236 The Diseases of Animals 



which bind the bones together at a joint. Partial dis- 

 location of joints are more frequent, especially so in 

 young "loose -jointed" colts. 



Knuckling 



A partial dislocation occurring at the fetlock -joint 

 in colts is commonly called "knuckling." It may be 

 so severe that the colt is unable to walk to any extent. 

 It is most frequently seen in suckling colts. If taken 

 in time, and properly treated, it will usually be out- 

 grown. If the colt is small, putting on splints of 

 wood, leather or similar material, first protecting the 

 leg by a flannel bandage, will usually strengthen the 

 part, and prevent the joint from doubling over and 

 becoming sore from striking the ground. Foals will 

 outgrow and make good recoveries from bad cases of 

 knuckling. In older horses the tendency to double 

 over at the fetlock -joints can usually be corrected by 

 shoeing in such manner as to throw the fetlock -joint 

 backward. Aged horses, or horses that have been 

 subjected to severe exertions from fast driving, may 

 knuckle over at the fetlock -joints, particularly of the 

 hind leg, from a contraction of the tendons. This 

 condition is commonly called a "cocked ankle." Such 

 cases may be remedied somewhat by shoeing. 



A dislocation of the patella, commonly called the 

 "stifle" bone (corresponding to the knee-cap of man), 

 is the most frequent dislocation in animals. A horse 



