To Educate a Horse to Walk on His Knees
The reader will observe, by reading my book, that great use is made of the Bonaparte bridle, and if those who handle horses will always resort to it when obedience from the horse is desired, they will save much time, trouble and annoyance that so often occur, especially to persons who quickly loose their tempers. Men can accomplish more in fifteen minutes using the bridle than in fifteen hours with any other means, as it does not inflict a severe punishment when properly used, but never fails to secure obedience. Therefore, as in most cases it is used, I, in the present, introduce it again.
Put a surcingle on the horse, attach a strap to his nigh fore-foot between the fetlock joint and hoof and draw it up to within eight or ten inches of his body, then take a strap or cord, say 6 or 7 feet long, and fasten it to his off fore-leg in the same manner and secure the services of some person to assist you, directing him to stand on the off-side, and, when directed, to pull up his foot. Place on the horse the Bonaparte bridle, and take your position in front of him with bridle in hand, requesting assistant to pull, when your horse will come down on his knees, now pull on your bridle and say, “Come here,” when he will soon obey you. Do not make your lessons long, but repeat them often; not forgetting to caress him if he should make the slightest move towards you.
Never attempt to teach a horse this trick with shoes on his hind-feet, as he might cut himself, which would cause him to dread a second effort.