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In
the last few years, driving horses for pleasure has swelled to new
heights. Horses or ponies are driven singly or in pairs to carts,
buggies, or one of many varieties of carriages. Teams of four are put to
large coaches. Most horses adapt well to driving.
Horses
are introduced to the harness, which comprises the bridle, long reins,
saddle or back pad, and, around the horse’s neck or chest, a neck or
breast collar to which are attached long straps, called traces, that
draw the vehicle. The breeching, which fits around the horse’s rump,
is an aid in training the horse in stopping and backing.
The
next step involves putting the horse between the shafts of a training
cart. The trainer then walks behind the vehicle, controlling the horse
by means of long lines (called ropes). When the horse becomes accustomed
to pulling the weight of the vehicle, the trainer gets into the cart and
drives the horse from the seat. Proper gaits include the walk, collected
trot, and a faster trot. Horses that are to be driven with others are
judged to see whether they work better on the left or right side or, in
the case of four-in-hand teams, as the "leader" or the
"wheel" horses. In
race driving, the horses are usually required to pace. This is when the
horse moves two legs on one side simultaneously, then brings the two on
the other side forward.
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