BONE-SPAVrN, RING-BONE, &C. 201 



Destnptlon of Splints, 



tern bones, which causes a stiffness in the motion 

 of the joint. Spavins and ring-bones, in general, 

 are occasioned by strains; but, in some instances, 

 they appear to be hereditary. The former are 

 likewise frequently occasioned by a blow ; and the 

 latter from a stub, or a tread in winter from the 

 shoes, when turned up for the frost. 



Splints are hard excrescences growing on the 

 shank-bone of a horse, and of various shapes and 

 sizes. Those which are large, and press against the 

 back sinew, in general cause a lameness, or a stiff- 

 ness. Others (except those which are seated on, 

 or near the joint) seldom occasion lameness. The 

 treatment will be nearly similar in all the above 

 cases- When any of these excrescences first 

 make their appearance, and for some lime before, 

 the horse will be considerably lame, and requires 

 a man of judgement to fmd out the part where he 

 is lame. The cure must first be attempted by 

 gentle means. The following blistering oils may 

 be efficjiciously employed. 



