PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION. Vll 



stoop, as it is considered, to the medical treatment 

 of such inferior branches of the creation as Horses 

 and Dogs. In answer to these inquiries, 1 have to 

 alledge, that my first motives were, an inherent and 

 powerful attachment to brute animals in general, 

 which early prompted me to study their habits, 

 and take a warm interest in their welfare. This 

 predilection strengthening with my years, engaged 

 me, during the prosecution of my medical studies, 

 to pay particular attention to compai'ative anatomy, 

 which a residence with the ingenious Dr. Haighton 

 tended to promote. A knowledge that such were 

 my predilections, gained me the notice of the pa- 

 trons of the Veterinary College; and I was, by them, 

 offered the appointment of Demonstrator and As- 

 sistant Anatomical Teacher to the pupils of that 

 Establishment. Here my attention was directed to 

 the diseases of animals likewise ; and, on my removal 

 from the College, I gave a course of public lec- 

 tures on the anatomy and physiology of the horse. 

 I continued, for a few years afterwards, to endea- 

 vour to extend the knowledge of the veterinary art, 

 at that time but little known, aiid its importance but 

 little appreciated ; and I may enumerate, among the 



