56 A B C OF THE HORSE 



fetlock, or any thickening of the flexor 

 tendons or of the suspensory ligament. 

 The position of a splint decides its 

 importance. If it be near a joint, or 

 likely to involve a joint, then it is a 

 grave defect, but otherwise veterinary 

 surgeons do not attach much import- 

 ance to it. On the other hand, any 

 thickening of the flexor tendons and of 

 the suspensory ligament is very serious, 

 and should ensure the rejection of the 

 animal. Having examined the leg to 

 see that the operation known as 

 "neurotomy" has not been performed, 

 the knee or fetlock joints should be 

 flexed, as any stiffness about either of 



