LITTER. 99 



as the grease and dandriff which accumulate in the long hair 

 afford a natural protective covering. 



It may be remarked that neither when the body is being 

 clipped, nor at any other time, should the hairs be removed 

 from inside the ears, as they prevent the entrance of insects, 

 dust, and other troublesome bodies, which would otherwise gain 

 access to these important and sensitive cavities ; neither should 

 the long bristly hairs about the eyes, nostrils, or lips be cut, 

 as these perform a very important office in warning the horse 

 against injury to those parts. 



With regard to shaving, instead of clipping or singeing, this 

 is seldom performed, as it is difficult, requires much time, and 

 leaves the skin too denuded. 



BANDAGING. 



The legs of well-bred thin-skinned horses, or those which 

 are sick or lame, are frequently bandaged, the bandages being 

 either of flannel or linen. Flannel bandages keep the legs 

 warm, and if these are wet assist in drying them, while by the 

 equable pressure they produce, they assist the circulation, and 

 so prevent stiffness and swelling. Linen bandages are employed 

 to accelerate the circulation, and keep the legs fine, without 

 making them too hot. Bandages are sometimes wetted with 

 cold water or evaporating lotion, to reduce heat or inflammation. 

 When a horse's legs are very cold, or there is a tendency to 

 swelling after severe exertion, they ought to be well hand- 

 rubbed before the bandages are applied. It is very important 

 that the bandages should not be put on too tight, as then they 

 are apt to retard, instead of assisting, the circulation. In 

 applying them, it is best to begin at the lower end of the limb 

 and work upwards. 



LITTER. 



Next to good grooming, perhaps, so far as the horse's 

 health and comfort are concerned, is the allowing him plenty 

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