66 SOUNDNESS IN HOESES. 



observation of any defect might bias our judgment as to 

 the evenness of the animal's action. 



Fifth Stage. 



Have the horse pkced on level ground with the 

 attendant standing in front of him, and holding him 

 straight with a rein in each hand. The examiner should 

 then walk round, and look the animal carefully over. 

 The following are the chief points which should be 

 noted : — (1.) That the horse stands in a sound, healthy 

 attitude. (2.) 'Ihat his legs are properly shaped, and 

 do not show *' wear " sufficient to constitute unsoundness. 

 (3.) That he has got neither odd, nor unduly small feet. 

 (4.) That the look of his coat and his general appear- 

 ance indicate good health. (5.) That the movements 

 of the flanks are natural, and do not give the impres- 

 sion that there is anything wrong with the " wind." 

 (6.) That the hips, or buttocks are not " down ; " no other 

 portions of the pelvis displaced ; and the vertebra3 of the 

 tail uninjured. (7.) That the animal is free from sore 

 shins, curb, and any " bow " about the back tendons. 

 (8.) That both sides of the body are symmetrical ; and 

 that there is no deformity, other than I have mentioned. 



Sixth Stage. 



Having previously examined the eyes, nostrils, and 

 mouth, we should look over the face to see if there is any 



