EMMINING THE FEET. 725 



Fifth Stage. 



Have the horse placed on level ground with the attendant 

 standing in front of him, and holding him straight with a rein 

 in each hajid. The examiner should then walk round, and look 

 the animal carefully over. The following are the chief points 

 which should be noted: — (1). That the horse stands in a sound, 

 healthy attitude. (2). That his legs are properly shaped, and do 

 not show "wear" sufficient to constitute unsoundness. (3). That 

 he has got neither odd nor badly shaped feet. (4). That the 

 look of his coat and his general appearance indicate good health. 

 (5). That the movements of the flanks are natural, and do not give 

 the impression that there is anything wrong with the " wind." 

 (6). That the hips, or buttocks, are not " down ;" no other portions 

 of the pelvis displaced ; and the vertebras of the tail uninjured. 

 (7). That the animal is free from sore shins, curb, and any " bow " 

 about the back tendons. (8). That both sides of the body are 

 symmetrical ; and that there is no deformity, other than I have 

 mentioned. 



Sixth Stage. 



Having previously eiamined the ©yes, nostrils, and mouth, look 

 over the face to see if there is any peculiarity on it, either from 

 injury or disease. The " chin-groove," the smooth portion of the 

 lower jaw, on which the curb-chain (when used) should rest, and 

 the branches of the lower jaw, a little above this groove, should 

 be examined for signs of recent injury, or for bony deposits result- 

 ing from an improper use of the curb. Although the fault may lie 

 with the rider or driver, we may reasonably infer that a horse 

 whose mouth has been pulled about a good deal will not be a 

 pleasant " conveyance." Feel the space between the lower jaws for 

 swollen glands, and observe if the skin over the larynx has a 

 swollen appearance, and if there be any mark left from tracheotomy 

 having been performed. Feel the poll for poll evil, and the space 

 between the ear and the angle of the lower jaw on each side, for 

 enlarged glands. Examine the ears to find out if they are all 

 right. Kun the hand along the crest to the withers, and see that 

 they are free from wounds, soreness or old scars. If the mane 

 hangs to the near side, it should be put over, to see that it does 

 not conceal any wound on. the neck. Examine the course of the 

 jugular vein down the near side of the neck, for marks of " bleed- 

 ing," and try if the flow of blood through it is unimpeded. See 



