124 The Selection and 



ness of horses, should always obtain it before the 

 animal becomes their property. The proceeding 

 is advantageous in many ways, and much trouble 

 and petty annoyance is avoided. 



In Ireland, in nearly all transactions in which 

 horses are concerned, the purchase is effected on 

 the result of an examination by a qualified ve- 

 terinary surgeon. The principle is more in favour 

 in England than formerly, and if properly con- 

 ducted, many legal quibbles are undoubtedly 

 avoided, as well as the loss of time, money, and 

 reputation, and hard swearing on both sides. In 

 practice, the proceeding also proves more pro- 

 fitable than even a written warranty. If the 

 animal is sound, he is at once removed and 

 the money paid ; if the reverse, no transaction 

 occurs. 



The certificate given by the professional man 

 proves as powerful as a warranty; because in 

 the event of unsoundness, the dealer cannot sell 

 his horse. In case the animal is sound, the 

 purchaser receives an assurance to the effect, and 

 nothing further is needed, as the whole thing 

 hinges upon the question. 



Recommending Horses. No greater mistake, in 

 the author's opinion, can be made by a profes- 

 sional or other person, than that of recommend- 

 ing horses. Many horse proprietors are totally 

 ignorant of the nature, habits, capabilities, and 

 resources of a horse, and in eager search for a 

 desirable animal, meet with a friend who sin- 



