58 



groove which runs round the top and inner aspect of the hoof, 

 and is attached to the true shin by its upper margin, while the under 

 portion is covered with minute sprout-like projections (papillae), which 

 dip into the small orifices of the wall and secrete the horn fibres. The 

 Sensitive Laminae or Leaves (Plate XIL, No. 3 H) correspond in 

 number to those of the non-sensitive or horny laminae seen on the inside 

 of the wall of the hoof, to which they are firmly attached. The sensitive 

 laminae surrounds the bony structures of the foot, to which they are 

 connected by dense connective tissue, and they assist in the secretion 

 of horn. The Sensitive Sole (Plate XIL, No. 3 I) is attached to the 

 bottom of the coffin or pedal bone, and the under surface next to the 

 horny sole resembles a piece of fine velvet, being covered with small 

 projecting papillae, which not only secretes the horn, but also gives 

 attachment to the non-sensitive sole. The Sensitive Frog, (Plate 

 XII., No. 2 D) sometimes called the fatty frog, is situated at the 

 back part of the foot, and lies between the wings of the coffin bone, 

 above the horny frog ; it acts as a cushion by supporting the weight 

 in progression [see Side Bones, par. 793). The Tendons found in the 

 foot are the terminal point of the extensor and flexor muscles of the 

 limb, and the ligaments are those in connection with the foot (Plate 

 XIL, Nos. 1, 2, and 3). 



173. In the Foot there are Three Bones : — ist. — The Coffin, or 



Pedal Bone. (Plate XIL, No. 2 B) This bone is crescent shaped, the 

 body resembling the front of the hoof, with an elevation in front at the 

 top. The two quarters or wings run backwards on each side, to 

 which are attached the Lateral Cartilages, (Plate XIL, No. 3 L L) 

 that so often in cart-horses become ossified, and form Side-bones. 

 The bone itself is very porous in structure, and contains numerous 

 fissures, thus allowing the ramification of nerves, blood vessels, &c. 

 2nd. — The Coronary, or Short Pastern Bone, (Plate XIL, No. 2 A) 

 which is situated above the coffin bone, forming with it a joint, into 

 the formation of which also enters, — 3rd — The Navicular, or Shuttle 

 Bone, (Plate XIL, No. 2 C) which — ^just behind the coffin bone — acts 

 as a lever for the tendon passing over it. 



