SADDLES AND SORE BACKS. 



157 



long process such as the backbone does not possess, but there are no ribs. 

 On the length of the transverse processes just described depends the 

 width of the loins. A horse which is narrow in the loins cannot Loins 

 carry weight. Yet the loins are not intended to support weight, no "^° "°' 

 saddle should ever rest on them, they have a function to perform which ^"JJ^J^j* 



F^lG. 



31- 



shall be alluded to later ; but the point which we here wish to emphasise 

 is that in spite of the fact that the bones of the loins are larger and 

 stouter than the bones of the back, they are not intended to carry 

 weight. 



The forelegs of the horse are not fitted to the body by means of a Attach- 

 joint, but are attached to the trunk by means of large masses of ment of 



