CARE OF THE LEGS. 269 



no intention of following this example, for I do not 

 think the ordinary reader cares to wade through more 

 than the plain and practical observations of a 

 trainer— observations which he can follow, understand 

 and appreciate. Every horseman should have a good 

 general knowledge of the anatomy of not only the leg 

 and foot, but the whole structure of the horse. How- 

 ever, for scientific instruction on that branch of the 

 subject, the veterinary schools and the standard veter- 

 inary works are the proper sources of information. I 

 shall only refer to these matters sufficiently to make 

 myself understood. 



The care of the legs, so long as they remain clean 

 and free from inflammation, is a comparatively simple 

 matter, but, after trouble begins, the trainer may be 

 prepared for vexation of spirit. Just here I do*^ not 

 proi3ose to speak of the treatment of injuries or 

 unsoundness, having some remarks to make on these 

 subjects later on, but will confine this chapter to the 

 care of the horse in a normal condition. Proper boot- 

 ing, as I have said, is the first essential, then hand- 

 rubbing and bandaging. After work this leg-wash will 

 be found an excellent application : 



Sugar oflead 2 ounces. 



Laudanum 2 ounces 



^^'ater 1 q^j^^^_ 



Eub this well in around the joints, and along the 

 tendons; then bandage with a pliable bandage "of a 

 rather open or porous texture. Be sure that the 

 bandage covers the joint properly, as directed in the 

 previous chapter; and, while it should be set moder- 



