52 



after applying a good dressing of green tar to the part. Compression, 

 by means of an india-rubber bandage, has also a splendid effect, but 

 when lameness is present, blistering and, subsequently, firing have to 

 be resorted to. 



158. Thorough Pin. — This consists of an enlargement of the sac 

 through which one of the tendons passes, and is situated behind the 

 main joint, and in front of the Os-Calcis, or point of the hock. (See 

 Plate IX. No. 36.) It varies very much in size, and is generally seen 

 more prominently on the outside than on the inside, or vice versa, and 

 sometimes it is right through. Pressure on one side makes it more 

 apparent on the other. It seldom causes lameness, but, being 

 unsightly, is very objectionable, and is frequently associated with 

 large Bog Spavin. The treatment greatly resembles that for Windgall 

 {par. 156.) An india-rubber bandage may be applied, or a truss 

 specially prepared for the hock joint may be used, causing compression 

 and absorption. A winter's run at grass, with green tar dressings 

 of the affected part, have also been found to answer splendidly. 

 These bursal distensions, like Windgall, Bog Spavin, and 

 Thorough Pin, when very large, are sometimes tapped, and the over 

 secretion drawn off by means of a special instrument — an aspirator — 

 but this should only be attempted by a professional man, as it is very 

 dangerous to admit air into a synovial or serous cavity. 



159. Capped Hock is of two kinds, either a serous or watery 

 effusion immediately under the skin, or a synovial or bursal distension. 

 The Serous Capped Hock consists of a' swelling on, and over the 

 point of, the hock {see Plate IX. No. 37), and is caused by kicks or other 

 bruises ; when recent, it is very painful to the touch. Soothing treat- 

 ment IS necessary, such as hot or cold applications accompanied by 

 cooling lotions (see Appendix). All stimulating embrocations are to be 

 avoided, as they have a tendency to consolidate the effused products. 

 Some animals get capped hocks by scraping all their litter behind 

 them, and then lying down on the bare brick or pavement. This 

 may be remedied by bedding thickly with sawdust or moss litter. 

 When the swelling is very large it may be opened, and the watery 



