a Showing how to find the enlargement.
b Showing the manner in which the incision is made, and the enlargement removed.
The enlargement may be discovered by running the hand downward from the knee, the thumb on the side and the forefinger on the other, until it is felt (see Plate 29, “A”). If pressed and the horse yields to the pressure, it is a sure sign that he is affected, and he should be properly shod at once as if for contraction, or the enlargement should be removed. To do this, the horse should be in the following position: First, with plenty of straw under him to prevent bruising; then he should be thrown on his side and fastened down, so as to allow the operator to make an incision with a fine pocket knife partly to the front and near where the enlargement is. This operation will not interfere with the tendons, or veins that extend upward from the foot. The incision having been made, the finger may be inserted, as shown in Plate No. 29, “B,” so as to raise the enlargement and make it visible. Then, with a pair of nippers, snap the end off with one motion. The incision should be closed, fastened together with a needle and silk thread; then apply a linen bandage and over this a woolen cloth, containing a little moisture, to prevent fever. A little sweet oil should be applied, to keep it clean while healing. The operation is not severe and is thoroughly effective.
No. 30. A Foot that is Deprived of the free use of the Back Tendons.
Plates Nos. 30 and 31 represent a foot which has been deprived of the free use of the back tendons, caused by a sudden jar or misstep, causing a horse so affected to travel on his toe, and can be remedied only by a system of expanding the foot under the directions already given for contraction.
No. 31.