204 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE. 



received as confirmatory evidence of the presence of splint. 

 However a further examination should he made. The hand 

 should be passed down over the usual seat of the exostosis, 

 and an endeavour made to detect the presence of the splint 

 by manipulation. This often takes up considerable time, 

 as in many cases the splint is found to be no larger than 

 one half of a pea. Having found any abnormal enlarge- 

 ment, press upon it with the fingers and at the same time 

 observe whether the animal flinches, or tap on the suspected 

 part, and if it be splint, the animal will by flinching, mani- 

 fest pain, and on being trotted out immediatel}' afterwards 

 it may be observed that the lameness is increased. Be care- 

 ful in diagnosing this, as well as every other form of lame- 

 ness. The animal may have both corns and splints, etc., 

 but in splint there is no abnormal degree of heat in the 

 foot. Negative as well as positive symptoms are of the 

 utmost value in the diagnosis of this as well as other forms 

 of lameness. In some cases there may be noticed a little 

 deposit in connection with the knee. This is a very trouble- 

 some form of splint. 



Treatment. — The treatment of splint is usually very satis- 

 factory. Unless the splint is actually producing lameness, 

 it should be let alone, except when of great size and con- 

 stituting what is usually designated as an eyesore. In such 

 a case, if the owner wishes to have it removed, the practi- 

 tioner may cut down upon it and remove the enlargement 

 by means of the bone-forceps. In some instances a case 

 has to be treated while the animal is kept at work. The 

 shoes should be removed and replaced by low-heeled shoes. 

 Hot and cold applications will be found of much use. In 

 case the animal can be allowed to rest during the treatment 

 it will be much better. A dose of laxative medicine may 

 be of great benefit in some cases, but as a rule it is not 

 needed. Cold water, applied by means of a hose turned 



