TO “PIROUETTE.”
“Pirouetting” consists merely in the horse turning around while standing erect upon his hind feet. He may be taught to do this very easily, either by coaxing him to turn by the use of pieces of apple, or by gentle taps upon the cheek. He soon learns to turn at a circular sweep of the whip or at the command to “Pirouette.” This action is the same as is made use of when a horse is supposed to “waltz.”
THE PEDESTAL.
PEDESTAL TRICK.
One of the most common tricks displayed in circuses, and one which is usually hailed with applause, is what is termed the “pedestal” trick. A stout platform is used, to which is attached a wooden “drum” some two feet in hight, out of which projects a wooden rod or post at a slight angle. The horse first steps upon the platform, then places one fore foot upon the drum, and lastly places his other fore foot upon the point of the projecting post. In this position a handsome animal forms a really beautiful picture, and the effect is sometimes enhanced by having a number of men raise the platform upon their shoulders, and bear the horse, high up above the heads of the spectators, like some equestrian statue, around the ring.
To teach this trick some patience is necessary but the method is quite simple. The horse is first led upon the platform several times, being allowed to remain a moment or more each time. He will soon understand when brought into the vicinity of the platform that he is to take his position upon it. Now compel him to raise his foot, and as he attempts to put it down again, guide it with your hand to the required position upon the drum. After a few times he will place it upon the drum of his own accord on being made to raise it. Then in the same manner make him raise the other foot and place it upon the post. This is the most difficult part of the performance on account of the post presenting only a slight foothold, and the horse having only limited power to guide his foot to this position; it is also quite difficult to make the hoof retain its hold even after the right position is gained. After the horse thoroughly understands what is wanted of him he will go through the performance without prompting, for the sight of the platform suggests to him the desired actions. The “carrying around” part is, of course, strictly a ring performance which few persons would care to undertake for private amusement, but if the horse is gentle and has been taught to have entire confidence in his master, and to obey him implicitly, there is little difficulty in this part of the exhibition if done with care.
TO TEACH A HORSE TO KISS.
Give the horse a few pieces of apple from your hand, then place a piece between your teeth, letting it project so that the horse can readily seize it. When he has become used to taking the apple in this way, say, “Kiss,” or “Kiss me,” to him each time before putting the apple in your mouth, and he will by and by put his mouth to your lips at this command. In every case he should be rewarded by a piece of apple, for, to him, “kiss me” means apple, and if he is deceived in getting it he will not so readily obey.