Thrush — Hoof Cracks 101 



standing in manure and filth, but sometimes it occurs 

 without apparent cause. Often it precedes other dis- 

 eases o£ the foot, and seems to be brought on by a 

 debilitated condition of the system. 



There is a crack in the horny frog with a foul-smell- 

 ing discharge. There is lameness or tenderness, 

 especially when the foot strikes some hard object. 

 The hoof is dry and the heel feverish. 



Poultice the foot to soften the parts, trim away the 

 edges of the cleft so as to get at the seat of the disease, 

 make a swab and cauterize the cleft thoroughly with 

 "butter of antimonj^" or some other liquid caustic. 

 After using a caustic once, calomel can be dusted into 

 the cleft once daily; this dries up the discharge and in 

 most cases will cure the disease. Compound tincture of 

 benzoin and oil of tar, equal parts, is also good. The 

 shoes should be removed and frog pressure given. If it 

 is necessarj' to work the horse, "tips" or bar shoes 

 can be put on. It is essential that the foot be kept 

 clean and dry. If the horse is debilitated, good nourish- 

 ing food, .with tonic condition-powders," should be given. 

 Pulling off the shoes and giving a run at pasture 

 will often effect a cure. 



CRACKED HOOPS 



A "quarter -crack" is a crack in the wall of the hoof, 

 beginning at the top or coronet, and extending down- 

 ward in the wall. When the crack begins at the bottom 

 and extends upward it is called a "sand-crack"; if in 

 front it is sometimes called a "toe-crack." 



