Chapter X. 



LAMENESS 



It is obvious that to be able to detect the cause and 

 seat of lameness is a most essential part of the horse- 

 master's knowledge. The cause of lameness which results 

 from cracked heels, treads, over-reaches, and the like is, 

 of course, visible; but w^iere there is no such outward 

 sign it takes experience and practical knowledge to be 

 able to say in which limb or limbs a horse is lame, and, 

 after having ascertained that much, to be able to locate 

 the exact spot where the trouble exists, i.e., if it is the 

 foot, the fetlock, the knee, the shoulder, the hock, or 

 the hip, &c., &c., which is affected. 



There are certain well-known peculiarities which 

 when exhibited enable one to conclude where the mis- 

 chief is most likely to be found, and a brief description 

 thereof will be of some assistance to those w^ho are 

 anxious to become acquainted with the subject. 



The first examination for lameness should always take 

 place in the stable and when the horse has been at rest 

 for at least an hour. In the brief notes on laminitis 

 and navicular disease I have indicated the manner in 



