242 THE HORSE 



after exercise, as all the pores of the skin are then open, 

 and the brush will more effectually clean the skin before the 

 circulation is allowed to subside, for then the pores close, and 

 the dried perspiration cakes over them. It is far better not 

 to wash the legs. If the weather is dry, they may be 

 brushed and then hand-rubbed ; but if there is much wet 

 mud upon them, the bulk of it should be removed with a 

 wisp of straw, the legs afterwards being loosely bandaged 

 with woollen or serge bandages and left until they are dry, 

 even if they have to wait until the next morning, when 

 the dust can be brushed out in the ordinary manner. 

 Experience everywhere proves that this treatment is a 

 certain prophylactic against mud fever, which is a result of 

 the washing and not of the nmd. There would be no ill- 

 effects from the washing if the legs were thoroughly dried 

 afterwards, but this is usually not the case, and they are 

 left in a damp condition, which causes the mischief. 



The heels require especial attention, and should be 

 rubbed thoroughly dry with rubber and hand before the 

 bandages are put on. 



On returning from exercise the first thing to attend to is 

 washing the feet, and clearing out every particle of mud 

 and grit from the web of the shoe, the cleft of the frog, 

 and the bars of the hoof adjoining the frog. This latter is 

 too often carelessly done, and a close examination will show 

 that the mud has not been entirely removed, which, if 

 habitually overlooked, will assuredly result in disease of the 

 frog. The mud which is left soon becomes impregnated 

 with ammonia from the soiled litter, and in course of time 

 this will contaminate the frog, working into any ragged 

 portions, and so cause suppuration to ensue. 



The thorough cleaning of the mane and tail are important 

 points, and require careful attention, and the brush must be 

 applied with considerable force to eradicate all the dust. 

 The eyes, nostrils, and anus must always be sponged out, 

 and the sheath needs cleansing from time to time, soap and 

 water being frequently required to cleanse away the 

 accumulated secretions. 



