238 THE ART OF THE FARRIER. 



fibres has rather the effect to preserve them against untoward 

 influences, than to inflict injury. 



Our remarks have been directed to the method of shoeing which 

 is especially applicable to the healthy foot. Disease not unfre- 

 quently brings about changes which compel us to modify the 

 system which we have advocated. Of these changes we do not 

 propose here to speak. 



The general management of the feet demands a few words. 

 The right way of caring for the feet is the simplest possible, 

 requiring nothing beyond a strict attention to cleanliness. Wash- 

 ing the feet daily with clear water by means of a sponge, taking 

 care afterwards to rub dry the parts above the hoof, and to avoid 

 the use of any application in the form of oil or stimulant, &c., 

 constitute all that is absolutely essential. The unmutilated sole 

 forms in itself the best defence against the extremes of dryness or 

 moisture; and the "stuffing" and other artificial measures so 

 universally adopted are worse than useless, if the natural sole has 

 been preserved. Neither can anything be substituted for the 

 beautiful polish which the uurasped wall presents in its healthy 

 condition. 



Placing the animal on a perfectly level floor, if he stands in a 

 stall, or, still better, giving him the freedom of a loose box, will 

 promote a sound condition of the feet and conduce to the general 

 health. 



