270 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE. 



liniments, etc., may be used. Bandage the parts, taking care 

 to have it properly done, and elevate the heel by stuffing it 

 with tow. A Derby bandage will do very well to support, 

 or keep the parts in position, or in some cases a starch, or 

 plaster of Paris bandage may be applied and allowed to 

 remain for a few weeks. It will be found highly serviceable, 

 as it will support and retain the parts in their natiiral 

 position as long as desired. Afterwards apply counter- 

 irritants, and in this trouble counter-irritation may be applied 

 sooner than in sprain of the metacarpal ligaments. Some- 

 times the rupture is gradual, such a case may be known by the 

 ligament standing out rather prominently, and feeling 

 somewhat soft ; pain is also present in the parts, and there 

 may be slight lameness. Rest in such a case is required for 

 a long time, as if rested for two or three days only, and 

 then put to work, the chances are that complete break-down 

 will result. In some cases it may be beneficial to fire, but 

 nob deeply. The same treatment may be employed where 

 the metacarpal ligaments have given way, and with rest for 

 six months or a year, in many cases, recovery will take 

 place, and the speed of the animal be as great as ever. 



Cut Tendon. — A tendon may be cut or lacerated in 

 various ways. AYhere this injury occurs give perfect rest, 

 elevate the heel, and apply a shoe arranged so as to keep 

 the limb in one position. Apply bandages, use hot and 

 cold applications, and if it is a clean cut a pretty good 

 recovery may take place. 



SPRAIN OF THE FETLOCK. 



In the region of the fetlock we may have inflammation 

 of the joint, sprain of the ligaments, etc. 



Causes. — The causes of sprain are many. It may be due 

 to stepping upon a stone or some slight inequality of ground, 

 making a false step, either during a walk or a gallop ; and 



