DISEASES AND INJURIES. 221 



Ringworm. 



Ringworm is due to the presence of a microscopic vegetable 

 parasite, which grows on the skin in such a manner as to pro- 

 duce more or less circular bare patches covered by a thin 

 crust. It does not cause so much itching as the mange insect, 

 though there is some ; but it renders the skin unsightly, and 

 may lead to considerable disfigurement if it is allowed to ex- 

 tend over the body. It most frequently affects young horses, 

 and is very contagious. 



Treatment. This may be the same as that prescribed for 

 mange, but it may be limited to the affected parts, and a little 

 distance beyond them. An ointment composed of Stockholm 

 tar one part, and lard three parts, answers very well. 



Shoeing. 



The management of horses' feet with the object of keeping 

 them strong and healthy, is most important, and demands the 

 constant attention of every horseman. The following rules 

 should therefore be strictly observed, if horses are to be kept 

 free from lameness and remain serviceable to a good old age, 

 so far as shoeing is concerned : 



(1) Horses should be newly shod, or the old shoes removed 

 and replaced, at least once a month. 



(2) When being shod, the hoofs should be reduced to a 

 proper length and evenly levelled, so that the toe will not be 

 too long, nor one side higher than the other. 



(3) The frog and sole should not be pared, interference with 

 them being limited to removal of any loose portions. 



(4) The shoe should not be heavier than is necessary to 

 withstand wear for a certain period say a month. 



(5) The shoe should be made to fit the hoof that is, be the 

 full size of the circumference of the latter. 



(6) The shoe should be attached to the hoof with as small 

 and as few nails as may be necessary to keep it securely on the 

 hoof. 



