconditionally, or failure is not only
probable but almost certain.

78

KICKING STRAPS.

Kicking straps if properly put on, are powC-rful means of
reproof upon the kicker. I have had excellent success with
this means years ago. They will not work well on a slow
determined horse, and in any event should be kept on until
all desposition to resist is overcome.

KICKING STBAPS.

Have made four straps, like common hame straps; two
long enough to buckle around the hind legs above the
gambrels, and two a little shorter, so as to be in proportion,
to buckle around just below
the gambrel. The straps
should be an inch and a
quarter wide, good thick
leather, and the buckles
should be heavy. Now have
made two D's, just twice as
long as the straps are wide.
This D should have the
straight part a little round-
ing, and the corners not
quite to a sharp point. Put

a long and short strap on each D, and buckle them around
the hind legs of the horse; the long strap above and the
short one below the gambrel, bringing the D in front of the
leg. These we designate kicking straps.

Put a strong well-fitting rope halter on the head, tie a
strong two-inch ring on the end of the hitching part, which
should be of a length to extend between the fore-legs, over
md just back of the belly band. Then take a piece of
strong manilla rope, long enough to extend from the ring
on the end of the halter back to each hind leg. Pass the
end of this through the ring to the center, and tie each end
carefully into the D's on the straps, the whole so arranged
in length that the horse can travel easily and naturally.
Now as soon as the horse kicks, the most severe punishment
must result upon the nose. If the horse is sulky the con-
nection may be made direct to the bit; there is however
danger if the horse kicks recklessly, if so attached, of greatly
bruising the mouth, or of even breaking the jaw; have
known too such results from this cause, hence I have dis

KICKING STRAPS. 79

carded it. No quarter is to be given until there is perfect
submission. The harness may be put on after the horse
ceases kicking, and drive around as before. These straps
should be kept on until there is no disposition to kick.

If the mouth is hard, use breaking bit and force as before,
with the reins, until there is perfect submission. The horse
is to be treated with the utmost kindness when he yields.
Bear in mind this rule must not be disregarded, of addressing
and winning the cooperation of the affections as soon as
there is submission. The foot strap may be used as a pre-
caution when hitched to wagon, until submission is made
sure.

If the mouth is naturally sensitive, and the horse is docile
but quick and irritable, a different policy must be adopted,
as the horse may drive gently for hours, or even days, and
yet may kick at a real or fancied cause of annoyance. This
mode of treatment would not work well with such, as they
soon become cautious by throwing the head down when
there is such an intention, and there is not persistence
enough to make reproof sufficiently positive to cure the
habit.

The OVERDRAW CHECK will now work well. But care
must be taken to apply it right, or there will be cause
for disappointment in its use. The object is now to simply
disable the horse from his purpose at the least attempt to
kick, which we can easily do, especially while in single
harness. Probably the best way to do this is as follows :

Get a small steel bit and hang it loosely above the driving
bit in the bridle. Put the bridle on the head \ now provide
yourself with a fine, strong piece of hemp or cotton cord,
about three-eighths of an inch in diameter, and sixteen feet
in length. That kept at hardware stores for hanging win-
dows, will do. Put the center of this cord back of the ears,
run the ends back through the rings of the small bit and
through the gag runners, which should be close up to the
ears. (See cut.) Pass them now through the terrets and
back through a ring, which must be attached as far back
upon the crouper as possible, and, attach the ends to the
shafts on each side of the hips. At first this check should
be drawn short, to bring the head as high as the horse can
bear. The head is now not only high, but the least effort
to kick will thwart itself by drawing the check tighter,

80 KICKING STRAPS.

thereby preventing the horse from doing any mischief. As
there is manifested less disposition to kick, give more free-

Over draw Check for Kickers.

dom to the head. When the animal proves safe, change
and use the common check rein, at first rather short. A
nicely rounded strap may be used instead of the cord. It
requires very careful and thorough treatment to reform a
slow, reckless kicker, especially if the nervous system is
much weakened in fhis direction. I have the best success
by th^ second and third methods of subjection in conjunction
with the control of the mouth, and unless you cannot make
your point by this treatment, your success will be doubtful.
Old squealers of this character are to be discarded. 1
know there are so few who will be necessarily thorough in
carrying out obedience, and treating afterwards with pru-
dence and kindness requisite, that I do not wish to encourage
success in making such safe and gentle. It is seen I can
drive any such in a few minutes. The same treatment will
enable breaking up the habit if applied with care and
thoroughness.

Look first for the cau^e of resistance, second for the type
of disposition, and try to make the treatment such as will
prevent and overcome the habit in the most direct and posi-
tive manner, always striving to be cool and careful. Treat
the horse kindly , as soon as there is submission.

KICKING WHILE HARNESSING. 81

KICKING WHILE HARNESSING.

Put on the war bridle (small loop,) and work up with it
sharply right and left a few times, then pull down tight,
and tie into a half hitch. While holding the cord in tne left
hand, step back and pass the hand from the shoulders to the
hind parts gently. If this is borne, take the harness in the
right hand and work it back gently over the back. As this
is borne, untie the cord and tie down, so as to give the
mouth a little more freedom. Now go back and handle as
before, being careful to be gentle; if there is resistance,
punish sharply, tie down short again, and put the harness
on. When there is submission, untie, then work back as
before ; at the least indication of resistance, tremble on the
cord until the horse will bear the harness while free from
restraint.

KICKING WHILE GROOMING.

Some horses are so thin skinned that they can scarcely
bear a currycomb on the flanks or legs, and when excited by
rough treatment and too severe use of the currycomb, are
easily made vicious to handle or groom. Put on the war
bridle, and after working up with it, hold tightly, and with
the left hand use the currycomb on the back, gradually
working to the sensitive part; as there is submission, give
a little more freedom to the mouth, and work back lightly.
If the horse seems unable to bear the currycomb, use the
brush instead, and that, if necessary, lightly. Work lightly
and indirectly to the sensitive part, at the same time speak-
ing gently. It is almost impossible to overcome this habit
if there is not gentleness and kind treatment.

The currycomb is used too much by most grooms. A
sharp toothed, brass currycomb, musf not be used on a thin
skinned horse ; use a brush. I should want a horse to kick
a man out of the stall who would use a currycomb with
needless severity, or be otherwise needlessly harsh.

KICKING W^HILE SHOEING.

Some horses have a peculiar aversion to having their feet
handled, and if once aroused to resistance, from any cause,
are apt to become pretty determined in the habit. If the

6

82 KICKING WHILE SHOEING.

foot is pulled away when taken up, or the horse is excited
and injured in some way while the foot is held, fear of
injury is produced and associated with the requirement,
which, by the usual pulling,- hauling and kicking practices
of the shop, makes the horse worse. The least indication
of ability to resist control of the foot, inspires to greater
resistance, hence, the horse by persistence in such a course is
confirmed in the habit. If only a little irritable and restless
at being shod, put on the war bridle, draw tight, and tie in
a half hitch. The foot can now be handled. Untie in a
few minutes, and let the cord be pulled upon a little when
disposed to resist, which will distract the attention and
cause submission. If the resistance is determined, take up
the fore foot and have it held by an assistant; tie the end
of the long web around the hind foot above the fetlock.
This done, request the assistant to let go the foot and hold
by the head; while standing opposite the shoulder, pull
upon the strap until the foot is brought well forward, giving
loose the instant there is an effort to jerk or kick. Repeat
pulling and letting go, until submitted freely. Now step
directly behind and pull back, giving, as before, until sub-
missive; then bring the web over the back around across
the breast, pulling short enough to bring the foot well for-
ward ; pass the end back under the part over the back, and
pull tight.

Let the assistant now grasp the web, holding firmly a.s
ever, with the left hand holding the head by the bridle.
This brings the leg forward, where it can be handled at
will. If this will not do, tie the end of the web or rope
around the neck, near the shoulders, in the form of a run-
ning noose ; pass the other end back between the fore legs,
around the hind leg, below the fetlock and back through
the loop, around the neck, drawing it through short enough
to bring the foot well forward. Pass the end back under to
prevent sliding, and retain in the hand. The horse will
now be very likely to struggle to get the foot loose. Should
his resistance be so great as to endanger injury, you can
give loose on the end of the rope. When the horse ceases
trying to get the foot loose, rest the left hand upon the hip,
with the right pull upon the foot forward and outward. If
there is great resistance, pull around by the head, which
will enable you to keep him in such limits as you wish.

KICKING WHILE SHOEING. 88

When the struggle ceases, go back and handle as before.
When the foot is submitted to the hand, while held to the
restraint of the rope, put the cord well back upon the neck,
draw it down tightly, and tie it into a half hitch. Then
pull upon the foot with the hand as before. If not resisted,
untie the strap and take the foot in hand gently. Put it
down and take it up, rubbing and handling until there is
entire submission. Then carry it back with the right hand,
keeping well forward out of danger, by resting the left hand
upon the hip, and pulling and yielding to the foot until
manageable. Now pass the left hand down the inside of
the leg, take it from the right and carry it back gently ; put
it down and take it up once or twice. Hammer upon it
lightly, gradually increasing, until the foot is submitted as
required. Now untie the cord and tie it a little longer; go
back and handle the foot as before. If submitted, untie
the cord, holding the end in the left hand, and handle as
before. If there is an intimation of resistance, tremble on
the cord, which will keep attention on the mouth, and
remind of the previous control until the foot is submitted
without restraint. Manage the other hind foot in the same
manner, if necessary. If the horse is very bad to shoe he
must be subjected to the regular treatment for direct sub-
jection, and the smith shop is no place for this. Such
horses should be first handled at home until thoroughly sub-
missive, when simple treatment will enable easily forcing
the animal to stand quietly to be shod. Horses of this
class, rank with the very worst, and should be at once sub-
jected to the most positive means of subjection. Passive
treatment will enable control very easily, but must be used
with care. The feet of such horses should be taken up and
pounded upon repeatedly in the stable, until submission
becomes habitual. When taken to the shop, if necessary,
simply remind that submission must be yielded, and treat
gently — caressing and rubbing head and neck the way the
hair lies. Colts should not be taken to a shop to be shod
until accustomed to have the feet handled.

84 BALKING.

BALKING.

This habit is usually caused by confusing and overload-
ing, or trying to force too much by whipping when
exhausted, or when the draught from some cause becomes
too great for the horse to manage, thereby exciting and dis-
couraging the horse before able to settle down to a steady,
determined pull. When a horse, and especially a young
one, becomes mad, and will not pull when commanded,
there should not be a word or an action that would betray
an understanding of the resistance. Change position — take
up time in some way by fixing the harness or walking
around, whistling or singing, if in the mood. There must
not be any appearance of anger. Give the horse time to
get over the irritation and become willing to use his strength
against the collar. Any characteristic of willfulness denotes
spirit and sensibility, consequently not disposed to submit
to being rudely and injudiciously forced in harness. If
double, get both horses to start evenly. This can be done
best, and greatly lessen the weight of the load in starting,
by standing directly in front of both horses, catching the
bits with the hands. Now move the horses gently to the
right or left, until the wheel almost strikes the side of the
wagon — giving them time to become steady. When you see
they are ready, speak with cheerful, encouraging voice,
*'come boys." If this precaution is taken, there will be no
further trouble ; but bear in mind that the horses must not
now be permitted to go to the limit of their strength.
When they are still pulling with energy, at the first favora-
ble place stop them. After ample time to recuperate, speak
to them gently to go. It seems to be natural for a horse to
go ahead and draw all he can, and it is only when confused,
excited and abused in the most unreasonable and imprudent
manner, that the disposition is ^excited to balk. When
once the habit is acquired, it is liable at any moment to be
persisted in if excited or much force is used.

If there is any treatment to which horses are subject in
educating to harness that is unreasonable and needlessly
harsh, and should be corrected, it is that of pounding or
whipping to make them go, when perhaps the animals are
confused and discouraged, and not in a condition to make
much of an effort.

BALKING. 85

The principal cause of this habit is harnessing horses and
attempting to drive them, and make them draw heavy loads,
before they can know what is required of them, or learn to
use their strength in pulling.

The whip is too irritating, without giving sufficient power
to force obedience, and as the will is stimulated to increased
positiveness and sensibility is blunted in proportion to the
degree the blood is warmed, this advantage of force by the
whip decreases, while the resistance is increased, and hence
is often a direct cause of failure.

If the whip is to be depended upon, the horse should be
driven around in harness only, when it should be made to
crack keenly around the hind legs the instant after "get
up " is spoken, until the horse learns to spring ahead when
commanded. When there is perfect obedience, attach to
the wagon and move gently, stopping and starting often,
until obedience becomes habitual. To prevent this habit
the colt should be driven around in harness, touching up
with the whip, until the idea of starting at the touch of the
whip, and guiding and submitting to the bit, becomes
prompt and habitual. Then drive slowly and gently for
some time after being attached to the wagon.

If the habit is formed, and especially in single harness, it
is usually more from resistance to the bit than collar, and if
the horse is young he will yield readily to simple treatment.
Put through the second course of subjection. Then put on
harness. Drive around, whipping sharply the instant the
horse does not start when commanded, guiding right and
left, and stopping at the control of the bit. If there is a
habit of LUNGING ahead, regardless of the bit, or of not
standing as desired when hitched, be positive and thorough
in requiring instant obedience to the command whoa, which
can be easily done with breaking bit. Drive around until
there is perfect obedience. Then hitch to wagon, gently
start and stop the horse repeatedly, until the obedience is
made certain. The lesson of driving to harness should be
repeated, if there is any disposition to resist. The war
bridle will enable working an ordinary balker very easily
First, make follow promptly with harness on, when the
horse will soon yield to it in harness. There must be
kindness and flattery for every act of obedience. Talk
kindly, give apples, oats, or anything the horse likes.

8G EFFECT OF KINDNESS.

EFFECT OF KINDNESS.

The impression of kind treatment, gradually showing and
encouraging the animal to yield obedience, is certainly very
effective, when carried out well in practice. During my
early experience I traded horses very often. In this way I
became the owner of a pony mare, eight years old. She
proved balky, and on inquiry I learned that she had been
traded round for years, and had been owned by nearly all
the sharp jockeys in the country, being entirely unmanagea-
ble. She would neither go down hill or move on a level in
harness. Neighbors advised me to prosecute for being im-
posed upon with such a good-for-nothing animal. Making
it a rule not to find fault if cheated, I declared myself
satisfied, and concluded to try what I could do with her. I
first filled my pockets with apples, led the mare to a secluded
piece of smooth, slightly descending road, hauling the
buggy by hand ; hitched her to the buggy, but did not urge
her to go ; read a paper the better to show indifference.

After a while she started on a run. To try to make her
go slow by pulling, would be equivalent to making her stop,
and so let her go until she wore off the sharp edge of her
ambition. I now gradually pulled her back, as I could see
she would bear, when I reached a descending piece of
ground, made her stop, got out of the wagon, talked gently,
gave her an apple, then moved forward a little, saying
''come Jennie," (her name,) gave her another apple, rub-
bing her head, as before, and so repeated, for about half an
hour. Then would get into the buggy and make her start ;
after going a few feet or rods making her stop, but always
getting out and rewarding her with an apple. The result
was, that Jennie soon not only would start and stop when
commanded, but became anxious to obey me. Drove her
home; treated her with the utmost kindness; next day
hitched her up gently ; made her start and stop a few times
before getting into the buggy; got into the buggy; soon
made her stop, but rewarded her as before. The result was
that I soon could depend upon her starting and stopping
when commanded. Of course I carried this treatment from
a descending to an ascending grade, teaching the mare
gradually to use her strength. The result was that she be
rame one of the most willing and pleasant little working

EFFECT Oi KINDNESS. 87

animals I ever owned. Sold her in a few weeks. She be-
came the property of a rough, bad man to horses, who, by
needless abuse, made her balk on his way home, and she
became spoiled. This mare was of a sanguine nervous
temperament, naturally willing to do all she could when
shown and treated kindly, but would not bear whipping
and abuse. Her will was so strong that she would stand
bravely, regardless of the most severe whipping. I struck
her with the whip but once, when she threw herself down
in the harness. There cannot be too much care and pa-
tience with young horses that are learning to drive. If a
little stubborn, putting through a short course of subjection
and teaching to move forward, as before explained, will
soon produce perfect submission. If, however, the habit is
thoroughly formed, it must be counteracted by direct
means. To do this best, hitch the balker by the side of a
gentle horse. Attach a strong piece of cord in the form of
a crouper, under the tail of the balker, bring forward
through the terret and tie to the hame ring of the gentle
horse, just short enough to give freedom so long as the hor-
ses are even, but the instant there is a disposition to refuse,
the whole power of the gentle horse is brought to bear upon
the tail, which will cause the horse to jump forward instant-
ly. Stop and start repeatedly, until there is no disposition
to refuse moving forward when commanded. Should pull-
ing on the tail irritate and cause kicking, at once remove
the cord; tie the end of the hair into a knot; tie the cord
to the hair by this knot ; bring forward between the legs
and attach the cord to the hame ring or collar of the gentle
horse, as before. The restraint is now on the tail length-
wise, which has a remarkably disconcerting influence, with
great power to force the horse forward when the gentle
horse starts. If this should fail, there is but one resource
left, which I can here describe, but which is very effective
and valuable if properly applied.

Put the war bridle on ; bring the part over the neck for-
ward to the ears; now jerk sidewise and ahead, and finally
ahead as there is submission, until there is prompt obedience
in coming ahead when pulled upon. Hitch to wagon by
the side of a true horse. Have prepared a smooth stiff pole
about the length of the wagon tongue. Bore a hole a few
inches from the large end, and about a foot or more for-

88 EFFECT OF KINDNESS.

ward of the head bore another. Lay this pole over that of
the wagon, the end uver that of the true horse's whiffletree,
and tie firmly on top with a piece of cord. Now step for-

Pole applied to Balker,

fard and tie a piece of small rope from one hame ring to
the other of the horses, under the pole, so as to be just taut
when in position. Pass another piece of the same sized
cord around the pole and tie it into the true horse's hame
ring short enough to hold the pole in the center. Tie the
cord on the head now to the pole through the hole, just
long enough to give freedom, so long as the horses keep
even ; but as soon as there is refusal to go, the strength of
the true horse is brought by the pole on the head, which
will compel going ahead, (see cut.) Start and stop the
horses often, until obedience is secured. This pole may be
used so long as there is any disposition to balk.

The horse should not be required at first to use much
strength in drawing. Let this be required gradually, as
there is obedience and willingness inspired to work. It is
a grave fault to try to make the horse work immediately.
This must not be attempted. First, create a willingness to
start when commanded, then gradually increase the load
until it becomes habitual to draw when commanded. I am
aware very many will have much trouble, and may wholly
fail with horses of this character. It is presumed that there
is tact and intelligence enough to appreciate and understand
the necessity of being patient, prudent and thorough in
adapting the efforts skillfully. Those who will not have or
have not mind enough to feel the responsibility and value

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.

KlICKINQ 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 gentlest
character would kitfk 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

90 KICKING IN THE STALL.

and down the head to the nose piece of the halter, and you
are safe, as the horse cannot now kick, strike or bite you.
I have repeatedly got tc the shoulder of horses in this way
that would kick and strike the stall just after I passed, yet
not be struck ; it is a feat, however, that must not be at-
tempted unless necessary. In going out, the rule is the
same — pull the head towards you, looking at the eye stern-
ly ; this will throw the quarters fror«i you, and at the instant
you let go, glide out and you are safe.

If the horse is very dangerous, the best and safest course
is subjective treatment, following up witl the war bridle,
sharply until mindful of your commands, or if you wish to
work dead sure, leave the war bridle on. Lead the animal
into the stall, then step back opposite the *hips and say,
*'get around." If there is not prompt obedience, give a
sharp jerk, which will throw the hind part from you. Re-
peat this, and in a short time the horse will learn to step
around promptly when cojnmanded, and allow being ap-
proached. If the horse is persistent, leave the cord on, the
small loop being left larger and passed through the rings of
the halter. As you now step out, retain the cord in the
hand and hang or tie the end to a nail on the post, leaving
sufficient length to permit the horse entire freedom to the
halter. Now when you desire to go into the stall, if the
horse does not step around when commanded, untie or un-
hook the end of the cord and give a jerk upon it, which
will bring the animal to his senses. Leaving this on a few
days, caressing and giving presents of sugar, apples, or
anything of which the horse is fond, will soon not only
break up the confidence, but so enlist the attention that
your approach will be looked for, and eagerly invited to him
by stepping around, and endeavoring to reach toward you
for the present.

I would here observe that there are very many men who
are not fit to have anything to do with a sensitive, well-bred
horse. They are either so coarse and harsh as to excite
resentment, and hate, or so dull and ignorant that they
cannot or will not see that they must both conceal fear and
avoid danger. They will not do either. They abuse and
show so much fear as both to excite and encourage resist-
ance, and 'Without the genius or tact to correct the cause
of mischief they attribute all the trouble to the natural
viciousness of the animal.

PULLING ON THE HALTER. 91

Sensitive horses should not be teased in the stall, or
while cleaning, by pinching, pricking or whipping, to
"show off," as the term is. Gentlemen who own fine
horses should be very particular about this, and a man who
would in any way persist in such treatment, should be
kicked out the stable.

PULLING ON THE HALTER.

It is the disposition of the horse to persist in what he
learns, and this is remarkably so where the habit is one of
resistance to the restraint of the halter or bit. If the halter
strap is broken once or twice, there is a determined purpose
to pull loose at all hazards when hitched. This is some-
times only in the place the habit has been learned. Thus
a horse learns to pull loose in the stall — he will resist being
hitched in stall, but will submit to be hitched anywhere
else; or tl>e horse has learned to pull loose in the street
and resists there, but will submit and not pull in the stall.
This habit is taught either by being tied by the halter before
knowing or being taught to submit to being tied, or acci-
dentally breaking the tying strap. If from the first cause
the animal becomes frightened, pulls, and if successful in
breaking loose, the habit is established ; or the halter strap
is so weak that the least jerk upon it causes it to break, the
habit becomes fixed.

Put on the war bridle, and trair* the horse about until he
will come to you readily. Now brii^g the part over the neck
forward to the ears, and pull more on a line with the body,
repeating until there is prompt obedience to the least pull
forward. Wind the cord once around a post, keeping the
end in the hand, so as to let it loose a little if necessary.
Excite the horse to pull a little, which he will soon fear to
do, as there is great pain induced by the purchase of the
war bridle in this way. Repeat until he will stand, and let
the whip or any other means of excitement be used, without
trying to pull.

Should this fail, try the following method :

Get a strong half-inch cord twenty-two feet in length;
put the center under the tail like a crouper; twist them a
few times as you bring them forward over the back; pass
forward on each sic'e of the body, knot them across the

92 BITING AND STRIKING

breast, then pass them forward through the halter below the
jaw. Tie firmly as you would a halter, to manger or post ;
excite by any means that will make the horse pull until the

Treating a Halter Puller.

habit is overcome. I whip across the nose keenly, until there
is perfect submission, when I can soon make even a bad one
stand up without attempting to pull. To insure safety,
would hitch so for a few days, or so long as there is any
predisposition to pull on the halter. Same treatment for
pulling on the bridle,

BITING AND STKIKINQ.

There are many habits which to break up successfully re-
quire not only good judgment but the highest order of
nerve, and this is not only one of that class, but one that
requires perseverance and caution. The least want of
watchfulness will encourage this propensity; and however
thorough the training, if there is not this care, the horse
will be encouraged to become aggressive, and once allowed
to do so successfully the point gained is lost. Hence the
necessity of being able to see the intention at a glance, and
disconcert the mind from its purpose before being fully
developed. The horse must be made to yield the most
perfect submission, (by the first or second methods of
subjection.) If a stallion this is an absolute necessity. Fol-
low up with the war bridle, punishing sharply. In ap-

BITING AND STRIKING. 93

preaching afterwards, speak sharply "get round !" or any
signal that will attract attention. Let the left hand be put
on the shoulder, (near side,) glide it up the neck to the
head, then down to the nose piece of the halter. If there
is an attempt to bite now, the hand is carried up before the
head and held out of reach, while you can keep the head
from you with the greatest ease.

An old horse subject to this habit must be watched
closely. So long as there is disposition to bite, the horse
must not be regarded safe. Carelessness and timidity,
especially if subjected to harsh treatment, may be regarded
as the primary cause. I have known horses to become
inveterate biters by being whipped once or twice.

A gentleman informed me lately that a horse he formerly
owned became terribly vicious by being struck once with
whip in stall. He was, up to that time, as gentle as any
horse could be. Mr. Roberts' horse, a notice of which I
include in referring to my treatment in the first chapter
from the Utica Herald. This horse had been of a very
docile character. A rough, drunken groom, who was em-
ployed to take care of him, by irritating and abusing the
horse got him vicious. Mr. Roberts now took him in hand ;
one day while in harness the horse acted a little stubborn
and vicious ; Mr. Roberts struck him with the whip, when
instantly the horse struck and bit him, knocking him sense-
less under his feet, and would have killed him if not driven
off by two men, who happened at the time close by. He
had run in his stall seven months, and would jump at any
one with the ferocity of a desperate dog. As was stated, I
took him in hand and made him gentle in less than twenty
minutes, and he remained of a good character afterwards.
If the horse is young and thoroughly treated, there will be
but little trouble in reforming the animal. If old and bad
there is no hope of success, unless there is unusual nerve,
and genius to make every move just right, and follow up
the treatment until the mind relaxes from the purpose, and
the affections are won. The habit is clearly a mania when
once thoroughly formed.

If the horse is allowed to bite without instant and posi-
tive reproof, after training, no matter how thoroughly the
training, the predisposition will be again so strongly devel-
oped as to make the animal watch for an opportunity to

94 CRIBBING.

bite. After forcing obedience, encourage every act of do-
cility. Be continually on the watch for danger and punish
energetically for aggression, but immediately encourage
obedience by kind, affectionate treatment.

CBIBBING.

Cribbing, so far as we are able to learn or judge, is a
habit. There may be constitutionally predisposing causes,
but it is certain, whatever the pretentions of any one, I
have never been given any proof of ability to break up the
habit with medicine. Horses will not crib on anything
that is lower than the knees. Hence the treatment of
tearing away the manger and feeding on the floor, or in a
basket. Sometimes sawing between the teeth will stop the
habit.

There is but one practical plan of breaking up this habit,
and the success of that will depend very much upon the
skill displayed in making the adjustment.

The act of cribbing induces considerable contraction of
the muscles of the neck, and the larynx is forced down
much beyond its natural position. This then is the key
through which we must act. Have the throat-latch of the hal-
ter hang on a line with the top of the head to the junction of
the neck with the head. Take a piece of strap, (good firm
leather,) about five inches in length, and as wide as the
throat-latch. .Drive ten ounce tacks in a row along the,
center of this strap, three-eighths of an inch apart. File
the points sharp and of an equal length. Lay this strap on
the inside of the throat-latch where it crosses the larynx,
wind a piece of waxed thread around both, at the center
and ends of the short strap. Buckle the throat-latch just
long enough so that it will not touch the neck when eating
or drinking, but will press sharply at the least attempt to
crib. The result is that at every attempt to crib the tacks
will stick into the neck, which will hurt and disconcert the
horse from doing so.

The point of success will really depend upon the perfec-
tion and care with which this is kept adjusted. If there is
large muscular development on the neck or thick necked,
the strap must be buckled shorter than when the neck is
well cut out, as it is termed. Make the reproof severe at

PUTTING THE TONGUE OUT OF THE MOUTH.

95

first. Then keep it so as to touch sharply when a repetition
IS attempted. If the throat -latch is not on a line with the
top of the head, the tacks will rest against and cut the jaw,
a little below the junction of the head with the neck. If
this is kept on a few days or weeks, and then put on care-
lessly or taken off, there is likely to be failure; for if the
horse finds he can crib once after this is put on without
hurting himself, he will try to repeat the effort at all
hazards, and will punish himself severely to do so. But if
punished at first and this kept where it will sting at the
least attempt, it will be likely to cure the habit. It is to be
kept on from a few weeks to as many months, according to
the age and persistence of the habit.

GETTING CAST IN STALIi.

Drive a staple into a beam, or the floor directly over the
horse's head, as he stands in the stall, to which attach a
strap or piece of small rope of sufficient length to extend
within fifteen inches of the floor. Before retiring for the
night, attach the other end of the cord or strap to the top
of the halter, making it just long enough to allow the horse
to put his nose to the floor. Being now unable to get the
top of his head to the floor, he is prevented from rolling.

PUTTING THE TONGUE OUT OF THE MOUTH,

Have fittted a piece of thin sheet iron, about two and a
half inches wide, and five inches long, with the «nds made

96

JUMPING OVER FENCES.

rounding, and the edges filed smooth. Drill two small
holes about half an inch apart, near each edge at the cen-
ter. Fasten it through these holes on top of the bit with a
piece of small annealed wire. Shorten the cheek pieces of
the bridle, so that the bit is drawn well up in the mouth.
This piece of iron is now over the tongue, making it im-
possible for the horse to get the tongue over the bit. Keep
this on the bit for two or three weeks, when the horse will
become habituated to carrying the tongue under the bit and
keeping it in the mouth. The tongue is sometimes, but not
often put out under the bit, which indicates a confirmed
persistence in the habit, and is sometimes impossible to
prevent. The following treatment will work admirably in
most cases, and is the only treatment worth explaining:

Get three middling sized bullets and hammer them out to
about an inch and a half in length. Drill a little hole
through the end of each. Tie one to the center of the bit
by a little piece of wire through the joint. Attach the
others to the bit about an inch from the center, (one on
each side,) so as to play loosely. (See cut.)

When this bit is now in the mouth, these extra arrange-
ments will so disconcert the horse that in his struggles to
get them out of the way, he will forgot to put the tongue
out.

JUMPING OVER FENCES.

Many farmers assert that this alone is worth the entire
expense of the lesson. Certainly if this will prove so valiia-

JUMPING OVER FENCES.

97

The Jumper before
adjusting.

ble, the instruction on Taming and Changing Habits rrust
be invaluable. If a horse or mule, put on a halter that fits
well to the head — a five ring halter is best.
Next find a piece of thin leather, (an old
boot-leg will do,) about as long as the
head, and from four to five inches wider
than the head is at the eyes. Form it same
as cut, with a string attached at each
corner. Attach the upper corners by the
strings to the halter where the brow-piece
is attached to the cheek-piece. Tie the
cords attached to the lower corners back of
the jaw (being careful to leave just freedom
enough to masticate easily.) ^Let the ends
now pass over the throat-latch, and make
fast. The horse is simply disabled from
looking ahead. He can look side wise and
back, but cannot look ahead or over the
nose forward, which will disconcert suffi-
ciently to prevent the animal not only jumping, but throw-
ing the fence down. If an ox or cow, attach the upper
corners to the horns, and pass the strings around the neck
instead of over the throat-latch. I find that cows will not
attempt to jump after this has been used two or three
weeks. Horses and mules a much longer time, and in some
cases must be used for months. Of course farmers should
keep fences in good repair to keep
stock from being tempted to jump
them. It is fallacy to suppose that
means, however valuable, can be
wholly relied upon for success, so
long as the cause is permitted to
continue. The leather should be
at least four inches wider than the
head at the eyes, but five or more
will be much better. This will
bring the leather outside of the eyes
when on, from two to three inches,
and around the side of the face to prevent working over the
nose. There may be failure with this, but if properly ap-
plied exceptions will be rare, as it has proved so far almost
infallible.

The Jumper Adjusted.

98 PAWING IN THE STALL.

PAWING IN THE STALL.

Get a piece of chain about ten inches in length — run a
short strap through one of the end links, and buckle it
around the foot above the fetlock; or a piece of light chain
can be fastened to a small block, and attach it to the foot
in the same manner. When the horse attempts to paw, the
clog or chain rattles against the foot, and prevents a repe
tition of the practice.

KICKING THE STALL.

The same treatment used for preventing pawing may be
used ; or a piece of plank may be attached across the stall
over the hips about an inch higher than the hips. At each
effort to kick now, the hind part will strike this plank and
prevent ability to do so. If the kicking is with one foot
against side of stall, attach some brush to the side of the
stall, or hang down loosely over the part kicked at.

Pulling too Hard .on Bit, Turning Around while
Driving, or Running Back, were sufficiently explained in
the article on Running Away ; which, with the illustration
given in teaching, will give sufficient knowledge of the
treatment necessary for these and other habits not specially
mentioned.

KICKING COWS.

Put on the war bridle, (small loop,) and pull a few times,
right and left, then go back gently and attempt to milk.
On the least resistance, hold with the bridle and punish
sharply, so repeating as may be necessary until the cow
learns to stand quietly and becomes afraid to kick. Effec-
tual in every instance.

Of course due attention must be given to the condition
of the animal. Sometimes the teats are sore, and the pain
caused by milking is very severe. Scolding, kicking, or
pounding with the stool should not be permitted, as it only
increases the mischief it is desired to avert. One or two
lessons have proved effectual in every instance used.

THE WAR BRIDLE.
THE 'WAR BBIDIiE.

99

This is simply a cord of the best material, twisted hard,
of about three-eighths of an inch in diameter, and twelve
or fourteen feet long. Tie each end into a hard knot, just
as you would do to prevent its raveling, with the difference
of putting the end through the tie twice. Then pull down
tight and hard close to the end. Now tie another knot
about twelve inches from the end, but before drawing it
tight, put the end through. (See cut.) This will make a
loop that will not slip or draw through. The great simpli-
city of this form of knot, and the ease with which it can be
untied, gives it preference to me over all other forms of
knot I have ever used, and is, in my judgment, the best
form of knot, all things considered, to be recommended for
general use. The peculiar power given by this means upon
the mouth is liable to cause accident, when used upon a
quick, sensitive horse or green colt, with too much energy
in such a manner as to bring the restraint directly back
upon the mouth, which would in many cases cause the horse
to rear up and possibly fall over backward upon the head.
Of course a horse is liable to get killed by such an accident,
and it must and should be guarded against. This loop
should be just large enough to go over the lower jaw, back
of the bridle teeth of the horse it is intended to be used
upon. The other end can now be formed into another loop
in the same manner, with the difference of being large
enough to go over the head and fit tightly around the neck
well back to the shoulder.

APPLYING THE ^WAR BBIDLB.

There are two ways of applying and using the war bridle:

ist. While standing forward of the shoulders on the near

side of the horse, throw the small loop over the neck and

100 FOUR RING BIT.

take in the left hand. Then with the right put the large
loop through from the top side. Now pass the left hand
forward to the mouth, adroitly spreading the loop in the
same position over the thumb, second, third and fourth
fingers, at the same time the right hand is to be passed under
the neck, around the head, upon the nose, which is to be
grasped gently but firmly, while the loop is put over the jaw
back of the bridle teeth with the left.

By standing near the shoulder and giving a sharp pull,
you will find the horse will come to you easily, by repeating
which he will soon learn to follow. This is a powerful
means of controlling by the head; is particularly valuable
in teaching to lead, controlling the head in bridling, har-
nessing, grooming, or even in shoeing, if simply a little
irritable. Drawing down tightly and tying into a half
hitch, will sometimes have a powerful effect. This is the
most powerful and valuable means ever discovered of teach-
ing colts to lead, and will enable handling even very bad
horses easily. It is not, however, suitable or powerful
enough to control horses of a decidedly bad or stubborn
character.

id. Take the large loop between both hands, and while
standing directly in front of the horse, slide it over his head
well back upon the neck, about where the collar rests. The
loop should be made in size to fit tightly around this part of
the neck. Now put the other end down between the loop
and neck. Put the loop this forms into his mouth back of
the bridle teeth, then draw down upon the end until the
slack is taken up. This method of using the war bridle,
enables more power sidewise than the first, but does not like
the first give power to pull ahead.

FOUR RING BIT.

This peculiar form of bit will work in the control of
oome pullers with great success. It is made and used as
follows :

Take an ordinary short steel snaffle bit, heat and bend in
the form of a link one of the rings, now slip over this ring
two one inch rings, when the ring previously bent is to be
straightened out as before. You have now a snaffle bit,
with two rings on the mouthpiece. (See cut.) Buckle into

FOOT STRAP.

101

a common bridle. Get
made next two straps,
one two feet in length
and three-quarters of an
inch wide, made like a hame strap ; the other about three
feet in length, narrower and lighter. Run the short strap
through both rings and buckle double, in the form of a
nose-piece, buckling just long enough to fit around the nose
closely. Bring the long strap around the short one at the
center, pass up and through a little loop left in the bridle
between the ears and buckle, just short enough to let the
nose-piece come straight across the nose. It will now be
found by standing in front of the horse, putting both
thumbs through the rings and giving a little jerk down and
backwards, that the head will be thrown up and back easily.
The strap across the nose will act as a fulcrum when the
rings on the end of the bit are pulled upon, the two inside
rings slide towards the center, forcing the joint upwards
against the roof of the mouth, which causes so much pain
that the horse will not try to resist after being pulled upon
a few times. As a driving bit this is very powerful. After
being pulled upon a few times, there are but few horses that
will try to resist it. It overcomes pulling on one rein or
throwing the nose upon the breast. The effect of this bit
on some horses is very great. It does not cut or make the
mouth sore like other bits, and would be especially valuable
on horses that pull hard and get the mouth sore, as it does
not touch the lower jaw, yet forces perfect submission.

FOOT STBAP,

Any piece of strap
or rope of about twelve
or fourteen feet in
length, simply tied
around the fore foot in
most any manner, will"
answer on an emer-
gency. But simply
tying or knotting
around the foot is ob-
jectionable on account
of the danger of chafing

102 TROTTING.

and preventing circulation, or possibly untying at some
critical moment. When necessary to use a foot-strap
much, it should be specially adapted for the purpose by
making as follows: Have a smooth strap made, about
twelve inches long and an inch wide, with a buckle on
one end and buckle holes punched in the other. About
one inch from the buckle should be fitted, under the lap
passing around the buckle, a ring or D stitched in nicely.
The edges of this strap should be dressed down smooth ; or
much better, cover the part coming in contact with the foot
with a piece of soft leather. This strap is intended to buckle
around the foot below the fetlock. Into the ring fasten the
end of a strap or web fourteen feet long and an inch and a
half wide.

Buckle the short strap around the near fore foot below the
fetlock, then pass the long strap over the belly-band on the
near side back to the wagon, and hold as a rein. This gives
control of the foot at will, by which the horse can be dis-
abled and disconcerted instantly, while driving. If the horse
attempts to kick, simply pulling the foot up throws him off
his balance. He can neither kick or run back, and if he
attempts to go ahead it must be on three legs, in a manner
that makes resistance quite limited. It is especially valuable
when training colts to drive, by neutralizing the animal's
power to resist should he become frightened and attempt to
kick or back. The foot-strap is also valuable as a means of
enabling control of horses that will not submit to being
rode, and is very effective.

TROTTING.

A good walking gait should be the foundation of the
training. Continue this walking lesson until the colt is
thoroughly gentle and submissive, and has learned to walk
with energy. Now gradually let out on a moderate trot,
holding up often, gradually letting out a little faster, as the
strength and education will bear, but never so as to cause
fatigue. Those muscles that are brought most into use are
most largely developed, and bear in mind also that a coll
has neither the strength or bottom of an old horse, to beai
either much exertion, or to be pushed in his gait, and can
not at once act the part of a fast going well trained horse.

TROTTING. 103

Let this jogging be continued, gradually as there is ambi-
tion and the road is smooth and descending; but let out
only so fast, or to the point that the gait is held even and
square ; and at first should be pushed only a short distance,
after which pull back to a walk and speak encouragingly.
This is to be repeated, gradually going a little faster, but
never to the point of exhaustion, always encouraging with
a kind word or two after doing well. I would here caution
against hitching the colt to a heavy wagon or sulky. The
weight must be reduced as much as possible, and the better
to facilitate the object, always let the bursts of speed be on
a smooth, slightly descending piece of road. By this pre-
caution you will remove all drag, and the horse is able to
use all his powers to the best possible advantage.

This careful driving and gradually teaching the animal to
push forward when commanded is to be continued, hut
however promising, the risk should not be hazarded of
trotting a race, or a long distance, before the system is
thoroughly matured and hardened to bear prolonged exer-
tion. The gait of many fine trotters is ruined by too much
haste and harshness in training. A horse has not his growth
until five years old, and should not be put to severe work
before six or seven years old. It is proved by experience
that much greater age is necessary to attain great speed.
Flora Temple made her fastest time of two minutes nineteen
and three-quarter seconds, when she was fifteen years old,
at Kalamazoo. Dexter is constantly increasing his speed,
we are informed, by age and practice; and so it will be
found with all the best trotters. They were grown into
great speed by careful, persevering work, by which the
system is highly developed, the muscles are strengthened
and hardened, and useless foul matter that would obstruct
the free action of the heart and lungs, and increase the
weight, is removed.

Should the horse break when pushed in his gait, he should
not be pulled up too suddenly, which would slacken his
speed. Rather encourage him to go faster, and by gently
and firmly pulling right and left bring him to the trot. The
horse has now no disposition to resist control, and he must
be taught to rely upon with confidence, as well as yield
submission to the control and restraint of the bit.

104

TO FORCE ON THE TROT.

TO FORCE ON THE TROT.

There are many promising steppers that will break and
run, and will not come down to work again, when much
excited ; and unless there is power to prevent such a habit
and force on the trot, the horse cannot be relied upon in a
race, at perhaps the very instant pushing is necessary.
There is not power to do this by the bit, and consequently
horses that step freely in private become foolish and unre-
liable when urged in company with other horses. There is
but one way of overcoming this trouble, and that is by the
use of the following means, the conception of which has
been original with myself, and brought to the notice of
trainers by me for several years, and has proved in skillful
hands a valuable adjunct, to the end of making flighty, ner-
yous horses come down to fast, reliable going.

Have made first four straps
long enough to go around the
hind legs above the hocks,
and from three quarters to an
inch wide. Obtain next two
D's or rings, in size to admit
two each of these straps
to be run through. Step
in front of each hind leg and
buckle these straps around
the leg, one above and one
below the gambrel, the ring

Cure for Breaking.

or D in front, bringing the straps to an acute angle. Put
on the head a light well-fitting halter. Attach a strap to
this, which must be in part double to regulate the angle,
and must be long enough to extend from the head to the
back edge of the girt. On the end is to be attached a
small, nice, easy running pulley, fitted to run a half-inch
cord. The strap is to pass back from the halter, between
the legs, over the belly-band, just back of which must come
this pulley. Take next a piece of firm, hard cotton or hemp
cord, from three-eighths to half an inch in size. Run it
through the pulley to the center, and tie the ends into the
D's or rings attached to the hind legs; the whole to be so
regulated in length that the horse can walk or trot easily.
This is similar to the kicking straps described on page 78.

TO FORCE ON THE TROT. 105

(See cut.) One leg going forward to the degree that the
opposite one goes back, brings no restraint on the cord or
head, but the instant both feet go back as in the act of
running, the cord is shortened, the head is drawn back, and
the horse is taught that he is helpless. He soon learns this
and becomes afraid to break, though subjected to any rea-
sonable excitement. With this "rig" on, move the horse
on a walk until accustomed to it, which will usually require
but a very short time. Then let out on a moderate trot,
and when thoroughly accustomed to it pushing to a fast
gait. This must be repeated. In fact this arrangement
should be kept on until the horse is made reliable. Should
be driven and thoroughly practiced with other horses, and
excitement made as if in a race. Of course all this requires
ingenuity, patience and care.

This will work best on some horses by attaching to the
collar, or around the neck. The restraint is simply more
positive by this change.

One gentleman in Ohio, two years since, came one
hundred and fifty miles to get this treatment of me, and in
three months afterwards he informed me that he had since
sold a mare for fifteen hundred dollars which he had bought
for three hundred and seventy-five dollars. She would
break when in the least excited, and could be made nothing
of, though a fast stepper. He bought her, made the experi-
ment, and in less than a month had her down fine, and
could hold her under the whip regardless of yelling and the
excitement of competing horses. This gentleman informed
me he then had a horse that promised equally good results
by this treatment.

106

BREEDING.

BREEDINQ.

Intelligent and Gentle.

One of the primary points
of success is to start right,
and in no respect is this
more essential than in breed-
ing. The law of like pro-
ducing like is inexorable ;
consequently it is seen that
to raise good horses, good
horses must be bred from.
Many farmers who are other-
wise keenly alive to their
interest, are singularly
thoughtless and imprudent
in this. If a mare is broken
down and unfit for labor, no
matter how coarse, badly
formed, or what the evidence
of constitutional unsoundness, she is reserved to breed from.
Again the cheapest horse, no matter how coarse if sleek
and fat, is selected and employed to breed from. The most
ignorant farmer is particular to select the largest and soun-
dest potatoes, the cleanest wheat and oats, for seed, etc.
He has learned this is
true economy. Yet
there seems to be the
most utter disregard
of this law of pru-
dence in the breed-
ing of horses and
farm stock in general.
During my long ex-
perience before the
public, I have en-
deavored to impress
upon farmers, when
I could, that this sort
of economy is like
paying a quarter for a

chicken, and giving a duU and TreacheroM.

dollar to have it taken home.

BREEDING.

107

It costs just as much to raise a poor, coarse blooded colt,
as a fine blooded one. The cost of feeding and care is
really the same, the only difference in cost being in that of
the use of the horse. The first will possibly sell when five
years old and trained to harness, for from a hundred
to a hundred and fifty dollars. The other is worth
from three hundred to a thousand, and possibly more.
The first will scarcely sell for the cost of feeding and
care. The second ensures a large profit, and this for
a little additional first cost. And then the satisfaction of
having fine valuable animals, that can go along if necessary,

able to do any kind
of work easily, and
saleable for a larger
price, is a source of
no ordinary pleasure
and encouragement,
if from no other
feeling than that of
contributing so
largely to increased
economy and wealth.
The fact is, breeding
from poor, unsound
horses is so much a
detriment, that it
would be a damage
to any one to be
compelled to breed from such stock, if given for the purpose.

Naturally Sensitive and Shy,

IN RUSSIA, PRUSSIA AND AUSTRIA,

the breeding of horses is controlled by the governments,
each one having large breeding establishments, where those
wishing, can procure sound stallions, devoid of all heredi-
tary diseases. Each stallion is furnished with a certificate
from the government. No other stallions are allowed to
serve mares, under a penalty. The result is, that you will
scarcely find an unsound horse, except by accidents, etc.
Hereditary diseases, such as ophthalma, roaring, rupture,
spavin, ringbone, curby hock, spongy feet, etc., scarcely
known. It would be a source of undoubted economy and
benefit to the breeders, if the legislature of each State would

108 BREEDING.

enact such laws, by appointing competent inspectors to
grant licenses to those free from blemish or hereditary dis-
eases or unsoundness.

A few years' breeding, under such restrictions, would
materially increase the value of horses in each State, and
thus be a real blessing to owners and the country.

In selecting a stallion, look first carefully at his head. The
nostrils should be large and well defined; eyes, that they
are full, bright, and clear ; good breadth between the eyes ;
the ears lively and rather short and tapering, and the head
high between the ears; next, that the throat shows no en-
largements of the glands, showing a disposition to be a
whistler or roarer; next, the slioulder should be oblique,
strong and high; then the fore leg, see that it is not tied in
(as it is termed) under the knee, for such are liable to
spring; then the feet should be of good size, sufficient
depth to be strong in the quarters; spongy and flat feet
should be rejected; next, the loin should be strong, the
back should be well coupled, quarters broad from point to
point of hips, and running nearly straight out to root of
tail ; stifle should stand low and well out ; hocks broad and
strong; no puffs or wind galls, as it indicates weakness.
As a colt from such a horse at an early age, may show indi-
cations of blood spavin or thorough pin, look at the inside
of the hock, an enlargement at the point of what is called
a jack spavin or curb, enlargement on the back of the leg ;
next, at the foot, that there is no enlargement at the edge
of the hoof, known as ringbone; weak eyes, or blindness,
poll evil, fistula of withers, or in fact any cause of unsound-
ness should discard a stallion. I need not remind that the
mare should be selected with the same care. Heaves,
broken wind, and marked contraction of the feet should
discard a horse, and I would by all means discard a bad
tempered one. The horse should be in good health or con-
dition. This implies that he has been subjected to moder-
ate but regular exercise during the season. A horse that is
driven hard and hurried from place to place, perhaps over-
heated and made to cover from two to four or five mares a
day, should be regarded as unsafe, and the colt liable to
lack vitality.

To be successful in breeding any particular variety of
horses requires first decision as to the purpose for which

THE MARE. 109

intended. To be particular requires first, intention as to
purpose for which intended. If heavy draft horses, evenly-
trotting roadsters, or ponies are required, select both dam
and sire with special reference to the kind of stock wanted.
If the mare is light boned or defective, select a heavier
boned horse, one that possesses the contrast of greater
strength or better points in that respect. But to ensure
much certainty of what you would have, the mare and
horse should be as nearly the type desired as possible,
though not related. I would be very particular about dis-
position and intelligence. The head should be broad
between the eyes, muzzle small, short or middling short
from eyes to ears. The smaller and rounder the eyes, the
more positive will be the temper. (See cuts.) To have a
horse sensitive, intelligent, courageous, and naturally docile,
there must be large brain, the eye must be large, standing
well out, and mild in expression.

Of course it is understood that bad treatment will

SPOIL THE BEST TEMPERED HORSES, AND GOOD TREATMENT
WILL MAKE GOOD SAFE ANIMALS OF THE WORST.

THE MARE.

The mare is said to go with foal eleven months or three
hundred days; but it is not uncommon for mares to have
fully developed foals in much less time, and in many
instances mares have been known to go four or five weeks
beyond this time. Time should be so arranged in putting
mares, that the colts will come at a time when there is some
grass, as the mare will do better not to be confined to dry
feed. The virgin mare, or one that has not had a colt, for
one season, must be put when she is found in season. The
mare that has had a colt will be found in season, and should
be put on the eighth or ninth day after foaling; some prefer
the eighth, others the eleventh. Good judges claim that it
is dangerous to go beyond the tenth, as the mare is apt to
come off her heat soon after, and if allowed to go to a later
period, the sucking of the colt is likely to reduce the mare
too much to allow conception to take place, and thus a
year's service of the breeder is lost.

After putting a mare, the days for trial are the ninth after
service, the seventh after this, the fifth after this again.

110 STABLING.

Some commence again, commencing with the ninth day
and follow up as before, making forty-two days. Twenty-
one days being the period elapsing between a mare's going
out of heat, and coming in again, making her periodical
term thirty days. Twenty-one days is claimed to be suffi-
cient to prove a mare.

The mare and colt should be well fed, and protected
from storms. The theory of working a mare hard, and
half starving the colt, is the poorest kind of economy,
since the mare needs generous feed and rest, to renew her
strength and make her milk, by which of course the colt is
nourished and made to grow. When size and strength will
indicate that it is time to wean, which is usually in five or
six months, put the colt in a quiet pasture, away from the
mare, where it should be closely looked after. A little
oats, (better if bruised,) should be given daily.

The conclusion of careful breeders is, that it is much
better for a colt to run in pasture, than to be confined in a
stable. If the colt is intended for farm use, castration may
be performed when six months old ; if, however, the withers
are light, it should be postponed until the head and neck
fills up to the degree required, and this may require from
one to two years, or even more. If the head is large and
heavy, early castration is advisable. Colts should be gen^
erously fed, and protected from the inclemency of the
weather in winter. They should be treated gently. May
be broken early to harness, if treated gently and with care.
This, however, is hazardous, as there is danger of over-
driving young colts if they are driven at all. Many seem
to take pride in trials to which they subject two or three
year old colts. It is not what they can do, but what they
ought to be required to do.

STABLING.

Pure air is not only an absolute essential in securing and
retaining the perfect health of horses, but is the cheapest
and most easily available. The stable should be so located
and constructed as to enable this most perfectly, as well as
afford the greatest convenience and comfort, thus ensuring
health and economy. It should be built on a dry, airy
location, facing the south, large enough to give ample

STABLING. 1 1 1

lOom, warm and well lighted, yet well ventilated. The
stalls should be at least five feet wide for work horses, and
if fine horses that are worked but little, they should be
large enough to enable stepping around freely. If there is
room, a box stall is the best, but it should not be close.
The door, at least, should be made of slats, and a window
above the head, so arranged that it can be thrown qpen to
give light and ventilation. The door should be large, to
preclude injury by striking the sides or hips against the
posts, and there should be a reasonably large yard, which
should be well fenced. If a manger and rack of the com-
mon form across the stall is used, I would suggest an im-
provement upon that in general use.

First. It should be so constructed that the horse cannot
waste the feed while eating, yet should not be very high —
the top about three and a half feet from the floor.

The rack, instead of sloping out over the head of the
horse, should stand straight, or perpendicular, which will
prevent hay seed and dust from falling upon the horse's
head, and enable catching and pulling the hay more easily
from the rack, and the back so inclined forward that the
hay will all the time be in the horse's reach. The bottom
should be open like the front, so that the dust can drop
through to the floor.

The best form of manger I have seen, both for conve-
nience, safety and health, is that so constructed that there
is an alley in front of the head. The place for hay is a
sort of box, on one side of which is a feed box, which
should be large enough to prevent throwing the feed out
while eating. The hitching ring should be on the off or
farther side, to prevent the strap being caught by the foot.
The manger should be about on a level with the shoulders.
The nearer the horse is made to imitate his position when
eating in the field the better. But this is not admissible in
the construction of the manger, since the horse would
waste the feed. This form of feeding box and manger is
cleaner. There is not that temptation to give more hay at
a time than the horse may need. The manger can be
reached easily and safely; in feeding the hay is easily
thrown upon the floor, where it can be easily shaken up
and thrown fresh and palatable to the horse. It obviates
the usual temptation of a receptacle under the manger, in

112 STABLING.

which to pack, during the day, a lot of poisonous bedding,
and finally there is the best of ventilation, as the air can
freely circulate in front of the manger. Every stable should
have a sort of chimney, or opening at the top, to allow of
the bad air to pass out freely. The windows should be so
placed as to admit light enough that the ordinary work of
the stable can be done without opening the doors, which
should have shutters to enable darkening the stable if ne-
cessary, when flies are troublesome, or to permit sleep in
the day time, which is often necessary. The walls, if any,
in front should not be whitewashed, as is often done, as
pure white would .injure the eyes. The color should be
made neutral by adding some brown or other coloring mat-
ter. A cellar stable, unless so constructed as to enable at
all times the most perfect ventilation, is dangerous; yet one
of the best stables I have seen was what would be termed a
cellar stable, which was simply a series of box mangers
running across the whole size of the building, with a pas-
sage-way running lengthwise through the centre, thus giving
free access to each range from the end, from which was a
run-way to the floor above ; but there was a series of little
open grates around the entire room near the ceiling, which
gave perfect ventilation. A special point I would call at-
tention to, viz. : not having, on any condion, a stall so
constructed as to have a stone or brick wall on one side, or
have the naked wall form one side of a stall. The temper-
ature of one side is so much lower than that of the other,
that derangement of the circulation must result, causing
cold and injury that is often the cause of spoiling a vamable
horse. If a stall is so located, line the wall with plank.
The construction of farmer's stables is generally bad, the
stalls being too narrow and short, the hay rack too high,
and the top part standing too far forward over the head.
In many cases they are but little better than a close, dark
box, without any adequate means of ventilation wtien the
doors are closed, and if they are open there is iisuaity so
much draft of air as to cause cold, just as those ocniinying
a close, warm room are made to feel keenly anv sudden
current of cold air that may be admitted into the room by
too suddenly throwing the doors open while warm The
sudden influx of cold air would check perspiration and rlose
the pores of the skin, thereby endangering some acutf* **Q»ra
of inflammation.

FEEDING. ]13

Again, the stables are usually built over a cellar, which is
perhaps half filled with water and manure that throws up-
ward through the floor a deadly miasma that lays the found-
ation of disease. The rack is crammed with hay, the dust
and dirt of which is forced against the horse's nose. The
manger is half filled with filth and trash. The bedding,
thoroughly impregnated with ammonia, is rolled under
the manger in the morning, to saturate and poison the hay
above it in the rack, or such other food as may be given the
animal. The usual bad ventilation and high temperature
of cellar stables make too great and violent a change in the
temperature when taken in or out, and the consequence will
be cold cough, with great disposition to attacks of pneu-
monia, or lung fever. Humanity and true self interest
should prompt to looking to these errors being corrected in
the construction of the horse's places of living, and as these
ends can be attained without any extra expense worthy of
consideration that is necessary for the construction of a
poor one, it is a duty which is a really suicidal policy to
neglect.

I would suggest, in conclusion, that the flooring of stalls
or a stable should never be made of hard wood, such as
oak, ash, chestnut, etc., as it wears smooth and endangers
slipping and injury of the horse in getting up. The best
wood for flooring is elm, spruce, hard pine, hemlock, or
any wood that will wear rough and prevent slipping.

FEEDING.

Hay, corn fodder, oats and corn, constitute the principal
food of horses in this country. Hay and oats in the North-
ern States, fodder and corn in the South. The food should
be in quality and quantity to impart strength, vitality and
elasticity, and this requires some discrimination and care,
as the food should be harmonized both to the condition,
and the severity of the labor to which the horse is sub-
jected. As a rule, the stomach should not be distended
with food when prolonged, energetic effort is desired, as the
heart and lungs would thereby be much impeded in their
action, and congestion and rupturing of or enlarging of the
air cells of the lungs may result. This is to be especially
guarded against in the feeding of hay. Greedy eaters can

8

114 FEEDING.

and will gorge themselves by eating so much hay as to be
unfit for active labor, and is usually shown to result in
heaves or broken wind. Heaves are always found in the
teamsters' or carters' stables, where there is no care in feed-
mg. This disease is always found among horses of the
above class, but never found among racing horses, from the
fact that the utmost prudence and care is used in selecting
the food, and feeding in smaller quantities, or in adapting
the food more perfectly to the wants of the system.

It has been demonstrated beyond doubt that the reason
horses improve so much in wind by eating prairie hay is,
that it is so coarse that horses cannot eat it fast enough to
overload the stomach. The quantity of hay should be
carefully regulated, and never as much given as the horse
will eat if at all voracious. The majority of owners pack a
large rack full, allowing either liberty to eat too much, or
making it unpalatable and unhealthy, by being breathed
upon. From eight to ten pounds is about the average
quantity for an ordinary roadster to be allowed in twenty-
four hours, more or less, according to size, the kind of
work, and the quantity of grain given. Dusty or mouldy
hay should not be fed, as it is liable to produce various forms
of disease.

All food should be clean, and in quality perfect. Hay is
most perfect when it is about a year old. Horses would
perhaps prefer earlier, but it is neither so wholesome nor so
nutritious, and may purge. When it is a year old it should
retain much of its green color and agreeable smell.* The
blades of corn pulled and cured in the summer are unques-
tionably much better than hay. I should certainly prefer
this kind of fodder to any kind of hay, for fine horses. It
is strange that it is not prized more highly in the North.

Oats make more muscle than corn. Corn makes fat and
warmth. Hence, the cplder the weather, the more corn
may be given, and the harder the work, the more oats.
Oats should be a year old, heavy, dry and sweet. New
oats will weigh from ten to fifteen per cent, more than old
ones; but the difference is principally water. New oats are
said to be more difiicu't to digest, and when in considerable

=' Note 1.— In packing or stacking hay. salt should be slightly sprinkled
through it so as to detroy insects. It also aids in preserving it bright, and makaa
it more palatable and healthy for the horse.

FEEDING. 115

quantity are apt to cause flatulency and derangement of the
stomach and bowels. The same may be said of corn. If not
sound and dry, it may be regarded even much more dan-
gerous than oats, and should not be fed. Doing so will be
at the hazard of the consequences above mentioned.

The quantity of oats given daily may vary from eight to
sixteen quarts. If the horse is large, and the work is severe,
a little more may be given. Corn should be fed in the ear,
and like oats must be regulated in quantity to the size and
labor of the animal ; from five to twelve good sized ears are
a feed. I give a larger proportion of feed at night, and less
in the morning and noon. There is ample time for diges-
tion during the night. There is not during the day, if the
labor is severe. Experience proves that some mildly cooling
laxative food should be occasionally given. A bran mash,
made by pouring boiling water on eight or ten quarts of
wheat bran, covered over until cool and fed at night, from
once to three times a week, is the finest and best.

Carrots are a good laxative and alterative before frost,
but are too cold and constipating during cold weather. They
may be fed in October, November and December, but in
the Northern States not later. (I am governed by the
judgment of one of the best veterinary surgeons in the
United States, based upon careful and critical observation
of effects on a large number of horses, on this point.) I
feed Irish potatoes, from one to three quarts, with the usual
quantity of grain, from two to three or four times a week,
and would recommend their use. Think their value cannot
be over-estimated. Feeding a small quantity of roots and
giving bran mashes, keeps the bowels open and the system
in a uniform, healthy condition. Without them constipa-
tion is probable, and this is one of the primary causes of
diarrhoea, colic, or inflammation of the bowels. If it is
desired to make a horse fat in a short time, feed corn meal
and shorts, with cut straw, to which add a pint of cheap
molasses. Nothing like this for recruiting and filling up a
horse that is out of sorts or poor. If the horse eats too fast,
put a few round stones in the feed box. He must now pick
the food from among the stones, and thus he is compelled
to eat slowly.

If the horse is exhausted, or when sufficient time cannot
be allowed for him to eat and partially digest a full meal.

116 WATERING.

he may be greatly refreshed by a draught of warm gruel, or
in summer, of cold water containing a small quantity of
meal. To give some idea of the routine of feeding and
watering when great care is necessary, I include the system
of feeding and watering Mr. Bonner's famous trotting horse,
Dexter:

'* At six every morning, Dexter has all the water he wants,
and two quarts of oats. After eating, he is ' walked ' for
half an hour or more, then cleaned off, and at nine has two
quarts more of oats. If no drive is on the card for after-
noon, he is given a half to three-quarters of an hour of
gentle exercise. At one o'clock he has oats again, as before,
limited to two quarts.

'' From three to four, he is driven twelve to fifteen miles;
after which he is cleaned off and rubbed thoroughly dry.

' ' He has a bare swallow of water on returning from the
drive, but is allowed free access to his only feed of hay, of
which he consumes from five to six pounds.

''If the drive has been a particularly sharp one, he is
treated as soon as he gets in, to a quart or two of oat meal
gruel; and when thoroughly cooled, has half a pail of
water and three quarts of oats, with two quarts of bran
moistened with hot water.

''Before any specially hard day's work or trial of his
speed, his allowance of water is still more reduced."

WATEBING.

If a large quantity of cold water is taken into the stomach
while the system is agitated and sensitive, by the circulation
being so increased as to open the pores of the skin freely,
it is liable to so chill the stomach as to derange the circula-
tion and close the pores of the skin, and thus excite some
one of the common alimentary derangements of colic or
inflammation of the bowels. Hard water, especially cold
well water, is more liable to cause mischief in this way than
soft water. Hard water will derange some horses, so much
as to show an almost immediate effect of causing the hair to
look rough or stare, the appetite deranged, if not indeed
preceded by colic or inflammation of the bowels; also,
horses that are raised and worked in the country, where the
water is strongly impregnated with lime, are troubled a

WATERING. 117

good deal with intestinal calculi, /. e.y stone in the bladder.
Hence soft water should be given, if convenient; and if
well water, especially while warm, it should either have the
chill taken off or be given very sparingly.

The best time to water is about half an hour before feed-
ing. While driving, the rule should be little and often.
None, or only a swallow or two, should be given at the
close of a drive, until cool. If very warm, the horse should
be walked moderately where there is not a current of air to
strike him, from ten to thirty minutes, as may be found
necessary. If, then, any danger is apprehended, the chill
should be taken off the water if very cold and given sparingly
a few swallows at a time. The common custom is to give
about a half bucket of water. The safest course would be
to give less and repeat. The rule should be, for ordinary
use, to give small quantities often during the day, and the
animal to pursue his journey or labor immediately after. If
allowed to stand, the system may be chilled. The absor-
bents are closed, which is the common cause of Laminitis
or Founder, although this disease may not develop itself
until twelve or twenty-four hours afterwards, and any cause
which will chill the system — either cold winds or cold
water — while the animal is warm, will be almost sure to
produce the above disease.

TEACHING TRICKS.

Do not hurry a horse too fast in his training. If you
undertake to teach too much, or too fast in the start, or
indeed at any time, you only confuse or discourage. Do
only s(^ much as the horse can comprehend, and make daily
progress.

TEACHING TO FOLLO^TV.

If it is desired to simply teach the horse to follow prompt-
ly with halter or bridle on, apply the war bridle (small
loop); when he comes round promptly, stand off a short
distance and say, " Come here, sir." If he d 2s not come
to you, give a sharp pull, gradually changing positions and
going a little farther. If he comes to you promptly, caress
him; if not, pull sharply, repeating in this way until you
can make him come to you promptly, in any direction, at
the word.

TO MAKE FOLLOW TVITH THE WHIP.

The simplest and easiest way of doing this, is to work up
sharply with the war bridle, and when the horse comes to
you promptly, take a short, blunt whip, step up to the
shoulder, and while holding the bridle loosely in the left
hand, pass the whip gently over the shoulder, and tap
lightly with the end on the off side of the head. This will
annoy the horse and cause him to move the head a little
from it, toward you; instantly stop and caress, then repeat
the tapping again; should he attempt to run from you,
hold him by the bridle. Repeat in this way until the horse
will step toward you promptly. Then touch the whip over
the hips and say, " Come, sir." If he comes up to you, or
shows the least disposition to do so, caress, and so continue
until he will come up promptly. Now step a little sidewise
and ahead and say, '' Come, sir." If he should step after

TEACHING TRICKS. 119

you, caress, if not, touch the lash over the hips. In a short
time the horse will learn to step to you, and follow promptly
When he will do this, stand him in a corner of the room,
stand a little in front of him and touch him lightly with the
whip on the fore-legs and say, " Come here, sir." At the
least intimation of coming, stop and caress. Then repeat,
touching with the whip. If he moves to you a little, stop
and caress, and in this way repeat until he will come to you
promptly. Then get a little farther from him and repeat in
the same manner until he will learn to hurry up to you, to
get away from the whip. Should he bolt away, put on the
bridle, and hold the end in the left hand. You can now
hold him by the bridle when he attempts to run, until he
finds he cannot get away, and will come up promptly.

This lesson should be made very thorough before there is
an attempt to take the horse out of doors, and then in a
small yard. If this is not convenient, put on the bridle,
having good length of cord, and hold in the left hand
loosely.

If the horse is of a bad character, the following method
may be used : Turn the horse into a room or small yard well
enclosed. Provide yourself with a good bow whip. The
horse will feel uneasy and look around at you, and then
perhaps for some place by which to escape. Walk up to
him, and as he runs into a corner apply the lash sharply
under his flanks, following him up, making the whip sting
keenly around the hind legs. When he stops or turns his
head toward you, stop instantly, reach out the hand, at the
same time approaching gently. Should he run or turn
around to kick, whip instantly as before, and so continue
until you can approach and caress the head and neck a little.
Then say, *'Come, sir," at the same time touching the
whip lightly over the hips. If he comes, or shows the least
disposition to do so, caress and speak encouragingly. If
he runs, whip as before, and so repeat until the horse will
come up promptly when touched by the whip.

As the object is to make the horse honest in following,
it is necessary to make him feel that you whip him only for
resistance, encouraging and flattering for every intimation
of obedience, until he realizes his safety from the whip to
be in coming to you.

120 TEACHING TRICKS.

TO LIB DOAVN.

Tie the bridle reins into a knot back of the neck. Throw
your strap over the back, under the body, and tie to the
near foot, below the fetlock. Now pass the right hand well
over the back and take a short hold of the strap. Cause
the horse to step toward you and pull the foot up. Then
pass the left hand around the reins and pull back and down
upon them in such a manner as to turn the head a little to
the off-side, at the same time pulling down steadily but
firmly on the strap '"over the back with the right hand. As
the horse goes down, gradually pull the near rein, so as to
bring the head to the left, at the same time pressing down
and from you firmly with the right, until the horse will lie
down. Pass the end of the strap now through the ring ,of
the bit and draw through gently, step over the neck, and as
the horse attempts to get up, pull him back, until he lies
quiet. Rub and caress him, and after lying a few minutes,
say, *' Get up, sir." Repeat in this way for a few times
until the horse will lie down readily. Then while holding
him on or near the knee with the strap, hit him on the skin
of the other with a little whip, until he will bring it under
and lie down. After awhile he can be made to come on
his knees and lie down by simply pulling the head down a
little and hitting the skins with the whip, at the same time
saying, "Lie down, sir," repeating until the horse will lie
down to the motion of the whip. This is about the easiest
and most practical way of teaching a horse to lie down.

TO SIT UP.

When the horse will lie down promptly, put on him a
common collar, and while being down take two pieces of
rope, or anything suitable, about ten feet each in length.
Tie the ends around the hind feet, carry them forward be-
tween the fore legs and bring them once around the collar.

Now step on his tail, take the bridle reins in the right
hand, while you hold the ends of the ropes firmly in the
left. Give a little jerk on the reins and say, *' Get up, sir."
When the horse throws out the forward feet and springs to
raise himself on the hind feet, he finds himself unable to
complete the effort, on account of the hind feet being tied

TEACHING TRICKS. 121

forward under him, and so he brings himself in a sitting
position. Instantly step forward, holding the ropes firmly,
rub and caress the head and neck a little for a few seconds,
then as you see the effort to keep up becoming tiresome, let
loose and say, '^ Get up, sir." By repeating in this way a
few times the horse will soon learn to sit up when com-
manded without being tied.

TO MAKE A BOW.

Take a pin in your right hand, between the thumb and
fore-finger, stand before, but a little to the left, of your
horse, and prick him on the breast lightly. This produces
the sensation of a fly biting, to relieve which he will bring
down his head, which you will accept as yes, and reward
for by caressing and feeding as before. Then repeat, and
so continue until he will bring his head down the moment
he sees the least motion of the hand toward his breast, or
you can substitute some signal which he will understand
readily.

TO SAY NO.

Stand near the left shoulder, holding the pin in your
hand, with which prick him lightly on the withers, which
will cause him to shake his head. You then caress as
before, and So repeating, until he will shake his head at the
least indication of touching him with the pin ; you can
train your horse so nicely in this way in a short time as to
cause him to shake his head or bow by merely turning the
hand a little, or moving it slightly toward him.

TO KISS YOU.

Teach him first to take a piece of apple out of your
hand. Then gradually raise the hand nearer your mouth,
at each repetition, until you require him to take it from
your mouth, holding it with the hand, telling him at the
same time to kiss you. He will soon learn to reach his nose
up to your mouth ; first to get the apple, but finally, because
commanded to do so. Simply repeat until the horse under-
stands the trick thoroughly.

122 TEACHING TRICKS.

TEACHING- A HORSE TO DANCE.

Put on the war bridle ; hold the cord some four or five
feet from the horse's head, and with a whalebone whip tap
liim on the shin or ankle until he lifts his foot, then caress
liim, and do the same with the other, making him raise
lirst one foot, then the other, then stop and caress. Next,
make him raise them several times, until he moves his
whole body by the motion of the whip to the time of
music. Caress and encourage frequently.

TEACHING A HORSE TO WALTZ.

After he has learned to dance, put a surcingle around his
chest and fasten the bridle-reins to it, the left rein much
the tightest, bringing his head well around to the left side.
Then make him move forward, when he follows his head,
and every time as he is turning his head from you give him
a sharp cut with the whip, which will make him jump round
quickly until his head comes around to you again. Then
you should caress and encourage him by talking kindly, pat-
ting and feeding him. He will then be slower to move his
head from you, but you must continue with the whip every
time the horse's hind parts are toward you and his head
from you, caressing every few minutes until he understands
to move at the motion of the whip. Patient and careful
practice in this way will make your horse prompt and grace-
ful in his movements.

SHOEING

The hoof of the horse, in a state of nature, is adapted
only to a grassy surface. Here the natural wear and tear of
the hoof is just compensated by its growth. When the
wear is made greater than this, by driving on hard roads,
the horn is worn down so rapidly that the vascular part of
the foot would soon be exposed, and the horse would in
consequence become lame.

Shoeing includes, first, the duty of preparing the feet for
the shoes ; second, forming the shoes to the feet, so as to be
most exact in size, weight and fitting to that part of the
hoof, and that only, that is shown by experience to be best
able to bear the pressure and strain of the shoe without in-
jury, and preserve its form and bearing best; and, third,
that when injury and lameness result, the cause, at least,
should be removed, and a reasonable effort made to restore
the parts to a state of health.

That part of the foot which is visible, and to which the
shoe is fastened, is called the hoof. It is simply a thin
covering of horn to the delicate but powerful mechanism
of the internal structure of the foot, and for convenience of
description is divided into three parts, the wall, sole and frog.

THE FOOT.

There are other minor points, a full description of which
is not essential to our object here, such as the toe, heels,
bars, commissures, etc. The outer crust, or wall, is a sim-
ple piece of horn, of from a quarter to three-eighths of an
inch in thickness, increasing in thickness from the quarters
to the toe, where it is thickest and grows fastest, in order to
bear the increased wear upon this part. If this horn were
cut into and examined withp, microscope, it would be found
to be made up of a large number of little tubes, or hairs,
cemented together; that they can be split apart like the
fibers of wood, and that the horn increases in hardness and
density from the inner surface to that of the outer, the inner

124

STRUCTURE OF THE FOOT.

(No. 1.) (No. 2.)

a The external crust seen at the quarter. a a The frog.

6 The coronary ring, c The little horny plates 6 The sole,

lining the crust, d The same continued over c c The bars,

the bars, e e The two concave surfaces of the d d The crust.

inside of the horny frog. / That which ex-
ternally is the cleft of the frog, g The bars.
h The rounded part of the heels, belonging to
the frog.

surface being quite soft, while the outer surface is hard and
smooth.

If we now look at the sole, we will find it from one-eighth
to three-sixteenths of an inch thick, a little arched, of a
dense yielding texture, joined firmly to the lower and inner

(No. 3.) Interior of a Healthy Foot,

(No. 4.) Sole of Hind Foot.

edge of the wall. At the center, occupying the space be-
tween the heels, and extending well forward to a point
towards the toe, is a softer an^ thicker formation of horn,
admitting of great elasticity, which is the frog. (See cut
No. 2.) Between the frog and its connection, with the sole,
on each side, is a little strip of hard horn, extending from
the heels forward, called bars, which are a continution of

STRUCTURE OF THE FOOT.

125

(No. 5.)

a Coronet.

b Sensible lamellae.

the outer wall. From the outside
there seems to be a deep notch, on
each side, cut down between the
bars and frog, which are called com-
missures, the whole showing the
most admirable arrangement for
strength and elasticity. The frog,
being of a soft, elastic nature, acts
as a cushion in protecting the sensi-
tive parts over it from being bruised
or injured, while the direction of the
bars make them braces for keeping
the heels in place. Connecting the
internal parts of the foot with the
hoof, is a strong muscular structure,
arranged so as to afford great expansion, as well as
strength. That connecting with the wall of the hoof is
named sensible laminae, and that between the coffin bone
and sole sensible sole and frog. This mus-
cular structure has mingled
through it a complete net-
work of nerves and blood-
vessels. Hence we see that
in any way producing pressure
or restraint upon the wall or
sole, so as to bruise this soft
structure, will cause inflam-
mation, and result in soreness,
change of structure and lame-
ness, to a greater or less
extent, in proportion to the
extent of the injury.

The healthy foot is the best
model for guidance, and the
object should be m preparing
the foot for the shoe, to sim-
ply bring it back to its natural
form and bearing. If the toe is too long,
or the heels too high, or there is an unusual
accumulation of old horn on the sole, re-
move so much as will restore the foot to its
natural proportions and bearing.

If the shoes have been on a month, cut

(No. 6.)

View of the veins
of the Frog and
Sole, injected.

(No. 7.)

View of arteries of

the Foot.

1. Vein.

2. Plantar artery.

3. Branches to the
coronary substauce
and laminae.

4. Posterior divi-
sion of plantur ar-
tery.

5. Perpendicular
branch.

126 STRUCTURE OF THE FOOT.

away the horn grown more or less, according to the
length of time the shoes have been on and the quantity
of horn grown. If the foot is in a healthy condition,
It is seldom necessary to interfere with the sole and frog.
The sole and frog throw off horn by a natural process of
expoliation ; but sometimes the shoe extends so close and
so far over the sole as to prevent this old horn from either
wearing or scaling off. When this is the case, it should be
dressed out, particularly at the heels, at the angles formed
between the bars and crust. The buttress is usually so large
and square edged as to make it unsuitable for doing this.
Even with the greatest care, it is difficult, with such an in-
strument, to prevent cutting away too
much at some points, while there
cannot be enough cut away at others.
An English shave, with the end turned
back, like that of an instrument with
which to mark boards, is just the thing
for this purpose. While the object,
in the first place, should be to reduce
the hoof to its natural size, care should
be used not to cut away too much of
the wall; for, bear in mind, cutting
away too much must bring the shoe

against the sole, and forces driving the a Sound Fore-foot, preparer

nails too deep into the wall of the for the shoe,

hoof, if not into the vascular part in- a The heel of the crust, h

.J 1 . 1 u , 1 The toe cut out to receive the

side, which would not only cause clip, c c The quarters of the

lameness, but be liable to induce the ^Cm t^SrwUh thV?u^^

secretion of matter, and very serious frog between them, e e The

consequences would follow. (See Sgrwhlrrco?*fppSr'//

Causes of Lameness.) And besides. The concave surface of the

r • ^^ ' ^ ^^ • J.^ • toe. go The bulbous heels.

forcing SO many nails into this thin a The cleft.

horn weakens it so much that by a few

repetitions of such shoeing it becomes difficult to nail on

shoes with any certainty of being held to the foot very long,

and, of course, the more re-nailing the more the mischief is

increased.

The bearing surface should be leveled down carefully and
left a little higher than the sole, so that there can be no
bearing of the sole upon the shoe. If the foot is flat and
will not bear this, then the shoe must be lowered inside oi

HINTS ON SHOEING. 127

the part coming under the wall, so that the sole will not
touch it. No definite rule can be given by which to explain
just how much to cut away, or the limit. If the heels are
strong and upright, they should be cut down so that the
bearing will be level and the hoof appear natural. (See
cut 8.)

The next aim is to form and fit the shoe so as to approxi-
mate it to the size and bearing of the foot and work of the
horse. If the hoof is thin shelled and the horse is not
worked much, the shoe should be light; but if the work is
hard, more weight will be necessary. No general rule will
apply here. The shoer is to understand that if the foot is
properly prepared as directed, the shoe must be made big
enough to just come out even with the edge of the hoof from
the toe to the turn of the heels, becoming a little wider at
the extremity of the heels, for as the foot enlarges by growth,
the shoe is brought forward under the heels until it loses its
original proportion and becomes too short and narrow, to
allow for which the shoe should be as much wider and lon-
ger than the foot at the heels (about a quarter of an inch)
as it is supposed the foot will grow in the time it is inten-
ded to keep the shoes on before being re-set. The bearing
surface of the shoe should be perfectly level, and only so
much of the shoe as comes under the
wall uf the hoof should touch the foot.
Either the foot must be prepared so
that the shoe cannot come down to the
sole, or that part of the shoe coming
inside the wall of the hoof must be so
hammered down that the sole cannot
possibly touch the shoe. (See cuts
8 and 9.)

This requires being exact, no guess-
(No. 9.) Shoe, inner sur- ing or comiug *' pretty near " the thing
?ontacT^tL'oVo"?o^^^^ and nailing on. The shoe should be
so fitted that when laid on a level sur-
face every part of the bearing surface would touch, and it
should fit equally well to the foot.

128

SHOES ARE MADE CONCAVE.

SHOES ARE MADE CONCAVE.

If the shoe as usually fitted is examined, the bearing sur-
face at the heels will be found concave or the inner edge
of each heel much the lowest ; not only this, but often the
heels are carried back too far, or the shoe is so wide that
the heels rest on the seating inside of where fitted to sup-
port the heels.

It is evident that if the bearing surface at the heels is
concave, there is a natural tendency as weight is thrown
upon the foot to have the heels crowded together.

(No. 10.) Shoe Properly Fitted.

With the foot properly prepared and the shoe properly
fitted to it, the next important consideration is nailing it to
the hoof. As the hoof is continually growing and becom-
ing proportionately larger than the shoe, this must be done
if possible so as not to bring lateral restrain^ •j.pon the quar-
ters, and this implies attention to the location of the nail
holes. If the smith were to examine the thickness of the
hoof of an ordinary well-bred horse, he would perhaps be
surprised at its thinness, and he would see the importance,
in the first place, of making the holes near the edge well
forward in the toe, and of not putting the shoe so far under
the shell as to compel his driving the nails too deeply
into it, or of having the nails so large as to split and shatter
the hoof. If the nail holes are made well into the shoe,
and the shoe should be a little narrow or short, and be set

SHOES ARE MADE CONCAVE. 129

well under the hoof, the nails must be driven very near, or
into the quick, which must result in serious lameness or in-
jury. Two points, therefore, must be kept in view by the

(No. 11.) Bearing Surface Level.

smith in punching the nail holes. First, making them so
far forward in the toe as to prevent needless restraint upon
the quarters. Second, so near the edge of the shoe as not
to endanger driving the nails too deep in the crust. The
nails should not be large, nor a greater number driven than
is barely necessary to retain the shoe.

It must be remembered that, at best, the hoof is greatly
shattered by the nails ; that the horn is thickest at the toe,
and the nailing well back to the quarters not only exposes
to greater danger of pricking, but causes an injurious pres-
sure upon the heels. If the horse is not used much, and
the heels are rather square and upright, the quarters must be
kept free. Have the nail holes made well forward on both
sides, three on the inner and four on the outer side, or
nail well back on the outside quarter, but well forward in

9

130 EXCESSIVE RASPING BAD.

the toe inside. As the foot now grows, the shoe will be
carried to that side and forward, leaving the inside quarter
free, thereby making both quarters as independent of the

(No, 12.) Ground Surface— Position of Nails.

restraint of the shoe as it is possible to do. Any increase
in the number of nails to retain the shoe more firmly must
not imply freedom to drive them back in the quarters. Let
the holes be punched closer together in the toe.

EXCESSIVE RASPING BAD.

Care should be used not to file too deeply under the
clinches, as is common; and in finishing off, the file should
not be touched above the clinches, and below only enough
to round the toe a little. There is a penchant in most
smiths to improve the shape of the foot by rasping and fil-
ing the whole surface to the hair. The outside of the hoof
is much more dense and hard than the inside; the small
spaces between the fibres of the horn are filled with a soft

EXCESSIVE RASPING BAD.

131

substance — the better to prevent a too rapid evaporation of
moisture. If the whole surface of the hoof is rasped, the
best part is not only likely to be cut away, but too rapid
evaporation takes place, and the hoof is not only thereby
weakened, but becomes dry, hard and contracted. If the
horse is not used much, and stands on dry plank, this con-
dition must be produced.

(No. 13.)

(No. 14.)

Foot Properly shod, and a foot that has been rasped down too much, in order to
fit the shoe, which is too small for it.

There is a very grave fault in the fitting and nailing of
shoes, namely: if they happen to be too short, of setting
them well back from the toe, which not only necessitates
driving the nails so deep into the hoof as to prick and lame
the animal, but also destroys the proportion of the foot by
cutting down the toe too much. (See cuts 13 and 14.)
Smiths seem to think it necessary to cut the hoof down to
the shoe, no matter how far under the shell it may be.
This is wrong, as the shoe is now pressing upon and nailed
to the inside or soft part of the shell, which of itself leads
to soreness and derangement. (See cuts 9 and 10.) In
the first place the hoof should not be cut away too much in
preparing for the shoe, but should leave plenty of strong,
hard horn, through which to nail. In the second place, the
shoe should come out even with the hoof; and third, the
nails should be driven deep enough to hold firmly. Some
shoers have a faculty of going from one extreme to the
other by driving the nails so near the outer edge of the
crust that there is almost certainty of breaking through.
(See cuts 15 and 16.) Illustrative of this see cut 15 ; the
hold- of the nail is not deep enough; whereas in 16 the nail
is started deep and comes out low, getting a good, strong

132

CONTRACTION OF THE FEET.

hold, and not endangering driving into the quick. There
should be no effort to cut down the hoof in any away that
would weaken it, or destroy its natural appearance and
bearing

(No. 15.)
Nails driven too straight.

(No. 16.)
How to nail the Shoe.

CONTKACTION OP THE FEET.

If we examine the foot in its natural, healthy state, it will
be found almost round, and very elastic at the heel. The
frog broad, plump, and of a soft, yielding character. The
commissures open and well defined, and the sole concave.
The outside of the crust, from the heel to the toe, increased
from a slight bevel to an angle of about forty-five degrees.
In a state of contraction the heels are narrow and high, the
commissures closed and the frog small, and from bad shoe-
ing a marked change in size and form. Corns, or bruising
of the sole at the heels, or any difficulty causing lameness,
is induced by inflammation. Now, any cause by which the
sensible sole or muscular structure uniting the coffin-bone to
the wall of the hoof is bruised and inflamed, leads to either
decomposition and the formation of matter, thickening of
cartilage, or growth of bony formation.

The most common cause of inflammation, producing
change of structure and lameness, is contraction. It is
evident that the more horn is grown the wider and longer
the foot becomes, and the more cut away the narrower and
shorter it is made. If a shoe be fitted accurately to a foot
after being trimmed and prepared carefully, it would be
found in a few weeks to be much too short and narrow or
too small for the same foot.

The foot is continually growing and losing its original

SHOES CONCAVE INJURIOUS. 133

proportions with the shoe, which, in four or five weeks,
becomes at least a quarter of an inch wider and longer than
it was when dressed. Now there must be not only special
provision made in nailing for this increased enlargement,
but the greatest care should be used not to permit any
lateral, mechanical pressure upon the quarters that would
restrict their freedom.

It must be observed that shoeing first raises the frog from
contact with the ground, which, of itself, removes an im-
portant auxiliary to health in the foot; second, that nailing
the shoe to the sides of the hoof brings direct restraint
upon the quarters with increased force, and to the degree
that this nailing is extended to the heels and the foot
increases in size by growth, is the foot contracted by the
restraint thus unavoidably produced.

SHOES CONCAVE INJUKIOUS.

There is also another cause oi derangement requiring
special notice, namely : the bearing surface at the heels is
usually inclined inward, ,or the inside edge is much lower
than the outer edge, often quite or more than a sixteenth
of an inch, which alone is sufficient to cause serious con-
traction. In addition to which the increased absorption of
moisture, induced both by inflammation and by keeping the
feet dry, tends directly to this end, since the dryer and
harder horn becomes, the more lessened in size. Of course,
if direct pressure is brought upon the foot, by which the
vascular structure beneath the shell is bruised and inflamed,
lameness and ultimate change of structure must ensue,
which, if permitted, may cause serious or even incurable
lameness.

There is one peculiarity about contraction that seems to
puzzle even good practitioners, which is the increased
growth of the heels. The heels grow down rapidly, and
the shell becomes very thick, while the frog becomes small
and hard. If cut No. i6 is examined, the sole will be seen
to be arched. Now it is evident if the quarters are pressed
together, this bending of the sole upward is increased,
bringing increased pressure upon the suspensory ligaments
and coffin-joint, and force the coffin-joint upward and for-
ward against the hoof at its upper edge.

134 SHOES CONCAVE INJURIOUS.

Now if you look at cut No. 7, you will discover an artery
passing down each side of the leg, which divides above the
hoof into two branches, one forward around the edge of
the hoof, and* another back to the heel, which again throw
off innumerable branches. The office of these arteries is
to supply material for the growth of horn. Now the pres-
sure induced upon the cofftn-bone by the pressing of the
sole against it as before explained, forces the coffin-bone
against the upper edge of the hoof, and thus presses directly
upon this artery, thereby obstructing the flow of blood to
this part, and forcing it back into those supplying horn at
the heels. Hence the forward part of the hoof grows
slowly and becomes thin, while the heels grow down rapidly,
becoming high and thick.

The first and important object in curing disease is, to
remove the cause. We must do more than this in the cure
of contraction by removing the surplus horn accumulated
and applying mechanical pressure in such a way as to gradu-
ally spread the foot back to its natural form, so far as it will
bear.

To do this we must first thoroughly soften the feet by
poulticing. Next cut down the heels to within an eighth
of an inch or more of the sole. Cut down carefully be-
tween the bars and frog. If not careful, you will cut
through and bring blood at the extreme of the heel, while
you have not cut deep enough farther forward. Follow the
curve of the sole, aiming to cut out an average depth until
the heels will yield easily to a little pressure.

The next object is to gradually force the heels outward.
There are three ways of doing this :

First, (this is the treatment, I am informed, used by Mi.
Robert Bonner of the New York Ledger, who is undoubt-
ly one of the most careful students of the foot, and of the
conditions necessary in shoeing to keep it in a healthy con-
dition, in this country,) form the shoe of an equal thickness
all the way round, with nail holes punched well back in the
heels, and fit accurately to the foot, so that it will come out
even with the edge of the hoof. Now drive the nails care-
fully, so that they will be deep enough into the horn to hold
firmly without endangering pricking, leaving the points
stick down straight After all are driven down, pull them
out again. Heat the shoe and spread it about one-eighth

SHOES CONCAVE INJURIOUS.

135

ol ui inch, more or less according to what the foot will
beai, and put on again. Now, drive the nails again, each
a little at each time until driven home, and clinch firmly.
It is seen that the shoe must now exert an outward pressure
upon the heels equal to the increased breadth of the shoe.
Keep the foot reasonably soft. In a few days or a week the
clinches can be carefully drawn, the nails pulled out, the
shoe made wider and nailed as before, which can be
repeated so long as the nails will hold well.

A simpler method is that of the convex shoe, (cut 17.)
The foot is prepared as before, with the difference of not
cutting away the bearing surface so much at the heels. The
shoe, instead of having the bearing surface level, should be
made convex, the outer edge from an eighth to one-fourth,
or even more, of an inch lower than the inner edge, running
out at the toe. This surface should be filed down carefully,
and so fitted to the foot that the heels will rest on these in-
clined surfaces, the shoe being a little wider than the heels,

and nail on. Now there
is a continued slipping
outward of the heels when
weight is thrown upon the
foot. Remember one
point here. Do not com-
mit the error of cutting
down the heels very close.
You must have horn
enough to keep the shoe
from coming in contact
with the sole. If it does,
the inner edge pressing
upon the sole forms a
shoulder which will not
only prevent expansion,
but bring pressure upon
the sole, bruising it, and
thus be the cause of injury and lameness.

The third, is that of Tyrrel's patent shoe, (cut 18.) By
this shoe, if properly fitted and applied, the foot can be
expanded as little or as much as may be desired. It will
also enable expanding one or both heels as may be
desired, and is the best form of shoe I have seen

( No. 17.) Convex Shoe for the cure of
Contraction.

136

CORNS.

'No. 18.) Tyrrel's Patent Shoe
tor the cure of Contraction.

for the cure of contraction. The
only difference there is in this
shoe from the common form is :
first, the inside edges of the heels
are turned up into little clips;
second, the shoe is so cut out at
each side of the toe as to enable
bending the quarters outward, by
putting the tongs or a screw be-
tween the heels and pressing them
outward. The clips at the heels
extending up inside of the bars at
the extreme of the heels press
the heels outward just so much
as the shoe is spread, which can be done every few
days at will until the foot is expanded as much as may be
desired. This is the great consideration in the cure of con-
tractions so far as mechanical pressure is concerned. • It
requires nice mechanical judgment and skill to fit and put
on any form of shoe, both in preventing contraction and
for its cure, and especially so in my judgment in the use of
this. As before explained, the foot should be carefully
dressed down to its natural form. The excessive horn pre-
venting expansion of the heels cut away, implying
especially the thinning out well of the part between the frog
and bar?. The foot should be softened by poulticing pre-
viously The shoe should then be carefully fitted, the
clips resting accurately against the bar inside. The shoe
should never be spread enough at a time to cause inflamma-
tion and soarness. If this is carefully persisted in, so far
as the contraction, cure must be certain. This shoe of Mr.
Tyrrel's has been used with great success for this purpose.
The right to use it with special directions for its use can be
obtained by addressing H. B. Fern, Batavia, N. Y.

CORNS

Appear in the angle of the hoof near the heel. They are
generally caused by the shoe being worn too long, causing
the shell of the hoof to grow over the shoe, which throws
the weight upon the sole, or the angles between the bar and
crust are not properly dressed out. If the descending heel

CORNS.

i3l

of the coffin bone meets with too much resistance by want
of elasticity in the sole at this place, the sensitive sole is
liable to be so bruised and injured as to produce corns,
which are simply a contused wound of the sensitive sole.
Contraction is also an actively exciting cause of corns which
should be overcome by expansion shoes. If of an ordinary
character, upon cutting away the horn, there will be found
a red spot ; if very bad, the color will be a dark purple and
deeper seated.

If in this condition it is neglected, matter may be formed,
or the inflammation may
cause the lateral cartilages
which are attached to the
heels of the coffin bone to
become ossified, or even the
accumulation of large, bony
deposits, which would des-
troy the mobility of the foot
and cause considerable de-
formity.

All pressure must be re-
move^ from the part. First,

dress down the part bruised until quite thin. Put a little
sulphur on, and burn in pretty well with a hot iron, or put
on butter of antimony, which will stimulate a healthy growth
of horn.

(No. 19.)
New Corn.

(No. 20.)

Situation and appear-
ance of an old corn.

(No, 21.)
Testing for Corn.

^ A

(No. 22.)

Bar Shoe for Corns.

If there is much inflammation, poultice; and if then is
a cavity or the sensible sole is exposed, put on a little p ch
and tallow, over which spread a little tow. Put on the shoe

1 38 INTERFERING.

SO fitted there will be no pressure on the part. To do this
a bar shoe will often be nece^ary. (See cut No. 22.) The
shoe should be le-set frequently until cured.

QUARTEK CKACK.

When the hoof is dry and hard it is easily split. A piece
of glue when very dry splits and breaks very easily if
pounded upon, out if softened by moisture would only bend
and be bruised. The hoof partakes of the character of glue.
If very dry the hbres become dense and hard. If while the
feet are in this condition the horse is driven fast on hard
roads, the hoot is hable to burst. If the hoof is thin and
contracted, there is great danger of the inside quarters
splitting.

Cut down the hoof back of the crack, so that there is no
pressure of that part of the bearing surface upon the shoe,
put on a bar shoe, cut across the split deeply at the edge
of the hair with a hring iron. Next cut down the edges of
the hoof so far as split extends, to the quick. Then soften
and grow down the hoof rapidly by applying any good,
stimulating ointment. A mixture of equal portions of tar,
lard and turpentine, is excellent for this purpose? The
fitting of the shoe should be carefully attended to, the hoof
grown down as rapidly as it is safe to do, and the part kept
clean by covering it with a little tar, or a mixture of resin
and tallow. There will not be a cure until a new hoof is
grown down, which will take about six or eight months.

INTERFERING.

Some horses travel so close that the least neglect of hav-
ing the shoe well under the quarter, and the part nicely
dressed down, would cause a bruising and cutting of the

opposite ankle. The shoe
should be so formed and
fitted as to come well under
the hoof. To do this well,
that side of the shoe should
be made rather straight,
(No. 23.) with the web narrow, and

Interfering Shoe. the nail-holes well forward

WEAK HEELS.

139

in the toe; at all events there must be no nails driven
into that part of the hoof- that strikes, as the clinches
will be likely to cut. If the toe cork is set well round,
on the inside of the toe, and the foot is so pared, or
the shoe is so formed that the bearing of the inside
of the foot is raised somewhat, there will be a tending
in the ankle to be thrown out when borne upon. But the
great object is to have the shoe fitted and filed smoothly,
and set well under the part hitting, so that after the hoof i«
rasped off all it is prudent to do, and rounded down care-
fully, the shoe sets far enough under not to endanger its
cutting, yet supports the hoof, and gives a natural bearing

to the foot. The chief

danger will be that some

portion of this part of the

shoe, will be made to extend

beyond the hoof, and the

shoe be fitted and put on

so roughly that it can

scarcely be said to be fitted

any smoother or better than

is usually done, without re-
gard to such a purpose. It

is always best to keep the

bearing natural by trimming
the foot level, and making the shoe of an even thickness,
but set it under and file smoothly. If this will not do, raise
the inside a little. Driving young horses to sulky will
often cause interfering; getting a horse in good condition
will often overcome the difficulty. If the ankles are cut or
sore, they should be protected with pads until well. If the
owner values the animal highly, he should give such shoeing
his personal attention.

(No. 24.)
Interfering Pad.

(No. 25.)

A Leather Boot to
protect the Ankle.

"WEAK HEELS.

Cutting down too close and fitting the shoes roughly, so
that the horse wears and breaks down the heels, will cause
them to be low and sensitive. Such feet should be simply
leveled down with the rasp carefully, and the shoe fitted to
touch every part of the bearing surface at the heels.

140 SHOES.

SHOES.

It should be borne in mind that that form of shoe which
accords with the foot in making the bearing natural, pre-
serves its elasticity and protects it from
injury, is best. If we examine the foot
it will be found concave. This is the
best form to enable a fulcrum that will
prevent slipping. If we would imi-
tate and carry out in the form of the
shoe, that of the foot, it should be also
concave, or thick at the outer edge and
beveled upward to the inner edge on
the ground surface. Such a shoe will
not ball, prevents slipping, is lighter,
(No. 28.) ' ^^^ would certainly enable more speed

on a track if at all wet. Amateurs
who have an opportunity should see my models of shoes of
different patterns.

Shoes for summer wear should be level, of an equal thick-
ness from toe to heel. If the roads are soft, this is certainly
advisable, to give the frog pressure. If shoes are made with
corks, the inside ones should be rounded, so as not to cut
the feet. The outside ones will prevent slipping. My
*' Maine Snow Shoe" is undoubtedly the best for winter
use; will not ball, and prevents the feet most effectually
from being bruised or injured.

The bearing surface of all shoes should be level, and
come exactly under the wall of the hoof all the way round.
The nails should be as small, and as few, and as far forward
in the toe as will retain the shoe safely, the object being to
protect the foot and keep it healthy. When, from any
cause, there is an undue absorption of moisture, making the
frog and hoof dry and hard, either from inactivity by stand-
ing on a dry floor, or driving on dry hard roads, or both,
it must be supplied by artificial means. Stuff or fill the
feet with flax-seed meal, to which has been added a little
wood ashes mixed with water. It will stick. Or wet cloths
may be tied around the hoof.

If there is soreness of the feet, put them in water as hot
as can be borne, to which should be added a handful of
salt, for an hour each day, for one or two weeks, or blister
mildly around the coronet, repeated two or three times.

RE-SETTING OF SHOES. 141

If there is a dry, hard condition of the feet, apply mois-
\ ire around the coronet by tying wet cloths around the
hoof, or poulticing, stopping the feet with flaxseed meal, as
before explained ; after which, apply some of the prepara-
tion for softening the feet and stimulating the growth of
horn.

The usual palliative means of rubber cushions and such
means, put between the hoof, to cure soreness and lame-
ness, are of no account, since they do not reach the cause
of difficulty. The nailing of the shoe must necessarily be
so tight as to press out all the elasticity there is, and, in
addition, the heels cut through such means so quickly that
they will not prove of any real value.

RE-SETTING OF SHOES.

Shoes should be re-set once in from four to six weeks.
For light, occasional use, not more than seven nails should
be driven — four on the outside and three on the inside —
well forward. The shoe should come well out under the
toe, so that there is no necessity for more than touching the
edge a little to reach the shoe, and by all means do not
allow that reckless rasping of the outside of the hoof so
general with shoers. If the shoe is short it should not be a
reason that the hoof must be cut down to it. Even rasping
under the clinches should not be permitted. A thin shell
can be easily ruined in this way; besides, this rasping of
the whole surface of the hoof not only removes the strong-
est and hardest part, but permits too rapid an evaporation,
which causes the horn to become hard and brittle. It is
much better, easier and cheaper to keep the feet healthy
than to cure them. It is wise in shoers to be patient and do
the work well, and owners should remember that extra care
and skill deserves extra compensation. It is hoped that the
few explanations given will aid in a better understanding of
this duty.

If the horse shows sudden lameness in the foot, especially
after being shod, examine it carefully; strike the hoof
lightly with a small hammer ; put the hand first on one foot
and then on the other, that you may discover any increased
heat. If a nail has been driven too deep, remove the shoe.
If much inflammation, poultice — usually necessary for

142 RE-SETTING OF SHOES.

twenty-four hours or more — when cover the part with tow
and a preparation of tar and resin, or pitch and common
grease. If a nail has been driven into the foot, get the
horse to the stable as quick as you can, take off the shoe,
poultice the foot, and give a sharp dose of physic, and let
the animal stand quietly. The object is to keep down
inflammation. No hot oils or anything stimulating is to be
applied.

A little of the digestive ointment may be used after the
inflammation goes down to excite a healthy granulating pro-
cess, or any cooling astringent. There is liable to be ten-
derness if the sole should strike the ground afterwards, as
there may be inflammation of the periosteum, to relieve
which, put on a high-heeled shoe and blister around the
coronet. The sole is sometimes bruised by the shoe press-
ing upon it, causing much inflammation and lameness.
Take off the shoe, poultice for twenty-four hours or more ;
fit the shoe so as to remove all pressure from the sole; if
sore yet, continue the poultice ; if matter is formed, treat as
you would any such ulcer, with a healing astringent. Sev-
eral good preparations are given in another part of this
work.

The difficulty of getting sketches made of the illustrations
needed in this and other articles, induced the necessity of
copying many of them from Mayhew and others.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

The treatment and remedies here given will be found
very valuable. I have, at great loss of time and money,
subjected myself to a practical course of study under one
of the best educated and successful English veterinary sur-
geons in this country, (Dr. William Somerville, of Buffalo,
N. Y.,) whose certificate will be found below, and aim to
give such practical treatment as 1 know to be most reliable
and practical. Many of the remedies included have been
obtained by me at much trouble and great cost, and are
worth much more than the cost of this book and my in-
structions. I have no desire but to benefit my patrons, and
the utmost assurance may be felt that the greatest care has
been used in discarding remedies not known to be reliable
and valuable.

DR. WILLIAM SOMERVILLE's CERTIFICATE.

*'This is to certify that D. Magner, Esq., served under
me nearly two years, during 1868 and 1869, as an appren-
tice, to learn and be instructed in the veterinary profession.
I consider him well qualified to treat successfully all diseases
in horses, and able to practice as a skillful and competent
veterinary surgeon.

''WM. SOMERVILLE,

" Veterinary Surgeon.
"A member of two Veterinary Colleges^
" and thirty-six years' practice.
** Buffalo Horse Infirmary, 127 Erie St.,
"August 1st, 1869."

I would urge the necessity, at least, of ordinary prudence
in preventing colds and sickness by guarding against un-
necessary exposure, or mercilessly driving until in a profuse
perspiration, and then leaving the horse m some cold, bleak
place without more, perhaps, than a poor blanket, and that

144 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

thrown on carelessly, while the driver is perhaps enjoying
himself with his friends in some drinking saloon, toasting
his shins while the poor animal stands shivering at the door.
The effect of such bad treatment will not then have time to
develope itself, but will be seen in a few hours, or at farthest
on the following day. This is the common cause of acute
laminitis (founder) and of pleuro-pneumonia (pleurisy).
The three principal points in the health of a horse are feed-
ing, air and exercise. In the first place, irregularity of
feeding will certainly produce disease. (See article on
feeding.) Ventilation — the stable should be neither too
hot nor too cold. The animal will show the effect in a few
days by coughing or having slight irritation of the mucous
membrane of the throat.

A horse can take cold as easily by going out of a cold
air into a hot stable, as he can by going from a hot stable
into cold air, and vice versa. It is the sudden change of
temperature which produces the change on the mucous coat
of the larynx and throat.

The clothing of the horse in the stable should be neither
too hot nor cold. But if kept too warm, he will be more
likely to take cold when he goes out to exercise on a cold
or chilly day. The stable should be well ventilated with
pure air at all times, and all poisonous air and gases, par-
ticularly the ammonia, which is formed from the urine,
should be allowed free egress from the stable, as the animal
cannot be expected to keep in good health while compelled
to inhale such malaria.

Let me tell you, one of the great points in keeping horses
in good health and condition, is regular feeding and good
care, being careful, after a sharp, hard drive, especially if
there has been exposure to wet and cold, to blanket warmly
— anticipate and look for a chill, or being off of food. If
so, a little fever medicine and a warm bran mash should be
given at once, and a serious attack of pneumonia may be
thus averted. Men who talk and slash horses around reck-
lessly, I have a low opinion of as horsemen. To keep
horses doing well, even though worked hard, requires at-
tention to little things. If the road is heavy or up-hill,
and the horse shows fatigue or is warming up excessively,
hold up and shove; if necessary, on good road and down
grade, aiding and nursing along by watering often but not
much at a time.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 145

A very little driving withc^t regard to this prudence will
soon get even a good, hardy horse off his food, if not cause
sickness, and then Providence, or Something else, is the
supposed cause. Use all the care and prudence you can in
guarding against and preventing sickness ; it is your safest
and best rule. I give the very best treatment in the follow-
ing pages you can use with most success. The medicine is
easily obtained and administered. Indeed there are single
remedies in this book I would not be without for one thou-
sand dollars.

SPASMODIC OOLIC.

Colic is one of the most common as well as most danger-
ous diseases to which the horse is subject. There are two
forms of this disease, namely. Spasmodic and Flatulent
Colic.

The first is wholly of a spasmodic nature, and if not re-
lieved, will, in severe cases, run into inflammation of the
bowels, causing speedy death.

The second, while exhibiting the same general symptoms,
shows marked enlargement of the belly, from, generation of
gas, which, if not checked and neutralized, results fatally
by rupturing the diaphragm, causing suffocation and death.

The common causes of colic are, application of cold
water to the body, drinking cold water when in a heated
condition, costiveness, unwholesome food, etc.

Premonitory symptoms, are sudden. The animal paws
violently, showing evidences of great distress, shifting his
position almost constantly, and manifesting a desire to lie
down. In a few minutes these symptoms disappear, and
the horse is easy.* But the same uneasiness soon returns,
increasing in severity until the animal cannot be kept upon
his feet; the pulse is full, scarcely altered from its normal
condition ; a cold sweat breaks out over the body ; temper-
ature of legs and ears natural. As the disease advances the

* Note. — He may also aot as if he wanted to make water, which he cannot do,
there being a spasmodic contraction of the urethra. Hence the desire to give
diuretic medicine. Straining in this way is usually prompted by a desire to re-
lieve the muscles of the belly. No diuretic medicine should be given as the horse
cannot pass urine until the attack of colic ceases, or it is taken from him with a
catheter.

It is very seldom, even necessary to use a catheter. In fact, it is not necessary
to pay any attention to this symptom. As soon as relieved of the colic, the hont
will paaa water freely.

10

146

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

symptoms become
more severe, the ani-
mal at times throwing
himself down with
force, regardless of
consequences, looks
anxiously at the sides,
sometimes snapping
with the teeth at the
sides, looking anxious-
ly at the belly, and
striking upward with

the hind feet, showing
First Stage of Spasmodic Colic. ^^^^^^ ^^^ ^^^^ ^^^^_

toms as in inflammation of the bowels. There are,
however, strongly marked characteristics peculiar to each.
The better to point them out, I will tabulate them, by which
the difference and peculiarities of each can be easily deter-
mined.

COLIC.
Sudden in its attacks.

Pulse, in the early stage of the
disease, not much quickened or
altered in its character.

Legs and ears of a natural tem-
perature.

Rubbing the belly gives relief.

Relief obtained from motion.
Intervals of rest.
Strength scarcely affected.

INFLAMMATION OF BOWELS.

Gradual in its approach, with
previous indications of fever.

Pu/se much quickened, small,
and often scarcely to be felt.

Legs and ears cold.

Belly very tender and painful
to the touch.

Motion increases pain.

Constant pain.

Rapid and great weakness.

This disease being wholly of a spasmodic nature, it mus
be counteracted by antispasmodic treatment ; and laudanum
being the most powerful and reliable antispasmodic it is
here indicated.

Treatment. — Give from two to three ounces of laudanum
and a pint of raw linseed oil. If not better in an hour,
give two ounces of laudanum and the same quantity of oil.

If there is not relief in a reasonable time after the second
dose is given, take from six to twelve quarts of blood from
the neck vein, according to the size of the horse and the

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

147

severity of the attack. Always in bleeding make the ori-
fice large, and extract the blood as quickly as possible. As

Second Stage of Spasmodic Colic.

Third Stage of Spasmodic Colic.

bleeding is the most powerful and reliable means of relax-
ing the system, it can be always relied upon in the cure of
this form of colic. There will be no relapse after bleeding.

The following remedy given me by Dr. T. Burton of Fultonville, N.
Y., is one of the best, if not the very best in use for the cure of either
form of ^olic. The Doctor assured me he never knew it to fail if given
in a reasonable time. In every case it has been used under my own
observation and by myself it has given prompt relief:

FOR COLIC IN HORSES— DR. BURTON'S REMfJDY.

Sulph. ether i pint, aromatic spirits ammonia i pint,
sweet spirits nitre 2 pints, opium ^ lb., asafoetida (pure)
^ lb., camphor ^ lb. Put it in a large bottle, let it stand
fourteen days, with frequent shaking, and it will be fit to
use. Dose: One ounce, more or less, according to the
severity of the case; once in from thirty minutes to an
hour. Should be given in a little water.*

I could give a great variety of remedies for this difficulty,
but the more I would include, the more confusion to the
reader. The first remedy in connection with bleeding can
be relied upon as one of the very best. Bleeding alone will
give sure relief, but sticking a knife into the mouth is not
the way to do this. A little blood from the mouth may
seem a large quantity. There is liability to cut the palate
artery and have trouble. Should you be so imprudent, and

* Note.— The same proportion of tincture may be substituted for the gum which
wiU enable its immediate use.

148

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

cannot stop the bleeding, touch the artery with a hot iron, or
hold a sponge filled with cold water between the ears. An
ordinary styptic will not do. Always bleed from the neck
vein, (directions for which are given under that head,)
which is one of the simplest and safest of operations.

FLATULENT COLIC, (TYMPANITES.;

Symptoms same as spasmodic colic, with the difference
of there being so great an accumulation of gas in the
stomach and intestines that the belly is swelled. This dis-
ease will often prove fatal in from one to three hours. It is
generally very sudden
in its attack, often oc-
curring while the ani-
mal is at work, particu-
larly during warm
weather or changeable
weather from cold to
heat; but is generally
caused by indigestion,
producing gases in the
bowels or stomach.*

If to terminate fatally
it will become weaker and slower until it is almost imper-
ceptible. If the animal is allowed to fall down suddenly
while pressure of the gas upon the walls of the stomach is
very great, there is probability of rupturing of the dia-
phragm, which would cause almost instant death from
suffocation.

Treatment. — In the first place do not commit the error of
bleeding for this form of colic, as it would be almost sure
death. Second, keep up evaporation of the body as much
as possible by sweating with blankets. What would be still
better, if available, would be a hot bath. If you have any
of the remedy comprising ether, ammonia, asafoetida, etc..

First Stage of Flatulent Colic.

* Note.— There are two locations for this disease, but in either it requires the
same treatment, as it is generally produced by the same causes— the stomach, colon
and ccecum. When in the stomach it will be distinguished by eructations or belch-
ings of gas through the esophagus or gullet. If froiu the ccecum or colon, the
horse is violently swollen along the belly, flanks and sides generally. Pulse is
rarely disturbed until the disease advances, when it will become quickened, rua-
ning to its height quickly, and receding as rapidly, if fatal.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 149

given for spasmodic colic, give it at once as directed. If
this is not available, give a drench of the following :

Peppermint, 2 oz.; sulph. ether, 2 oz.; laudanum, i oz.;
soft water, i pint.

Be particular to keep the composition in motion while
administering; to be repeated in half or three-quarters of
an hour if not better. There is great danger of this dis-
ease ending fatally by rupturing of the diaphragm, through
the great distention of the intestines, and contrary to the
regular rule of scientific veterinary surgeons' practice. To
prevent these violent falls and rolling in the stall, to keep
the animal on his feet as much as possible, and to avoid all
irritation or action of the bowels, it would be advised that
he be walked as slowly as possible, led by the head to prevent
falling or rolling, until such time as the treatment has had
the desired effect.*

PLEURISY— INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNOS—
CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS.

All these diseases are only extremes or modifications of
one disease. I will include their treatment under one head,
first describing the symptoms peculiar to each.

\_An diseases of the chest take the scientific na^ne " Pneu-
monia,^^ and are called Pleurisy, or Pleuro-Pneumonia ;
Typhoid inflammation of the Lungs — Typhoid P?ieumonia ;
Congestion of the Lungs, or Congestive Pneiwionia ; and
lastly, a disease known as Dropsy of the Chest — {Hydrotho-
rax) — which last is generally the result of the fortner disease.
When the word Congestion is spoken of, it means in common
phrase, that one or the other {right or left lobe) of the lungs,
are so engorged with blood forced into them that they are
either unable to receive or discharge any blood, become hard,
and almost black i7i color. When in this stage the disease
is called Congestion, and often terminates at this period in
death.']

* Note.— The ether disturbs the breathing, making the horse apparently dis-
tressed, breathes laboriously, which will pass off again in a few hours. I could
give more of a variety of treatment for this form of colic, but all things consid-
ered, I think this is the safest and best, if not the most reliable for use by those
not skilled in practice.

It is well to bear in mind also, that if the horse is small and the case not severe,
less is to be given, while if very large and the attack severe, even more may be
given.

150 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

The most common causes of lung fever, as it is termed,
' are, exposing the animal while warm to a cold wind, or
becoming chilled from driving fast against a cold wind,
washing with cold water immediately after exercise, changes
irom heat to cold, or from cold to heat, removing from a
warm to a cold, or from a cold to a warm stable, or cold
applied to the surface of a heated animal, by which the
blood is driven from the skin and extremities to the internal
organs, or any cause by which the circulation is obstructed
and deranged, may excite any of these forms of inflamma-
tion and congestion.

When the pleuro — (a watery or fine membrane covering
the external surface of the lungs, and lining membrane of
the cavity of the chest) — is inflamed, the disease is called
pleurisy.

When the inflammation is located in the lungs, it is called
pneumonia, or inflammation of the lungs. When the ac-
tion of the capillaries is greatly lessened from their being
weakened, or the blood being so forced through them that
they are obstructed and clogged, the difficulty is called con-
gestion of the lungs.

There cannot be inflammation of a part without there
being more or less inflammation of the other parts surround-
ing, and there cannot be inflammation without congestion,
as there is always more or less obstruction of the circulation
where there is inflammation.

PLEURISY

may be sudden or gradual in its attack, the horse showing
indisposition sometimes for days previous. The horse will
be dull and heavy in action for a day or two, unwilling to
lie down, pulse not much disturbed, or there is a chill, or
slavering fit, which lasts from one to three hours, when
fever sets in ; breathing at flanks a little accelerated, coun-
tenance is anxious, the head is sometimes turned towards
the side, does not lie down. As the disease advances the
symptoms become more marked. The ears and legs become
cold; the pulse, from being a little accelerated, grows
quicker, hard and full; the head is hung forward, stands
up persistently, breathing hurried, the membrane of the
nose and eyes red. Turning the horse round, or hitting
against the chest, back of the shoulder, will cause a kind
of grunt.

DISEASES AND THE.R TREATMENT.

151

The Commencement of Inflammation of the Lungs.

CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS

is first noticeable by the horse having a severe chill or
shivering fit. He refuses his food, hangs his head between

the fore legs or up-
on the manger, will
not move or lie
down, breathing
quick and short,
panting like. The
nostrils are expand-
ed, the head thrown
forward ; the coun-
tenance expresses
pain and great pros-
tration. (See cut.)
The pulse is some-
times full and quick, but generally quick and weak, scarcely
perceptible; the membrane of the nose and eyes bright
red, tending to purple; ears and legs very cold; with a
cold clammy sweat at the extremities.

In this case the inability of the horse to take air into the
lungs causes great and rapid prostration, (and will often,
from extreme pain, lie down and get up, resembling colic,
but the coldness of extremities, prostration and condition
of pulse will, if carefully examined, enable an understand-
ing of tlie real cause,)
a choking noise some-
times coming from the
throat. In some cases
a little blood may be
thrown from one or
both nostrils. Extreme
prostration and labo-
rious breathing and
bleeding from the nos-
trils shows severe con-
gestion of the lungs. second staee of Inflammation of the Lunga.

TYPHOID PNEUMONIA.

First symptoms. — The horse is off his feed, disinclination
to move, appetite gone, pulse weak and low — will some-

152 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

times eat a little, will
not lie down, not
much cough, rarely
any discoloration of
the membrane of the
nose or eyes — urine
scanty and high col-
ored— faeces hard and
coated. After two or
three days the mem
brane of the nose and

Third stage of luflammation of the Lunga. ^Y^^ ^ ^^^^^^ discolored

or red, pulse quicker,
65 or 70, breathes quicker. About the fourth or fifth day
there is usually a discharge from the nostrils, of a blackish
brandy color cerumen.

Treatfiient. — Experience proves that sedative treatment
is the most effective for cure of inflammation of the lungs,
which is greatly assisted by counter irritation. The seda-
tives proved to be most effective and reliable are aconite,
veratrum and belladonna. Veratrum exhibits great power
in lowering the action of the heart, while aconite is not
only a powerful sedative, but seems to act as a stimulant to
the capillaries, thereby causing profuse perspiration.

There is so little judgment or attention given to condi-
tion in giving medicine and its effects upon the system,
that I shall be compelled to limit myself to the most effect-
ive simple treatment. There are but few who seem to know
anything about the pulse ; this of course should be under-
stood, directions in relation to which, find in anothei
chapter.

Take of tincture (radi) aconite i oz.; veratrum y^ oz.;
soft water 4 oz. Dose from 15 to 30 drops on the tongue,
every thirty or forty minutes, more or less, and at longer or
shorter intervals, according to the severity of the case. In
ordinary cases the veratrum may be omitted. If the case is
found to be obstinate the veratrum may be added or given
separately in about the same proportion.

FOR AN ATTACK OF PLEURISY.

Blanket warmly, and put in a comfortable stall, where
there will be pure air, and give of the above fever medicine

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 153

from 15 to 30 drops every twenty or thirty minutes, on the
tongue. If the case is severe apply some strong stimulant
to the legs and on each side of the body and breast, such
as mustard made into a paste and rubbed in thoroughly, or
a liniment composed of aqua ammonia, reduced one-half
with water ; or any strong stimulating liniment should be
applied. The legs may also be rubbed and bandaged
warmly but not tightly, or some stimulating preparation
may be used before bandaging.*

INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS OR CONGESTION.

Treat as for Pleurisy. — If there is much congestion, it
is necessary to give prompt relief, which can be done best
by taking four to six quarts of blood quickly from the neck
vein, stimulate the sides and legs, and give fever medicine
as for pleurisy. I wish now to call your attention to what
you must not do. First, you must not give physic or oil
for any of the forms of inflammation of the lungs. Cathar-
tic medicine in any form is poisonous, such as aloes, oils, or
tartar emetic. There is so much nausea attending the oper-
ation of these medicines and debility from their effect.
There being also such powerful sympathy between the bow-
els and the lungs, that they hasten the cause of the
inflammation of the lungs, often producing death in a few
hours after administering them. Second, do not bleed for
pleurisy, as so doing would cause debility of the capilla-
ries of the part that would induce hydrathorax and death.
In a severe attack of congestion, bleeding cannot only be
resorted to with safety, but is the quickest and surest treat-
ment to give relief, but must not be carried too far, merely
to assist the lungs to throw off the load of blood forced
upon them, and to give the medicine prescribed a chance
to operate.

TYPHOID PNEUMONIA ^TREATMENT.

As the word typhoid means low, it is necessary to watch
it carefully in that stage, which will last as described in the
symptoms, the first four or five days, when in many

*NoTE. — If you give a few doses of aconite as aboTe prepared, about the time
fever sets in, or before, the horse will be relieved next day A few swallows of wa-
ter should be given occasionally. Improvement will be denoted by the pulse
becoming full and regular, and the expression and actions being lively.

154 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

cases the pulse may run down to thirty. Stimulants
should be used at this stage, such as a little brandy and
water or whisky and water. A gill or two of liquor to be
given as a drench, or what is much better, is, take carbonate
of ammonia, from one to two drachms ; powdered ginger
root, one to two drachms, made into a ball with honey or
molasses and given twice a day. It should be remembered
that this treatment alone is intended only for the low stage
of the disease. When the pulse seems to rise to fifty or sixty
about the fifth or sixth day, the patient should then be
treated as for pleurisy, with fever medicine. Under the
influence of the latter treatment, the pulse will recede and
resume its natural number of beats (forty). In this form
of disease it is extremely prostrated at first, the whole sys-
tem being inactive. The pulse may run up in time to
seventy, or even eighty.*

The reader may take up veterinary works, and those too
by good authority, in which he is told to bleed for pleurisy
and lung fever; bleed until the pulse falters. I have only
to say that I give you what I know from experience to be
safe, reliable treatment, and you are safe in following im-
plicity the treatment given. Indeed, for all ordinary cases,
a few doses of aconite, to which may be added, if desired,
a little belladonna and veratrum in the proportion given,
including same proportion of belladonna there is of vera-
trum, given promptly, will in almost every instance give
relief quickly.

Dr. Somerville of Buffalo, puts up a preparation for the
cure of lung fever, colds and chills, which is specific. It
will cure every case of chills or fever. A bottle of which
should be kept in every stable. If available at your drug-
gist's, get a bottle by all means. It is just the thing, and
cheap at any price.

See also introductory chapter to treatment of diseases
before treatment for colic.

* Note.— In all cases in feeding while the animal is laboring under any of the
forms of pneumonia, the animal should be kept moderately warm, have plenty of
pure air, cold water in small quantities, a hand full of wet hay, a carrot or two,
an apple or a potato or more; anything of an alterative form. Be careAil not to
exercise too soon.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

155

CATARBH, OB COLD.

Effect of a Cold.

Cold is of common occurrence, and

may lead to very serious consequences if

neglected. If looked to in time, with a

little rest and nursing, the system will soon

resume its normal condition.

The usual symptoms are, a little increase

of pulse, a slight discharge from the nose

and eyes, the hair roughed, not much

appetite, and some cough, which is some-
times severe.

Blanket warmly, give aconite as for

fever. Nurse by giving bran mashes, etc.
If the case is serious it may run into general
inflammation of the air passages, as bronchitis
or laryngitis. Would aim to keep up the
strength, giving fever medicine, alternating
with belladonna. Put on a bag, made of
coarse, loose cloth, into which put some
bran on which throw an ounce or two of
turpentine. Hang the bag on the head, same
as in cut, being careful not to have it so tight
around the nose as to heat or scald and be
oppressive. A few repetitions of this will
cause the nose to run freely. Rest and care
will usually do the rest.

If there is obstinate inflammation of the
throat and air passages, any good liniment

steaming the Nose
of a Horse haTing
Cold.

156

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

'may be applied around the chest and throat and bandaged,
as shown in the cut. The object is to stimulate the surface,
and this would be an easy, practical way of doing it.

STKANGLES OR DISTEMPER.

Severe attack of Distemper.

This is another form of sore-throat, familiar to every one.
Its design seems to be to throw some poisonous matter frorr
the system, and the object should be to keep the strength
of the animal up and hasten suppuration.

The horse is out of sorts; the
neck becomes sore and stiff; an
enlargement appears which is first
hard and tender; there is some
discharge from the nose. The case
usually grows worse, if very severe,
often threatening to cause suffoca-
tion ; horse unable to eat or drink
but little, and strength is lost
rapidly.

Use freely a poultice made of wheat bran and warm
vinegar, changing as often as the
poultice becomes dry, using the
eight-tailed bandage, until the
enlargement becomes soft and can
be opened, when relief will be
prompt. Or the following treat-
ment may be adopted, which is
similar, and if the alteration is
not good, is preferable: Take
spirits of turpentine, two parts;
spirits of camphor, one part;
laudanum, one part. Put this on the neck with a brush, if
convenient, or any way to apply it
without exciting pain, three or four
times a day until soreness is caused.
After each application have ready
three or four pieces of flannel,
which should be a good thick
article; put these over the parts

and bind on with the eight-tailed bandage. When the
tumor points, open it, and be sure that the matter has a

Applying an Eight-Tailed Bandage
in Distemper.

Eight-Tailed Bandage.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATiMENT.

157

thorough outlet. Sometimes the inflammation is so deep as
to cause serious soreness and swelling of the throat. In this
case the horse must be nursed carefully by feeding with

Opening the Abscess in Distemper.

warm gruel; the drink should be warm; grass or anything
that will tempt the appetite should be given. Simpler
treatment would be rubbing on the enlargement an ordinary
fly-blister, to bring the enlargement to a head. Physic must
not be given.

INFLAMMATION OF THE BQ^WELS.

This disease is generally caused by constipation of the
bowels, hard driving, over-purging or looseness of bowels,
or drinking cold water when warm. Constipation is, how-
ever, the principal cause of the disease, and when this is
the case, the first and most important condition of relief is
to get an action of the bowels.

Sympto7ns. — For the first
few hours the horse is uneasy,
paws, looks around at the side,
the pulse is slightly accelerated
and wiry. As the disease ad-
vances the intermissions be-
tween the attack become less,
pulse quicker, running from
sevent) to eighty beats in a
minate, ^n some instances even

Symptoms of Intesi.^al and Abdomi
nal

Irritation, as shown in Inflam-
mation of the Bowels.

158 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

faster ; lies down and gets up, shows much pain, no swelhng
of sides. Now begins to exhibit fever, bowels constipated,
urine highly colored and scanty.

Remedy. — Give a quart of raw linseed oil.

Note. — If constipation is very great, add from four to six
drops of croton oil.

If scours or over-purging, give an ounce and a half of the
tincture of opium with six ounces of water. But in order
to suppress the inflammation it is necessary to bleed imme-
diately from the neck vein from six to ten quarts of blood,
according to the strength and size of the animal. In
extreme cases bleeding may be repeated to the extent of
four to six quarts in three or four hours. If much pain
exists in constipation, give from one to three ounces
tincture asafoetida. Feed lightly for a week at least, giving
gruel, roots, grass and bran mashes, and keep quiet. No
exercise for several days if there is danger of a relapse.
This a dangerous disease and requires prompt treatment.

INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS.

Inflammation of the kidneys is generally caused by hard
work, by slipping, throwing the hind parts so suddenly under
the belly as to produce undue tension of the lumbar verte-
brae, or from sudden colds by being exposed to rain and
cold, the eating of musty hay or oats, or unhealthy food of
any kind. Too powerful or too
often repeated diuretics produce in-
flammation of the kidneys, or a
degree of irritation and weakness of
them that disposes to inflammation,
from causes that would otherwise
have no injurious effect.

Symptoms. — Less or more fever
of the system generally, and unwil-
lingness to move, particularly the
hind legs, dung hard and coated,
very sensitive to pressure on the
spine. The horse looks anxiously

round at his flanks, stands with his Appearance of a Horse Suffer-

hind Ipgs wide apart, straddles as urinl'rj'organr'' °^ '^'
he walks, shows pain in turning; the

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

159

Test for Inflammation of
the Kidneys.

urine is voided in small quantities, and is usually high
colored, sometimes bloody ; the attempt to urinate becomes
more frequent, and the quantity voided smaller, until the
animal strains violently, without being able to pass any or
but very little urine. The pulse is
quick and hard, full in the early
stage of the disease, but rapidly be-
coming small, though not losing its
character of hardness. Introduce
the hand into the rectum. If the
bladder is found full and hard under
the rectum, there is inflammation of
the neck of the bladder. If the
bladder is empty, yet on the portion
of the intestimes immediately over
it there is more than natural heat
and tenderness, there is inflammation
of the body of the bladder. If the
bladder is empty and there is no
increased tenderness and heat, there
is inflammation of the kidneys.

Treatment. — If the pulse is high, about sixty, take five or
six quarts of blood and give a fever ball ; to be repeated in
three hours if not better. Fever ball : 4 drams Barbadoes
aloes, I dram tartar emetic, 2 drams ginger, calomel about
the size of a bean, molasses sufficient to make into a ball.
Counter irritation must next be excited over the seat of the
disease. The loins should be fomented with hot water or
covered with mustard poultice, or, better, heat a peck of
salt in an oven, place it in a bag, and put it over the part
affected. If the case is severe and protracted, a sharp blister
may be used. No diuretics are to be given, as they would
simply aggravate, and make the disease worse. After the
bowels are open, give aconite, and treat as for fever. After
recovery the horse should be kept very quiet for a month,
and if in season, turned out to grass. If in winter, feed
with light mashy diet; exercise lightly by leading, if the
animal be valuable and it is desired to aid recovery by
extra care.

160 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDBK.

Symptoms almost the same as those of inflammation of the
kidneys. Frequent voiding of urine in small quantities,
quick pulse, looks frequently at flanks, paws violently, ten-
der when pressed upon under the flanks.

Here the principal object is to lower inflammation and
relax the muscular contraction of the neck of the bladder.
Bleed largely, almost to fainting; give physic as for inflam-
mation of the kidneys, or a quart of linseed oil. A dram
of powdered opium, made into a ball, or given in drink,
every two or three hours, and blister over the loins. Give
aconite, as for inflammation of the kidneys.*

INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN, OK STAOaERS,

Is first noticeable by dullness or sleepiness of the eyes, an
unwillingness to move, general heaviness of the system.
This disease is frequently called 7negrims,fits and mad stag-
gers; but in part only one disease, according to the extent
of such disease as the animal may be affected with.

The cause of staggers, is, an undue flow of blood to the
brain, which rarely or never occurs in any animals except
those in a plethoric (fat) condition.

Some writers and practitioners assert that there is a
disease known as stomach staggers. I have never seen a
case where it was necessary to treat the stomach, but always
direct attention to the brain, as being the seat of this
disease, which may be properly called "^head staggers. (In
his lecture on this difficulty, Dr. Somerville was emphatic
in this conclusion.)

In cases of megrims or fits it is merely a lesser attack, or
pressure of the blood-vessels on the brain, and mad staggers
is a greater pressure of the same vessels on the same part.
The brain is divided into two parts, namely, cerebrum and
cerebellum, which occupy a horny box in the head. The
blood-vessels passing over the brain and coming in contact
with the skull, become distended by an increased quantity
of blood, and produce the feeling, which is thus exhibited.

* If possible call a veterinary surgeon who will introduce a catheter which
will relieve the animal immediately.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 161

There is but one cure for this disease, and that is, remove
the cause. Bleed largely from the neck — ten, twelve or
fourteen quarts, or until the symptoms of fainting. After
the horse is convalescent a sharp dose of physic should be
given to regulate the bowels. I would advise owners of such
horses to dispose of them. Once taken with the disease,
they are subject to a repetition of the attack when the blood-
vessels become filled again.

Note. — Small doses of aconite (of the quantity for fever)
may be given three or four times a day as a good preventive.
Turning horses to pasture that may be liable to this disease
will prove both injurious and dangerous.

FOUNDER, (LAMINITIS.)

There are two stages of this disease, acute and chronic.
The first produces a high state of excitement and inflamma-
tion of the sensible laminae of the foot. The second, a
morbid or insensible feeling of the parts generally. The
first is invariably cured if properly treated. The second is
not curable, but may be palliated to a limited extent.
Acute founder is easily detected. The^animal invariably
extends the fore feet as far forward as he can, and brings
the hind ones in the same position under him. There is so
much pain in the fore feet that he endeavors to throw his
weight on the hind ones. (See cut.) The common causes
of founder are exposing the animal when warm to sudden
changes, usually produced by the following means, namely :
Standing in cold air when warm, after being driven,
driving through a river while warm, or giving cold water to
drink while warm, washing the feet when warm and neg-
lecting to dry them, &c. It is generally supposed that
feeding a horse while warm will produce founder. This is
an error, unless it is such food as will chill the system,
which may be done by giving a large quantity of cold Avet
mixed feed, whereby the circulation would be checked, as
before explained.

Founder is simply inflammation in the feet, whatever
general disturbance of the system is caused by the pain and
soreness in them, and the correct principle of cure is to
lower and remove this inflammation before change of struc-
ture or sloughing can take place.

11

162 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

Treatment. — ^As soon as the disease has developed itself,
bleed from the neck, according to the size and condition of
the animal — from six to twelve quarts. Then give a sharp
cathartic ball (7 drams aloes, 4 drams bar soap, i dram gin-
ger). Make into a ball and give immediately. After the

The Horse as h^ Appears when Suffering from Inflammation
in the Feet, or Founder.

fore shoes have been removed, poultice thoroughly with
bran wet with cold water. This poultice may, while on the
feet, be kept wet by dipping the poulticed foot into a pail
of cold water, or pouring some on. This poulticing should
be kept up from four to five days, when the shoes may be
tacked on, and the animal exercised a little. Cloths wet
with cold water should be tied around the coronet and the
soles stuffed for a week or two. The horse should have
tepid water to drink and warm bran mashes during the
operation of the medicine. If the disease should be stub-
born, which is rarely the case, a second ball may be given
after an interval of five days.

Nothing can be done for a sub-acute founder, or case
badly treated. If the sole is broken down do not pare the
sole. Fit the shoe so as not to press on the sole. Stuff
the whole bottom with oakum and tar, and apply leather
over. Put on the shoe carefully. Cure is impossible. If
warm fomentations are used, instead of cold, a relaxation
of the sensible laminae on the wall of the foot is liable to
take place.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 163

The great trouble with most farmers and horsemen is,
they do not know either how to bleed or give a ball of
physic medicine.

In that case you must do all you can by poulticing the
feet and the use of sedatives. Take a large tub or part of
a barrel ; put in some blue clay, upon which pour hot water.
(The mixture should come half way to the knees when the
horse stands in it.) See that it is not hot enough to scald.
Stand the horse in for several hours, after which poulticing
as before, at the same time give aconite as for fever. You
can also give a pint of raw linseed oil. It would be also
conducive to success to bleed from the toes, which can be
easily done by cutting through the sole at the toe.

If, however, you can treat as first advised, your success
will be certain, as this treatment I know will cure any case
of acute founder, or laminitis.

HEAVES, OR BROKEN "WIND.

Heaves produces increased action of the flanks. The
inspiration is natural, but the expiration requires two mo-
tions to expel the air. There is always a short cough, or
grunt, and at the same time expels wind while coughing.
Heaves are never found in the racing stable, where horses
are properly fed. They are always found among cart or
team horses, where the owners suppose they must feed a
large quantity of coarse food or hay.

The seat of the disease is located in the air cells of the
lungs, causing enlargement and sometimes a rupture of these
cells. A result of bronchitis, or inflammation of the small
air passages of the lungs, is the lodgment of mucous fluid in
those passages of the lungs, causing inability to breathe,
(wheeze,) and leads to this result. But in all cases of
heaves we find the horse to be a greedy eater, — stuffs the
stomach with coarse food, causing the lungs to be greatly
restricted in their action, causing an enlargement of or rup-
turing of the air cells.

An important and necessary auxiliary to the successful
treatment of heaves is restricting the quantity of coarse
food or hay, and increasing that of condensed, nourishing
food, thereby giving the lungs increased room to act.
Horses fed on chopped stuff", corn fodder, etc., improve,
and get worse by being fed on coarse food or hay.

164 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

Heaves disappear by feeding prairie hay or grass, because
it is so coarse the horse cannot gorge the stomach with it.
Hence there is improvement by feeding corn stalks or fod-
der, as they contain more saccharine matter and do not
engorge the stomach. I have given the tincture of rosin
weed, which is claimed to be the curative principle of
prairie hay, without satisfactory results, and can produce
equally satisfactory results by other treatment that is claimed
for that of feeding prairie hay.

First give one of the following balls : Ginger, powdered,
^ oz.; capsicum, }l oz. Form a ball. This ball to be
given three nights in succession; then omit two or three
nights, and one or two balls may be given again in succes-
sion. The horse should have regular exercise, be watered
often, (small quantities at a time,) and have straw instead
of hay to eat, (corn fodder would be much better.) Under
this treatment heaves will disappear.

FAVORITE REMEDIES FOR HEAVES.

1. Spanish brown, 2 oz.; tartar emetic, 2 oz.; resin, 4 oz.,
ginger, 2 oz. Mix and give two teaspoonfuls twice a day
in the feed.

2. Vegetable tar, in mass, y^ oz.; gum camphor, y^ oz.;
tartar emetic, i dram. Form into a ball, one of which is
to be given once a day.

3. Take indigo, i oz.; saltpeter, i oz.; rain water, i gal-
lon ; mix and give a pint twice a day in the feed.

I could include a great m^xij pretended ^^ sure cures " for
heaves. I have used in my practice almost everything for
this purpose, comprising sulphuric acid and corrosive sub-
limate, etc., as experiments, and find them comparatively
or wholly worthless. If the horse shows heaves after a
severe cold or inflammation of the lungs, there will be
wheezing from a filling of the air passages with mucus.
Hence gentle exercise, stimulating medicine to the air pas-
sages and lungs, and condensing the food, will give relief,
since the lungs are thereby stimulated and freed from
mucus, as well as giving freedom to act, and there is, in
consequence, relief.

You will find the above treatment to work splendidly in
most cases. They will give relief in all cases with proper
attention to feeding, and will in many cases possibly make
a cure.

DISEASES AND THEIR -TREATMENT. 165

TO CUKE ROARING, OR WHISTLING.

The following treatment for the cure of roaring, or whistling, as it is
termed, has been used by Mr. E. D. Conklin, and others, in Cleveland,
Ohio, and they claim the m. st satisfactory results. Mr. Conklin, who is
a large owner of horses, and perfectly reliable, states that he cured one
very bad case; could not pull a load two rods up-hill without blowing
and choking down ; was completely cured in six weeks. Has tried it
in a number of cases, and always with satisfactory results. The treat-
ment was introduced by Mr. Johnson, of Cleveland, who claims he can
cure any case. As there is no really satisfactory treatment for this dif-
ficulty in regular practice that I know of, I give this remedy and state
my authority. It can be tried with safety.

Treatment. — From lo to 20 drops of sponga fosta on the
tongue in the morning. At night the same proportion of
Fowler's Solution in the same manner, to be repeated
alternately for from four to six weeks, giving more or less
and for a longer or shorter time, according to the severity
of the case, until a cure is effected.

TETANUS, OR LOCKED JAW

This disease is wholly of a nervous character. A descrip-
tion of the symptoms is scarcely necessary, but in the first
stage there is a disinclination to move; then the tail be-
comes erect and quivers, the ears set back, and the
conjunctiva is thrown over the pupil of the eye, and the
head i§ elevated.

As the disease advances, the muscles all over the neck
and body become stiff and rigid, and the legs have the ap-
pearance of a four-footed stool. The animal has little or
no power to move.

For the first few days the teeth remain apart, but as the
disease advances, the muscles of the jaw become so con-
tracted as to bring them close together. Hence the name
of locked jaw.

The causes of this disease are numerous, but it is gener-
ally produced from a wounded nerve or bunch of nerves,
pricking the tail, and very often from docking, punctured
wounds in the feet from glass or nails, and sometimes from
severe exposure to cold, and I have known one case to occur
from fright. As to the pulse, it is almost normal for the
first few days. As the disease advances the pulse quickens.

166 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

and the animal is compelled to stand on his legs until
death, if it terminates fatally. If favorably, a relaxation
of the muscles begins from the fifth to the seventh day.
This disease is more common in the extreme South than in
the North.

Treat?nenf. — First, as the disease is of a nervous charac-
ter, quietness is of the greatest importance. The animal
should be put into an isolated place or box, by himself, and
the cause of the disease found. If from docking, the next
joint should be taken off the tail. If from a wound in the
foot, the wound should be opened up and made new, and
an application of digestive ointment inserted, so as to pro-
duce a healthy flow of matter. When the irritation has
ceased from the wound, a pail of gruel should be placed
before him, in which is mixed half an ounce of tartar
emetic. This medicine should be given daily, and the spine
rubbed well with a strong liniment, composed of one part
of aqua ammonia and two parts of sweet oil. This embro-
cation should be employed daily until the back becomes
sore.

Tetanus never arises from a wound until about the period
that it may be considered healed. Bleeding about four
quarts daily for four or five days has cured several bad
cases. Think if the bowels can be regulated, quietness has
more to do in producing a cure than all other remedies.

POIili EVIL AND FISTULA OF THE ^WITHERS.

These difficulties are of the same character, though in
different locations, and the treatment of one will be suffi-
cient for both. Poll evil is sometimes caused by striking
the poll against a beam or floor, being struck or otherwise
injured, or it may be the result of constitutional predisposi-
tion.

When the inflammation and enlargement are first discov-
ered, you may be able to disperse it by giving a dose of
physic and applying cooling applications to the part.

If the inflammation does not abate, clip the hair and rub
on some blistering ointment. When the swelling enlarges,
open and allow the pus' to escape; cut down to the bottom,
making a good large orifice.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 1C7

In treating all ulcers, there is one point that must be kept
in mind, and that is to make an opening at the bottom if
you can, to let the matter run out, as matter always bur-
rows to the bottom. This should be done by running a
seaton through, bringing it out a little lower than the bot-
tom of the wound, or what is termed a dependent opening.
Wash the sore out clean. It is afterwards to be washed
clearly with any of the healing preparations for ulcers, given
in another page.

If pipes are formed requiring caustic medicine, you can
use either chloride of zinc, corrosive sublimate, or any
strong escorotic to destroy such growth, after which treat as
before. These are very serious difficulties to treat, requir-
ing proper dressing daily.

Fistula of withers to be treated in the same manner. The
principle of treating these difficulties is really the same as
that of any ordinary deep seated ulcer, more special direc-
tions for the treatment of which will be found under that
head.

S-WEENY.

«

Sweeny is really a fictitious disease, discarded by all relia-
ble practitioners. They claim, and how justly I am not
prepared to say, sweeny is the effect of diseases of the feet,
such as corns, navicular diseases, ossification of the lateral
cartilage, contraction, etc. , producing atrophy of the mus-
cles of the shoulder, and their treatment would be to
remove the cause, and the effect would cease. If you wish
to pursue a local treatment of sweeny or filling up of the
shoulder, you can do it by the application of most any
stimulating treatment. One of the simplest and best, which
will work in every case, and which most horsemen will
regard as of more value than the price of this book, is the
application of soft soap. Add a little salt to soft soap and
rub on the part thoroughly four or five times in the course
of a week. Four applications will fill up the depression of
the worst case. The regular treatment would be seatoning
and blistering, but this will do all that is required so far as
local treatment.

In addition, by all means, if any difficulty is discovered
in the foot, treat it also, as explained in another chapter.

168

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

SPAVIN AND BINQBONE.

There are two kinds of bone spavin, namely : Jack and
occult, or consolidated joint. The first is located at the
upper portion of the metatarsal bone at its juncture with
the cuboid bones. The second is usually located higher up
and more on the inside of the astragalus bone at its junc-
tion with the cuboid bones.

Spavins of either of the above classes have the same ori-
gin and same causes, namely, inflammation of the cartilage
of the joint in the first instance, and extending to ulcera-
tion of the bone, consequently bony matter is thrown out,
uniting more or less of the bone of the hock and excess of
matter and ulceration of the bones from the enlargent.

The causes of spavin are numer-
ous, but principally of one class, such
as sprains, hard work, blows, and,
in fact, any cause exciting inflamma-
tion of this part. But a common
cause and a great fault lies in the
breeders of horses, as very often the
colt is bred from spavined sire or
dam, or both, and the colt is certain
to inherit the same predisposition.
The symptoms at the commencement are treacherous.
Very often horses are treated for hip lameness before any
enlargement makes its appearance. The horse, at first, is
very lame while laboring under acute inflamma-
tion of the hock joint. He will not wear out or
the lameness as he does in the more advanced
stage of the disease. The tumor generally
makes its appearance from the fifth to the
eighth week. Sometimes, however, the lame-
ness is very gradual — scarcely perceptible at
first — getting worse until there is marked lame-
ness at starting, which will soon wear off" as the
horse warms up.

The method of curing is varied, as there are hundreds oi
different remedies and applications. Some men go so far
as to pretend they can remove spavins. To a skillful practi-
tioner this is absurd. It will be seen that if such quacks can
remove the external tumor, they cannot separate the bones

Showing the Changes of Struc
ture Caused.

Bone Spavin.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

169

Natural Action.

Effect of bad Spavin
— Leg not brought
Forward,

which are united, and
horses may be spavined
without any visible en-
largement.

I can simplify all this
to gentlemen interes-
ted, by illustrating with
my specimens, the lo-
cation, nature, changes
of structure, &c., in
spavin, a large collec-
tion of which I carry
for the purpose. Sub-
limates, muriatic, sul-
phuric, and nitric acids form the basis of the different oint-
ments that are applied to remove this formidable disease.
They always make a bad sore, and blemish the animal for
life.

The only reasonable treatment for bone spavin is counter
irritation and rest. If there is heat during the first few
days, apply cooling applications, such as an ounce of sugar
of lead to half a pail of ice water. Keep the leg wet for
about two weeks, when it may pass off. A dose of physic
should be given. If this stage has passed, repeated blister-
ing with a preparation of iodine or cantharides will be
necessary ; but much better would be the actual cautery in
an operator's hands. Clip the hair closely over a large
surface four or five inches above and below the enlarge-
ment, and then out to the middle of the back and fore-
parts of the leg. Any of the stron^j blisters recommended
for spavins, for which formulas are given below, are to be
used. If a blister, rub it in well with the hand for ten
minutes or more. In two days put on some grease. When
the inflammation goes down, wash with warm water and
castile soap, and when dry put on more blister, and so re-
peat, keeping up just as much irritation as you can without
destroying the hair. In the meantime, the horse must be
kept in a comfortable stall, for one of the conditions of cure
is rest. Keep up the inflammation in this way for four or
five weeks, after which give a run to grass. It is sometimes
necessary to blister lightly, if the lameness does not disap-
pear, in six or eight weeks, which may be repeated a few

170 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

times, with iodine ointment in the proportion of one part
of iodine to four of lard.

Work should be light, if any, within
three months. This treatment will usually
cure without leaving a blemish.

Treat ringbones on the same principle.
Trim off the hair and blister in the same
manner, observing the same condition of
rest. As regards taking off the enlarge-
ment, this treatment is as effectual towards
that end as can be used.

Several of the very best recipes for the
cure of spavins and ringbones will be

Ringbone. fo^Jld below-. , .V ^

Bear m mmd, you must always clip the
hair off of the part to be blistered, and that the medicine
must be rubbed in well with the hand for ten minutes.

VERY STRONG BLISTER FOR SPAVINS, RINGBONES, CURBS, ETC.

Finely powdered cantharides, i oz.; powdered euphor-
bium, 2 drams; lard i oz.; tar, 2 oz.

A VERY ACTIVE BLISTER FOR SPAVIN, RINGBONE, ETC.

Two drams corrosive sublimate, i oz. lard, }4 oz. tar, 2
drams cantharides. Rub and mix well together.

A GOOD BLISTER FOR SPAVIN, RINGBONE, ETC.

Biniodide of mercury, }^ dram; cantharides, i dram;
lard, I oz.

A fine blister for any purpose requiring counter irritation
and absorption, will take off curbs, splints, &c.

POWERFUL ABSORBING BLISTER FOR SPAVIN AND RINGBONE.

Equal parts of beniodide of mercury and cantharides,
three parts of tar and lard each. Rub in well with the
hand for three mornings, and use lard after to soften and
take off the scab, when it may be repeated if necessary.

SWEATING LINIMENT FOR WINDGALLS, ETC.

Strong mercurial ointment, 2 oz.; camphor, }4 oz.; oil
of rosemary, 2 drams ; oil of turpentine, i oz. Mix.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT, 171

VERY STRONG SWEATING BLISTER, FOR WINDGALLS, CURBS,
SPLINTS, ETC.

Biniodide of mercury, ^ to i dram; powdered arnica
leaves, i dram ; soap liniment, 2 oz. Mix.

A FINE ABSORBENT FOR TAKING DOWN ENLARGEMENTS
OF ANY KIND.

One ounce beniodide of mercury ; from i to 3 ounces of
lard, according to the strength desired.

The following remedy for the cure of spavin and ring-
bone is regarded as one of the best used. It is sold in the
Mohawk Valley, (where I obtained the prescription,) for
$5.00 a box, and Fifty Dollars has been paid for this re-
ceipt. It is, I think, the best of this class of prescriptions
published.

FOR SPAVIN AND RINGBONE.

Five ounce euphorbium, 2 oz. Spanish flies (fine), i oz.
iodine, dissolved with alcohol, ^ oz. red precipitate, i oz.
corrosive sublimate, ^ oz. quicksilver, 6 oz. hog's lard,
6 oz. white turpentine, ^ lb. verdigris. Melt the lard and
turpentine together, then while hot add all together. Mix
well; when cold it is fit for use. Rub it in thoroughly on
the spavin every day for three days ; then wash clean with
soap suds ; omit for three days and then repeat for three
days again, and so on until a perfect cure is produced.
Should it blister, use it more cautiously.

This medicine will get up as much inflammation as you
desire, and must be applied cautiously or it will blemish.

The following remedy for the cure of ringbone and
spavin, and taking off enlargements, has been peddled
through the country as a remedy of the greatest value. As
high as one hundred dollars has been paid for this receipt.
I give it as given me.

Take alcohol, 14 oz.; iodine, 304 grains; bichloride of
mercury, 150 grains. Let stand in a sand bath twenty-two
hours, then add 230 drops croton oil; let it stand in sand
bath twenty-two hours longer, then bottle for use.

Next take quicksilver, 14 oz.; nitric acid, 7 oz.; stir one
minute; cantharides, 7 drams; stir five minutes; sulphuric

172 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

acid, 7 oz.; stir three minutes; 50 drops of the above lini-
ment. Let stand five hours, stir every half hour, then add
7 oz. prepared chalk.

First shave the hair off the ''bunch," then apply the
liniment with a lather brush. Sprinkle a little of the pow-
der on paper, and rub on, after washing with the liniment.
When the bunch is reduced two-thirds, wash with warm
water and castile soap. In twenty-four hours grease.

This is one of the very strongest remedies used for spavin
and ringbone, and if not used with great care is pretty sure
to blemish. I will here state that educated practitioners
use the milder treatment, immediately following the des-
cription of spavin. Properly done, the actual cautery or
firing is undoubtedly the best and most reliable treatment.
This is the treatment I use for these difiiculties. Dr. Wm.
Somerville frequently charges ^100 for curing spavins, &c.,
on valuable horses by firing, guaranteeing not to blemish.
While the operation of itself is simple, it is one that requires
rare practical skill, and is done successfully only by a few
of the best practitioners.

Youatt, one of the best of the old English authors, says
in regard to

FIRIJMG.

Whatever seeming cruelty may attend this operation, it is, in many
cases, indispensable. The principle on which we have recourse to it
is similar to that which justifies the use of a blister; by producing
superficial inflammation we may be enabled to remove a deeper-seated
one, or we may excite the absorbents to take away any unnatural bony
or other tumor: it has also this additional advantage, that, while it
raises intenser external inflammation than we can produce by other
means, it is the most powerful agent that we have at our disposal.
Humanity, however, will dictate, that on account of inflammation which
it excites, and the pain which it inflicts, it should only be had recourse
to when milder means have failed, except in those cases in which ex-
perience has taught us that milder means rarely prove successful.

The part which is to be submitted to the operation is shaved, or the
hair is cut from it as closely as possible with the trimming scissors.
This is necessary to bring the iron into immediate contact with the
skin, and likewise to prevent the smoke that will arise from the burned
hair from obscuring the view of the operator.

The details of the operation belong to the veterinary surgeon. The
grand points to be attended to are to have the edge of the iron round
and smooth; the iron itself at, or rather below red head; to pass it
more or less rapidly over the skin, and with slighter or greater pressure.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 173

according to the degree of heat ; to burn into the skin until the line
produced by the iron is of a brown colour, rather light than dark, and
by all means avoid penetrating the skin. Leaving the additional
cruelty of deep firing out of the question, we may depend on it that, if
the skin is burned through, inflammation, and ulceration, and sloughing
will ensue, which will be with much difficulty combated; which will
unavoidably leave unnecessary blemish, and which have destroyed
many valuable horses. It may happen, nevertheless, that by a sudden
plunge of the animal, the skin will be unavoidably cut through. The
act of firing requires much skill and tact, and the practitioner cannot be
always on his guard against the struggles of the tortured beast. It will,
also, and not unfrequently occur, that the skin, partially divided, will
separate in two or three days after the operation. This must not be
attributed to any neglect or unskillfulness of the surgeon, and the ulce-
ration thus produced will be slight, and easily treated, compared with
that caused by the actual burning through of the skin.

Some practitioners blister immediately after firing. As a general
usage, it is highly to be reprobated. It is wanton and useless cruelty;
but it may be required in bony tumors of considerable extent, and
long standing, and interfering materially with the action of the neigh-
boring joint. Spavin, accompanied by much lameness, and ring-bone
spreading round the coronet, and involving the side cartilages, or the
pastern-joint, may justify it. The inflammation is rendered more in-
tense, and of considerably longer duration. In old affections of the
round bone it may be admitted, but no excuse can be made for it in
slighter cases of sprain, or weakness, or staleness.

On the day after the operation, it will be prudent gently to rub some
neat's-foot oil or lard over the lines. This will soften the skin, and
render it less likely to separate or ulcerate; a bandage would add to
the irritation of the part. Any cracks of the skin, or ulceration that
may ensue, must be treated with the calamine ointment already recom-
mended.

It will be evident that there is an advantage derived from firing to
which a blister can have no pretension. The skin, partially destroyed
by the iron, is reinstated and healed, not merely by the formation of
some new matter filling up the vacuity, but by the gradual drawing to-
gether and closing of the separated edges. The skin, therefore is
lessened in surface; it is tightened over the part, and it acts as a salutary
and permanent bandage. Of the effect of pressure in removing enlarge-
ments of every kind, as well as giving strength to the part to which it
is applied, we have repeatedly spoken; and it is far from being the
least valuable eff'ect of the operation of firing, that by contracting the
skin, it affords a salutary, equable, and permanent pressure. It was on
this principle, but the practice cannot be defended, that colts which
were not very strong on the legs, used to be fired round the fetlock, and
along the back sinews, or over the hock, to brace and strengthen the
parts. It is on the same principle that a racer or a hunter, that has be-
come stale and stiff", is sometimes fired and turned out. For whatever
reason the horse is fired, he should, if practicable, be turned out, o'
soiled in a loose box, for three or four months at least. The full eflfect

174

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

intended to result from the external irritation is not soon produced,
and the benefit derived from pressure proceeds still more slowly. In
the thickened and tender state of the skin, and the substance beneath,
for some weeks after firing, a return to hard work would be likely to
excite a new inflammation, and cause even worse mischief than that
which before existed.

Some weeks pass before the tumefied parts begin to lessen, and they
only who have had experience in these cases would imagine how long,
with gentle voluntary exercise, the process of absorption is carried on.
He, therefore, who whould expect that much good should accrue from
the operation of firing, must be content to give up his horse for three or
four months; but if he will use him sooner, and a worse lameness
should follow, let him blame his own impatience, and not the inefficiency
of the means, or want of skill in the surgeon.

The firing in every case should be either in longitudinal or parallel
lines. On the back sinews, the fetlock, and the coronet, this is
peculiarly requisite, for thus only will the skin contract so as to form
the greatest and most equable pressure.

The operation of firing is one that I am thoroughly practiced in,
competent to perform in the most successful manner.

BLOOD SPAVIN, THOROUGH PIN,

Soft enlargements upon the hock. If not of long standing,
the following will be found very
effective, though simple : Rub
on soft soap, to which has been
added a little salt, at night, ard
wash off in the morning. Two
or three applications will cure,
if recently caused. If of long
duration, blister two or three
times, as for bone spavin.

Thorough Pin.

SPLINTS.

This is an enlargement between
the cannon and splint bones, show-
ing itself on the inside of the fore
leg. The same treatment as for
spavin.

Bog, or Blood
Spaviu.

Changes that may
be Produced.

Splint

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

175

CURB,

Clean Hock.

Curb.

Curb.

This is an enlargement of the integument, and in some
cases of bony deposit, usually caused by a strain. It is
situated on the back part of the hock, just below the cap.
Blister with remedy for spavin.

SPRAIN OF THE BACK SINEWS.

The animal becomes suddenly lame, and by use grows
worse. Pass the fingers down
on each of the tendons back
of the knee. A little enlarge-
ment, if there, with considera-
ble inflammation, will be dis-
covered. Use cooling astringent
liniment until the acute stage
passes off. If not better then,
blister, observing to give the
animal rest. Firing is the most

reliable treatment. Enlargement caused^by Sprain of the

COFFIN JOINT LAMENESS

Is often mistaken by those who are not capable of locat' . <,
the diseases of horses' feet to be lameness of the shoulder,
from the fact that generally after the shoe is removed, and
no external injury is discovered in the foot, some distant
part is selected as the location of the disease. ' navicular
disease is dangerous and treacherous in its pr.vgress and
development. It is commonly caused by viole /i sprains of
the navicular joint, although sometimes, and in fact, very
often, may be induced by a contusion of .he frog; and

176 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

again, there is a disposition to have this disease from heredi-
tary causes.

The coffin joint is composed of three bones : the os
pedis, the navicular and small pastern bones. The navicu-
lar bones answer the purpose of a sup-
port in allowing great elasticity of mo-
tion. The flexor tendon inserts itself
into the os pedis, and passes immediate-
ly over the navicular bone, so that at
each step the navicular bone is thrown
upon one part of the os pedis and small
pastern at the same time. It will be
seen that in all cases of lameness of this
joint, as well as in any other joint lame-
ness, that the cartilage of the bones is
inflamed, and as the disease progresses
Section of thn Parts En- ulceration takcs placc, and consequently
tering into the compo- ancholosis. It is almost Striving against

sition of the Foot, and , , , , i • . ,i

the Fetlock and Pas- hope to be able to cxplam to the gener-

tern Joints. ^j reader the symptoms to enable ability

a OS suffraginis b Os ^o locate the disease with any degree of

coronae. c Os pedis, d ccrtamty. Corns or bruiscs of the sole,

pe^foran^lnd perforJtus Contraction, or almost any cause exciting

tendons, g Inferior sesa- inflammation in the foot, may cause simi-

moideal ligament. h , , , , ,. -^ ,

Cleft of frog, i Side of lar lameucss, and to an ordinary observer
c?uV/Vonartsub- there cannot be that fine judgment
stance. necessary to trace from certain pecu-

liarities the location of the trouble.
Horses having navicular disease invariably travel more on
the toe than on the heel, consequently the shoe is always
worn more at the toe than at the heel. The hoof rarely or
never is malformed, but the disease commonly occurs in
healthy looking feet, contraction of one or both heels, which
will in many cases interfere with the outer cartilage of the
joint. In the cases of long standing the frog appears to
recede, and does not have a natural appearance. If the
horse is taken suddenly lame, sometimes scarcely putting
the foot down, and only presses upon the toe, feel of the
foot carefully. If there is heat around the top of the hoof
and tenderness — even a little at the heel — there is probably
strain of the coffin joint. In incipent cases (first stages)
there is fever and tenderness to motion of the joint, which

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 17V

is noticeable by catching the foot in one hand, the ankle in
the other, and twisting a little. The animal will show pain
and resist.

As to treatment, in the first stage, the shoe should be re-
moved, and have the toe of the shoe hammered down.
The heels should be raised, and applied again so as to
remove all pressure from the frog, and a cloth or rug satur-
ated with cold water applied to the coronet. The bottom
of the foot should be stuffed with oil meal or some adhesive
substance. If this is done for a few days, with rest, the
first attack will generally pass off.

In the more advanced stage of this di ease it will require
thorough treatment. The shoe should be formed and ap-
plied as before, and a severe blistering applied to the
coronet, which should be continued for from one to three
weeks, with rest. At a still more advanced stage the frog
seaton may be used, but this must be done by an ex-
perienced practitioner.

In all cases of this disease the animal will require con-
sideiable rest.

I would here remark that in an advanced stage of the
disease the horse is a little lame, sometimes worse, at others
better; rough road and .down hill worse; is no worse to be
at work ; usually no apparant change in the hoof; will go
better when the heels are raised by using high-heeled shoes;
worse by bringing heels to the ground.

LAMENESS.

In treating lameness successfully, it is necessary to be
able to understand the peculiarities of joint from muscular
lameness, — in fact, of the action and movement incidental
to each.

The horse is, for example, lame in the fore foot, and with-
out knowing just what the trouble is, something must be
done, and the shoulder is furiously attacked, being blistered,
seatoned or subjected to some needless form of cruelty
which can have no effect whatever on the injured part.

In the first place, if the shoulder is strained or injured,
the horse cannot raise or put the foot forward naturally.
He will drag it like, giving it a sort of swinging motion,
and does not bring it very far forward. On the other hand,

12

178 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

if the injury is in the foot, the foot is raised up and put
forward easily and naturally, but is put down tenderly.

Again, a case of muscular lameness, such as shoulder
lameness, straining of the back sinews, (suspensatory liga-
ments,) the lameness will get worse by use. That of the
foot, such as corns, coffin joint lameness, pricking with a
nail, etc., remain about the same; besides, if there is much
soreness in the foot, from contraction, corns, pricking,
strain of the coffin joint, the foot will be put forward or
rested upon the toe. This will always be the case if there
is much soreness of the heels, as resting upon the toe re-
lieves the pressure and pain. Hence it is a marked
symptom of coffin joint injury, of corns and thickening of
the lateral cartilages.

Again, if there is much inflammation, increased heat can
be felt in the foot.

FIRST, SHOULDER LAMENESS.

Symptoms. — The animal drags the leg, with the toe on
ground, and cannot raise the foot.

Treatment. — Local bleeding from the plate vein on the
inside of the leg is very effectual, with a purging ball. Fo-
menting the shoulder with hot water will be found useful.
If, in a few days, fomentations do not succeed, and the case
seems obstinate, rub on thoroughly soft soap and salt, which
will be found a fine stimulant, and is easily obtained. If
any eruption should arise from the application of this dress-
ing, apply a little sweet oil or lard, which will remove the
scab in a few days.

PRICKING.

If the horse becomes lame after being shod, examine the
foot carefully. If pricked by driving any of the nails too
near the quick, there will be heat and tenderness in the
hoof easily discovered. Tap the nails around carefully;
when the part injured is struck there will be prompt resist-
ance shown. Have the shoe taken off, and cut down to
where the nail strikes the quick, enough to make room for
any matter that may have formed to escape ; then poultice
with flax seed meal until the inflammation is reduced, when
a little tar, resin, or tallow, or something of this kind,

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 179

should be put on, and the opening filled up with a little tow-
to prevent gravel or dirt from getting in, and put the shoe
on again.

CORNS.

Described in the article on Shoeing. The most difficult
corns to treat are those in weak, broad heels. If in a high,
strong heel, and contracted, all that is necessary to do is to
trim out the corn, dress it with a little mild caustic to pro-
duce a healthy action, fitting the shoe so as to preclude all
pressure upon the part, and the horse will go off all right.
There is not horn enough to protect the heel from pressure
when the heel is wide and weak, we must now accomplish
two ends : remove pressure from the sole, and at the same
time m.ake the heels strong by growing strong, healthy horn.
Put on a nicely fitting bar shoe, which will protect the heel
by bringing pressure upon the frog.

The usual and scientific treatment is to apply a strong
cantharides blister right over the seat of the corn, on the
coronet. Stimulants of any kind will increase the action.
Many remedies are used for this purpose with varied effects,
but regular blistering really stands at the head of all. There
is great danger of separation from the continued pressure
of the shoe upon the affected part. The blacksmith may
tell you it is a gravel, to shield himself from' his inability
to fit a shoe that will relieve pressure. In such a case it
will be necessary to let the animal lie still and dress the
part with an astringent, such as alum and water, sugar of
lead and water. After the feet seem healthy, put on a bar
shoe as before stated, and put the animal to work.

The following remedy seems to have a splendid effect in
removing soreness and growing the feet. I know of its
being sold for ten dollars. It is the best thing for the cure
of weak, sore feet I ever saw. It softens the hoof and
grows horn rapidly, as well as removes soreness.

HOOF LINIMENT FOR CONTRACTED OR SORE FEET.

Venice turpentine, ^ pint; aqua ammonia, 2 oz.; salts
of niter, i oz.; benzine, i oz.; alcohol, 3 oz. Apply to the
edge of the hair and all over the hoof once a day for a week;
after that, for a week or two, three or four times a week, as
may be necessary.

180 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

The effect of this preparation on sore, weak feet, and
upon contracted feet, in many cases, is wonderful, and is
undoubtedly the best preparation for the feet yet published.
It is well, however, to bear in mind that the primary con-
dition of curing contraction is the use of mechanical means
of expansion as given under that head.

STEPPING ON NAILS, GLASS, OR ANYTHING THAT
PUNCTURES THE SOLE OR FROG.

The first thing to be attended to is to remove the nail,
glass, or whatever it is, from the foot, carefully. See that
no part remains, and remove a little of the hoof from
around the opening. Drop a few drops of Friar's balsam
into the orifice, and cover the part with a flax seed poultice.
Friar's balsam can be obtained in almost any drug store.
If this is not obtainable use the simple digestive ointment,
given in another chapter.

HIP LAMENESS

Is a formidable disease. Its principal seat is in the whirl-
bone joint, and is usually caused by sprains or falls. The
animal from this form of lameness will stand on the affected
limb, and will not show lameness. The muscles are not
called into action in elevating the limb. Then there is a
dragging or swaying motion of the limb outwards. By plac-
ing the hand on the hip joint, an extra degree of heat will
be found to invest this part.

Treatment. — First, absolute rest; next, same treatment
and remedies as given for shoulder lameness. Treatment
should be repeated until recovered, which requires from one
to two weeks.

RETENTION OF URINE.

The most common cause is keeping the animal at work,
not giving time to urinate, and a spasm of the neck of the
bladder or gravelly concretions; any cause of irritation
may cause spasm. Symptoms are the same as m inflamma-
tion of the kidneys, except standing very wide behind, and
when walking, a straddling gait resembling a cow with a
very full bag.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 181

The most prompt treatment is to use the catheter, and
scarcely anything more is necessary. But if one is not ob-
tainable, bleed freely and give a strong opiate. 3 oz. tinct.
opiurp, in half pint of water.

SCOURS, OR PURGING.

This disease is generally produced by two causes : change
of food or water, or unhealthy food, and sometimes through
nervous excitement.

Cure. — Neutralize the acids in the bowels by giving an
ounce and a half of prepared chalk and a dram and a half
of powdered catechu, mixed in a pint of water. Give once
or twice a day until purging ceases. Keep the animal with-
out exercise, and do not give much water to drink.

If this disease should arise from nervous excitement, give
a dram of powdered opium in the food once a day for three
or four days.

PROFUSE STALING.

The causes of this disease are, the improper use of diu-
retic medicines, as saltpeter, resin, &c. Unwholesome food
will sometimes produce it.

Treatment. — Give one of the following balls every night:
Powdered opium, ^ oz. ; powdered kino, i oz. ; prepared
chalk, I oz. Mix with molasses, and make six balls.

Or give the following powder once a day mixed in the
food : gentian powdered, sulphate iron, a dram and a half
of each.

BLOODY URINE

Is generally tlie result of injuries of the loins, unwholesome
food, violent exercise, &c.

Treatment. —Give plenty linseed tea to drink; if the ani-
mal refuses it, drench him. Give internally, once a day,
one of the following pills: sugar of lead, i oz.; linseed
meal, 2 oz. Mix with molasses and divide into eight parts.

SPASMODIC ACTION OF THE DIAPHRAGM,

Commonly called thumps, is caused by severe and long
continued driving and hard work. Horses of a nervous

182

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

temperament having too much cold water given to drink on
a cold morning, nervous irritation, severe work or excite-
ment from any cause, may excite this trouble.

Symptoms. — A sudden jerking or twitching of the muscles
of the sides and flanks ; pulse wiry, quick and low, more or
less fever; extremities natural.

Cure. — This disease being of a purely spasmodic charac-
ter, but in this case wholly of a nervous nature, bleeding
must be omitted, and must be treated wholly by giving
spasmodic remedies. Give assafoetida, in a dose of from
I to 3 ounces of the tincture, mixed in a half pint of wa-
ter. Given as a drench will stop it almost instantly.

If necessary, the medicine may be repeated in two hours.
Keep the horse well clothed, and keep all exciting causes
away from him. The bowels should be kept loose and regu-
lar, by giving bran mashes and moderate exercise.

WORMS.

The symptoms of worms are debility, feebleness, slug-
gish movements, emaciation, staring coat, hide bound,
skin covered with blotches, irregular and capricious appe-
tite, tucked up belly, pallid ap-
pearance of the lining mem-
brane of the lip, badly digested
faeces, rubs the tail, and where
fundament worms exist a whi-
tish substance will be found
about the fundament.

Give of calomel, 3 drams;
tartar emetic, i dram. Mix and
divide into three powders; one to be given at night for
three successive nights. To be followed, in twenty-four
hours, with a good purging ball.

Symptoms of Worms.

Tenia, or Tape Worm.

Different Kinds of Wornu*.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 183

INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES.

Symptoms. — A watery discharge from the eye, eyelids
partly closed, membrane of lid on under side much red-
dened.

In ordinary cases all that is necessary to do is to keep
the horse quiet and bathe the eye with cold water. Either
of the following will be found good :

Laudanum, i oz.; rain water, i pint. Mix. Or, acetate
of lead, I dram; sulphate of zinc, ^ dram; rain water, 3
pints. Mix for use.

Either of the above may be applied with a soft sponge
two or three times a day.

Give on the tongue, three or four times a day, three or
four drops of belladonna.

More thorough treatment would be a seaton below the
eye, which of itself, will soon, in most cases, effect a cure.

The following is perhaps one of the very best eye washes
used. It is a favorite remedy of great value. I insert it as
given me.

EYE WASH.

Take three hen's eggs and break them into a quart of
clear cold rain water; stir until a thorough mixture is ef-
fected ; boil over a slow fire, stirring every few minutes ;
add half an ounce of sulphate of zinc, (white vitriol;) con-
tinue the boiling a short time, and the compound is ready
for use. In this preparation a solid substance, or curd, is
precipitated or thrown down, and a liquid solution rests
upon the top. This is the best wash for sore eyes of either
man or beast that was ever made. The curd applied to the
inflamed eye at night will draw the fever and soreness
nearly all out by morning. After two or three days the
water should be strained from the curd, and put into a
bottle for future use. This eye wash is invaluable. When
applied to the human eye it should be diluted.

A gentleman who had a copy of my old edition, having
this remedy in it, informed me that he was offered ^10 for
the book on account of the value of this receipt, having
used it in his neighborhood with great success, and that he
would not sell it at any price.

184 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

CUTS OR WOUNDS— REMEDIES FOR.

If the cut or wound is very bad, trim the hair off closd
around the edges, and wash out carefully with warm watei
and castile soap. The object next is to produce a granulating
process. There is hardly any use in sewing up cuts, as the
stitches will sluff out. In treating deep wounds, or cuts or
ulcers of any kind, bear in mind that the matter must be
sponged or syringed out daily with castile soap and warm
water, or what is termed a dependent opening must be made
for the matter to run off. Matter alway burrows or pockets.
The principle is the same in all cases, — using caustic to cut
out fungous or other diseased growths ; using for indolent
ulcers proportionately more stimulating preparations than
for those in a fresh, healthy condition.

THE FOLIiOWINQ DIGESTIVE OINTMENT

is unrivaled for the cure of cuts or fresh wounds on horse-
flesh, and is alone worth more than the price of this book
to any horseman.

For a healing ointment the following is unrivaled: 2^
lbs. palm oil, 2 lbs. lard, ^ lb. gum turpentine, ^ lb.
beeswax, i lb. calamine. Simmer all together over a slow
fire, and it will be fit for use. Put a little in the wound
once a day. Wash the wound with warm water and castile
soap before applying the ointment.

A GOOD SIMPLE HEALING PBEPARATION.

Blue vitriol, in the proportion of two drams to a pint of
water is an excellent application for wounds. If a caustic
effect is desired, increase the quantity to an ounce or more,
and it will be found a fine preparation to rouse old ulcers
to a healthy action. Good for poll evil or other ulcers.

A fine healing lotion is : Tincture myrrh, i oz. ; tincture
aloes, 2 oz. ; water, ^ pint. Mix, and apply once a day.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 185

HEALING OINTMENT FOR CUTS, OALLS, ETC. GOOD.

Oxide of zinc, pulverized fine, 4 drams; carbolic acid, 6
grains; lard, i ounce. Melt the lard and stir in the zinc.
Add the carbolic acid and mix thoroughly. Apply once or
twice a day to the cut or injury. Will cause a healthy dis-
charge from a foul ulcer.

XINIMENT FOR OPEN ^WOUNDS. A FINE
PREPARATION.

Take sulphate of copper (copperas), i oz.; while vitriol,
2 oz.; muriate of soda (salt), 2 oz.; oil linseed, 2 oz.;
Orleans molasses, 8 oz. Boil over a slow fire fifteen minutes,
in a pint of urine, all of the above ingredients. When
nearly cold add i oz. of oil of vitriol and 4 oz. spirits of
turpentine, and bottle for use. Apply to the wound with a
quill, which will soon set the wound to discharging, and
perform a cure in a few days. Be careful to keep the wound
covered either with a bandage or a plaster. Should be
applied once or twice a day until it discharges freely.

"WASH FOR FRESH "WOUNDS. A FAVORITE
REMEDY OF GREAT VALUE.

One teaspoonful white vitriol, i teaspoonful copperas, 2
teaspoonfuls fine gunpowder; add to i quart of boiling
water, and let it stand until cool. If the wound is deep,
apply with a syringe. One of the best of remedies for the
purpose recommended.

LINIMENT FOR FOUL ULCERS. GOOD.

Sulphate of copper, i oz.; nitric acid, ^ oz.; water, 8
to 12 oz.

COOLING LINIMENT FOR EXTERNAL INFLAM-
MATION. GOOD.

Goulard extract, i oz.; vinegar, 2 oz.; spirits of wine, 3
oz.; water, i^ pints. Apply with a bandage.

186 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

FOR INFLAMED LEG, GALLED SHOULDEBS OR BACK.
A REALLY GOOD THING.

Sal ammoniac, i oz.; vinegar, 4 oz.; spirits of wine, 2
oz.; tincture arnica, 2 drams; water, ^ pint. Mix, and
bathe with it often and thoroughly.

Sutter of antimony.

For corns, canker, indisposition of the sole to secrete
healthy horn, wounds in the foot not attended by healthy
action, and for every case where the superficial application
of a caustic is needed, the chloride of antimony (butter of
antimony) is one of the very best.

STICKING-PLASTER, FOR CUTS OR "WOUNDS.

Burgundy pitch, 4 oz.; tallow, 2 oz. Melt the articles
together, and spread on linen or cloth while hot. Cut in
strips of proper length and width, and draw the wound
together; warm the strips and apply them. Clip the hair
short where the plaster is to be applied.

-WASH FOR REDUCING AN INFLAMED AATOUND,

One oz. sulphate of zinc, i oz. crotus martes, ^ oz. sugar
of lead, I pint water. A sore will not smell bad when this
wash is used.

SPRAINS AND BRUISES.

It must be borne in mind, the first object in treating
acute inflammation caused by injury of any kind is to lower
the inflammation. Cold water, or one ounce of sugar of
lead to a pint of water, would be better, and is a remedy of
great value, to be used repeatedly until relief is afforded.

The following is excellent : Saltpeter, 4 oz.; sugar of lead,
I oz.; muriate of ammonia, i oz.; common salt, i pint;
cold water, 2 galls. Mix and bathe the parts aff"ected; or
keeo constantly wet with the following, which is good:

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 187

Tincture arnica, 2 oz.; cold water, i quart. This will pre-
vent inflammation or swelling following a bruise or sprain.

ANODYNE STIMULATING LINIMENT.

Spirits of hartshorn, i^ oz.; sulphuric ether, i^ oz.;
spirits of turpentine, ^ oz.; sweet oil, ^ oz.; oil of cloves,
^ oz., chloroform, i oz. Put into a strong 8 ounce bottle
and cork tightly; keep in a dark place, or wrap with paper.
This liniment relieves pain, and is good for lameness, etc.,
and for all cases of strains and soreness. To be well
rubbed in.

Oil of turpentine, i oz.; tine, opium, i oz.; soap liniment,

1 oz.; tine, capsicum, )4 oz. Stimulating liniment; good
for rheumatism, sprains, etc.

MAGIC LINIMENT.

• Used very generally; good not only for sprains, bruises,
etc., after the acute stage, but a fine counter-irritant for
pleurisy, inflammation, etc.: Oil of spike, 2 oz.; organum,

2 oz.; hemlock, 2 oz.; wormwood, 2 oz.; sweet oil, 4 oz.;
spirits ammonia, 2 oz.; gum camphor, 2 oz.; spirits turpen-
tine, 2 oz.; proof spirits, i quart — 90 per cent. Mix well
together, and bottle tight.

FOB FRESH STRAINS, ETC.

Carbonate ammonate, 2 ounces; apple vinegar, }4 giU-
Rub in well.

TO ABATE S"WELLING CAUSED BY AN INJURY.

^Take common wormwood, 2 oz. ; New England rum, i
quart. Steep the wormwood in the liquor and apply thor

oughly.

A FINE SIMPLE LINIMENT.

Two parts ammonia to 4 parts of soft water, good lor
strains, etc.

188 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

THRUSH.

This is a rotting of the frog, with a discharge of matter
from the cleft or division of the frog, occasionally producing
lameness. The treatment is simple and effectual. Wash the
parts well with soap and water, then apply powdered
sulphate of copper to the parts, and fill up all the cavities
with cotton, packed 'in so as to keep out all dirt. This
process should be repeated in a few days if necessary.

For Thrush or Canker : Burnt alum, 4 oz. ; sulphate of
iron, 2 oz.; sulphate of copper, i oz.; camphor, 2 drams.
Mix.

MAGIC HEALING PBEPARATION.

Burnt alum, ^ oz.; prepared chalk, i oz.; pulverized gum
camphor, i dram; calamine, pulverized, 2 drams. Mix.

Sprinkle on the sore. Its effect will be apparently wonder-
ful, healing a simple wound in a few hours.

If it is desired to cicatrice a wound quickly, this is to b'e
used. Good for fresh wounds, galls of collar, saddle, or in
fact for any purpose requiring a fine healing astringent.
This is the receipt for the wonderful healing powder so
much advertised. Its effect will appear wonderful to those
not accustomed to its use. It is just the thing for sore or
lacerated mouths, or any such difficulty requiring great
astringent healing properties.

TO REDUCE SWELLING OF THE LEGS AND STRENGTH-
EN THE TENDONS AFTER HARD DRIVING

A favorite remedy on Long Island. One pint alcohol,
I ordinary sized beef gall, i ounce organum, i ounce oil
of spike, I ounce gum myrrh, ^ ounce camphor gum.
First wash and rub clean and dry. Then bathe with the
liniment and rub dry. Then apply again and bandage the
leg, being careful not to bandage too tight.

This is the best liniment for the purpose recommended I
have ever used. It should be kept in every stable.

This is a splendid remedy for the above purpose.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 189

TO RECRUIT A HORSE HIDE-BOUND OR OTHERWISE
OUT OF SORTS.

Nitrate potassa (or saltpeter), 4 oz.; crude antimony,
I oz.; sulphur, 3 oz. Nitrate of potassa and antimony-
should be finely pulverized, then add the sulphur, and mix
the whole well together. Dose: A tablespoonful of the
mixture in a bran mash daily, for a week or two.

This will be found an excellent remedy. It was given me
ten years ago, by Dr. T. Burton, of Fultonville, N. Y., (one
)f the most successful of medical practitioners, and not only
one of the best horsemen with whom, in my varied experi-
ence, I have become acquainted, but one of the best men I
have ever met, and to whose interest and encouragement I
am more than to any other single cause indebted for my great
success. It was by this gentleman's advice that I made a se-
ries of models with which to illustrate the principles of shoe-
ing, which have so often since been admired by horsemen.
There are a few chance acquaintances I have made during
the inception of a checkered career in my profession, the
icmembrance of whom becomes at all times only a growing
sc-arce of pleasure and encouragement, but chief of them
all stands this gentleman, whose encouraging predictions I
now lake the liberty of acknowledging in this connection,
as an assurance of my continued appreciation of his inter-
est so long ago, and that I have done the best I could to
prove worthy of his high, flattering assurance of my future
success. )

CRACKED HEELS.

Two ounces resin, 2 ounces copperas, 2 ounces alum,
I ounce beeswax, i pint tar, size hen's egg of tallow; boil
over a slow fire, skim off the filth and add the scrapings of
sweet elder a handful ; when cool, fit for use.

This is the best local application for cracked heels or
stuffing of the heels that I have ever used, and is in fact
one of the very best of healing preparations.

Six years ago, in Ohio, Turco had an aggravated crack-
ing and stuffing of heels of so bad a character th^t I feared
stuffing of the hoofs. In defiance of all the treatment I
could then think of for cure, I was compelled to poultice,
ai«d did "jo continually, using a variety of preparation.*?

190 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT

including charcoal and night soil as experiments. Of course,
I could now manage such a case easily, but at that time all
my efforts were baffled, and there was a strong prospect . <"
my favorite horse I then valued at three thousand dollars,
being ruined.

At this time, an old gentleman who claimed some success
as a "horse doctor," saw the case, and, against my judg-
ment, insisted upon using this remedy, which he said would
cure it in two weeks, and, to my surprise and gratification,
there was a perfect cure in less than that time.

There was no internal treatment given. It will be found
a remedy possessing great curative virtues for this purpose.

In treating scratches or grease heel, a local treatment
will always be facilitated powerfully, and is almost indis-
pensable, by giving a dose of physic.

GREASE HEELS.

This is a white, offensive, greasy discharge from the heels
of the horse. The skin becomes hot, tender and swollen.
The acrid character of the discharge often causes large por-
tions of the skin to slough away, leaving an ugly sore
behind. ■•

Treatment. — Open the bowels with the following ball:
Barbadoes aloes, i oz.; pulverized gentian root, 2 drams;
pulverized ginger, i dram ; water sufficient to make the
ball. Wash the parts well, and poultice for two or three
days with the following : Flax seed meal mixed with a solu-
tion of 2 drams sulphate of zinc to a pint of water, which
keep clean, and bathe frequently with glycerine, or the solu-
tion of zinc ; or a solution of the chloride of lime may be
used ; or the bichloride of mercury may be used in inveter-
ate cases with good results, pro\^ded it is not repeated
oftener than once a week.

CURE OF SCRATCHES.

Four ojmces tincture arnica, 4 ounces glycerine. If
heels are cracked badly, add: i ounce iodine, 2 ounces
tincture myrrh, ^ ounce gun powder (powdered fine.)
Put all into a bottle and shake thoroughly; put on two or
three times a day.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 191

In treating scratches, first give a dose of physic, or a few
bran mashes.

CANKER.

This is a more aggravated form of thrush, often proving
very troublesome to manage. It is a continuation of the
thrush between the horny frog and the internal structures of
the foot, causing separation between them.

Treatment. — Cut away all the horn which has been sepa-
rated from the soft structures of the foot, and apply the
following ointment: Take equal parts r»f pine tar and lard,
melt over a slow fire, and add sulphuric acid very slowly
until ebullition (boiling) ceases, and apply to the parts.
The foot must be protected from dirt by a bandage or a
leathern boot.

QUITTER.

This is a formation of pus between the hoof and the soft
structure within ; a sore at the coronet or upper part of the
foot, which at first is a hard, smooth tumor, soon becoming
soft, and breaks, discharging quantities of pus.

Treatment. — Poultice the foot for several days with flax
seed meal. As soon as the hoof becomes soft, cut away all
loose portions, but no more, and inject with a syringe
either of the following once a day: Chloride of zinc, 2
drams, dissolved in a pint of water ; or, sulphate of zinc,
i^ drams, in a pint of water; or, nitrate of silver, 2
drams, in a pint of water; or glycerine may be used with
advantage. Before using the wash have the foot well
cleaned with entile soap and water.

MANGE.

Take the horse in the sun and scrub him thoroughly all
over with castile soap and water, then wash him well from
head to tail with gas water, in which put 2 drams white hel-
lebore to the gallon. He must now be put in another stall,
distant from the one in which he has been standing. Thus
treated, it rarely requires more than one washing to effect
a permanent cure. The harness should be thoroughly
scrubbed and put away for six or eight weeks. These pre-
cautions are necessary to success in this otherwise trouble-
some disease.

192 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

No. 2. — Oil turpentine, 4 oz.; oil tar, 4 oz.; linseed oil,
6 oz. Mix.

PKEPAKATION TO KILL LICE ON HORSES.

One ounce of arsenic to a pail of soft water. The horse
should be washed thoroughly in some warm place. It is
not known to many that hen lice and common human body
lice grow on horses with great rapidity. This remedy is a
sure cure, and is invaluable.

NASAL GLEET.

This is a chronic discharge from one or both nostrils, of
a whitish, muco-purulent matter, the result usually of neg-
lected catarrh. The general health of the animal does not
seem to suffer; he looks well, feeds well and works well,
yet we have this discharge, which is caused by weakness in
the secretory vessels of the lining membrane of the nose.

The successful treatment in all cases where this disorder
has existed has been on tonic principle. Bleeding and
purging are positively injurious. Give one of the following
powders night and morning: Seaquin-chloride of iron, 2
oz.; powdered cinnamon, i oz. Mix and divide into four
powders. Or: Carbonate of iron, pulverized gentian and
pulverized quassia, of each i oz. Divide into four pow-
ders. Or: Nux vomica, pulverized, Vq. oz.; linseed meal,
2 oz. Divide into eight powders. Another good prepara-
tion is: Muriate of barytes, Y^ oz.; linseed meal, i oz.
Divide into eight powders. The last is be#.

CAUSTICS

Are substances which burn away the tissues of the body
by decomposition of their elements, and are valuable to
destroy fungous growth and set up healthy action.

Corrosive sublimate, in powder, acts energetically.

Nitrate of silver is excellent to lower granulation.

Sulphate of copper, not so strong as the above, but good.

Chloride of zinc is a powerful caustic. It may be used
in sinuses, in solution, 7 drams in a pint of water.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 193

MIIiDEB CAUSTICS.

Verdigris, either in powder or mixed with lard, as an
ointment, in proportion of one to three.

If a wound or an ulcer will not heal so long as there is a
foreign body, or unhealthy growth in it ; hence, if a wound
or puncture from any cause, there must be a removal of
hair, pieces of wood, bone, etc. No matter what you do,
if any foreign body remains in the wound, it will not heal.
This done, wash it or inject with warm water and castile
soap, after which the regular digestive ointment can be
used, or a mild solution of any of the remedies recom-
mended for the purpose. But if fungous growths cannot
be removed with the knife, a caustic becomes necessary, a
little of which is to be put on the part, or into the sinews.
Carrying this treatment to extreme implies using a hot iron.
(The actual cautery.)

PARCr-CUBE OF.

One-quarter pound sulphur, }i pound saltpeter, i ounce
black antimony. If acute, give one tablespoonful twice a
day. If sub-acute, once or twice a week.

The sum of $50 was repeatedly paid for this prescription,
and it has made some marked cures. It is regarded as
specific for farcy in the portion of Ohio in which I obtained
it. In two instances, gentlemen who have used it in the
treatment of farcy have informed me it cured, and ex-
pressed themselves as valuing it worth ^50.

The following is my regular treatment for this formidable
disease :

Three drams of powdered sulphate of copper, given every
night in the food, until the animal refuses to eat. After a
few days repeat, but if the case is bad give the medicine in
water as a drench, for ten days, if he will not take it in his
food.

CONDITION POWDERS.

Take i pound of ginger, i ounce of anise seed, pulver-
ized, I ounce of fenugreek seed, 2 ounces of ginseng root,
pulverized, i ounce of the seed of sumach berries, pulver-
ized, I ounce of antimony; mix it with one pound of

18

194 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

brown sugar. This is excellent for coughs, colds, or to
give a horse an appetite.

TO CURE COUGH— NO. 2. EXCELIiENT.

Put all the tar into alcohol it will cut, and add one-third
in quantity of tincture belladonna. Dose: From one to
two teaspoonfuls once or twice a day. Very good.

TO CURE COUGH-NO. 3.

Take tartar emetic, i oz.; resin, 2 oz.; bloodroot, i oz.;
salts of tartar, 2 oz.; ginger, 2 oz. Mix, and give a tea-
spoonful three times a day, in the feed.

COUGH POWDER.

Fenugreek, ginger, licorice and bloodroot, equal parts
Half proportion lobelia and camphor may be added. Dose,
tablespoonful twice a day. For heaves, add more camphor.

DIURETIC DROPS

that are reliable for stoppage of water, foul water, or in-
flammation of the kidneys, in all cases :

Take of sweet spirits of nitre, 4 oz.; balsam copaiba,
2 oz.; oil of juniper, 2 oz.; spirits of turpentine, 2 oz.;
gum camphor, pulverized, i oz. Mix all together, and
shake well, bottle, and it is fit for use for man or beast,
tmder all cirumcstances where a diuretic is required.

Dose : For a horse, i oz. in half a pint of milk once in
six hours; for a man, i teaspoonful in a tablespoonful of
milk once in six hours.

Be sure to shake the ingredients up well before turning
out for use.

THE PULSE.

The beating, as it is termed, of the heart, and that of an
artery, tells the exact condition of the circulation and of
the health, to the experienced practitioner.

In a state of health the pulse is from 36 to 40 in a min-
ute. It will be felt easiest and best at the lower jaw, a

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 196

little behind where the sub-maxiliary artery and vein come
from the under jaw. Pass the finger down the jaw, up near
the neck on the inner edge, and you will feel a cord-like
ridge, and upon quietly but firmly pressing it you will feel
it throb or beat. Each contraction of the heart forces a
jet of blood through the arteries throughout the system.
The arteries are strong elastic tubes, which expand as the
blood is forced through them, but contract again as soon
as the volume of blood passes, forming a beat which can
be plainly felt under the finger at this point. It is highly
important to understand the condition of the circulation
to treat diseases, especially of an acute character, success-
fully.

Frequent reference is made to the state of the pulse in
different diseases, such as colic, pneumonia, laminitis, &c.,
&c. Hence it should be studied carefully. For example,
during the early stage of colic, the pulse will be hardly af-
fected, and the ears and legs will be natural in tempera-
ture ; while in inflammation of the bowels the pulse will be
quick and wiry, ears and legs cold, &c. In fever it is
quick, wiry and light, indicating the extreme or not of ob-
struction in the circulation.

BLEEDING-.

For general bleeding the jugular vein is selected. The
horse is blindfolded, or his head turned away; the hair is
smoothed along the course of the vein with a moistened

Raising the Vein.

196

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

finger, then with the third and little fingers of the left hand,
which holds the fleam, pressure is made on the vein suffi-
ciently to bring it into view, but not to swell it too much.
The point to be selected is about two inches below the

Bleeding from the Neck Vein.

union of the jugular vein at the angle of the jaw. (See cut.;
The fleam is put in a direct line with the vein at the center,
when it is to be hit sharply with a stick. See
that the fleam is large, sharp and clean, for if
rusty or dull, inflammation of the vein might
result. It is of great importance that the
blood be drawn quickly. When sufficient
blood has been taken, the edges of the wound
should be brought closely together, and kept
together by a small sharp pin being passed
through them. Around this a little tow or a
few hairs from the mane of the horse should
be wrapped, so as to cover the whole of the
incision, and the head of the horse should be
tied up for several hours, to prevent his rub-
bing the part against the mang^. When the
bleeding is to be repeated, if more than three
or four hours have elapsed, it will be more
piudent to make a fresh incision, rather than to open the
old wound.

first
stuck through
the lips of the
wound ; a por-
tion of tow,
thread or hair
is then wrap-
ped round tlie
pin.

-* !

VALUABLE MISCELLA^ EOUS RECEIPTS. 197

PHYSICING.

It is always best, if possible, to prepare the horse for
physic by giving a bran mash twenty-four hours previously,
as the medicine will act more favorably and there is less
danger of superpurgation. Five drams of aloes (Barbadoes
aloes are always used for horses) will act as forcibly after a
mash as seven without. Again, the quantity of physic should
be adapted to age and size. The rule is to give one dram
for each year up to seven. Eight drams is the largest given
at one dose.

Physic Ball: Barbadoes aloes, pulverized, 7 drams; bar
soap, 4 drams ; ginger, i dram. The usual way is to mix
the ingredients in this proportion, then reduce to the weight
intended and give.

For Alterative Balls simply give from one to two or three
ounces of mass, as above prepared, two or three times a
week, for a week or two.

For Worms : Give 4 drams aloes, i dram tartar emetic, 2
drams ginger, about the size of a bean of calomel, and
molasses enough to make into a ball. To be given every
morning for three days.

VALUABLE MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS.
The following remedies will be found excellent:

DRENCH FOR DIARRHCEA.

Opium, I dram; prepared chalk, i oz.; compound pow-
der of tragacanth, i oz.; mint water, i pint.

MERCURIAIi ALTERATIVE BALLS.

Calomel, ^ dram; aloes, i dram; castile soap, 2 drams;
oil of juniper, 30 drops ; syrup to form a ball.

ASTRINGENT BALLS.

Catechu, Y^ ounce; alum, 3 drams; cascarilla, 2 drams;
flour, 2 drams; treacle.

198 VALUABLE MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS.

DKENCHES TO PROMOTE PARTURITION

Ergot of rye in fine powder, 2 or 3 drams ; pennyroyal
water or infusion of rue, i quart.

FOR DIABETES.

Opium, I dram; ginger, 2 drams; oak bark, p. i oz.;
decoction of oak bark, i pint.

CORDIAL AND ANODYNE BAIiL.

Castile soap, 3 drams ; camphor, 2 drams ; ginger, i ^
dram, and Venice turpentine, 6 drams, made into i ball.

AROMATIC POWDER.

Caraway, 6 oz.; pimento, 4 oz.; ginger, 2 oz.; licorice,
2 oz. Mix. Dose, 6 to 8 drams.

COOLING AND DIURETIC DRINK.

Dissolve I ounce of nitre in a pail of water.

TONIC BALL (VEGETABLE TONIC).

Peruvian bark, i ounce; opium, y^ dram; ginger, ij^
dram; oil of caraway, 20 drops. Treacle to form a ball.

DIURETIC ALTERATIVE BALLS.

Dried common soda, i oz. ; castile soap, 6 drams ; resin,
2 oz.; licorice powder, )^ oz.; Barbadpes tar, to form 6
balls. One daily.

LAXATIVE ALTERATIVE BALLS.

Aloes, 4 oz. ; soft soap, 4 oz. ; common moss a| 01
Mix. Dose i oz.

VALUABLE MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS. 199

BALLS FOR APPETITE.

Equal weights of assafoetida, saffron, bay berries, and
aloes, made into a mass with extract of gentian. Dose i oz.

ANODYNE BALL.

Opium ^ dram to i dram; camphor, i dram; anise
seed, yi oz.; soft extract of licorice.

CORDIAL BALLS.

Ginger and gentian, equal parts ; treacle to form a mass.
Dose, I oz. to 1)4 oz.

Ginger and caraway, each 4 lbs. ; gentian, i lb. ; palm
oil, 4)^2 lbs. Beat together. Dose, i oz. to i^ oz.

MIXED BALLS, CORDIAL ASTRINGENT BALLS.
Catechu, i dram; opium, 10 grains. To wash horses

BEFORE OR AFTER A JOURNEY.

DIURETIC BALLS.

Resm soap and nitre, of each equal parts, beaten together
into a mass. Dose, i oz. to i}4 oz.

White soap, 8 oz. ; nitre, 3 oz. ; 3 resin, oz.; camphor,
3 drams ; oil of juniper, 3 drams. For 6 balls, one every
morning or every other morning.

TONIC DIURETIC BALL.

Gentian, i dram; ginger, j4 dram; salphate of iron, 2
drams ; nitre, }4 oz. ; resin, j4 oz. Mix with molasses.

FEVER BALLS.

Emetic tartar, j4 dram ; camphor, j4 dram ; nitre, 9
drams ; ginger, 3 drams. Mix in ball.

s

200 VALUABLE MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS.

Antimonial powder, 2 drams; nitre, 3 drams; cream
tartar, 2 drams ; honey to form a ball. In influenza twice
a day, after a mild laxative.

BALLS FOR FARCY AND GLANDERS.

Sulphate of copper, i dram; calomel, 20 grains; common
turpentine, 3 drams; licorice powder and syrup to form a
ball.

Sulphate of iron, 2 drams; iodide of potassium, 10 gr.;
gentian, 2 drams; ginger, i dram, and treacle to form a
ball.

COUGH BALLS.

Emetic tartar, ^^ dram; digitalis, y^ dram; nitre, 1^
dram; tar enough to form a ball. One every night.

Powdered squills, i dram; gum ammoniac, 3 drams;
opium, Yz dram ; syrup to form a ball.

FOR BLOODY URINE.

Acetate of lead, 10 gr.; sulphate of zinc, 40 gr.; catechu,
4 drams ; conserve of roses to form a ball. One daily.

FOR DIABETES.

Catechu, ^ oz.; alum, ^ dram ; sugar of lead, 10 gr.;
with conserve of roses to form a ball.

ANODYNE DRENCHES.

Opium, I dram, dissolved in warm water, ^ pint ; add
I quart of starch gruel.

Mix tincture of opium, i oz. with sweet spirits of nitre,
xyi oz.; ess. peppermint, i dram, and water, i pint.

VALUABLE MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS. 201

"WORM PO"WDERS

Sulphur, I oz.; tartar emetic, 4 drams; common salt,
8 oz., liver of antimony, i oz. Mix for 6 doses; i daily,
in wetted corn.

TO CUBE AN INDOLENT ULCER.

Take the green scum that gathers on the water in the
frog ponds in the spring and summer ; boil over a slow fire ;
then add fresh butter to the consistence of an ointment.
This is an Indian remedy; cured an ulcer of seventeen
years* standing that had resisted all other treatment.

The gentleman whom it cured deemed it so valuable, and
desiring to benefit those that may be similarly afflicted, re-
quested that I would put it in my book.

For a lacerated wound and bruise, I have found the
following so effective a remedy that I insert it. It has a
peculiarly soothing, healing effect. I once had one of my
big toes crushed by a heavy horse stepping upon it ; under
like circumstances, previously found even arnica or lauda-
num to afford the desired relief; by pouring some of this
on the part, wetting the stocking, in fifteen minutes I had
no pain, and had no trouble afterwards :

Simple tincture of marigold, called callendula, reduced
one-third to one-half with soft water. Bathe the part re-
peatedly with it. It possesses remarkable healing qualities.

GRAIN FOUNDER— CURE OF.

Take three pints of vinegar, into which put six red pep-
per pods, and boil until reduced to one quart. When cool,
give as a drench. Blanket the horse warmly. This will
put the horse in a profuse perspiration, and perform a per-
fect cure. The gentleman of whom I got this, cured a
valuable horse that got into his granary and ate so much
grain that he was in the morning perfectly stiff. One dose
made a perfect cure. He said he would not be without it
for one hundred dollars.

202 VALUABLE MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS.

CONDITION POWDEK.

One-half pound grains paradise, ground; y^, lb. ground
ginger; ^ ft), powdered gentian; 6 oz. cumin seed, ground;
6 oz. fenugreek, ground; 6 oz. carbonate soda; 6 ft>s.
common brown sugar; i^ ft)s. salt. Put in one hundred
pounds of meal. Dose: one pint to be given with the
usual food.

This is considered one of the best tonic condition pow-
ders ever used. It is sold in the eastern cities at a large
price, under the name of Condition Food, and is held as a
secret of great value. I have known ^50 to be refused for
the receipt.

APPENDIX.

Read first the chapter " Preliminary Hints, etc.," on page 24 ; next
the chapter on " Excessive Fear — the Causes of, etc.," page 57. In
the school you were taught principles of subduing or taming horses.
To aid still further, I include here a few additional hints.

The great stumbling-block to horsemen is the difference they say
there is in horses. What will break one horse easily, will have scarcely
any effect upon another, if not, indeed, make them more vicious and
unmanageable. As I have shown, this trouble is the result of thought-
lessness or ignorance. This duty, above most all others, demands not
only a knowledge of principles, but that, at the foundation of a knowl-
edge of these principles, there must be firmness, delicacy and patience
in feeling your way, when you are not sure of easy and direct success.
And, besides, the instances of horses being very vicious and bad are
really almost rare, and it is to the control of such that we must bring
to bear the advantage of skill.

But the well-meaning reader will often ask, won't your system
break any horse without so many perplexing conditions? Rr.rey and
others claimed they could make any horse gentle, and were very suc-
cessful. And what do you mean by so many conditions if your system
is an improvement?

It is easy enough to claim great skill and power in the subjection
of horses, but this does not prove real skill. We should go back and
examine and compare principles, and judge of their value and points
of merit. In the first place, people were not so exacting and critical
years ago as now. We are now required to do more, and the results
we are able to show are so much greater than could be shown upon
horses of the same disposition and habits by any and all old systems,
that there is no comparison. The art of controlling and subduing
wild or vjcious horses I have shown to have reduced to an exact science,
leaving nothing to be desired. But I would remind that we are act-
ing upon fixed conditions, that these conditions are unalterable. Some
horses are naturally gentle, others vicious. Some are dull and stupid,
while others are quick to comprehend, and no matter hov/ perfect the
treatment, success must be regulated very much by the character of
the subject. But my object is to simplify these difficulties, and to do
so would call your attention to what is said about dispositions on page
30. But here you are simply reminded of extremes.

204 APPENDIX.

In the first place, the dispositions of the different classes of domes-
tic animals would seem to be, in a greater or less degree, developed
in the horse, showing, as it were, peculiarities of strata, and in pro-
portion as there is preponderance of any combination or peculi-
arity of strata, we have developed what we call disposition. Thus
one horse will remind, by his temper, of the hog, the bear or mule,
while another wdl show the reverse, of the sheep or gazelle, while
another shows the elements of the feline nature. The first, if aroused,
is sulky — a stolid, reckless sort of action, that goes headlong, regardless
of consequences, or is stupidly sullen. The other is moved wholly by
fear, and will not bear excitement or abuse. There is a timidity and
fear underlying its actions that points to any sort of punishment or
abuse as only increasing the resistance and fears of the animal.
While the third would seem to work in nicely by ordinary, careful
treatment ; but rouse its temper, the eyes become bloodshot and the
whole nature would seem to be excited to fury. And here, we see,
are endless modifications of these extremes. But if you will look at
the eyes, ears and head carefully, there will be noticeable a singular
correspondence of construction and expression to the disposition an<*
character. The good disposition — a large brownish eye, the ear is
short and tapering and the nostrils large ; the head is broad between
the eyes, and short from eyes to ears.

The sulky, stupid nature — eye medium or small, eyelids heavy, the
ears long and flabby; but if other features are even good, excitement
will reveal a persistent, willful temper.

The third — a large and clear eye, eyelids thin, quick to learn but
over-sensitive, ears pointed, nostrils open, full brain, texture dense and
fine. The fourth has a stolid expression ; no movement of eye or head
but ni a suspicious manner, that will not bear any trifling, or resists
only when excited. And so I could go on, according to modification,
to an endless degree. But these conditions you must study. Move
slowly and carefully when you are not sure of what you have ; never take
any chances you can avoid. What you do, do well. I mean do not
suppose a horse that seems to work gently after a course of subjection,
can be always depended upon. Try the animal thoroughly for several
days following, if necessary, until you find prompt, sure obedience.

A horse should be perfectly obedient to the bit, but not too tender.
Be careful how you force the mouth much of a horse that will not
pull against the bit, and be just as careful to know that you have the
most thorough control over the mouth of a courageous, runaway
horse. There is the widest latitude in the training necessajry to the
mouth. One horse will resist the bit with rare courage, while another
will give up in a few minutes. But you should indirectly aim to over-
come the cause of the resistance, and then carry out your point with
the reins and bit.

In the training of colts especially you cannot be too thorough in
overcoming all sense of fear of anything striking or touching the
hind ptirts. If the tail is sensitive, disposed to catch the rein (has
been spoiled), make the crouper large, as directed, and wear under

APPENDIX. 205

the tail for at least a week. But if the colt is over-sensitive and vi-
cious, subject carefully to subjective treatment first. Use the mildest
treatment you can, and win the better nature by kindness. When
the animal submits from necessity, at once give presents of apples,
oats or anything else of which the horse is fond. This is a powerful
point, especially in the management of those horses that are sensitive,
but if excited that are recklessly obstinate.

TAMING HORSES.

It is not a little amusing to read the accounts of different writers of
the powers exhibited by different persons at different times over vicious
horses. Indeed, the simplest exhibitions of control over horses were
regarded within the domain of the black art. And it is not a little
singular that, in the broad sunlight of the present era of intelligence,
there are many who believe that there can be but few in any age who
can be gifted with such power.

Like the soothsayers and doctors of old times, who consulted the
horoscope of the stars, or resorted to some complicated, mysterious
humbugging, to have revealed the secret and Aeans of cure, there has
been an enchantment and mystery about the control of the horse, that
has been regarded with open-mouthed wonder.

In 1825, a man named Bull, who lived in Stanton le Vale, in Lin-
colnshire, Eng., was renowned for his exhibitions of power over vicious
horses. His art was a secret of the greatest importance. Mr. T. John
son, a neighbor, owning a very vicious horse, was induced to take him
to Bull to be tamed, and finally induced Bull to teach him (Johnson)
the secret, paying therefor a large price. Bull's secret was explained
as follows: First catch your horse, then strap the near fore leg up
round the arm of the animal ; lead him about on three legs until he
becomes tired or weary. He will then allow you to handle him any-
where. Then attach a strap with a ring to the off fore fetlock ; to this
ring fasten another strap, which, being brought over the horse's back to
the near side, is put through the ring on the off fore fetlock. Return
the end of the strap to the near side, keeping fast hold, and move the
animal on and pull. He will then be thrown upon his knees, when,
after struggling some time, by gentle usage, he will lie down. After
unloosing the straps again, put him through the same process as be-
fore, when the horse will lie down whenever required. Dick Chislian's
(also a noted horse-tamer) secret consisted of tying up the near fore
foot, and so driving or riding him until entirely manageable. A man
named Sullivan, who lived in Mallow, Ireland, in 1820, by some means
learned this secret. He pretended his secret was in a peculiar way of
whispering into the horse's ear, and the most intelligent people of that
town, ev» n the parish priest, regarded his performances with more
than wou'^er ; and even yet, in that part of Ireland, Sullivan's exploits
are refer; /'d to with a sort of awe, that is as surprising as it is amusing.

A Di»fl. Offut, who traveled mostly in the south and west, claimed
the mos'i wonderful powers over horses. His secret was the same,
with slJght variations, as Bull's, and it was claimed by Offut that he

206 APPENDIX.

gave the secret to John S. Rarey, who afterwards became famous, and
who received over $100,000 in England alone, for this secret.

And now for the great secret medicine which has been sold through
the country for large prices, and many a man will still tell you will do
it every time. All you have to do is to get it and your success is sure :

Oil of rhodium, oil of cummin or oil of anise seed. These should be
kept in air-tight bottles, ready for use. Next, the wart, or horn castor,
as it is called, which grows on the inside of the horse's leg ; dry, and
grate it very fine, and keep also in an air-tight bottle. To catch a
horse : Smear the hand with a little of the castor and oils, going to the
windward, and gradually approach until the nose can be touched, when
by fondling and rubbing, putting at the same time some of the ingre-
dients into the horse's nose, he will soon become gentle.

Catlin, the noted traveler among the Indians, states that the Indians
breathe into the nostrils of young buffaloes to make them follow. I
have heard a great deal said at different times, and by different parties,
of the great things they could do with medicine and means, but I never
saw any practical proofs that were at all satisfactory. I give above the
great secrets of Rarey and others. Now, we see that all this is hardly
worth the name of a seSret or system. It is easy to talk about horses
not doing anything bad if they were not badly treated, etc. "We might
just as well claim we would not be sick if we lived right, and that doc-
tors were unnecessary, or that fire-engines would be unnecessary if
proper precautions were taken to prevent fires. In one sense this is
true, in another it is fallacious reasoning. We do not understand the
horse's nature, and probably never will so that it will not be found
necessary to resort to scientific principles of control. They are as
necessary as the skillful physician's help in emergencies of sickness or
accident, and as the well-equipped fire brigade to arrest and put out
promptly what might result in fatal destruction. So, in like manner,
we must study scientific principles of reaching and mastering the dif-
ficulties presented in the control and management of vicious or unman-
ageable horses, as modern research, based upon a higher and broader
intelligence, has enabled clearer perceptions of principles and the in-
troduction of remedies and inventions to more directly, and naturally
aid nature when exposed to disease or accident ; and as the difficulties
of the firemen, with the old hand-pump and bucket were simplified
and superceded by scientific means and the invention of steam-engines,
by which the difficulties presented are reached and overcome with ease
and power. In like manner we are now able to prevent and overcome
the difficulties of educating and making wild and vicious horses gentle
with an ease and directness which would be entirely impossible by
the principles used formerly by Rarey and others. The feats of control
I have shown by my treatment, and I show almost daily in illustrating
my system, would be entirely impossible by such treatment. My sys-
tem combines all the elements of success demanded, embodying well-
defined principles that will make the difficulties presented easily
reached and overcome. It demands also in a high degree fine, keen
perception and great firmness of purpose, that really but calls out and
develops the highest and finest qualities of our nature.

APPENDIX. 207

HARNESSING.

Be very particular about the fitting of the harness. It should rest
easy on every part, yet fit nicely. The belly-band should not be over-
tight ; undue pressure stops the circulation, is uncomfortable and may
chafe. Be specially particular about the bridle fitting nicely, not pull-
ing the bit across the lips — should rest in the mouth naturally and
easily when checked up ; that the throat latch is not too tight.
Many a horse is half choked, and often even spoiled, from this cause,
without its being suspected. The fitting of the harness should be at-
tended to as carefully as the fitting of a suit of clothes — that it is not at
least uncomfortably tight anywhere. There are many horses that a little
careful, encouraging management would work in so gently that they
would not be suspected capable of much resistance or acting badly,
that a little harsh, rough treatment will make act very badly. I don't
like checking the head up high, especially a colt that don't know what
it means. The check at all times should be moderately loose, and if a
horse drives well and naturally good action, better be left off, or just
enough to keep the head in place. >

Always work the colt slowly at first, teaching him to go right and
left, and ahead, with reins, as directed in driving colts in harness, and
if you will give little presents of oats, corn, or anything else of which
the horse is fond, it will help your purpose very much and teaches
yourself patience. Always be mindful how you would probably act
yourself if in the horse's place, if jerked and pulled about, perhaps
made to feel the whip keenly, and that it requires a little time for a
horse to understand what is wanted to be done.

People get mixed up in these matters, and ask, how is it then that
you drive a horse so quickly, and yet you tell us to work slow and care-
ful ; we don't understand this.

I make a horse or colt, by my process of training, so that he will
submit to being harnessed, handled and submit to shafts striking the
hind parts very quickly. This is what we term taming a horse. If he
happens to work in quickly to the control of the bit, he will drive
afterwards gently. But very much of my success in this will depend
upon the type of his temperament ; a sulky, surly disposition always
working in slowly, yet surely, if only patient. I can make any colt
gentle by the simple course of subjection in from ten to twenty min-
utes, with very rare exceptions, but it will often require an hour or two
to teach a colt to rein easily and nicely, and this comes under the head
of details requiring this *' knack " of teaching or winning into doing
what is wanted, and is a matter of a little patience in teaching. In
breaking COLTS your point should be to make them entirely fearless and
gentle, then teach slowly and carefully what to do. In breaking OLD
HORSES, or those having bad habits fastened upon them, to overcome
in the most thorough manner the weakness of resistance, whatever it
is, drill on this one point until sure of success, let it be long or short.
If the horse is moved by fear and determined in resistance, work sharp

208 APPENDIX.

and quick until you make your point, and then all you will have to do
will be to hold it until the horse becomes cool and the excitement to
the nervous system wears off. There is what may appear to be a
curious contradiction, but nevertheless it is true, that those horses most
known and noted for their viciousness, that are called the worst horses,
are in most instances easiest to break.

Wild Pete, of Petroleum Center, a nine-year-old horse, so wild and
bad that he resisted all efforts to break him to harness, yielded to my
treating in one hour, and has been used as a family carriage-horse since
(over four years). The Bill Press horse, of Gowanda, N. Y., a wildish,
reckless, runaway kicker, spoiled by bad management, resisted all ef-
forts to subdue and control him in harness. Press, the owner, was in-
credulous when I proposed hitching him in harness in twenty minutes.
He said he and four of the best horsemen of his township (Gowanda,
which is noted for its sharp, skillful horsemen), worked a half a day
with him, and utterly failed ; he said ten men could not put him in
shafts. I drove him in fifteen minutes all alone, and in an hour's
time broke him thoroughly. The Buffalo Omnibus Co. horse, referred to
in paper, was completely subdued and reformed by me in twenty minutes.
The famous Malone horse, of Cleveland, was under perfect control in
less than an hour. When in Columbus, O., a seven-year-old horse out
of Cruiser, that had resisted all efforts to break, and was supposed to
be worthless, yielded to my treatment in twenty minutes, and remained
perfectly gentle afterwards. A seven-year-old Gold Dust mare, owned
by McVay in Mansfield, O., and purchased by him of L. L. Dorsey, the
breeder of Kentucky. This mare was a natural kicker, was sold by
Dorsey to McVay, when three years old, as an incorrigible kicker. She
had resisted the most persistent and skillful efforts to subdue and break
her, and was truly a bad mare, all soils of treatment having failed
upon her, yet forty minutes' treatment, with careful, gentle handling
and driving for a few days, completely reformed her. I could multiply
cases of this kind in my long experience by the hundred, to show the
curious extremes in horses, and I refer to them here to remind you
that you are not to measure your success by the management of such
cases. The most skill and the most effort will often be demanded in
the management of cases that are not known to be bad or vicious.

It is the cool, almost calculating fighter — the mare that seems gentle
in all places but one, a«d then she is, perhaps, lightning itself in hang-
ing on, in contesting the efforts ; perhaps it is the balker, that will re-
sist only at one point, at all others a splendid worker. Some minor
defect of character in an otherwise gentle, willing worker. One horse
will, perhaps, pull on one rein. Another will kick if the rein is
caught under the tail, can't be shod, etc. While the average of these
minor habits yield readily to treatment — a matter, perhaps, of a few
minutes' work — you may find cases that will call for more real skill
and effort to break up than is necessary to break horses regarded and
known to be very bad. If you find one of these give-and-take treach-
erous cases, you must make your point clear and sure; make your
fight quick and decisive if you can, and always in the position and

APPENDIX. 209

place of resistance. The moment you^ake your point, keep to work,
requiring the horse to do over and over what is demanded, but re-
warding liberally for obedience, with apples or anything of which the
horse is fond ; and once making your point, don't flatter yourself, make
your success sure. These fellows (horses and mares) are treacherous ;
they will or may try you on, when not looking for it, hence make up
your mind, if the horse is one of courage and bottom, to try him over
and over most thoroughly, and if any inclination of resistance, contest it
until the point is made sure ; but once beyond this be the careful, adroit
manager, in a measure flattering and winning as you would a child.
Now there is often, in horsemen of even much practical experience,
manifested great lack of what I would call ordinary good sense or skill in
this art of management. If they learn a system, the system must do
it all ; break the horse down on the kill or cure principle, without
thinking that working along, carefully feeling their way as it were, is
indispensable. When a careful engineer lets on steam, he does it at
first slowly, that he may gradually get momentum without needless
strain. To put on full head of power, because he can and knows how
to do it, would be exposing to great hazard of spoiling and breaking
down the machinery ; and if the machinery is highly tempered and
nicely balanced there is the more danger of this. It is the tact, the
gentleness, the firmness, the clear conception of the whole duty and of
the possible consequences that makes success here. And so it is as a
master of this duty, for no machine was ever made by man more com-
plex, more fully and perfectly balanced and more necessary that its
laws and principles of government should be regarded in its manage-
ment, than that of a finely organized horse, or success in the manage-
ment of which more clearly shows the value of skill.

When about leaving New York, a well known gentleman, a per-
sonal friend, requested that I would remain a day and show a horse
breaker, a man who attended all the horse-taming schools in that city,
a naturally good fellow, but crude in his ideas, how to manage a trot-
ting mare he had just purchased. She was high-toned, eager, coura-
geous and plucky, and had been subjected to severe treatment, but she
would resent the drudgery of any heavy pulling or rough handling, and
was acting badly. This man worked her and insisted upon hitching
her to a heavy express wagon. That is just what you should not do
with this mare, I insisted, and you will only spoil her by persisting in
doing so. I obtained a light sulky, walked her gently at first, then
let her out on a trot and soon could let her out as I pleased under any
excitement without trouble. The mare only needed working up slowly
and carefully, and with, perhaps, a few touches at the right time
and place, would have worked in nicely ; but worked as she had been,
and by such a man, I should regard it almost a miracle to make her
work successfully without breaking down her constitution, or spoiling
her.

A three-year-old thorough-bred colt, of a very high-strung, bad dis-
position, was presented in New York to be driven in harness. I sub-
jected the colt to treatment and soon had her in harness, but knew

14

210 APPENDIX.

nothing of the bit or rein, beingj^ overworked and limited in time ; told
a man, who had been with me for years and worked well, to hitch up
and drive this colt gently, and by all means must not excite her — to
take his time, work her slow, that on any account he must not excite
her. But treating her as he would a common colt and getting her mad,
she resisted the most severe and abusive treatment, which he, by losing
his temper, inflicted in his effort to drive her in this way. The conse-
quence was the colt was not fit to be seen or handled for two weeks.
The owner generously overlooking the matter, and when over the effects
of the abuse, in twenty minutes I was able to drive her as I desired
gently, and did successfully in the presence of her owner, without the
least excitement or abuse.

I refer to these cases, out of hundreds I could mention, to show that
assumed experience and practice is not all that is necessary. Behind
all this, firm, sound judgment is necessary, and this is what makes true
success in this or any other field of effort.

This sort of nameless knack or skill, I will call it, is always called
for in working in some horses; those, I mean, of a really courageous,
determined resistance. But at the foundation of it is being careful
and patient. A colt or horse that is sensitive, especially colts, must
be worked along slowly, first with the harness only. If the colt will
not go straight ahead at first, pull the near rein out of the shaft loop
or terret, shorten your hold of it and he will come around you
in a circle freely. Reverse this and gradually let out until you can
drive on a straight line, but do not go any further until there is prompt,
free obedience to the reins. The next step should be driving to
poles, as explained on page 51. A little slow, careful work now will
lay the foundation of making your after-work easy and sure. Rough,
careless work now may start the colt in kicking, balking, resisting
in some way that will require very careful, thorough handling to
thoroughly overcome.

Always make the point first of making the colt gentle to be handled
and touched all over, behind and before. From this proceed to train
as desired. The constantly varying conditions of disposition and habit
call for much genius to attain success. It demands, anyhow, strong
control of the passions and a firm resolution to be patient, in fact the
highest qualities of good sense and manhood are demanded back of
all your efforts. There is often required great hazard and great firm-
ness and courage. But this does not imply foolhardy rashness. No-
thing should be trusted to chance that precautionary measures can
prevent. It is no evidence of skill to get hurt, run away with or
kicked, or that you had such and such accidents. It is true skill to
anticipate such trouble and guard against it, or overcame 't. You
should study those causes that are at the foundation in .coiling horses.
For example, in exciting undue fear, in making horse , vicious, your
lesson and other parts of this work will aid in giving a knowledge of
this duty in its complexity of bearing. Following out these analogies,
you will notice changes of expression peculiar to disposition and habit.
The leerish expression of the kicker, the sulky expression of the

I

APPENDIX. 211

balker, the lop ears of the sulker, the prompt, wiry expression and
pointed ear of the eager, intelligent, courageous character, and learn
to adapt your efforts to the control of each with increased success as
you get practice.

SHOEING.

In the first place the object of trimming and fitting the foot for the
shoe is to bring it back to its natural shape and bearing. If the foot
is healthy, the safest course is not to touch the frog or sole, but cut
down the wall from the heel to the toe until tlje bearing is natural.
The bearing of the shell or hoof should be level. The shoe should be
made to fit the foot, only so much longer as the foot will grow in the
time it is expected to be on. The bearing surface of the shoe should
be level and fit exactly all the way round to the foot. This means just
what is said, and the owner should see that the shoe is level at the
heels and not beveled in cup shape as shoes will usually be found vvhen
ready to be nailed on. Next see that the shoe is as big as the foot.
The best way is to sternly object to allowing the foot to be touched
with a red hot shoe and never on any conditions to allow the shoe to
be burned into the foot to fit it.

Let the nail holes be as well forward in the toe as possible, at all
events do not allow the nails to go into but one heel.

Do not, under any circumstances, allow any rasping under nail
clenches, and none over them ; no filing at all on the outside of the
hoof, not even below the clinches, excepting enough down near the
shoe to round the edge, but on no account should the hoof be cut down
to the shoe, because the shoe happens to be small or short. This sort
of work must not be allowed, yet it is just what all country shoers will
insist on doing. Simply let the nails be cut off with nippers, clenched
down upon the outside of the horn and if there is any soreness or
tenderness the hammering should be light, and carefully done. As to
corks, &c., their object is to prevent slipping. In a slate of health
the nearer the foot is to the ground the better. If the feet are getting
dry and hard, you should take measures to keep them damp. Flax
seed wet with water, stuffing or buckling a couple of thicknesses of
wet blanket around the foot. The simplest way is to throw some
water on the bedding under fore feet during the day.

CONTRACTION.

If in a state of health, the object should be to keep the feet natural
and healthy, the object now should be to bring the foot back to its
natural shape. If one heel is drawn in, then, this only heel should be
brought back natural. If both heels are drawn in, then both should
be spread back. Two conditions now become necessary, first that the
foot is prepared properly, and second that we have mechanical means
that will enable spreading the heels without injury, yet as desired.
The practice of sawing between the heels and frog, and then putting

*il2 APPENDIX.

on an expansion shoe and spreading the quarters outward violently, is
exceedingly cruel and dangerous. In the first place if the object is to
weaken the horn between bar and frog it can be done but very im-
perfectly with a saw and violently spreading the heels, and thus, in a
measure, bursting the shell apart will produce violent inflammation
and lameness. Spreading the heels even in some cases a quarter of
an inch, but little resistance may be shown, the horse may walk to his
stable all right, but in a few hours, if examined, he may be in great
pain, possibly in a high state of fever. It is really very doubtful pol-
icy for you to intrust a good horse in the hands of doubtful men who
travel the country assuming to cure all sorts of lameness by this
system of treatment.

The first thing to be done in the way of curing contraction, is to
thoroughly soak the feet, either by poulticing by tying two or three
thicknesses of blanket around the feet and keeping wet for 24 hours, or
standing the feet in a tub in which is some mud. When the horn is
soft, cut down the feet level to the point of removing the superfluous
horn ; now, with a knife adapted to the purpose, weaken the horn be-
tween the heel and point of the frog, especially back, near and at the
point of the heel. This done properly on both sides, fit a shoe of the
simple flat kind accurately to the shell. Well back at the turn on each
side, cut or file out enough, as shown in the Tyrrell shoe, but further
back, so that it will bend as desired, about at the widest part. Now
lay on the shoe as intended to be nailed and mark on the outside over
the inside of the bar at the point of the heel ; punch or drill two holes
through, if you can obliquely the direction of the bar ; make and drive
two strong spikes from the ground surface up. Now bend and file
these spikes so that they will extend up and back inside the bar at the
point of the heels. The shoe must fit all round, there must be special
attention to having those spikes fit, resting against the bar, but not so
long as to come against the sole above. Nail on now, carefully, do
not, by any means, allow the nails to be large, or rasping of the shell
outside. This done, spread the shoe not over three-sixteenths of an
inch, if shoe is fitted close. The heels, it is seen, are spread so far as
the shoe is opened. This spreading should be repeated once every one
or two days, but never more than an eighth of an inch at a time, but
follow it up until the foot is brought back to its natural shape.

This is the Tyrrell principle, but it is next to impossible to fit a
Tyrrell shoe. If too large or small, in the least, it will not do. The
improvement I give makes it simple and entirely practical. Experi-
ence teaches the writer that not one horseman in fifty and not one
shoer in a hundred can, or will, carry out properly and make a success
with the aid and the hints given here and in the chapter on shoeing.

If the HEELS are w^eak, do not grow horn enough, do not cut away
any when paring for the shoe. Simply level the foot, being as careful
as you can not to waste by undue cutting where there is none to spare.
The shoe should be fitted carefully, and in this case must, in a measure,
protect the foot. For where the horn is light at the heel the sole is
also usually light and will not bear pressure.

APPENDIX. 213

If there is a corn, you must protect that part from pressure, and
this is done best by bringing pressure on the frog with a bar shoe, but
if there is weakness or inflammation in the coffin-joint this is not by
any means advisable, as it would aggravate the difficulty ; you must now
use an ordinary open shoe with middling high heel-corks, with no toe-
cork, on the contrary, you should round the toe to imitate an old shoe,
by bending or turning up the toe. If the horse is stiff and sore, in all
cases round the toe, so that the foot will naturally roll a little, and thus
in a measure relieve the strain upon the machinery of the foot and
joint above it. To make the heels stronger, that is, have more horn,
stimulate coronary ring at the upper edge of the hoof, using a mild
blister, just enough to stimulate sharply, twice a week, or use the Hoof
Liniment, but you must grow horn from the top down, and you will
not see benefit until you have grown the foot down pretty well. If
you have contraction, open the feet as directed, minding to keep the
feet stuffed when in stable, at all events the feet must not be allowed
to get dry and hard.

QUARTER CRACK.

The only practical way to cure quarter crack is to open the heel on
that side, between bar and frog, cutting well down but not to bleed,
until the quarter will give freely, then put on the shoe for expanding
the heels. In this case you are to open or spread only the inner heel.
The hoof is simply too small for the foot, and doing this properly
reaches the point directly. In addition burn with a firing iron a crease
across at the upper edge of the hoof. If this is done properly the
hoof will not split any more. You may now grow the hoof more
rapidly if you desire, but opening the foot and shoe is the point of
success.

Mr. Bonner is the most profound and practical student of the foot
in this or any other country. The writer is indebted to him for many
valuable hints on the care and management of the feet, but does not
feel at liberty to publish details of his treatment. He is a man of
rare, round common sense, in all that he says and does, who goes to
the bottom of a thing. His industry and research is in fact wonderful,
in all that pertains to the care and management of horses.

MR. BONNER S SYSTEM OF FEEDING.

In the morning, at five o'clock in summer, and six o'clock in winter,
each horse is given two quarts of oats. At nine o'clock two quarts
more are given, and the same quantity is given again at one o'clock.
Before feeding, each horse is given all the water he will take, unless he
is to be driven, in which case the allowance is cut short a little. At
five o'clock in the afternoon the allowance of hay is given, usually
about ten pounds to each horse, and none is given at any other time
during the twenty-four hours. At nine in the evening, each horse is
given a hot supper prepared as follows : For the ten horses twenty
quarts of oats are put into a large kettle and boiled after which is

214 APPENDIX.

added about the same quantity of wheat bran by measurement, with
the proportion of a teaspoonful of salt to each horse. The whole is
thoroughly mixed, and when sufficiently cool each is given his share.
If not driven, each horse is walked from half an hour to an hour daily,
and the greatest care is taken not to expose them needlessly for a
moment without clothing.

INGENIOUS ARRANGEMENT

For sifting, cleansing and measuring the grain for feeding. The
grain is conducted from the loft to the feeding floor by a spout in
which are two slides. Pulling one of them out a few inches permits
the escape of two quarts and the other one four quarts of grain, which
is deposited in a drawer beneath, in the bottom of which is a screen
with the handle projecting from the side of the spout. Moving this
handle right and left a few times removes all dirt and dust, and leaves
the grain clean and fresh, ready for use.

WHERE MEDICINES CALLED FOR IN THIS BOOK CAN BE
OBTAINED.

Anti-Fever Medicine, for Chills and Fevers, or Lung
Fevers, called for in this book under that head (page 152),

This medicine is unequaled for the treatment of inflammation of
the lungs, chills or fever of any kind. It is also just the thing for
staggers or inflammation of the brain. It has been used with great suc-
cess for colic and inflammation of the bowels — lately it is a specially
valuable remedy for the cure of inflammatory rheumatism in man. As
an external application, the writer has used it with great success in
acute inflammation of the eyes. Put 30 to 40 drops in half a tumbler
of soft water, and bathe the eye four or five times a day, more or less,
according to severity of case.

Black Ointment, for cure of blood and bone spavin, curb, ringbone,
and all external enlargements.

Address Wm. Somerville, V. S., 127 Erie st., Buffalo, N. Y.

Anti-Fever Medicine, price $8.00 dozen, $5.00 half doz. $1.00 bot-
tle. Black Ointment same rates, C. O. D. or cash with order.

Dr. Somerville is a graduate of two colleges in Europe, 45 years*
practice, a scientific practitit>ner of a high order.

MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS.

There are chance receipts here that will be found valuable. At all
events, I give such plain, practical explanations, and include the best
remedies, obtained by me in various ways during my experience, as I
believe best and most reliable. Dr. Somerville informs the writer that
he is having the best of success lately in treating colic and inflamma-
tion of the bowels with the fever medicine. He gives about a tea-
spoonful every thirty minutes until there is relief.

You will, however, find the regular treatment under those special
beads, colic, pneumonia, inflammation of bowels, founder, to be, if
available, the best the writer has found, and in fact he gives the best
treatment he can. Altogether, this edition will be found much better
than any former one.

TO CURE A FISTULA, POLL EVIL OR ANY INDOLENT
ULCER.

Burn corn cobs to ashes, fill the sore to the bottom with the ashes. It
may be necessary to repeat two or three times, until a cure is effected.

A countryman who claimed he could cure any fistula, poll evil, etc.,
with one or two applications of a certain remedy, brought forward
several neighbors who fully endorsed his assertions. One man said he
had a horse that had been doctored for fistula for two years without
doing any good, and at large expense. He was advised by this man
to treat as above directed, and a cure was effected in a few weeks.
Others who had used it endorsed the statement in the strongest terms.
In the cases referred to there was no effort at dressing the ulcer. The
ashes were stuffed to the bottom, when a granulating process set in
and gradually healed up. Being simple and safe it is worthy a trial,
and persons using it will confer a favor by reporting result to me at
Buffalo, N. Y., from which point all mail matter will be received.

TO CURE WEAK BACK.

O. J. Madison, livery keeper and large dealer in horses, of Mas-
sillon, Ohio, a few years ago, cured several very bad cases. One horse
was so weak that he would fall down and could not get up ; said it
would cure any case of weak back, and that he never knew it to fail.

216 APPENDIX.

Give one grain of strychnine night and morning ; next take equal
parts of pine tar and pitch, warm until it spreads easily, and spread
over the small of the back, from the hip forward ten inches, and
across to almost the points of the hips ; then spread on cantharides
(should be well pulverized) until the pitch is thoroughly covered ;
then cover with two thicknesses of cotton flannel.

A stiff sticking plaster of this nature is called a charge, and the
following is one of the best formulas :

Burgundy pitch or common pitch, 5 ounces ; tar, 6 ounces : yellow
wax, I ounce, melted together, and when they ai-e becoming cool,
half a dram of powdered cantharides well stirred in. This must be
partially melted afresh when applied, and put on the part with a large
spatula as hot as it can be without giving too much pain. Tow or
cotton should be scattered over it while it is warm , this forms a thick,
adhesive covering, which cannot be separated from the skin for
months. This is applied for old sprains of the loins, and also strains
of the back sinews. The charge acts in three ways — by the slight
stimulating power which it possesses, gradually removes all deep-
seated inflammation ; it promotes absorption of any thickening
beneath, and gives general strength to the parts.

DR. SHELDON S TREATMENT FOR WORMS.

Dr. Sheldon says it never fails to clean the worms out of a horse.

1st. Bran mash. In 24 hours give i drachm of santonine, which
should be dissolved in water ; then 'mix in a quart of starch, and give
as a drench ; in 30 minutes give aloes in solution sufficient to move
the bowels promptly. The rule, as to the amount of aloes to be
given, is explained on page 197, under the head of Physicking.

The same authority claimed such success in the cure of Tetanus,
which is among the most difiicult diseases to control, that I include
his treatment. He claimed that it never failed to cure :

Take a large handful of lobelia (about i lb.) ; steep in a gallon of
water ; give one quart of the infusion ; put poultice of same over the
back of the head ; same on the cut, or part injured, and continue re-
peating, at first in thirty minutes ; repeating at longer intervals, as
there is improvement. Blanket warmly and keep in a quiet place.

Dr. Sheldon practices near Canandaigua, N. Y.; a man of experi-
ence He claims the most perfect success by this treatment. He was
for several years, Surgeon in charge of 7th Avenue R. R. stables, in
New York city. [Regular treatment on page 165.]

I would remind that the veterinary practice is mixed and doubtful
in the treatment of tetanus. Prof. Somerville said, I have tried all
kinds of treatment and failed. It is a hard disease to control.

APPENDIX. 217

STICKING PLASTER THE VERY BEST. — BY AN OLD

PHYSICIAN.

Burgundy pitch, I oz. ; dragon's blood, I oz. ; oxcoro, I oz. ; Venice
turpentine, I oz. Put in a cup ; melt together. Spread, while warm,
on leather or cloth.

OLD MR. Gould's preparation for putting on the

CLAMPS FOR castrating HORSES.

Mr. Gould is a resident near Bath, Steuben Co., N. Y. He is
known in that and surrounding counties for his success in castrating
horses, claiming to have never lost a case, and but little swelling after
the operation.

The writer took particular pains to see the old man operate, and
learn his secret.

The horse was laid down and tied in the usual manner. He
washed the parts thoroughly with warm water, and then greased with
lard. The clamps were of the usual kind. It is the preparation he
put on the clamps that made his success, he said.

He put on the clamp, first rye flour paste ; on this sifts on equal
portions of red precipitate and corrosive sublimate, mixed together in
powder. In 24 hours the clamps were taken off. This method of
treatment has been pursued for many years by a friend of the author,
and he claims, with unfailing success, by never having lost a case, and
is followed by no appreciable swelling.

WIND-BROKEN, WHEEZING, OR WHISTLING.

On page 165 is given a remedy for the cure of whistling, and author-
ity. This proof, when set up, I was unable to read, but arranged, as I
supposed, for its being made according to copy. The printers, how-
ever made a bad blunder. Instead of " sponga fosta," it should
read " Spongia, and Fowler's " solution, 20 drops each, or 20 drops of
one in the morning, and the same of the other on the tongue at night,
and so repeating until a cure was effected, requiring from four to six
weeks. Mr. Conklin referred to, of 25 Jackson street, of that city,
informed the writer recently, after being carefully questioned about it,
after an experience of nearly five years, that his success has been en-
tirely satisfactory. Instead of dividing and giving alternately night
and morning, as before stated, he unites the medicines, and gives of
both, so united, 20 drops, night and morning. He said 'further, that
filling a sponge with spongia and pushing it up the nostrils of the
horse until thoroughly absorbed into the system, would give marked
immediate relief to a heavy or wheezy horse ; that he depended upon
it for relief to show up a horse well.

The above medicines are not on sale at the drug stores. Go to a
Homoeopathic Repository to get them or you will be annoyed and
disappointed.

218 APPENDIX.

TO CURE WEAKNESS AND WEEPING OF THE EYES THE

LIDS SWOLLEN AND THE EYES WEAK. — FOR HORSES.

An old man's Remedy. Claimed that he never failed in curing
with it.

Take saltpetre, i}/^ oz. ; sulphate of zinc, i oz. ; suga-r of lead, i oz.
Mix all with a pint of vinegar and a quart of soft water. Take a
small sponge ; fill with it and squeeze in the hollow over the eye once
a day until a cure is effected.

Note. — Would bathe not only the part named, but the eye itself,
sponging around and into it.

CURE OF BIG LEG AND BLOOD SPAVIN.

Mr. James Brown of Troopsville, Cayuga Co., N. Y., cured a Blood
Spavin, by rubbing on at night a simple blister (i part Spanish flies
to 4 parts lard).

He put on the blister at night, and washed it off in the morning
and applied a liniment of salalmoniac and vinegar (reduced one-half
with water), rubbed in thoroughly, using the liniment two days and
blister one. It took nearly six weeks to make a cure.

For Big Leg, this treatment was kept up for eight weeks, to make
a cure.

BRUISE AND CUT ON MAN OR HORSE.

A favorite prescription of great value.

Laudanum, i oz.; arnica tine, i oz.; sassafras oil, i oz. Mix, band-
age lightly, when possible, and keep wet. Said the gentleman who
gave the above prescription, I bruised one of my fingers terribly, liter-
ally smashing nail and flesh. I was in the greatest pain. When,
after hours of suffering, a gentleman from New York accosted me, and
learning my trouble, said for thirty cents I can relieve and cure you.
He gave me this prescription. I had it put up, kept my finger wet with
it during the night, and next day there was no pain, and in two days
my finger was well. It removes all fire and pain and heals by first
intention.

There are two prescriptions in this book that are above all price for
cuts and bruises. One is the tincture of marigold, called callendula,
described on page 201, and the above. For man or horse they
are unrivaled and are worth far more to any family than the cost of this
book. One of my horses (Tommy), was kicked and seriously injured,
deep holes being made in the shoulder by the corks of the shoe. Se-
vere swelling and soreness followed immediately, making the horse
seriously lame and sore. Bathing thoroughly during the same evening
and night, following with the first-named remedy removed all soreness
and he went to work next day apparently as well as ever, and the cuts
were healed in two days.

APPENDIX. 219

Mr. James Bennet, of Cleveland, a gentleman of great skill as a
horseman, and of the highest integrity, called my attention to the cal-
lendula preparation. Said he, I never saw anything that would take
out soreness like it. A stallion bit me on the back. I was in great
pain. A gentleman obtained some of it which he poured upon my
shirt over the part, and in twenty minutes I was relieved from pain.
The writer, in Painesville, Ohio, had a mare offered that pulled, on a
walk, six men by the bit around the ring. It was an exhibition of the
most desperate pluck imaginable. The result was the animal's tongue
was cut fully half off, and the mouth was badly bruised and became
terribly swollen in a short time. I had a few ounces of callendula with
me, which I had previously obtained to try it, if opportunity presented.
I reduced some of it one-third to one-half with water, and bathed the
mouth with it thoroughly, repeating at first every hour, and next day
every two to three hours. In the course of a few hours the swelling
went down and within three days the tongue was healed and the mouth
was entirely well.

You can make callendula by filling a bottle with marigold blows
and filling it with good whisky, and let stand until the strength is taken
up by the liquor. Reduce this one-third to one-half for use. Or you
can get it at a homoeopathic repository. It is not usually kept in
ordinary drug stores.

COUGH DROPS, FOR COLD AND COUGH.

Fluid extract belladonna, lo to 15 drops in a tablespoonful of water
on the tongue three or four times a day. If there is swelling of the
glands of the neck, and especially if the attack is acute, apply any
stimulating liniment or mild blister — anything that will act well as a
counter-irritant. This works splendidly in most cases. In fact you will
find it just the thing, as we have found and proved by long experience.

COUGH POWDERS.

An excellent remedy.

Liquorice root powdered, fenugreek, lobelia, blood root, camphor
gum, equal parts. Dose — tablespoonful two or three times a day in
feed. In all cases of acute or chronic cough, if thickening of glands
of neck, stimulate outside neck sharply.

EYE WASH.

A remedy of great value for inflammation of the eyes or sores of
any kind.

Orotus martes and white vitriol, equal parts ; dissolve in a half-pint
of snow water or pure soft water. Dissolve thoroughly, and when
settled pour off and add half as much more water. If too sensitive,
or much inflammation, reduce.

This has cured fever sores when all other treatment failed. Alzerah
Williams, Mrs. Waite of Jamestown, N. Y., and John Woodford of
West Hickory, Pa., were cured by it.

220 APPENDIX.

FOR DEEP WOUNDS.

Prevents inflammation or tendency to sloughing or mortification.

One lb. saltpetre, i gallon water, I quart best whisky. Inject into
the wound with a syringe three times a day until a cure is effected.

A gun-shot wound, a foot deep, in the thigh of a horse (the ball
could not be found, remaining in the leg) was perfectly cured in two
weeks by this treatment.

In treating deep and dangerous wounds, especially if the animal is
plethoric or fat, take away the grain, give a dose of physic, feed
bran, carrots, etc. If grass is available substitute it for hay. You can
also omit physic if grass is given freely. The acid on the grass neu-
tralizes physic and makes it unnecessary.

FOR REMOVING CALLOUSES OR THICKENING, CURBS OR
BUNCHES OF ANY KIND.

Oil origanum, oil spike, oil amber, spirits turpentine ctnd camphor, i
ounce each. Rub on thoroughly two or three times a week.

When in Ohio, the writer bought a fine work hofse very cheap, on
account of having a very bad curb on one of his legs, making a very
disagreeable blemish. He was purchased late in June and kept con-
stantly to the hardest pulling as a wheel horse. A little of the above
medicine was rubbed on about once a week, sometimes oftener, and
again would frequently neglect doing so for more than that time. By
fall the enlargement was all gone, and the leg was as smooth and well
as the one opposite.

SLOW BUT SURE CURE FOR SPAVINS.

Spirits of turpentine and hog's lard, simmer in the sun three or
four days. Apply three or four times a week until well. By this
treatment the horse may be kept to his work.

TO CURE FITS.

Put as much valerian root, and the castor or wart from a horse's
leg, which is to be cleaned and cut into small pieces, as will be di-
gested in a pint of whisky. Dose — three teaspoonfuls each day, and
repeated until a cure is effected. A son of Mr. Hoyer's, of Shelby,
Niagara county, N. Y., twelve years old, was subject to fits terribly,
being in a fit sometimes, Mr. Hoyer stated, for two hours. Dr. Fail-
ing, of Royalton, next town, obtained the above remedy in Canada,
which cured the boy in six months. Mr. Henderson, hotel keeper of
Otisco, N. Y., claimed to have been cured by this prescription.

APPENDIX. iJl

THE CURE OF SPAVINS, RINGBONES, SPLINTS, ETC.

On page i68, the nature of spavins, ringbone, etc., are explained
and the prescriptions for cure are given on pages 170 and 171. Great
imposition has been, and is practiced upon the public by extravagant
pretensions of ability to take off spavin, etc. Of having just the
" secret cure all " that will annihilate spavins, ringbones, etc., as by
magic. These pretended great secrets, are no secrets at all, and is
the most unblushing quackery to a veterinary surgeon. They are
usually combinations of the most powerful medicines modified by
others of the ordinary character, that will kill and destroy the skin
and subtissue of the part applied to if put on with any freedom,
thereby causing a bad sore and blemish.

The formulas on page 170 have been prepared with special care,
and are among the very best.

The point is, first, with a shears clip the hair from a large surface,
not as is generally done from the enlarged part, but considerable sur-
face surrounding. Rub the blister in thoroughly with the hand for at
least ten minutes. If a blister is not very strong, it can be made to
act quite well by rubbing it in well, and if strong it may act well by
merely rubbing it a few minutes. The rule should be to rub in well.
The lamer the animal, and more serious the spavin or the ringbone,
the stronger the remedy, and more thoroughly should it be rubbed in,
but not so strong as to dissolve the skin. This is to be avoided and
prevented. You can stop the action of a blister by greasing with
lard.

When a blister after two or three days ceases to act, you will be
governed in this by the strength of the blister, and the thoroughness
with which it has been rubbed in. Grease over with lard next day, or
in the course of twenty-four hours, wash with castile soap and
water. Rub dry, and put on more blister, and repeat in this way
three, four, five or more times, as the severity of the case may require.
If you stop short of enabling sufficient action to produce ancholosis,
there will be danger of failure. The animal must be kept up while
under treatment, and the tail should be so tied that the parts inflamed
will not be switched or touched by it. You must always clip off the
hair before applying a blister that is at all strong, if not it will be
raised and have a blemish.

The " Sweating Liniment," foot of page 170, the very strong sweat-
ing blister, and the one headed " \ Fine Absorbent," on head of page
171, are adapted more especially for taking off bunches, such as curb
splints, capped hocks, or other enlargements of such character. The
two other prescriptions following for spavin, ringbone, etc., are given
as good samples of the heroic blistering believed to be among the so-
called great secrets. The first, I have the best assurance, has been
soLl repeatedly for $50. The second is among the great secrets in
Western Pennsylvania and Ohio for the same purpose, and the secret
sold repeatedly for $100.

222 APPENDIX.

A spavined horse will travel better if the inside heel-cork is ham-
mered down, or the inside of the shoe is perceptibly thinner, so as to
relieve pressure upon the inside of the leg. If ringboned before,
hammer, down the toe-cork, and turn the toe up like a well worn
down shoe, rounding up like a sled crook with medium crooks be-
hind. The object is to enable the foot to roll or turn on the ground
easily, and thus bring less strain upon the joint which is sore and
sensitive.

TO CURE CUTS OR BRUISES OF THE CHEEKS.

Use inside i dram tannin to ^ oz. borax, three or four parts
water ; swab once a day inside of wound. For outside dressing, use
tincture myrrh and aloes (described on foot page 184). All wounds
or injuries before being dressed should be washed or sponged clean
with castile soap and tepid water, then dress with medicine. Wounds
or sores should not be dressed oftener than once in 24 hours.

MAGIC LINIMENT.

Two oz. oil of spike, 2 oz. origanum, 2 oz. hemlock, 2 oz. worm-
wood, 4 oz. sweet oil, 2 oz. spirits ammonia, 2 oz. gSm camphor, 2 oz.
spirits turpentine, and I quart proof spirits — go per cent. Mix well
together, and bottle tight. For sprains, bruises, lameness, etc., in man,
this liniment, without turpentine, is unrivaled.

Note. — This prescription was obtained by the writer twelve years ago, in On
ondaga Co., N Y. Much was claimed for it; that it would cure lame back,
bruises, sprains, etc., and with the turpentine worked well upon horse flesh. My
attention has been particularly called to it during the past two years by parties
who used it. In Niagara Co., N. Y., a gentleman, in looking over hi> book after
the school, pointed to it, saying : "There is a receipt I would not take $50 for." He
said a very fine horse in that neighborhood a few years ago got strained in the
back so badly that he could not get up in consequence. A negro from Syracuse,
took the horse in charge, made and applied a liniment to the back, bathing it in
thoroughly twice daily. 'I'here was rapid improvement ; the animal being soon
able to get up, and got entirely well. He offered the negro $10 for the receipt,
without avail, that he made the nigger drunk and stole the receipt from him,
" and," said he, " that's it exactly." He took down a bottle from a shelf in the
sitting-room (in Charlotte, Niagara Co., N. Y.), saying: " Here is some of it ;
they could not keep house without it here. For toothache, neuralgic pains,
sprains, etc., the landlady said it was indispensable ; that they kept it-alw.ays in
the house." This was corroborated by others.

At Clifton Springs, Ontario Co., N. Y., during my last tour through that sec-
tion in 1874, a gentleman pointed out the same prescription taken from my ola
book, and said he would not take $100 for it ; that he had cured 40 cases of neu-
ralgia with it ; that he put up the medicine as a specialty for that purpose, al
$1.00 a bottle ; first making it up for his wife, who was troubled with neuralgia,
curing her. It was used by others with the same result. The demand becoming
so great that he put it up as a specialty and had thus secured a large local sale of it.

APPENDIX. 223

TO GROW HAIR.

Add as much sulphur to sweet oil as will make it thick as cream ;
rub thoroughly into the tail or mane twice a week. This will grow
hair on a tail rapidly. One of my horses rubbed the hair off his tail
so as to spoil it. The skin was smooth and glossy, but no hair would
grow there. Some one told me to apply the above ; in a short time a
thick heavy growth of hair started and grew to full length. Gifford
lost all the hair from his tail, falling out (in 1873), in defiance of all
that could be done. The above was rubbed well into the dock twice
a week, and a heavy growth of hair soon started, making a fine tail.

FOR SCRATCHES, SADDLE GALLS, ETC., SORE TEATS, CAKED
BAGS, ETC., IN COWS.

Two oz. Goulard's extract ; 2 oz. sulphate zinc ; 8 oz. lard.

Dr. D. Van Camp, a resident of Theresa, Jefferson Co., N. Y., in
1861, with whom the writer became acquainted at that time, made a
sort of specialty of this medicine, to dairymen, claimed that it would
cure sore teats, caked bags, etc. Dairymen regarded it through that
section with special favor, as the medicine sold readily for such use,
and the receipt was sold to quite a number of farmers, after the medi-
cine was used by them, for $10 to each. The Doctor gave the receipt
to the writer on condition of not giving it to any one in that section.

SURE CURE FOR NEURALGIA (sELECTEd).

The Norwalk Gazette says : " A friend of ours who suffered horri-
ble pains from neuralgia, hearing of a noted physician in Germany
who invariably cured that disease, crossed the ocean and visited Ger-
many for treatment. He was permanently cured after a short sojourn,
and the doctor freely gave him the simple remedy used, which was
nothing but a poultice and tea made from our common field thistle.
The leaves are macerated and used on the parts afflicted as a poul-
tice, while a small quantity of the leaves are boiled down to the pro-
portion of a quart to a pint, and a small wine-glass of the decoction
drank before each meal. Our friend says he has never known it to
fail of giving relief, while in almost every case it has effected a cure."

TO STOP HAIR FALLING OUT.

Fill a bottle with lobelia (roots and stems). Fill the bottle now with
whisky; scent with anything desirable; wet the hair, rubl)ing well
into the scalp, once a day for a week or two. This is as good as it
is simple. The writer's hair was coming out badly ; this was used
with perfect success.

224 APPENDIX.

BOTS.

There has been and is so much misconception about bots and their
destructiveness to horses, that a few words about them seems advisable.
All horses that are exposed to the bot-fly, must, as a result, have bots
in their stomachs. But the question of interest is, what can you do for
the cure of bots. In a report by Dr. Adams, published in the " Med-
ical and Agricultural Register," he stated, having made the following
experiments at different times on bots three-fourths grown:

When immersed in rum, they live, 25 hours ; decoction of tobacco,
II hours ; strong oil of vitriol, 2 hours, 18 minutes ; essential oil of
mint, 2 hours, 5 minutes. Were immersed, without apparent injury,
in spirits of camphor 10 hours ; fish oil, 49 hours ; tinct. aloes, 10
hours ; in brine, 10 hours ; solution indigo, 10 hours. A number of
small bots, with one that was full grown, were immersed in a strong
solution of corrosive sublimate, one of the most powerful poisons ; the
small ones died in one hour, but the full-grown one was taken out of
the solution, six hours after its immersion, apparently unhurt.

Bots hang to the muscular coating of the stomach, on the upper
side. We see very plainly that we cannot put any medicine into the
stomach that will affect the bot, that will not destroy the coating of
the stomach, and injure or destroy the horse. In the second place,
there is no veterinary surgeon of any pretension to skill, or being
authority, who can tell the symptoms of bots from colic. No attention
in fact is given to the subject of bots in practice. The symptoms
usually indicate colic, the case is treated accordingly, and cured, and
the presumption of the diagnosis is supposed to be correct. No man
can tell the symptoms of bots from colic, and if he could, he could do
nothing for Iheir expulsion ; this is the opinion of the best veterinary
surgeons jn the country. I have been led to take up time and space
with this matter to aid the reader should he have occasion to treat an
attack of "bellyache" or colic. The majority of horsemen will doc-
tor anyhow for bots without, in fact, knowing but little about the
difficulty. Do not be misled ; follow the treatment laid down for
colic on pages 146 and 148, and follow it rigidly. Do not be misled by
persons who may assume to know just what to " give to cure." The
treatment given has been used by the writer in hundreds of cases with
success, and it is the standard treatment of one of the best practition-
ers in the country.

A CURE FOR RHEUMATISM.

The berry of the common scoke-weed, or scoke-root — often called
poke root. The berries when ripe should be put into spirits — gin is
the best — at the rate of two ounces to the pint. Of the tincture thus
made, a tablespoonful is given three times a day. This simple rem-
edy, persisted in for a week or more, has effected some remarkable
cures. Has been published by the press as a remedy of value and is
thrown in.

APPENDIX. 225

FEVER MEDICINE ON PAGE 152,

This is all that is given for the cure of Pneumonia, and no other is
necessary. It is invaluable not only for acute inflammations in the
chest, but it is one of the best of remedies for acute rheumatism. It
possesses also some remarkable properties as a local application ex-
ternally.

Twice the writer has been relieved by it when, by exposure and
wet, he was entirely disabled by rheumatism, by taking 6 to 8 drops
on the tongue three times a day, and in three days each time a cure
was effected. When you feel indications of rheumatism, take from
6 to 8 drops on the tongue, three times a day until well.

Years ago, the writer, on two occasions, was kicked on the shin,
causing serious ulceration, which was most difficult to cure ; at another
time, from the same cause, the skin was barely broken, but in spite of
the best medical care, ulceration followed and annoyed for several
weeks to cure. In 1873, had the same part of the shin most seriously
cut, causing much pain and inflammation. As a mere matter of chance
experiment, or want of anything else, about 40 drops of this medicine
was put into a half tumbler of soft water, a piece of cotton cloth was
saturated with it and tied around the part at 7 P. M. ; at 9 the cloth was
again saturated, before going to bed. The inflammation and soreness
had about all subsided by morning. But I wet the cloth again when
getting up, and again at noon. The inflammation and soreness all
disappeared, the injury, in a word, healed by first intention, and had
no trouble afterwards. I have used it in acute inflammation of the
eye from injury, in several bad cases with the most marked success.
The simple facts are stated and the reader is simply offered the bene-
fit. Medical men know the great difficulty of controlling inflamma-
tion of the periosteum when badly cut or bruised at the point named,
and keep on the feet. I had previously used the best cooling astrin-
gents without avail, yet in this case, a bad injury at that, the effect was
most marked, though on my feet as usual.

WORTH TRYING.

An experienced physician, who has himself been afflicted with rheu-
matism, informs one of our exchanges that the disease is almost certain
to give way to a remedy he has discovered. As it can now not only
be procured at the drug store, but in the fields, we give it publicity.
It is the berry of the common smoke-weed, or scoke-root — more com-
monly called " poke-root." These berries are put into spirits — gin is
the best — at the rate of two ounces to the pint. Of the tincture thus
made a tablespoonful is given three times a day. We are told that
this simple remedy, persisted in for a week or more, has effected some
remarkable cures of this common and distressing complaint. This
has been extensively published in press, and is included for what it is
worth.

15

226 APPENDIX.

ITCH OINTMENT (fOR MAn).

I oz. red precipitate ; i oz. spirits of turpentine ; 2 oz. Buigundj
pitch ; ^ lb. fresh butter. Melt the butter and pitch, and add the
other ingredients, stirring until cold.

VEGETABLE CAUSTIC.

Make a strong lye of hickory or oak ashes, put into an iron kettle,
and evaporate to the consistence of thin molasses ; then remove into
a sand bath, and continue the evaporation to the consistency of honey.
Keep it in a ground stopped glass jar.

This caustic is very valuable in fistulas, cancers, scrofulas and indo-
lent ulcers, particularly v^^here there are sinuses, necrosis (or decay of
bone), and in all cases where there is proud flesh ; and also to excite a
healthy action of the parts. It removes fungous flesh without exciting
inflammation, and acts but little except on spongy or soft flesh.

A VALUABLE REMEDY (CLIPPED FROM THE PRESS).

Every family should keep a quantity of chlorate of potash. We
have never found anything equal to it for a simple ulcerated sore
throat. Dissolve a small teaspoonful of it in a tumbler of water, and
then occasionally take a spoonful of the solution so as to gargle the
throat. It is nearly tasteless and not at all offensive to take, and is
hence well adapted to children. Nothing is better than this for chap-
ped or cracked hands. Wash them in a weak solution and they will
soon be well. It is also good for a rough, pimply or chapped face.
It may be procured at any druggist's.

SORE MOUTH.

The lips frequently become sore at the angles of the mouth, from
cutting or bruising of the bit. Tincture of myrrh and aloes, equal
parts, applied to the sore, will soon cause it to heal.

A VERY FINE HEALING PREPARATION FOR CUTS.

Equal parts tine, myrrh and balsam copaiba. To be used once a
day. This is the favorite remedy of one of the most successful horse-
men, a man of good sense and remarkably successful. It is one of the
best of healing remedies.

TO CURE BOILS.

Two parts cream tartar, one part sulphur, one pirt whisky. (About
four cents' worth of each of the two.)

Take one tablespoonful three mornings ; then skip three mornings,
and so on, for nine mornings. Obtained by an old man, and claimed
to be an infallible cure.

CONTENTS.

rAGK.

Adaptation of Horses for different uses 37

Appliances for Subjection 99

Applying <War Bridle gg

Applying Bandage 156

Absorbing Blister, Powerful 171

Anodyne Liniment 187

Astringent Balls ig7

Aromatic Powder 198

Anodyne Ball igg

Anodyne Drenches 200

Bitting 48

Bitting Harness 4g

Backing 53

Breaking Horses 72

Breaking Kickers 75

Balking 83

Biting and Striking g2

Breaking the Halter Puller g2

Breeding 106

Bonner's Plan of Feeding Dexter 116

Bar Shoe for Corns 137

Broken Wind 163

Bone Spavin 168

Blisters for Spavin, etc 170

Blood Spavin 174

Bog Spavin 174

Bloody Urine 181

Butter of Antimony 186

Bleeding ig5

Balls for Appetite igg

Balls for Farcy and Glanders .'. 200

Conditions of Success 24

Cause and Treatment of Fear 57

Chilian and South American Methods 66

Cure for Balking 84

Cribbing g4

Cure a Trotter of Breaking 104

Cuts, Showing Formation of Foot 124

Contraction of the Feet 132

CONTENTS.

PAGE,

Convex Shoe for Contracted Feet 135

Corns 136 and 179

Certificate from Dr. William Somerville 143

Colic 146

Colic and Inflammation of Bowels Contrasted 146

Congestion of the Lungs 149

Catarrh or Cold 155

Cure for Heaves 164

Cure for Roaring or Whistling 165

Cure for Spavin and Ringbone 171

Curbs 175

Coffin Joint Lameness «... 175

Cuts and Wounds 104

Cooling Liniment for External Inflammation 185

Cracked Heels 189

Cure of Scratches . . 190

Canker 191

Caustics 192

Condition Powders 193 and 202

Cure of Farcy 193

Cough Powder 194

Cure for Cough, No. 2 and 3 194

Cordial and Anodyne Ball - 198

Cooling and Diuretic Drink .... 198

Cough Balls 200

Cure for Indolent Ulcers ; 201

Cure of Grain Founder 201

Disposition, Peculiarities and Extremes of 30

Driving in Harness 50

Double Driving 53

Diseases and their Treatment 143

Dr. Burton's Remedy for Colic 147

Distemper 156

Digestive Ointment 184

Diuretic Drops 194

Drench for Diarrhoea 197

Drenches to Promote Parturition 198

Diuretic Alterative Balls 198

Diuretic BalW 199

Educated HWrses 5

Education of Horses, New System of ic

Excessive Fear must be Prevented 25

Extreme Cases of P'ear 57

Excitement not Admissible 65

Effect of Kindness 86

Excessive Rasping Bad 130

Eight-tailed Bandage 152

Eye Wash, Excellent 183

First Impressions are Strongest 26

Fear, Causes and Treatment of . 57

CONTENTS.

PAGB

Fear of a Robe 60

Fear of Umbrella, or Sound of Gun 61

Fear of Railroad Cars 61

Fear of Objects while Driving 61

Four Ring Bit 100

Foot Strap 100

Feeding 113

Flatulent Colic 148

For an Attack of Pleurisy 152

Founder 161

Favorite Remedies for Heaves 164

Fistula of the Withers 166

Firing 172

Farcy, Cure of 193

For Diabetes 198 and 200

Fever Balls 199

For Bloody Urine 200

Getting Cast in Stall 95

Grease Heels 153

Grain Founder, Cure of 201

Horses should be Educated, not Broken 26

Horses should be Proved before Using 36

Haltering the Colt 46

Hitching the Colt , 47

Hitching to Wagon Poles 51

Handling the Feet 55

Hints for Watering 116

Hints on Shoeing 127

How to Nail a Shoe Properly 131

Heaves 163

Hoof Liniment for Contracted or Sore Feet 179

Hip Lameness 180

Healing Ointment, for Cuts, Galls, etc 185

How to Bleed a Horse 196

Importance of Kindness 29

Importance of Preventing Fear 35

Impression upon the Brain 68

Interfering 138

Interfering Shoe 138

Interfering Pad .<||^ 139

Inflammation of the Lungs 149

Inflammation of the Bowels 157

Inflammation of the Kidneys 158

Inflammation of the Bladder 160

Inflammation of the Brain 160

Inflammation of the Eyes 183

Jumping over Fence 96

Kindness, Importance of 29

Kicking in Harness 75

Kicking Straps 78

CONTENTS.

rAGB.

Kicking while Harnessing 8l

Kicking while Grooming 8i

Kicking while Shoeing 8i

Kindness, Effect of 86

Kicking while in the Stall 89

Kicking against the Stall 98

Kicking Cows 98

Laminitis 161

Locked Jaw, or Tetanus 165

Lameness 177

Liniment for Open Wounds 185

Liniment for Foul Ulcers 185

Liniment for Galled Shoulders or Back 186

Liniment for Strains, etc 187

Laxative Alterative Balls 198

Moral bearing 43

Mounting the Colt 54

Must See Objects from Different Positions 63

Mare 109

Make Follow with Whip 118

Mad Staggers 160

Magic Liniment 187

Magic Healing Preparation 188

Mange 191

Milder Caustics 193

Miscellaneous Receipts 197

Mercurial Alterative Balls 197

Mixed Balls, Cordial Astringent Balls 199

New System of Educating Horses 10

Notices of the Press and People II

Natural Adaptation Regarded '. . 38

Not Being Afraid of Horses 39

Nailing the Shoes 132

Nasal Gleet 192

Old Methods of Subjection 27

Overdraw Check 80

Oats vs. Corn for Feed 114

Opening an Abscess 157

Preface 3

Prof. Magner's Educated Horses ^. 5

Preliminary Hints 24

Peculiarities and Extremes of Disposition 30

Pole Applied for Balkers 88

Pulling on the Halter 9I

Prevent Getting Cast in Stall 95

Putting Tongue out of Mouth 95

Prevent Jumping Fences 97

Pawing in the Stall 98

Pleurisy 149

Poll Evil and Fistula of the Withers 166

CONTENTS.

PAGB.

Powder for Spavin and Ringbone 171

I'owerful Absorbing Blister 171

Pricking in Shoeing 177

Profuse staling 181

Preparation to Kill Lice on Horses 192

Pulse 194

Physicing 197

Quarter Crack 138

Quitter 191

Subjection, Old Methods of 27

Subjection 65

Sensitive and Flighty 70

Stabling no

Shoeing 123

Structure of the Foot 124

Shoes Made Concave 128

Shoes Concave are Injurious 133

Shoes 140

Spasmodic Colic 145

Symptoms of Colic 146

Symptoms of Pneumonia 151

Symptoms of Inflammation of Bowels 157

Strangles 156

Staggers 160

Sweeny 167

Spavin 168

Strong Blister for Spavins, Ringbone, etc 170

Sweating Liniment for Windgalls, etc 170

Sweating Blister for Curbs, Splints, etc 171

Splints 174

Sprain of the Back Sinews ... 175

Shoulder Strains 178

Shoulder Lameness 178

Stepping on Nails, Glass, etc 180

Scours, or Purging 181

Spasmodic Action of the Diaphragm 181

Symptoms of Worms 182

Sprains and Bruises 186

Sticking Plaster for Cuts, Wounds, etc 186

Thoroughness Necessary 41

The Wild Colt, Training 45

Treatment of Fear 57

Turning Around 73

Test Kickers Repeatedly 76

To Work a Balker Single 89

The Jumper oy

Treating a Halter Puller 92

Training in the Trot 102

Trotting 102

To Force on the Trot io-#

CONTENTS.

The Breeding Mare J09

Teaching Tricks 118

Teaching to Follow 118

To make Follow with Whip 118

Teaching to Lie Down 120

Teaching to Sit Up 120

Teaching to Make a Bow 121

Teaching to say Yes and No 121

Teaching to Kiss You 121

Teaching Horse to Dance 122

Teaching Horse to Waltz 122

The Foot 123

The Hoofs, Cuts of 124

Tyrrel's Patent Shoe for Contracted Feet 136

Treatment for Corns 137

Testing for Corn 137

Tympanites 148

Typhoid Pneumonia 151

Treatment for Inflammation of the Kidneys 159

Treatment for Founder 162

Tetanus, or Locked Jaw 165

Treatment for Bone Spavin 169

Thoroughpin 1 74

Treatment for Ringbone 176

Thumps 181

Tape Worms 182

To Abate Swellings from Injuries 187

Thrush 188

To Recruit a Horse Hide-bound, etc i8g

The Pulse 194

Tonic Ball (Vegetable) 198

Tonic Diuretic Ball 199

Using Blinders 62

Valuable Miscellaneous Receipts 197

Worst Horses ^9

War Bridle 99

Watering "6

Weak Heels 139

Whistling, Cure of 165

Worms 182

Wash for Fresh Wounds 185

Wash for Inflamed Wounds 186

Worm Powders 301

^^Jtebster Famfly Library of Veterinary Medfdnt

Cummings School of 'terinary Medicine at

Tuft3 Ufnv/ersity

200 Westboro Road

North Grafton, IVIA 01636