METHOD OF EXAMINATION. 71 



have alluded, when describing the examination of the 

 fore limb. When examining the near hind, we should 

 not forget to compare it, when necessary, with the off 

 hind, especially, in cases of suspected spavin. Having 

 finished with the near hind, we may proceed to the off 

 hind, and then, working forwards, finish at the head. 



In making the foregoing observations, I have omitted 

 many obvious points which the examiner could not fail 

 to see, when going over the horse. 



Feeling the fore-legs. — The following neat method is 

 taught by Professor Williams to his students at the New 

 Veterinary College, Edinburgh : — To feel the near fore, for 

 instance, the examiner, while keeping his knees straight, 

 should run his right hand down the front of the leg with 

 a light and moderately rapid touch. Then, turning 

 round to the right, he should pass his left hand, in like 

 manner, over the structures at the back of the leg. The 

 suspensory ligament which is, more or less, in the centre 

 of the leg, as viewed sideways, will be felt in both 

 operations. If only one hand be used, the impressions 

 from the touch will not be conveyed to the mind, as 

 distinctly as they would be, were both hands employed. 

 If too much pressure be applied, or the hand be allowed 

 to dwell too long in its course, an incorrect impression 

 may, very possibly, be formed. It is a slovenly an [ 

 somewhat ridiculous procedure to squat down and feel a 

 leg with both hands, one to the front, the other to the 



