TRAINING, AND GP:NERAL MANAGEMENT. 77 



Navicular disease is very prevalent in Great Britain, 

 and lias been on the increase for years past It shows 

 itself by lameness. Let the horse stand 15 or 20 

 minutes in the stable, and when he comes out see if he 

 .shows any sign of lameness. 



I have endeavoured to place before the reader a 

 .summary of the ailments most common to horses, and 

 the methods for discovering them. 



I think that the gentlemen of Great Britain do not, 

 as a rule, take sufficient personal supervision in the 

 general welfare of their horses. In the purchase of 

 them, too much power is placed in the hands of the 

 Groom and V. S., many a horse being condemned for 

 unsoundness, which is practically sound, and would, 

 if purchased, suit the buyer. 



My advice to the purchaser is to satisfy himself 

 that the horse is practically sound, and suitable for 

 whatever duties that may be required of it. Let the 

 horse sell itself. Take your time to examine him 

 thoroughly, and don't be " bluffed " or " chaffed " into 

 doing it hurriedly. If this is tried on, you may depend 

 there is something wrong. Have your trial if a harness 

 horse. Don't lock the wheels, even if asked to do so, 

 as many jibbing horses will pull locked wheels, but 

 wont stir if the wheels are loose. If a hunter, ride 

 him ; try his pace over rough ground ; see how he puts 

 his feet down. Jump him, and if he satisfies you, 

 don't stop at a fiver in his price, but buy him. 



