ABC OF THE HORSE 57 



these joints is very objectionable. A 

 further examination of the foot should 

 then be made in order to see if there 

 are any laminitic rings upon the hoof 

 wall, and the hoof should be tapped for 

 corns. If any be present the animal 

 will flinch and exhibit other signs of 

 uneasiness. The near hind leg next 

 comes in for examination. Wasting of 

 the muscles over the stifle should be 

 looked for, and then a careful examina- 

 tion of the hock should be made. 

 Stiffness of the joint can be discovered 

 by flexing it, whilst an examination by 

 the hand, and comparison between the 

 two hocks, should help the observer in 



