DOCTORING. 272> 



The presence of a corn is indicated by lameness, and a 

 red spot in the horn, close to the heel. In most cases 

 relief may be obtained by paring away the horn, and 

 affixing a shoe that will effect no pressure upon the tender 

 portion of the foot. A horse with corns will be immensely 

 benefited and relieved by working him with india-rubber 

 soles, as by their use the pressure is taken off the heels. 



Swollen legs, a very common ailment, will, in most in- 

 stances, speedily yield to the following treatment : Com- 

 plete immunity from hard work, regular and gentle exercise, 

 constant bathing with tepid water in which salt has been 

 dissolved, and careful bandaging with flannel. 



Splint is very general with young horses just put to 

 work. I have seen it effectually cured on its first appear- 

 ance by giving the horse complete rest, applying cold water 

 bandages, and utilising a three-quarter shoe on the inner 

 portion of the foot — a course of treatment which certainly 

 lessens the concussion. If obstinate, the periosteum must 

 be divided over the newly-formed deposit, and if this fails a 

 blister will have to be resorted to, or — as a very last re- 

 source — firing the affected part. If this operation is skil- 

 fully performed with a pointed iron, very little blemish will 

 ensue. It ought to be borne in mind, however, that a 

 splint when once formed into bone cannot possibly be 

 removed, although a horse that has good sound legs and 

 even action need not by any means be rejected on account 

 of it. 



Farcy is not an uncommon ailment among horses. It 

 is notified by a puffy swelling covered over with little 



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