236 The Diseases of Animals 
which bind the bones together at a joint. Partial dis- 
location of joints are more frequent, especially so in 
young “loose-jointed” colts. 
Knuckling 
A partial dislocation oceurring at the fetlock-joint 
in colts is commonly ealled “knuckling.” It may be 
so severe that the colt is unable to walk to any extent. 
It is most frequently seen in suckling colts. If taken 
in time, and properly treated, it will usually be out- 
grown. If the colt is small, putting on splints of 
wood, leather or similar material, first protecting the 
lee by a flannel bandage, will usually strengthen the 
part, and prevent the joint from doubling over and 
becoming sore from striking the ground. Foals will 
outgrow and make good recoveries from bad cases of 
knuckling. In older horses the tendency to double 
over at the fetlock-joints can usually be corrected by 
shoeing in such manner as to throw the fetlock-joint 
backward. Aged horses, or horses that have been 
subjected to severe exertions from fast driving, may 
knuckle over at the fetlock-joints, particularly of the 
hind leg, from a contraction of the tendons. This 
condition is commonly called a “cocked ankle.” Such 
cases may be remedied somewhat by shoeing. 
Stifled 
A dislocation of the patella, commonly called the 
“stifle” bone (corresponding to the knee-cap of man), 
is the most frequent dislocation in animals. A horse 
