CHAPTER XVIII 



SOME DISEASES AFFECTING BONES 



JOINTS, TENDONS, AND 



LIGAMENTS 



Introduction. The hunter in virtue of its 

 work is particularly exposed to a multiplicity of 

 accidents and injuries, that are less liable to 

 occur in other horses. Jumping entails a con- 

 siderable degree of muscular exertion, so that 

 both muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints 

 have to withstand a great deal of strain. Apart 

 from the energy required, the hunter is exposed 

 to bangs and blows against fences, stone walls, 

 and other obstacles which it is necessary to 

 negotiate in the chase. Moreover, sprains are 

 frequent, more especially when the ground is 

 hard and uneven. Defective conformation and 

 youth must be looked upon as predisposing 

 factors in the development of disease in con- 



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