THE PACES OF THE HORSE 



289 



two principal phases : (i) It is raised from the ground ; 

 {2) it resumes contact with the ground. Each of these 

 phases is divided into three periods of time, which we 

 proceed to analyze in connection with the anterior limb. 



The foot quits the ground (Fig. 120, c) ; this may be 

 called lifting ; the limb is obhque in direction downwards 

 and backwards. This same limb is flexed and carried for- 

 ward (Fig. 120, B), and, as it is supported by the action of 

 its flexors, this is the period named suspension ; the hoof 

 is vertical. Then the limb is carried still further forward, 

 becoming extended (Fig. 120, A) ; the heel is lowered, and 



Fig. 120. — Swing of the Raised Anterior Limb (after G. Colin).* 

 C, Lifting ; B, suspension ; A, placing. 



the foot, being oblique, is directed towards the ground ; 

 this is the placing. 



Then takes place pressure (Fig. 121). The foot has just 

 been placed on the ground ; the limb is oblique in direction 

 downwards and forwards ; this we call conimencemejit of the 

 pressure (Fig. 121, A). Then the body, being carried for- 

 ward, whilst the hoof, D, is fixed on the ground, the limb 

 becomes vertical : this stage is mid-pressure (Fig. 121, B). 



* G. Colin, ' Traite de Physiolotjie Comparee des Animaux,' third edition, 

 Paris, 1886. 



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