The management and treatment of the horse in the stable, field, and ...

In the Stable, Field, and on the Road, 243
ties disappear, but these will re- appear whenever it is
again cooled down. A horse with an upright shoulder
is more fitted for driving than riding, a sloping
shoulder is best adapted for riding, for they have
generally better action and less of its own weight to
sustain on its fore legs ; a long-necked horse is
generally admired for its graceful form, but Ave consider
this a fault, as such are generally weak and are predis-
posed to roaring. Short-necked horses are for the most
part clear-winded, but one of medium length should be
preferred. Horses whose limbs have been fired should
never be purchased only at a small price, as it is a sure sign
of disease, although many horses work well after being
cauterized ; indeed scores of hunters and race horses
have been subjected to this operation. Thanks to the
French, the old system of firing will soon disappear, as
their patent firing apparatus can be used without the aid
of fire and irons, and Professor Pritchard informs me
that he has fired upwards of 200 animals with it and has
not had one slough, which is a very great recommenda-
tion for it, as with the old iron and the most careful
operator it was impossible to prevent some from slough-
ing. When the cornea of the eye is of a yellowish tinge
it is indicative of liver complaint ; this being observed,
turn up the lips and notice if the under portion of the
lips are of the same colour ; if so avoid the purchase
of the animal. If the coat of a horse stares it is a sure
sign that the animal is not in good health ; it will be
noticed that their dung is either hard, dark-coloured,
foetid, and slimy, or thin and washy like a cow. When
not disturbed such animals have a languid and sleepy