Kindness will succeed generally in most cases of vice; HARSHNESS never will in any!
The position of the saddle should be in accordance with the formation of the horse’s shoulders, and about a hand’s breadth from them, so as not in any way to interfere with or impede the free action of the muscles.
The malposition of the saddle, particularly in horses with upright shoulders, is the cause of many horses falling, from its pressing too much on the shoulders, and by that means confining the action of the muscles, which thus become benumbed, and lose their elasticity. A partial deadening of the limbs having taken place, the horse, from want of vitality in the legs, stumbles, and is unable, through the torpidity of the muscles, to recover himself, and falls to the ground; in many cases he has been known to fall as if shot.
The saddle should be wide, and roomy. The length of the stirrups should be such as to give ease to both horse and rider; the latter ought at all times to assimilate his movements in the saddle to those of the horse in his stride.
A tight rein should always be avoided, because, if he carries his head low, it tends to deaden his mouth, and teaches him the bad habit of depending upon the bridle for support; in which case, he always goes heavily in hand, and on his shoulders. The horse should at all times be taught to go on his haunches.
If the horse naturally carries his head well, it is better to ride him with a light hand, only just feeling his mouth.
“With neck like a rainbow, erecting his crest,
Pamper’d, prancing, and pleased, his head touching his breast;
Scarcely snuffing the air, he’s so proud and elate,
The high-mettled racer first starts for the plate.”
Old Song.