HORSES, JACKS, JENNETS, AND MULES 217 



In examining them it should be noted whether small tumors 

 are present. Horses in which there is little or no movement 

 of the ears, are usually afflicted with deafness. 



Eyes. — The eyes should be of equal size, large, clear, free 

 from tears, the pupils black, the lids thin and free from 

 wrinkles. They should be equally prominent and set on the 

 same level. Small eyes are known as pig eyes and generally 

 indicate a sullen disposition or an animal lacking in courage. 

 Exceptionally large, prominent eyes are frequently associated 

 with short-sightedness. Horses which show an unusual 

 amount of white in their eyes generally possess some form of 

 visciousness. 



Nostrils. — The nostrils should be flexible and large enough 

 to admit an ample supply of air. Small nostrils usually 

 denote narrow chest, weak lungs, and, therefore, low constitu- 

 tion or vitality. Nostrils which are constantly dilated are 

 indicative of wind troubles. If the cartilages at the opening 

 are hard, the condition usually denotes heaves. During 

 exercise the movements are accelerated in proportion to the 

 exertion. The color of the nostrils should be rosy pink, this 

 becoming brighter with exercise. The presence of scars, 

 irregular in shape and extent, or the appearance of ulcers 

 show indications of glanders. Occasionally small tumors 

 may be found. Openings from the teeth or from the facial 

 sinusus may be the source of pus discharges. 



Teeth. — The teeth of the horse should come in direct 

 opposition. If the upper teeth overhang the lower, the 

 condition is known as parrot mouth. Excessive forms of 

 this trouble prevent grasping of food, prevents even wearing 

 of the incisors and molars, and interferes with the nutritive 

 powers. The front teeth should be examined for evidence 

 of cribbing. Horses addicted to this vice have the outer 

 border of the teeth worn off more than the inner, thus 

 leaving a distinct wedge-shaped opening between the upper 

 and lower teeth. The presence of premolars or wolf teeth 

 is not considered an unsoundness. They have no relation to 

 the eye diseases. 



Withers. — The withers are subject to abuses from various 

 sources, such as narrow stalls, tight collars or saddles. These 



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