154 HORSE MANAGEMENT IN INDIA. 



rasp must finish its task by removing the sharp edge, and 

 rounding it so as to leave a thick strong border not likely 

 to chip. The unshod hoof nearly always exhibits this 

 provision against fracture of the wall-fibres." (Fleming.) 



All loose portions of the frog should be removed by 

 the drawing knife, in order to prevent the lodgment of 

 moisture, which would tend to produce thrush. 



In order to prevent the occurrence of corns, the 

 " seat of corn " (see Veterinary Notes for Horse Owners) 

 may be slightly eased off with the drawing knife, 

 before applying the shoe. 



Thinning the sole, cutting away the " bars," and 

 "opening out the heels," should on no account be 

 permitted. 



When a horse goes bare-foot, the lower margin of 

 the walls of the hoof should be rasped round, so 

 as to prevent the fibres of the horn from splitting. 



The Shoe. The following considerations should deter- 

 mine the shape of the shoe : 



1st. The foot surface of the shoe should be perfect- 

 ly flat, so that the sole may aid the wall of the hoof 

 in supporting the weight of the animal. 



2nd. The shoe should be as thin as possible consist- 

 ent with its standing wear, and retaining its shape- 

 so that pressure may be put on the frog. 



3rd. The shoe should be of a uniform thickness at 

 the toes, quarters, and heels, so that the proper bear- 

 ing of the foot be not disturbed. 



4th. The ground surface of the shoe should be be- 

 velled, in order to increase the foot-hold of the horse, 

 and also to lessen the weight of t metal employed. 



