ELEMENTS OF HIPPOLOGY. 215 



stalls near the heel-posts. A horse given to kicking in the stable 

 usually shows scarred heels and capped hocks. 



It should also be noticed whether he points a toe in the 

 stall. The meaning of this symptom has been sufficiently 

 explained. 



The inspection in the stall finished, have the horse brought 

 into the light; if his general appearance is satisfactory, and 

 he seems suitable for the purpose to which it is proposed to 

 put him, his age should be verified, and his sight tested in a 

 general way. 



Assuring yourself in these three regards, apparent general 

 suitability, age, and vision, the more critical examination is 

 begun. A note-book and a pencil should be at hand to take 

 down such departures from normal conditions as you may notice. 

 First notice color, sex, and peculiar markings, so as to be 

 able to identify the horse later on. Then proceed to a more 

 critical examination of the eyes. 



The best light is that coming directly from above, from a 

 skylight or a high window in an otherwise darkened room. If 

 such a place is not available, bring him to the stable door, closing 

 all apertures behind him. After placing him directly facing the 

 source of light, stand behind his shoulder and look through each 

 eye, from side to side, with great care, noting everything, no 

 matter how slight, that interferes with their perfect transpar- 

 ency. A horse that has any disease, or any mark of disease, in 

 the eye, no matter how slight, is not a sound horse. After the 

 examination of the anterior portion of each eye, from behind, 

 stand in front of him and compare closely both eyes, to see if 

 there is perfect clearness in each, that the pupils are of equal 

 size, and that they dilate and contract equally. If any sus- 

 picions are aroused, no matter how slight, of the presence of 

 cataract, the candle-test should be applied. 



Go next to the near front leg. Next to the eyes the front 

 legs are of the greatest importance for saddle-horses. Pass 



Digitized by Microsoft® 



