DISEASES OF THE LATEEAL CAETILAGES 305 



fibrous tissue. In such cases benefit is sometimes derived 

 from the application of a shoe with an extended toe-piece 

 (see Figs. 84 and 108). 



C. OSSIFICATION OF THE LATEEAL CARTILAGES, OR 

 SIDE-BONES. 



Definition. — An abnormal condition of the lateral carti- 

 lages, in which the substance of the cartilage becomes 

 gradually removed and bone formed in its place. 



Fig. 143. — Ossified Lateral Cartilages (Side-bones). 



Symjjtoms and Diagnosis. — Side-bones are nearly always 

 met with in heavy draught animals, and are rarely seen in 

 the feet of nags. They are, moreover, nearly always con- 

 fined to the fore-feet. In the ordinary way little need be 

 said concerning their characteristics, and the way in which 

 they may be detected. Neither need any concern be 

 ordinarily manifested with regard to the effect they may 

 have on the animal's gait and future usefulness. Seeing, 

 however, that side-bone constitutes one of the recognised 

 hereditary diseases, and that at the various agricultural 

 and horse shows its existence or otherwise in a certain 



