432 
STABLE MANAGEMENT. 
But if the feet are picked out and then washed with the water-brush and dried 
with the rubber, they can be thoroughly cleansed without unduly softening- the 
horn. That unhealthy condition of the frog- known as thrush generally results 
from carelessness. I say generally, because it may occur as a symptom of deeper 
seated disease, but unless this is the case it ought never to be present in a well- 
regulated troop stable. 
With respect to grooming more than once a day, I think I mentioned in my 
lecture that the proper time for thorough grooming was the mid-day stable hour. 
The reason why I referred to the wisping and hand-rubbing of the legs and the 
use of the rubber during the evening stable hour, was because I consider that 
nearly the whole of the mid-day stable hour should be devoted to the use of the 
brush, and if this is done properly there is not much time for the use of the wisp. 
That is why I advocate the. system of damp wisping during the evening stable 
hour. It removes the superficial dust, stimulates the skin and polishes the coat. 
In reply to Captain Honner I wish to observe that I did not say there was no 
grooming at morning stables, but that the time at the men’s disposal was not 
sufficient to admit of a thorough grooming, especially during the winter months, 
when the early mornings are dark. Of course the horses are, or should be, 
turned out clean for parade, but this is accomplished by that which must be con¬ 
sidered a more or less superficial grooming. 
Captain Honner’s remarks with regard to clipping thoroughly supports what I 
have said on the subject, and I hope Commanding Officers will take this matter 
up with the view of bringing about a much desired change in the regulations. I 
have never seen the curry-comb described by Captain Honner, in use, but doubt¬ 
less the absence of teeth and the rounded edges would prevent irritation to the 
skin. This arrangement, however, might militate against its legitimate function 
of cleaning the brush. 
Captain Paget desires to know what I consider the best course to pursue in 
the case of horses that are constantly breaking out again. If they return to 
stables in a heated condition such animals should be taken out again, and walked 
about quietly with a blanket on until they are cool. I have found this to be an 
unfailing remedy. 
The Chairman —It only remains for me, gentlemen, to thank Colonel Walters 
for his most admirable and interesting lecture. 
