Gullet or Pharynx Muscles.—Around the throat is another set of muscles, sometimes called the muscles of the gullet, or pharynx, which assist in swallowing.
Neck Muscles.—The neck muscles are divided into two groups, one on each side. The action of these is to raise and lower the head, also to turn the neck and head from side to side.
Muscles of the Back.—The muscles of the back are generally divided into two groups, one above the spinal column and the other below. The muscles above the spine assist the animal in running, jumping and rearing. The muscles below the spine are sometimes called the psoae, or lumbar, muscles, situated below the lumbar bones, or the bones of the small of the back. The action of these muscles is to assist the animal in getting up. These muscles are important, for when paralyzed the horse cannot use his hindquarters. Below these muscles are the kidneys.
Hip or Gluteal Muscles.—The muscles of the hip are very large, filling in around the hip bones. The action of these is much the same as those of the back, as they assist in jumping, running, rearing and in flexing and extending the hind leg.
MUSCLES OF THE HORSE—DEEP LAYER—AFTER MEGNIN.
EXPLANATION OF PLATE III.
Muscles of the Horse.