THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 



53 



Fig. 6. side view of the outside half of the right front foot with 



WALL OF the hoof REMOVED, SHOWING NUMEROUS LEAVES OP THE SENSITIVE 

 LAMINAL TISSUE. 



A, Median section of the hoof, continued through wall, sole and frog. 

 B, Base of hoof on opposite side. C, The keratogenous membrane or sensi- 

 tive laminae, covering the upper face of the pedal-bone, consisting of vascular 

 leaves, designed to interlock with the horny laminae on the inner face of the 

 wall of the hoof. D, The coronary-cushion, showing its continuance to the 

 bulbs of the plantar-cushion at the heel and the perioplic ring around its upper 

 border 



To the great vascularity of these sensitive tissues is due the 

 bright red color they show on the surface. They form in their 

 connection with the plantar surface of the velvety tissue, the es- 

 sential apparatus of touch and feeling in the foot. They are, in 

 addition, highly elastic and assist in the springy action so neces- 

 sary to the ease of the foot when exerted in speed or in. the severe 

 strains of drawing heavy loads. 



