162 BEGINNINGS IN ANIMAL HUSBANDRY 



to be too thick in the quarters. As one views the horse from 

 behind, the legs should reach back, with the hocks separated 

 about four inches, and the lower thighs showing a strong 

 muscular development from both rear and side views. At 

 the stifle joint, where the upper and lower thigh connect, 

 fullness rather than depression should occur. The hocks 

 should be inspected from the front, at one side, and from 

 behind. It is important that they be clean, well-turned, and 

 straight. Careful examination should be made of this part, 

 for the hocks require much study. The occurrence of bone 

 and bog spavins here, and often a puffy condition that 

 is objectionable, may escape notice. 



The legs of the horse must be inspected from in front and 

 from one side. A true carriage, in any event, is important. 

 Standing in front enables one to see the straightness of limb, 

 and in a way that shows the relation of each leg to its mate. 

 From this view we judge whether the ankles will interfere 

 when the horse is in motion, or whether or not a true gait is 

 possible. From one side we note the position of the legs, to 

 determine balance of action. If front and hind legs are 

 tucked too much beneath the body, they are liable to come 

 in contact with each other when in rapid action. If there is 

 too much stretch and separation between the limbs in front 

 and behind, then the action will lack power. In a natural 

 pose at rest, the front legs will incline very slightly under 

 the body, with the hind legs correspondingly extended behind. 

 The picture on page 145, although, of a draft horse, il- 

 lustrates this position. 



A foot inspection of the horse begins with the foot at 

 rest and in a natural position. Thus one is able to note the 

 form, the placing on the ground, shape of heel, and the upper 

 condition of foot, with its relation to the pastern and to the 

 fetlock joint. The foot, however, should be examined on its 



