A spavined horse starts out lame for a few steps or rods and then goes
sound. A lame shoulder causes dragging of the toe and rolling when in
motion. A ring-bone causes an extra long step and lameness increases
with exercise. Stifle lameness causes walking on the heels of shoe and
consequent wearing of the iron. Hip lameness causes outward rolling of
the leg in trotting, and wasting of the muscles of stifle and hip leads
to a characteristic drop. See that the horse's tail is sound, has not
been joined on and is free from sores, tumors or evidences of recent
docking. Always remember to back the horse up as well as drive or ride
him and see that he is not only sound and gentle but suitable for the
special work he will be required to do.

[Illustration: Care of the Horse]


~Care of the Horse~

A grown work horse requires daily about one pound of grain (concentrate)
for each hundred pounds of live weight. Of hay he will need a slightly
larger amount or about fourteen to eighteen pounds a day, according to
size, weight, and character of work done. The idle horse will do well on
less grain and more roughage.

For a farm horse, 10 pounds of oats, 5 pounds of corn, and 3 pounds of
bran, divided into three equal feeds, will make a suitable ration for
one day.

The corn may be fed at noon to give variety. For the evening meal
crushed oats, bran, and a few handfuls of cut hay, wetted and salted,
will be relished. The bulk of the hay should be fed at night, and but