MANUAL FOR STABLE SERGEANTS. 



79 



to make sure that they are strong enough to support the weight of the 

 animal. They must be so adjusted as to fit closely behind the 

 elbows in such a manner as to bear the weight of the body on the 

 chest and not on the abdomen. This position is maintained by the 

 use of the breast strap and breeching, which prevent the shifting of 

 the body girth. The slings must not be too tightly drawn; the 

 animal should stand squarely on his feet, and there should bo just 



FlG. 37. The horse in slings. 



room enough between the front border of the body girth'and the chest 

 to admit the insertion of two fingers. 



The slings are only intended to aid in standing. If the patient 

 refuses to bear weight on his legs and attempts "to lie down, the stall 

 should be well bedded, the animal gently lowered to the floor, and 

 the slings removed. 



The stall in which the slings are placed should be level, dry, and 

 free from bedding. 



