THE WITHERS 



53 



scapular cartilages will be in proportion as the fore part of the body is 

 suspended higher or lower Ijetween the fore extremities. 



Eeference to fig. 44 will explain how the trunk, suspended by muscles 

 between the two front legs, may vary in height in different animals, and 

 how, in consequence, the withers are rendered more or less prominent. 



Fig. 45. — Ligamentnm Nuchse 



, Cordiform portion. B, Lamellar or flat portion, c, Attachments to doreal spines. 

 Nos. 1 to 7, Cervical Vertebrae. 



The elevation of a increases the height of the withers in joroportion 

 as the trunk is set higher or lower between the supports B B. 



The importance of the withers as an element of conformation will be 

 best understood when considered in respect to their anatomical relations. 



By reference to fig. 45 it will be seen that the great elastic ligament 

 which gives passive support to the head and neck is implanted into the 

 summits of the bones forming this region. 



Muscles which raise the head and neck, and move it from side to side, 

 as well as others which elevate the shoulder and extend the spine, are 

 also connected with it. The freedom and energy with which these parts 

 are capable of acting is greatly increased when tlie withers are high, since 

 the bony lever upon which they act is lengthened, and their contraction 



