BREAKING COLTS. (" American P»per.")

North Otago Times, Volume XXVIII, Issue 2081, 3 January 1879, Page 2 (Supplement)

BREAKING COLTS. (" American P»per.")

The time to begin breaking * colt is when it is a suckling by the side of its dam. It •hould early be taught that it ha* nothing to fear from the presence of man, and that no harm will come to it from being fondled from head to foot. A very little pains at this period will noon make the colt perfectly gentle, and he may then be broken to lead by the halter, and to stand when tied. All his subsequent lessons should be by gradual approaches ; the main point being to inspire him with confidence that he will not be harmed. He should be accustomed to the bridle by means of the " bitting rig" before any attempt is made to ride him ; and the mounting should be always be made by " gradual approaches" — iv the stall or the lot when the colt is perfectly [familiar with all the surroundings. When it is desired to break him to harness, the same principle of gentleness, and oare to avoid giving fright should be practiced. Place portions of the harness on him at a time, and let him carry it in his stall until he finds that it will not harm him ; then lead him out with the harness on, alone, and again by the side of another horse, also in harness. Accustom him perfectly to the use of the lines, then lot him make the acquaintance of the sulky, and push it after him, until he has found that it also is harmless. By pursuing this system of gradual approaches with perfect gentleness of manner on the part of the groom or other attendant, there need never be any trouble in breaking the most fiery-tempered colt.