CHAPTER XXL 



DIAGNOSIS OF HOOF LAMENESS 



The nature of the faulty action is in itself not character- 

 istic of hoof lameness, as diseases of joints, ligaments and 

 tendons resemble it closely. For this reason, the diagnosis 

 of hoof lameness is necessarily based upon the results 

 obtained by inspection and, above all, palpation, with 

 percussion of the hammer or application of the pincers. 

 Wherever possible the history of the case should be learned. 

 Of particular interest is the question, " When was the horse 

 shod last, and what treatment did the hoof receive by the 

 farrier?" A correct answer to this may save disappoint- 

 ment. Lame horses are only too often taken to the black- 

 smith to be treated for lameness. Some farriers have a perfect 

 mania to " cut out corns," thus frequently laying the founda- 

 tion for inflammation of the podophyllous membrane. That, 

 under such conditions, a correct diagnosis as to the seat of 

 the lameness is sometimes for a while impossible, is clear. 

 Inspection of the hoof-lame animal shows more or less 

 supporting-leg lameness, intensified as a rule on hard 

 ground or by going down hill. Should both feet be attacked, 

 the gait is stiff and the feet are kept close to the ground. 

 In the standing posture the animal usually points with the 

 lame leg forward, or rests the foot upon the toe. Generally 

 the former suggests disease of the anterior half, the latter 

 of the posterior half of the hoof. When both feet are 

 affected the weight is alternately sustained by one and then 



