SALLENDERS, OR A SCURFY PATCH IN FRONT
OF THE HOCK.
These names are to be traced to no derivation, but in their arbitrary signification they denote a certain condition of the parts situated on the points of principal flexion in either limb. Mallenders appear upon the back of the knee; sallenders are located in front of the hock. Both, in the first place, are scurfy patches exhibiting a roughened state of hair and suggesting considerable irritability. Either, if neglected, will degenerate into a troublesome sore from which a foul discharge will issue. With ordinary care they neither do much harm; but are rather regarded as proofs of idleness and as eyesores, than as actual diseases, to which importance they now seldom attain. For their relief it is essential to pay scrupulous attention to cleanliness; as, when the coat suffers from neglect, it is very probable the same cause may likewise influence the constitution. Therefore, always begin the treatment with the tonic alterative drinks described on the previous page; at the same time applying with friction a little of the annexed ointment thrice daily:—
Ointment for Mallenders and Sallenders.
| Animal glycerin | One ounce. |
| Mercurial ointment | Two drachms. |
| Powdered camphor | Two drachms. |
| Spermaceti | One ounce. |
| Incorporate all thoroughly together, and apply as directed. |
When the scurf, through neglect, degenerates into a sore, treat after the manner subsequently advised for cracked heels. But in every case of this kind always begin the treatment with a change of stable attendant; for where certain diseases appear, these are conclusive proof that duty is neglected. No remonstrance, no chiding, can amend the habits of the groom, who has, from drink or other indulgence, lost pride in the stable over which he should reign supreme.
CRACKED HEELS.
This is, save where very wrong-headed measures are pursued, the affection peculiar to the cold and wet months of the year. Even during the inclement weather of the summer, however, the horse may, if badly managed, exhibit this form of disease. Should the hair, which nature with kind intention placed upon the fetlock, be ruthlessly cut away, the animal is thereby rendered liable to cracked heels. The wet very rarely penetrates that designed defense. When it does, the ample covering of hair falling over the skin prevents evaporation, and the moisture rather promotes warmth than causes any excess of cold. The dirt of the road always lodges upon the surface of the hair, and if the horse-keeper exercise only ordinary care it can never soil the flesh.
THE HEEL OF A HORSE IN A CRACKED CONDITION.