CHAP. V.] SITUATION OF SAND CRACKS. 527 



Symptoms. — A split or crack in the hoof, on the 

 inside quarter of the fore foot, for the most part, 

 but often on the front of it, down towards the toe, 

 and occasionally on the outside, and also near the 

 heel. Sometimes it appears on the hind foot, on 

 the front of it, and prevails with us generally in 

 hot weather. Sand-crack is either superficial and 

 easily remedied, or deep and extensive, requiring 

 much attention, and an operation or two in its dif- 

 ferent stages. 



Cure. — It will be seen, that a slight crack may, 

 by working the animal, become one of the worst 

 species. Pare away the rotten parts, if such be 

 found, and make a transverse incision across the 

 upper part of the crack ; wash out the sand or dirt, 

 apply daily tincture of tar, with a pledget of tow, 

 and give the horse rest. Bind round the hoof 

 tight with listing, and stop up the sole with cow- 

 dung, and this treatment will suffice in ordinary 

 cases. But when the crack extends so high, that 

 there is no room left for making this incision 

 across, to stop the progress of the crack, the dis- 

 order has assumed its worst aspect : the edges of 

 the crack internally now press upon the sensible 

 part, or ligamentary substance that holds the coffin- 

 bone and hoof together, and inflammation succeeds, 

 if blood does not issue forth. If the crack affects 

 the coronet, you may draw one side of it down to 

 the quick about an inch with good effect, but no 

 farther, as that would occasion the hoof to divide 

 more readily. Rest, however, will restore ad- 



