714 EXAMININGr FOR SOUNDNESS. 



Fifth Stage. 



Have the horse placed on level ground with the attendant 

 standing in front of him, and holding him straight with a rein 

 in eaoh hand. The examiner should then walk round, and look 

 the animal carefully over. The following are the chief points 

 which should be noted: — (1). That the horse stands in a sound, 

 healthy attitude. (2). That his legs are pTOjoerly shaped, and do 

 not show " wear " sufficient to constitute unsoundness. (3). That 

 he has got neither odd nor badly shajjed feet. (4). That the 

 look of his coat and his general appearance indicate good health. 

 (5). That the movements of the flanks are natural, and do not give 

 the impression that there is anything wrong with the " wind.^* 

 (6). That the hips, or buttocks, are not " down ; " no other 

 jDortions of the pelvis disj^laced ; and the vertebrae of the tail 

 uninjured. (7). That the animal is free from sore shins, curb, 

 and any " bow " about the back tendons. (8). That both sides of 

 the body are symmetrical ; a.nd that there is no deformity, other 

 than I have mentioned. 



Sixth Stage. 



Having previously examined the eyes, nostrils, and mouth, we 

 should look over the face to see if there is any peculiarity 

 on it, either from injury or disease. The " chin-groove," which 

 is the smooth portion of the lower jaw, on which the curb-chain 

 (when used) should rest, and the branches of the lower jaw, a 

 little above this groove, should be examined for signs of recent 

 injury, or for bony deposits resulting from an improper use of 

 the curb. Although the fault may lie with the rider or driver, 

 we may reasonably infer that a horse whose mouth has been 

 pulled about a good deal mil not be a pleasant " conveyance." 

 Feel the space between the lower jaws for swollen glands, and 

 observe if the skin over the larynx has a swollen appearance, 

 and if there be any mark left from tracheotomy having been 

 performed. Feel the poll for poll evil, and the space between the 

 ear and the angle of the lower ja,w on each side, for enlarged 

 glands. Examine the ears to find out if they are all right. Run the 

 hand along the crest to the withers, and see that they are free from 

 wounds, soreness or old scars. If the mane hangs to the near side, 

 it should be put over, to see that it does not conceal any wound on 

 the neck. Examine the course of the jugular vein down the near 

 side of the neck, for marks of "bleeding," and try if the flow of 

 ])lood through it is unimpeded. See that the near shoulder is free 



