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PERFORMING PONIES.

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Colts should not be trained in jumping until at least four years old. Until this age the muscles and sinews are too pliable, and there is danger of the animal being strained. It is better never to urge a horse to attempt a leap which he cannot readily accomplish, for severe injury might result from his striking his feet, besides any failure to perform the leap will discourage him.

The bar should at first be placed very low and only raised very gradually. About knee high or less will do to commence with. Commence the instructions by letting one man lead the colt, while another man follows with a whip. The former walks over the bar encouraging the colt with his voice to follow. The man with the whip is only to prevent the horse backing, the whip should never be applied unless the animal is positively restive. With a little coaxing he will soon go over, and having once done so, he will readily repeat it. A few pieces of apple may be advantageously used to induce him to leap the bar, and to reward him for doing so. By using the word “hip” or any other as he jumps, he may be taught to make the leap on hearing it. This is the common method for horses in the ring.