EXAMINATION FOR PURCHASE. 273 



on the point of the hock ; it is an enlargement of one of 

 cne mucous capsules which surround the tendons inserted 

 into that part. It is produced by blows, lying on rough 

 cjtones, or kicking in the harness or stable, and is therefore 

 frequently a sign of vice. 



Curb is a lons^itudinal swellings at the back of the hind 

 lesr, three or four inches below the hock, seen best fr(jm 

 tlie horse's side ; the enlargement is the result of a sudden 

 strain of the f^nnular ligaments, or inflammation of the 

 sheaths of the tendon. It is attended with a good deal of 

 lameness and swelling at first ; but when that has subsided, 

 and if any time has elapsed without a recurrence of the 

 lameness, it is of no more consequence than the unsightly 

 blemish ; but it should be remembered that curby hocks 

 are liable to spavin. 



Thoroughpin is situated above the hock joint, between 

 the flexors of the hock and foot, projecting on each side ; 

 it is of the same nature as wind-galls, being an enlarged 

 mucous capsule, and is indicative of severe work or over 

 exertion. 



Bog, or blood, or spavin, is a swelling situated in front 

 of the hock, towards the middle of the joint; it is also an 

 enlarged mucous capsule, but deeper seated ; over which 

 one of the sub-cutaneous veins passing, the blood in which 

 becoming obstructed in the return, increases the size of the 

 tumour. 



The shanks should be scrutinized for any symptoms of 

 w^eakness, and the fetlocks for marks of cutting and wind- 

 galls. 



The front of the hind feet should be examined for fissure; 

 it is a most serious defect, and generally produces lame- 

 ness. Notice the way in which he is shod, as it leads to 

 the discovery of lameness and defects in action ; though 

 in dealers' stables you will rarely see any peculiarity in 

 shoeing. 



If the toe of the hind foot is found to extend a little 

 over the shoe, it is to prevent " hammer and click " from 

 beino' audible. If the toes of the hind feet drag, or we 

 find tie shoe squared off* or worn, we may suspect disease 

 of the hocks ; and if the inside of the shoe is bevilled off, 

 it is thi "iign of a cutter. 



He should now be backed, to ascertain if he has recei 



