Preface. xi 



true nature and variations of which they can 

 have neither the time nor the opportunity to un- 

 derstand properly. 



These truths have prompted the author to 

 treat rather fully the subject of the physiology 

 of digestion nature of food principles by which 

 economy and safety to animal life may be gained, 

 as well as other equally important matters which 

 come within the notice of all who have horses 

 under their care. With a correct knowledge of 

 the healthy functions of animal life must ensue 

 greater respect for the fabric which has been 

 termed " the tuneful harp of a thousand strings/' 

 and a correspondingly increased desire and ability 

 to put into force the valuable precepts which 

 are acquired by the lesson. The preservation 

 of our domestic animals is a comprehensive sub- 

 ject, and has been eminently fruitful in many 

 places already where it has met with even an 

 ordinary consideration. It is the desire of the 

 author to direct his efforts towards increasing 

 the success of the movement, and he feels as- 

 sured the present volume will prove no slight 

 aid where the disposition to improve exists. The 

 non-professional reader has been considered 

 throughout. Technicalities have been suppressed 

 as far as practicable, or supplemented by expla- 

 natory addenda, which it is hoped will bring 



