48 EXAMINATION OF HORSES 
The side view of the foot is neither too triangular nor 
too square. (See Fig.1,?.) 
The pasterns have a strong tendency to assume the 
perpendicular when we may or may not have the /zze of 
the coronary band approaching the horizontal. When 
short pasterns assume the perpendicular, we have almost’ 
invariably a high-heeled boxy hoof. (See Fig. 1,°.) 
I might have added to the above propositions, but 
trust that by their aid we shall be able to further discuss 
the subject in a clear and intelligible manner. You: 
will often read and hear of shoeing being a necessary 
evil, and of its being the cause of foot lameness and so 
forth. Now please note that the shoe is nailed on to 
the exd of the phalanges. At the other end of the 
phalanges is applied the weight and the power of its 
distribution. Those who blame shoeing for aZ/ the ills 
of the foot, either invent, or stimulate others to invent, 
all kinds of contortions and vagaries in the name ot 
horse-shoes. ‘They will even go into a state of ecstatic 
mania over what they call “this most beautiful mechanism,” 
They will wrangle and quarrel over the question whether 
the heel contracts or expands, and look steadfastly and 
for ever to the end of the phalanx for the interpretation 
of the ailments from which the foot suffers. They will 
watch a horse drawing a heavy load up a hill violently 
digging his toes into the ground; or, backing a load: 
down a hill, digging his heels into the ground, sliding 
and wrenching ; and then go home and invent a shoe. . 
The late Professor Dick used to delight in showing his 
