Founder. 



199 



rowed, uneven or wavy ridges running around it, parallel to 

 the coronet. They resemble ribs or irregular rings running 

 together toward the front part of the foot. 



Another result of acute founder is what is called ^^seedy 

 toe/' This name is applied to an inferior secretion of horny 

 matter at the lower margin of the foot bone, and in a small 

 space about the toe. The formation is of a porous, soft 

 character, and liable to be aggravated by dirt and gravel 

 entering its substance. Though not invariably producing 

 lameness, it is at all times liable to do so, and must be con- 

 sidered an unsoundness. 



An affection that has been at times mistaken for acute 

 founder is inflammation of the muscles of the limbs, espe- 

 cially of the hind quarter and loin (myositis). In both dis- 

 eases there are stiffness, lameness and loss of power of motion. 

 The differences may be stated in a manner easy for compari- 

 son as follows : 



Founder. 



The horse lifts his feet from 

 the ground, first one then the 

 other. 



"When the animal lies down 

 the pain and fever in the feet 

 are lessened. 



Generally occurs in the 

 front feet. 



Inflammation of the Muscles. 



The horse keeps both feet 

 on the ground, and is unwil- 

 ling to move either of them. 



There is no tendency to lie 

 down, and if cast, the symp- 

 toms are aggravated. 



Generally occurs in the 

 hind quarters. 



Treatment. — This, as often practiced, is far more hurtful 

 than beneficial. It should be an absolute rule not to give 

 large doses of purgative medicine. Experience has repeat- 

 edly shown that the irritation of the bowels thus produced 

 often makes the disease much worse; indeed, it is said some 

 cases have been brought on by an injudicious dose of the 

 kind, leading to inflammation of the intestine and transfer to 

 the feet. 



