250 GREASE. 



brushed away ; and a little hand-rubbing on the fol- 

 lowing morning will restore the part to its customary 

 cleanliness. 



When the vessels of the heel are weakened by the 

 absurd system of washing, let it be supposed the parts 

 are exposed to the common exciting causes which 

 confirm irritability; the horse stands in a lujt stable, 

 with a draught of cold air continually blowing upon 

 his heels ; he remains day after day in the stable un- 

 exercised, until he has swelled legs ; and he has gene- 

 rated in his system a tendency to disease, which is 

 naturally ready to settle in the weakest part. 



Even under careful management, the hind heels are, 

 and must be weak parts. They are farthest from the 

 centre of circulation : the fluids have up-hill work to 

 return from the legs. If all such things are taken 

 into consideration, the prevalence of grease needs not 

 to be wondered at. 



It assumes different forms in its different stages; 

 but at first it is simple irritation of the skin and 

 glandular structure of the heel. The heel becomes 

 red, itchy, dry, and scurfy. The natural suppling 

 secretion from the glands is partly suppressed ; while 

 that of the cuticle is increased. 



If warning is taken in time, the complaint is easily 

 arrested. No effort must be made forcibly to separate 

 the scurf from the skin beneath. There must be no 

 excoriation, or soreness, if it can be avoided. The 

 part must be kept constantly bathed with animal 

 glycerine one part, water two parts. This lotion, if 

 applied to the skin, and not wasted upon the hair, will 

 speedily remove all scurfy annoyance. 



