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MANUAL OF MODERN FARRIERY 
dispelling the swellings. Firing is still more effectual in 
large galls, as it immediately induces absorption of the fluid, 
and consequently the swelling disappears, by means of the 
contraction of the skin caused by the use of the cautery ; 
and this contraction serves the purpose of a permanent 
bandage, and prevents a recurrence of the wind-gall. 
RUPTURE OF THE SUSPENSORY LIGAMENT. 
Extraordinary exertion will sometimes produce rupture in 
the suspensory ligament, (see plate 6, fig. 10, /.) This 
relaxation allows the sessamoid bones to fall down, and 
consequently the fetlock joint nearly touches the ground. 
It not unfrequently happens that this complaint is mistaken 
for rupture of the flexor tendons ; but one thing will render 
it sufficiently evident that it is really the suspensory tendon 
which is at fault namely, that the horse is able to bend his 
foot. No malady which affects a horse is more serious than 
this ; for it is ten to one that the animal ever becomes 
effectually cured of it. In most instances he is ever after¬ 
wards lame. 
Remedy. —If a cure can at all be effected, it will be by 
keeping the animal quiet, and having the leg bandaged and 
giving him a high-heeled shoe. 
GROGGINESS. 
This consists of a singular knuckling over the fetlock- 
joint, and general shaking over the entire fore-leg. It is a 
complaint common to old, over-worked horses. Neither 
the fetlock or pastern joints are simply implicated in this 
complaint, although both are connected with it. 
Cause. —Working the animal beyond his strength is 
usually the sole cause of this complaint. It is for the most 
part a want of power in the ligaments of this joint, gene- 
