ioo COURSING 



hounds should not prove eminently successful. We say similar, 

 because the nature of the hound and his conformation are 

 not identical with those of ' the long dog.' Nor has the foster- 

 ing of top speed to be considered in the preparation of the 

 former. 



In the early days, say from the beginning of July, slow 

 exercise on the roads in the early morning, and a frolic on the 

 grass in the evening, will be sufficient. As time goes on, the 

 duration of exercise must be increased ; but if any member of 

 the string is footsore on his return to kennel, or appears inert 

 and jaded, he must be eased in his work. On returning from 

 road exercise the trainer should wash the feet of his charges in 

 strong brine or a saturated solution of alum. If any inflammation 

 or soreness is visible, an application of Friar's Balsam will give 

 relief ; but the individual must not go again on the roads until 

 the symptoms have entirely disappeared. If a gash has been 

 cut by a flint or piece of broken glass, the application of 

 Spratt's Locurium a most valuable preparation will be found 

 efficacious. 



The next proceeding is thoroughly to rub down each dog 

 with a horsehair hand-glove. This massage should begin at 

 the shoulder and forelegs, be carried down the back and loins 

 to the root of the stern, and end with the thighs, stifles, and 

 hocks ; after which a clean chamois leather may be applied. 

 The usual time for feeding greyhounds in training is the middle 

 of the day ; but we much prefer it on their return from evening 

 exercise, for two reasons : first, the dogs are more likely to curl 

 themselves up and pass a restful night if fed late ; whereas, if 

 they are given their meal earlier they are prone to prowl about 

 and sing choruses that, however charming to their own ears, 

 are not at all calculated to call forth blessings from their human 

 friends who have the misfortune to dwell within hearing. 

 Secondly, dogs that are accustomed to a midday meal will be 

 upset by the want of it when engaged at a coursing meeting ; 

 for, of course, conditions may not be favourable for them to be 

 indulged. 



