METHOD OF EXAMINATION. 69 



perceived. In case of doubt, the state of these parts 

 should be considered with reference to that of those of 

 the off fore. We should compare both feet, to see that 

 they are of the same size and shape. The wall of the 

 hoof should be looked at for sio'ns of inflammation of the 

 feet, sand-crack, false-quarter, villitis, horn tumours, 

 seedy-toe, and for fissures of various kinds. The horn 

 should be sound and strong. Having picked up the 

 foot, we should see that the heels are not contracted ; 

 the frog free from thrush, and well developed ; the 

 sole concave ; and the ground surface of the foot 

 healthy, free from wounds and signs of canker. We 

 may note if the animal has had the "seat of corn" 

 recently pared out; if he is shod in any particular 

 manner which might indicate unsoundness or defective 

 action; and if his hoofs have been filed with the 

 object of concealing malformation or disease. If we 

 suspect seedy-toe, we may endeavour to test our sup- 

 position by tapping the outside of the hoof with a 

 hammer. The practice of comparing one J eg with 

 another, should be followed in the majority of doubtful 

 cases, especially, as regards the existence of sprain, 

 " standing over at the knees," and size of the feet. I 

 have here purposely omitted the subject of navicular 

 disease ; for, as far as I know, it presents no distinctive 

 symptoms, its presence being generally characterised by 

 *' pointing," lameness, and contraction of the heels, all of 



