no MANUAL OF MODERN FARRIERY 



there is no certain cure, and hard work is almost 

 certain to make them reappear. 



CAPPED HOCKS. 



Capped hock consists of a swelling on the very 

 point of the hock-joint, due to, in general, an in- 

 filtration of serum into the cellular tissue underneath 

 the skin, but in some cases the synovial bursse 

 are also distended (see Plate vii, fig. 4, a). The 

 tumour is soft and fluctuating. Lameness seldom 

 accompanies capped hock, but nevertheless it is an 

 awkward complaint, particularly in draught-horses, 

 in consequence of this part being very liable to come 

 in contact with the bar of a gig or carriage ; and by 

 causing pain to the animal, induces him to kick, and, 

 if a high-tempered horse, often causes much mischief. 

 It is generally produced by blows of some kind ; but 

 in many instances the injury is inflicted by the horse 

 himself in kicking, and that when the animal is in 

 harness, although some are in the habit of kicking 

 while in the stall. It also occurs sometimes by the 

 bedding of the horse being too thin, and the hock 

 may be bruised in consequence. 



Treatment. — If the swollen part be hot and 

 tender apply the following : — 



Liquor plumbi subacetatis . . 2 ounces, 



Tincture of opium . . . i ounce, 



Tincture of arnica . . . i ounce, 



Water 15 ounces. 



Apply in small quantity, and so as to keep the parts 

 damp. 



Sometimes the swelling disappears without any 

 other means than rest being employed. But often 

 capped hock becomes of a very large size, and callous 

 in its structure, in which case the parts should be 



