270 INFLAMMATION OF THE LAMINAE. 



the hoof is evident enough. The fore legs are pro- 

 truded, and the hind legs are brought as far as possi- 

 ble under the body. The feet although in motion are 

 never placed flat upon the earth ; but the wretched 

 animal having laminitis ever rests its weight upon the 

 heels. All the characteristics of general inflam- 

 mation are exhibited. The pulse is hard and fast — 

 the breathing sharp and quick — the skin harsh — the 

 mouth hot ; and the ears cold. But there are also signs 

 which indicate the seat of the disease ; for, besides the 

 hoofs being unnaturally hot, the arteries of the legs 

 throb, while the horse often points to his feet as the 

 seat of pain, by looking at them, and resting his 

 muzzle upon them. 



The treatment of inflammation of the feet must be 

 prompt. 



Other inflammations may possibly, to a certain 

 degree, brook delay; but here not a moment must be 

 lost. The inflammation must, if possible, be made to 

 terminate in resolution ; for, if pus as a natural 

 product of inflammation is thrown out within the foot 

 — the hoof will inevitably come off*. 



Without a moment's delay the horse must be bled ; 

 and there is dispute concerning the best place to 

 abstract blood from. Some recommend taking blood 

 from the toe ; but it is not always safe to wound a part 

 during the existence of acute inflammation within it. 

 The jugular should be opened, and the stream allowed 

 to flow till the aspect of the horse improves. If in 

 five or six hours the pulse regains its inflammatory 

 character, the coronet may be punctured in several 



