COCK'S WALK—is the place to which agame chickis removed, from the place where he was bred, (and where he walkedunder his sire,) to the spot where he is to remain till taken up to fight; this is calledhis walk, of which he is the master, not walkingunderany other cock. They are commonly sent out to walk at six or seven months old, previous to which they have their combs and gills taken off, and are marked in theeyes,norrils, andfeet. At this age they are calledchickens; when turned of a year old, they are termedstags; and at two years old,COCKS.
—is the place to which agame chickis removed, from the place where he was bred, (and where he walkedunder his sire,) to the spot where he is to remain till taken up to fight; this is calledhis walk, of which he is the master, not walkingunderany other cock. They are commonly sent out to walk at six or seven months old, previous to which they have their combs and gills taken off, and are marked in theeyes,norrils, andfeet. At this age they are calledchickens; when turned of a year old, they are termedstags; and at two years old,COCKS.
COFFIN-BONE.—This bone is situate at the lower extremity of the foot, deposited in the membranous mass with which the box (orcoffin) of the hoof is lined, and is in nearly the shape of the hoof itself: in the centre of the coffin-bone is a concavity,into which is inserted theinferiorpart of thecoronary bone, supported by thenut bonebehind: upon the superior part of the coronary bone (that is just above the line said to be "between hair and hoof") is lodged the lower part of the fetlock bone, its upper part articulating with the fetlock joint. Injuries are very frequently sustained by holes in the road, or cavities in the pavement, into which a part, or the whole, of the foot getting, ligamentary twists or distortions happen to the lower joints. Too much pains cannot be taken in accurately ascertaining the exact seat of lameness, particularly in these parts, as a great number of horses are annuallyblisteredandfiredby much too hastily, and upon parts where no lameness has ever been.
.—This bone is situate at the lower extremity of the foot, deposited in the membranous mass with which the box (orcoffin) of the hoof is lined, and is in nearly the shape of the hoof itself: in the centre of the coffin-bone is a concavity,into which is inserted theinferiorpart of thecoronary bone, supported by thenut bonebehind: upon the superior part of the coronary bone (that is just above the line said to be "between hair and hoof") is lodged the lower part of the fetlock bone, its upper part articulating with the fetlock joint. Injuries are very frequently sustained by holes in the road, or cavities in the pavement, into which a part, or the whole, of the foot getting, ligamentary twists or distortions happen to the lower joints. Too much pains cannot be taken in accurately ascertaining the exact seat of lameness, particularly in these parts, as a great number of horses are annuallyblisteredandfiredby much too hastily, and upon parts where no lameness has ever been.
COFFIN-JOINT,—the joint situate below the fetlock, and just above the union of hair and hoof; this is the part universally known by the termcoffin-joint; but, in fact, it is not inrealityso; for this being formed by the upper part of the coronet with the lower part of the fetlock-bone, leaves the whole coronary bone between the spot described and the coffin-bone. The coffin-joint is buried in the body of the hoof, and is formed by the convex junction of the coronary bone with the concave part of the coffin-bone, as explained in the article preceding.
,—the joint situate below the fetlock, and just above the union of hair and hoof; this is the part universally known by the termcoffin-joint; but, in fact, it is not inrealityso; for this being formed by the upper part of the coronet with the lower part of the fetlock-bone, leaves the whole coronary bone between the spot described and the coffin-bone. The coffin-joint is buried in the body of the hoof, and is formed by the convex junction of the coronary bone with the concave part of the coffin-bone, as explained in the article preceding.
COLD.—ACOLDis evidently occasioned by some sudden transition from heat to cold, a long exposureto chilling rains, or a confined current of external air, through some partial or particular channel: it may be defined aspeciesofdiseasederived from some one peculiar cause, to which there may be many probable points of termination, according to the constitution, or pre-disposition of the subject at the time of attack.
.—ACOLDis evidently occasioned by some sudden transition from heat to cold, a long exposureto chilling rains, or a confined current of external air, through some partial or particular channel: it may be defined aspeciesofdiseasederived from some one peculiar cause, to which there may be many probable points of termination, according to the constitution, or pre-disposition of the subject at the time of attack.
Coldis much more likely to be acquired in a horse by neglect or indiscretion, than by the effect of chance: it is certainly prevented with more ease than it can be cured; and those who ride or drive theirownhorses, have this in constant recollection; those who ride or drive the horses ofothers, have seldom any such recollection at all.Horsesare hardly ever known to getcoldsunder the eye of theMASTER, but unluckily he cannot be employed in the eternal superintendance ofa servant, nor can he carry the horse in his pocket. Colds unattended to upon the first attack, not unfrequently degenerate to something worse, displaying its progressive virulence upon the eyes, the lungs, or in glandular tumefactions. Colds (in general thought very little of) cannot have their probable tendencies too soon counteracted, particularly when it is remembered, that if the blood is previously in a state of sizey viscidity, an inflammation of the lungs may very speedily follow, and carry off the patient intwoorthreedays, in opposition to every medical endeavour that can be made to prevent it.
ACOUGHis generally one of the first and most distinguished symptoms ofcold; for the collapsion of the porous system having thrown the perspirative matter upon the blood, its circulation through the finer vessels of the lungs becomes proportionally retarded, and constitutes the obstruction and consequent irritation (ortickling) which almost incessantly excites the cough; to relieve which, all writers agree, that bleeding is the first step to be taken: this to be followed by cordial balls, malt mashes, thin gruel, &c. &c. the particulars of which may be found fully explained in the "Gentleman's Stable Directory," or "Compendium of Farriery," by the present Author.
COLOUR.—Strange notions have formerly prevailed, and much hypothetical writing and reasoning have been equally produced, to collect sufficient criterions to decide upon, fora proofthat the strength and constitutional stamen of the horse depended as much or more upon hiscolourthan his formation. Sound judgment, and rational reflection, would, however, induce a well-founded reason to believe, there is more of fancy orfallacyin such suggestion; and that the old maxim still stands upon firm ground, "aGOODhorse can't be of abadcolour."
.—Strange notions have formerly prevailed, and much hypothetical writing and reasoning have been equally produced, to collect sufficient criterions to decide upon, fora proofthat the strength and constitutional stamen of the horse depended as much or more upon hiscolourthan his formation. Sound judgment, and rational reflection, would, however, induce a well-founded reason to believe, there is more of fancy orfallacyin such suggestion; and that the old maxim still stands upon firm ground, "aGOODhorse can't be of abadcolour."
The bright and the darkbay, the jetblack, thechesnuts, thebrowns, and thedappled greys, areeach proportionally beautiful when in fine condition; and are held preferable in pecuniary estimation to thesorrel, thedun, theroan, theflea-bitten, thestrawberry, and thenutmegoriron-grey. There is a prevalent idea amongst people of a certain class, that many of the latter description are very much inferior in spirited exertion, less calculated for hard work, not such good feeders under fatigue, that they feel the effect of age sooner, that their powers do not continue so long unimpaired, that they are more susceptible of disease, and, lastly, that they are shorter lived, than those called thehardycolours, first mentioned. That there will always be a variety of opinions in mere matter of conjecture cannot be denied, any more than that the framers and supporters of those opinions will magnifymole hillstomountainsin defence of their own sagacity; notwithstanding which, it must be admitted, that variety of inferences might be drawn to justify a conclusion, that many of those observations may have the basis of truth for their foundation, if this was the place proper for such elucidation.
Whatever may be the colour of the horse, it is a practice with old sportsmen, and good judges, to rejectwhite heels, andwhite hoofs, if they can be avoided: experience has proved, beyond all fear of contradiction, that white heels are moretender, and white hoofs more subject todefects, and susceptible of injury, inthrushes,corns, andsand-cracks,than any other; and none more so, than light chesnuts with blazes and white heels: the hoofs are frequently shelly, brittle, narrow at the heel, diseased in the frog, and contracted in the feet. Prudence should prompt every man (in a new purchase) to pay some respect to theloweras well as theupperstory; it being evidently more advantageous toreflect in time, than to repent at leisure.
COLLEGE VETERINARY,—an equestrian establishment for the improvement of farriery: it is situate about a mile north-east of Tottenham-Court Road, at Camden Town, in the parish of St. Pancras, and will be explained more at large under the head,Veterinary College.
,—an equestrian establishment for the improvement of farriery: it is situate about a mile north-east of Tottenham-Court Road, at Camden Town, in the parish of St. Pancras, and will be explained more at large under the head,Veterinary College.
COLT,—in the general sense, and immediate acceptation of the term, implies a produce fromHorseandMare, without adverting for the moment to either themasculineor thefemininegender; but in a more contracted point of view, (as well as in just and sporting-like phraseology,) it is meant to convey an unequivocal idea, that the produce beingA COLT, is really so, that is ahorse colt,) in contra-distinction to the opposite gender, invariably calleda filly. The bone and growth of a colt depends greatly upon two circumstances: the first, his being foaled late or early; that is,earlyinApril, orlateinJune; as well as the difference ofhis being weaned in November or March. Although it is admitted that colts (in the first year termed foals) running with the dam during the winter, will afford greater probability of size, bone, and strength, yet it is not at all times it can be complied with, unless in studs, wherebroodmares are kept for that purpose only, and are left fallow (uncovered) for the season. When a mare has been covered with a foal at her foot, and is evidently in foal again, it should be an invariable rule to wean the foal in October or November, upon the palpable impossibility of giving suck to the one, without an impoverishment of the other. Whether the colt is, or is not, weaned in either of those months, he should be well kept, and have daily supplies of corn and hay, as well as properstable,shed, orshelterfrom the inclemency of the winter season. Upon the liberal keep of the two first winters, his size, growth, strength, and bone, entirely depend, and must be particularly attended to, lest repentance come too late; for it must be held in remembrance, that if a colt issmallat two years old, from having beenstinted in keep, there is not one in a hundred ever attains to good size, by any additional exertions or expence, after the natural efforts for expansion have been so long retarded.
,—in the general sense, and immediate acceptation of the term, implies a produce fromHorseandMare, without adverting for the moment to either themasculineor thefemininegender; but in a more contracted point of view, (as well as in just and sporting-like phraseology,) it is meant to convey an unequivocal idea, that the produce beingA COLT, is really so, that is ahorse colt,) in contra-distinction to the opposite gender, invariably calleda filly. The bone and growth of a colt depends greatly upon two circumstances: the first, his being foaled late or early; that is,earlyinApril, orlateinJune; as well as the difference ofhis being weaned in November or March. Although it is admitted that colts (in the first year termed foals) running with the dam during the winter, will afford greater probability of size, bone, and strength, yet it is not at all times it can be complied with, unless in studs, wherebroodmares are kept for that purpose only, and are left fallow (uncovered) for the season. When a mare has been covered with a foal at her foot, and is evidently in foal again, it should be an invariable rule to wean the foal in October or November, upon the palpable impossibility of giving suck to the one, without an impoverishment of the other. Whether the colt is, or is not, weaned in either of those months, he should be well kept, and have daily supplies of corn and hay, as well as properstable,shed, orshelterfrom the inclemency of the winter season. Upon the liberal keep of the two first winters, his size, growth, strength, and bone, entirely depend, and must be particularly attended to, lest repentance come too late; for it must be held in remembrance, that if a colt issmallat two years old, from having beenstinted in keep, there is not one in a hundred ever attains to good size, by any additional exertions or expence, after the natural efforts for expansion have been so long retarded.
AsCOLTSof any description (except forTHE TURF) are seldom taken in hand, at least offered forsale, or brought into work, till they arethree years old, it is totally unnecessary to go into a minute description of theirAGEby theTEETHprevious to that period. Suffice it, therefore, to observe, thetwelve teethin the front of the mouth are, from their original appearance, calledCOLT'S TEETH, and so continue to be, till dispossessed, and followed byotherswhich we proceed to describe: and that a matter of such necessary information may (with very little attention) be perfectly understood, an accurately engravedPlateis annexed, with such explanatory matter, as will bring the subject home to the plainest comprehension.
teethTo face Page 153, Vol. 1ˢᵗAGE by the TEETH.Fig. 1.Rising Three.Fig. 2.Four Years old.Fig. 3.Rising Six.Fig. 4.Aged.
To face Page 153, Vol. 1ˢᵗAGE by the TEETH.Fig. 1.Rising Three.Fig. 2.Four Years old.Fig. 3.Rising Six.Fig. 4.Aged.
To face Page 153, Vol. 1ˢᵗAGE by the TEETH.Fig. 1.Rising Three.Fig. 2.Four Years old.Fig. 3.Rising Six.Fig. 4.Aged.
Colts' teethare, in whiteness and appearance, not inferior to polished ivory; are individually smooth upon the surface, or seat of mastication, and so continue till some time betweentwoand ahalfandthree years old; when, a few weeks sooner or later, (depending entirely upon their having beenlateorearlyfoals,) but within the space of time specified, he sheds the two middle teeth of theSIXin the under jaw: these are pushed forward, and succeeded by two of a stronger formation, deeper in color, fluted, as it were, or having small grooves from top to bottom, with a natural black cavity in the centre, as represented infigure the firstof thePlate, when the colt will be found risingTHREE YEARS OLD.
Some time in thelast halfof thefourth year, the same process takes place with the teeth oneachside the two in the centre, (already described to have undergone the change;) so that at four years old we find a repetition of (or addition to) thefirst two, at which particular period he becomes possessed ofFOURhorse teeth in the middle, andonecolt's tooth only on each side, as will be observed in thesecond figureof thePlate, where is represented the mouth of a colt whenFOUR YEARS OLDoff, which he should be properly called till the fall of the leaf; after that time it is the custom to say, he isRISING FIVE.
At this time, that is, some time in the autumn, asSeptember,October, orNovember, (depending a little upon his having been a late or early foal,) he sheds the two remaining outside or corner teeth, the successors to which continuing to push out till the May or June following, when he is full in the mouth,FIVE YEARS OLD, and then called a horse.
During the course of this year, the single teeth, calledTUSKS, seated beyond the corner teeth upon the bars, appear; and proper attention to the infantine or advanced state of this projection, will evidently demonstrate thefifthyear of age; notwithstanding any trifling variation, or singular exception, to the law of Nature already laid down;as may be accurately collected from an attentive inspection of thethird figurein thePlate, where the subject is to be consideredFIVE YEARS OLD, off, and through the whole of the year is termed "rising six;" the year not terminating till thefirst of May, from which every horse takes his age; and it is customary to say he is coming six, or will besix years oldnext grass.
In the space of the last six months of thesixthyear, the cavity of the twomiddleteeth of theSIX(already described to have succeeded the two in thefirstchange at three years old) gradually fill up, and when turned ofSIX YEARS OLD, retain a faint remains of the originalblack mark, but is nearly or quite smooth upon the surface.
In thelast halfof theSEVENTH YEAR, when the horse is termed "six off," (or rising seven,) the teeth on each side the two centrical, last described, becomegradationallypossessed of the same appearance; and whenSEVEN YEARSare fully attained, the two outside or corner teethonlybearany markof the original cavity. At this period theHORSEis said to beaged; and from this time to the completion of hiseighth year, the faint mark in the corner teeth continues gradually to disappear (varying a little in different subjects) till quite obliterated, when theAGEby theTEETHis no longer a matter to be relied on, but becomes totally dependent upontheimmaculatedeclaration of theDEALER, or theipse dixitof theBREEDER, if that can bebona fideobtained. This description will be found accurately delineated in thefourth figureof thePlate.
As the curious, but very common,operationofBishopinghas been properly explained underthat head, so anotherdeception, in full practice by the fraternity ofhorse-dealers, must not be forgotten; they consider it aLAWofPRIVILEGE, and never omit an opportunity of gratifying their professional sensations. By referring tofigure the secondof thePlate, (where the teeth represent the state of the mouth atfour years old off,) may be seen the four centrical teeth with theblack cavities, and the twoCOLT'S TEETHat the corners, without any mark at all. In this state they are frequently purchased of the simple harmlessBREEDERin thecountry; but they are very seldom a few hours in the possession of aDEALER, before thefertilityof his imagination is at work torectifythedeficiencies, and to anticipate the very intent and effort ofNature.
The two cornerCOLT'S TEETHjust described, are immediatelywrenchedfrom their sockets, with even a commondoor key, or the first iron instrument that can be found applicable for the purpose; and this is done as a substitute for the impending exfoliation, by way of giving earlier opportunity forthe appearance and growth of their successors, that theHORSEmay be shown out as, and affirmed to be, aFIVE YEARS OLD, when, in fact, he is positively no more than four. This is an imposition very little better than aROBBERY, and principally practised upon the young and inexperienced, (theDEALER'Sbestfriends,) but seldom attempted to beplayed offwith theOLD SPORTSMAN, whose verymodeof making his examination, speedily displays a proof of his qualifications, and generally shields him from any very palpable species of depredation.
When aHORSEis considerably advanced inyears, but stillfullin theframe, andfreshupon hislegs, it is a general rule, even with the best and most experienced judges, to form an opinion tolerably accurate by thelengthof hisTEETH; but this can by no means be considered infallible; as some horses carry a mouthso much betterthan others of a less age, that it can constitute no certain criterion of decision.
CONDITION—is a word in frequent use with the sporting world, to express the state of a horse in respect to his health and external appearance. If low in flesh, rough in his coat, hollow above the eye, and depressed in his spirits, he is then said to be "very much out ofcondition." But, on the contrary, if full of good sound flesh, his skin looseand pliable, with his coat soft and sleek, he is then said to be in "perfect condition to start," if for theTURF; fine condition totake the field, if aHUNTER; or, if a roadster, to be in good condition to undertake his journey. Horses too full of flesh or of blood, are said not to be incondition, because they are not fit for strong exertions without the danger of disease: brought into constant work in such state, they soon, as it is termed, "fall all to pieces;" that is, if they escape inflammation upon some of the various parts, morbidity soon displays itself, either in a swelling of the legs, cracked heels, bad eyes, defective wind, cutaneous eruptions, tumours, or in one of the many ills to which horses in this state will always be subject.
—is a word in frequent use with the sporting world, to express the state of a horse in respect to his health and external appearance. If low in flesh, rough in his coat, hollow above the eye, and depressed in his spirits, he is then said to be "very much out ofcondition." But, on the contrary, if full of good sound flesh, his skin looseand pliable, with his coat soft and sleek, he is then said to be in "perfect condition to start," if for theTURF; fine condition totake the field, if aHUNTER; or, if a roadster, to be in good condition to undertake his journey. Horses too full of flesh or of blood, are said not to be incondition, because they are not fit for strong exertions without the danger of disease: brought into constant work in such state, they soon, as it is termed, "fall all to pieces;" that is, if they escape inflammation upon some of the various parts, morbidity soon displays itself, either in a swelling of the legs, cracked heels, bad eyes, defective wind, cutaneous eruptions, tumours, or in one of the many ills to which horses in this state will always be subject.
Experience has so fully confirmed this fact, and custom has so firmly established the great prudence of prevention, that much disgrace and mortification is incurred by bothMASTERandgroom, who are so unfortunate as to have horsesout of condition; and this is so perfectly understood in the present state of equestrian emulation, that the necessity for occasionally cleansing the frame byBLEEDING,PURGING,DIURETICS, or a course ofALTERATIVES, is not only almost universally acknowledged, but generally practised by every judicious and well informedSPORTSMANin the kingdom.
CONSTIPATION—implies that state of the bowels, when, for want of the necessary secretion of mucus, their excrementitious contents acquire a degree of solidity bordering upon induration; the dung becomes too hard and adhesive, fœtid in effluvia, and dark or nearly black in appearance. A horse in such state should not be long neglected; inflammatory cholic and consequent danger may ensue; or an indurated mass may be formed in the intestinal canal, which no medicine may have the power to move in time to prevent mortification. Too nice attention cannot be paid to a horse's regular evacuations: if the body is evidently foul, he should be proportionally physicked. Circumstances not rendering that perfectly convenient, opening mashes might be adopted, and continued nightly (or oftner) till the constipation is removed.
—implies that state of the bowels, when, for want of the necessary secretion of mucus, their excrementitious contents acquire a degree of solidity bordering upon induration; the dung becomes too hard and adhesive, fœtid in effluvia, and dark or nearly black in appearance. A horse in such state should not be long neglected; inflammatory cholic and consequent danger may ensue; or an indurated mass may be formed in the intestinal canal, which no medicine may have the power to move in time to prevent mortification. Too nice attention cannot be paid to a horse's regular evacuations: if the body is evidently foul, he should be proportionally physicked. Circumstances not rendering that perfectly convenient, opening mashes might be adopted, and continued nightly (or oftner) till the constipation is removed.
CONSUMPTION.—A consumption is a disorder to which horses are very much subject, particularly the carriage horses of the great and opulent: these fall victims to the unmerciful ambition ofnocturnalgrandeur, in the four, five and six hours street-waiting in the most dreary nights of the most dreary winter. Consumptions originate incolds, which being ill managed or neglected, constitute an increasing viscidity of the blood; this preternatural consistence renders it more languid in its circulation; and it is, of course, proportionally impeded in its progress through the finer vessels of thelungs. Here thenobstructionsare first formed; as these increase, the passages become impervious; thetuberclescontinue to enlarge, till the vessels are partially distended to their utmost extent, when inflammation takes place, and maturation follows. This stage completed, the tumours rupture; some probably heal by the efforts of nature, and others becomecorroding ulcers, laying the foundation of inevitable danger, and distant death. To a penetrative eye, and distinguishing hand, the predominant symptoms will be immediately found to exceed the traits and appearances of a common cold: the unequal and difficult respiration; the kind of half-suppressed, sore, hollow cough, (denoting an internal sensation of pain,) terminating in a sort of resigned moan; a constant desire to masticate hay, without any seeming enjoyment of it; a general heavy dulness, the palpable effect of conscious decay or debility; and a frequent looking to and after the person accustomed to superintend him, exciting reason to believe he may expect or hope for relief from the very hand from whence it has been usual to derive support.
.—A consumption is a disorder to which horses are very much subject, particularly the carriage horses of the great and opulent: these fall victims to the unmerciful ambition ofnocturnalgrandeur, in the four, five and six hours street-waiting in the most dreary nights of the most dreary winter. Consumptions originate incolds, which being ill managed or neglected, constitute an increasing viscidity of the blood; this preternatural consistence renders it more languid in its circulation; and it is, of course, proportionally impeded in its progress through the finer vessels of thelungs. Here thenobstructionsare first formed; as these increase, the passages become impervious; thetuberclescontinue to enlarge, till the vessels are partially distended to their utmost extent, when inflammation takes place, and maturation follows. This stage completed, the tumours rupture; some probably heal by the efforts of nature, and others becomecorroding ulcers, laying the foundation of inevitable danger, and distant death. To a penetrative eye, and distinguishing hand, the predominant symptoms will be immediately found to exceed the traits and appearances of a common cold: the unequal and difficult respiration; the kind of half-suppressed, sore, hollow cough, (denoting an internal sensation of pain,) terminating in a sort of resigned moan; a constant desire to masticate hay, without any seeming enjoyment of it; a general heavy dulness, the palpable effect of conscious decay or debility; and a frequent looking to and after the person accustomed to superintend him, exciting reason to believe he may expect or hope for relief from the very hand from whence it has been usual to derive support.
When brought into motion, the flanks heave, and the cough comes on in proportion to the increase of action and circulation: the pain thus produced soon excites profuse perspiration: by the efforts of snorting, sneezing, and blowing, to relieve himself from the load under which he labours,the discharge from the nostrils is increased, and gets deeper in colour, according to the duration and inveteracy of disease. Different subjects are very differently affected by the gradations of this disorder, (to which but a faint expectation of relief can be at all formed;) as one horse will continue to appear constantly declining, and to waste away perceptibly, every symptom becoming more predominant and distressing, till the scene isfinally closed; while another shall alter but very little in flesh, coat, or external appearance, till within a few days of hisfalling deadin his stall.
CONVULSIONS—are a spasmodic affection of the muscular parts of the body, occasioned by extreme pain acting upon the irritability of the nervous system; and generally proceed from cholic, inflammation of the kidnies, strangury, worms preying upon the internal coat of the stomach, a fullness of the vessels, and too great a flux of blood to the brain; as well as a variety of causes, many of which are, perhaps, very far beyond the utmost extent of human investigation. Whenever they come on, the scene becomes truly distressing; they may be considered almost invariably certain indications of approaching dissolution, instances being exceedingly rare of a horse's recovery.
—are a spasmodic affection of the muscular parts of the body, occasioned by extreme pain acting upon the irritability of the nervous system; and generally proceed from cholic, inflammation of the kidnies, strangury, worms preying upon the internal coat of the stomach, a fullness of the vessels, and too great a flux of blood to the brain; as well as a variety of causes, many of which are, perhaps, very far beyond the utmost extent of human investigation. Whenever they come on, the scene becomes truly distressing; they may be considered almost invariably certain indications of approaching dissolution, instances being exceedingly rare of a horse's recovery.
COMPRESSION—is a term meant to convey the idea of an injury sustained in the foot of ahorse from a contraction of the hoof, more particularly at the heel, by indiscreet management in the mode ofshoeing: first, in forming the shoes too narrow, and giving them an improper internal curve at each heel; the injudiciously cutting away the bars of the foot, (formed by nature for its proper expansion;) the rasping away each side of the heel, to make thefoot fit the shoe, already put on too small; all which is still more aggravated, by the equallyinfernaland equallyinvinciblepractice offittingthe shoered-hotto the foot, in opposition to every argument and entreaty, thereby drying up and consuming the natural moisture of the internal or fleshy sole, at the moment of cauterizing and contracting the surface.
—is a term meant to convey the idea of an injury sustained in the foot of ahorse from a contraction of the hoof, more particularly at the heel, by indiscreet management in the mode ofshoeing: first, in forming the shoes too narrow, and giving them an improper internal curve at each heel; the injudiciously cutting away the bars of the foot, (formed by nature for its proper expansion;) the rasping away each side of the heel, to make thefoot fit the shoe, already put on too small; all which is still more aggravated, by the equallyinfernaland equallyinvinciblepractice offittingthe shoered-hotto the foot, in opposition to every argument and entreaty, thereby drying up and consuming the natural moisture of the internal or fleshy sole, at the moment of cauterizing and contracting the surface.
A hoof in the state described, holds forth, in its appearance, ample proof ofcompressionupon the parts constituting the internal structure of the foot; the membranous mass, the nut and coffin-bone, thus pressed upon by the surrounding stricture, occasions a torpidity, and consequent defect in action, by no means dissimilar to the hobbling gait of an infant in pain from the tightness and rigidity of new leather shoes. Horses whose feet are thus destructively reduced, are generally those to whom neitherMASTERorMANever condescends to look: if proper injunctions were laid upon the shoeing smith, at each time of performing the operation, such a scene of devastation could never ensue. Whenthe feet, by such mismanagement, have got into this state, every possible application should be made to promote growth and expansion. If the horse stands constantly in the stable, fresh stopping of moist cow-dung every night, with a plentiful impregnation of spermacæti oil, all round the hoof, every night and morning, are the most expeditious remedies for the defect; but if it can be adopted with convenience,turning outtwo or three months upon a moist marshy piece of land will prove superior to every other consideration.
COOLERS—are such medicines as, by their attenuating property, tend to divest the blood of its viscidity, and to counteract threatened inflammation. They are always useful in plethoric appearances: when a horse is evidently overloaded, and above himself in flesh, when the legs are full, round, and all the vessels are palpably distended, cooling medicines, and gentle exercise, are the direct means of obtaining relief.Bleedingshould take the lead, followed by a course of diuretics,mildorstrong, according to the size and strength of the subject. Nitre, incorporated with half its weight of gum Arabic in powder, and dissolved in the water, is an excellent article of this description.
—are such medicines as, by their attenuating property, tend to divest the blood of its viscidity, and to counteract threatened inflammation. They are always useful in plethoric appearances: when a horse is evidently overloaded, and above himself in flesh, when the legs are full, round, and all the vessels are palpably distended, cooling medicines, and gentle exercise, are the direct means of obtaining relief.Bleedingshould take the lead, followed by a course of diuretics,mildorstrong, according to the size and strength of the subject. Nitre, incorporated with half its weight of gum Arabic in powder, and dissolved in the water, is an excellent article of this description.
CORNS,—as they are called, would be much more properly denominatedbruises, and are of infinite trouble to those who implicitly submit to theQuixotic schemes and manual dexterity of theSMITH; who, with asecundum artemexpedition, instantly renders the remedy worse than the disease. As his principal province is the art ofcutting, he has no sooner thedrawing-knifein his hand, than he is at "the bottom:" his great object is the destruction of parts; and he piques himself upon doing more mischief in two minutes, thanNaturecan restore in three months. Impressed with no idea but instrumental extirpation, he proceeds to excavate the sole of the foot, till, having reached the membrane, a protrusion ensues, and leaves him a happy opening for the bar-shoe, hot-stopping, a daily dressing, and the collateral considerations which constitute asum totalby no means necessary.
,—as they are called, would be much more properly denominatedbruises, and are of infinite trouble to those who implicitly submit to theQuixotic schemes and manual dexterity of theSMITH; who, with asecundum artemexpedition, instantly renders the remedy worse than the disease. As his principal province is the art ofcutting, he has no sooner thedrawing-knifein his hand, than he is at "the bottom:" his great object is the destruction of parts; and he piques himself upon doing more mischief in two minutes, thanNaturecan restore in three months. Impressed with no idea but instrumental extirpation, he proceeds to excavate the sole of the foot, till, having reached the membrane, a protrusion ensues, and leaves him a happy opening for the bar-shoe, hot-stopping, a daily dressing, and the collateral considerations which constitute asum totalby no means necessary.
Cornsmostly originate in the shoe having swerved a little from its proper seat upon the wall or crust of the hoof, and becoming, as it were, indented upon the outer sole, occasionsa bruise, appearing to have ramifications of extravasated fluid in very fine and oblique directions: the shoe being permitted to press upon this part, (become irritable by the injury it has sustained,) produces pain and impediment to action. Upon the discovery that such has taken place, the remedy is as simple as the cause by which it was occasioned. The shoe being carefully removed, take from the surface of what ismiscalled a corn, just enough to leave the part free from pressure by the shoe; moisten once externallywith a few drops of oil of vitriol, or simple aqua fortis; and the operative smith, farrier, or veterinary surgeon, will not find a plea for the devastation he is generally so ready to promote.
CORDIALS,—medically considered, are the very reverse, in their property, of what has been said under the subject of "coolers:" they are warm aromatic articles, which stimulate to action the internal coat of the stomach, enliven the circulation, invigorate the frame, expel wind, strengthen the digestive powers; and are, perhaps, without exception, the best and most useful discovery yet made for the prevention and cure of colds in horses, as well as of some other disorders arising from an impoverished state of the blood. Horses subject to incessant fatigue in all weathers, particularly in the wet and dirty months of winter, should never be without the occasional interposition of a warm malt mash, or aCORDIAL BALL, after long journies or severe chases, whenever circumstances may render either or both necessary; the first being given at night, the latter in the morning. After a previous bleeding, these means may be considered infallible in a cold and cough, and never known to fail, if properly persevered in and attended to. The cordial balls are also exceedingly useful, where a horse is off his appetite, either from being overworked, or from the very common and very injudicious custom with weak servants, or penurious masters,of administering large quantities ofnitre, (as acheapandefficaciousmedicine,) till the blood is attenuated and impoverished below the standard of health, the solids reduced to a state of flaccidity, the stomach nauseated, and the digestive powers proportionally impaired.
,—medically considered, are the very reverse, in their property, of what has been said under the subject of "coolers:" they are warm aromatic articles, which stimulate to action the internal coat of the stomach, enliven the circulation, invigorate the frame, expel wind, strengthen the digestive powers; and are, perhaps, without exception, the best and most useful discovery yet made for the prevention and cure of colds in horses, as well as of some other disorders arising from an impoverished state of the blood. Horses subject to incessant fatigue in all weathers, particularly in the wet and dirty months of winter, should never be without the occasional interposition of a warm malt mash, or aCORDIAL BALL, after long journies or severe chases, whenever circumstances may render either or both necessary; the first being given at night, the latter in the morning. After a previous bleeding, these means may be considered infallible in a cold and cough, and never known to fail, if properly persevered in and attended to. The cordial balls are also exceedingly useful, where a horse is off his appetite, either from being overworked, or from the very common and very injudicious custom with weak servants, or penurious masters,of administering large quantities ofnitre, (as acheapandefficaciousmedicine,) till the blood is attenuated and impoverished below the standard of health, the solids reduced to a state of flaccidity, the stomach nauseated, and the digestive powers proportionally impaired.
CORIANDER,—the name ofA HORSEwho acquired much celebrity by his performances upon theTURFfor six years in succession. He was bred byMr Dawson, and was got by Pot8oo's out ofLavender, who was got byHerod; her dam bySnap, out ofSweet William'sdam byCade. He was foaled in 1786. In 1789, when three years old, he beatJericho, from the ditch-in, for 200 guineas, andSir W. Aston'sMarcia, two year old course, 100 guineas. First Spring meeting, 1790, he beatBuzzard, seven stone each, 100 guineas. Second spring meeting he beat him again for the same sum. He beatEgbertandIsabel, a sweepstakes of 100 guineas each; andShovel,Glaucus,Alexander, andSir Thomas, a sweepstakes of 50 guineas each;Baronet,Nimble,Egbert, andSir Pepper, paying forfeit. He walked over for the King's hundred at Ipswich; and beatLord Barrymore'sPellegrinethe two middle miles of the Beacon for 200 guineas.
,—the name ofA HORSEwho acquired much celebrity by his performances upon theTURFfor six years in succession. He was bred byMr Dawson, and was got by Pot8oo's out ofLavender, who was got byHerod; her dam bySnap, out ofSweet William'sdam byCade. He was foaled in 1786. In 1789, when three years old, he beatJericho, from the ditch-in, for 200 guineas, andSir W. Aston'sMarcia, two year old course, 100 guineas. First Spring meeting, 1790, he beatBuzzard, seven stone each, 100 guineas. Second spring meeting he beat him again for the same sum. He beatEgbertandIsabel, a sweepstakes of 100 guineas each; andShovel,Glaucus,Alexander, andSir Thomas, a sweepstakes of 50 guineas each;Baronet,Nimble,Egbert, andSir Pepper, paying forfeit. He walked over for the King's hundred at Ipswich; and beatLord Barrymore'sPellegrinethe two middle miles of the Beacon for 200 guineas.
In 1791 he won a subscription purse, beatingSpear,Isabel,Ruffian,Black Deuce, andMouse.He also won the plate atSwaffham, beatingIsabeland theSister to Imperator; and the next day won the other plate, beatingClayhall. At Newmarket, in October, he beatHighlander,Serpent,Halkin, andEspersykes; after which, from the ditch-in, he beatEscape,Skylark, andPipator.
When rising six years old, he received forfeit fromSir C. Turner'sWeathercock, and won the King's plate atGuildford, beatingEnchanterandBraggadocio; also the King's plate atNottingham, beatingYoung Cicero.
In 1793 he won the aged plate atNewmarket, beatingDragon,Halbert, andHalkin. He won the King's plate also, beating theDuke of Bedford'sSkyscraper. Second spring meeting, he won the Jocky Club plate, beatingSkyscraper,Bustler,Cardock, andPipator; and on the same day won the weight for the aged plate, beatingHuby,Volanté, andEager. In the same meeting he beatBuzzardthe Beacon Course for 200 guineas.
In 1794, when aged, he wonTHE WHIPand 200 guineas, beatingCreeper, ten stone each, over the Beacon. He won 50l. atChelmsford, beatingSweeper, andPortland; likewise 50l. atNorthampton, beatingTriumvirate, and a son ofFaggergill. AtNewmarket, in October, he won the aged plate, beatingQuetlavaca,Exciseman, andHalkin; and in the same week he beatLord Egremont'sGohanna(giving him 24lb.) andLord Strathmore'sHermes. In the second October meeting, being the last time of his running, he won a subscription purse, (paying 50 guineas entrance,) beatingLord Grosvenor'sExciseman, andLord Sackville'sSilver. This extraordinary horse was one of the very few who stood so many years training, and so much severe running, without an accident. He covered afterwards in the north, at seven guineas, and has produced some good runners.
CORNER TEETH—are the four teeth at the extremities of each row in both the upper and the lower jaw, situate between the middle teeth and the tushes: the corner teeth in the lower jaw, are those which the horse sheds when four years old off, and rising five: these not spontaneously exfoliating in time to accommodate the pecuniary propensity ofthe dealer, he possesses the means and the practice of selling afouryear old colt for aFIVEyear old horse; and this is so constant, that there iswith that classnothingdishonestconsidered in the custom.
—are the four teeth at the extremities of each row in both the upper and the lower jaw, situate between the middle teeth and the tushes: the corner teeth in the lower jaw, are those which the horse sheds when four years old off, and rising five: these not spontaneously exfoliating in time to accommodate the pecuniary propensity ofthe dealer, he possesses the means and the practice of selling afouryear old colt for aFIVEyear old horse; and this is so constant, that there iswith that classnothingdishonestconsidered in the custom.
CORONET—is the part surrounding the foot of the horse just above the junction of hair and hoof: the bone from which the name is derived, bears great affinity in form to a ducal coronet, and is situate between the lower part of the fetlock-boneand the coffin, into which it is inserted, jointly supported by the nut-bone behind. Ligamentary twists, or distortions, sustained at the superior junction of the coronary bone, frequently occasion a prominence upon thecoronet, which becoming first callous, and then ossified, is termedA RINGBONE.
—is the part surrounding the foot of the horse just above the junction of hair and hoof: the bone from which the name is derived, bears great affinity in form to a ducal coronet, and is situate between the lower part of the fetlock-boneand the coffin, into which it is inserted, jointly supported by the nut-bone behind. Ligamentary twists, or distortions, sustained at the superior junction of the coronary bone, frequently occasion a prominence upon thecoronet, which becoming first callous, and then ossified, is termedA RINGBONE.
COVEY of Partridges—consists of the cock, hen, and their produce of that year before they are broken, and so continue to be termed till killed down too thin to bear the appellation: they are then distinguished by the small numbers they are found in; as, a leash, (three;) two brace, (four;) &c.
—consists of the cock, hen, and their produce of that year before they are broken, and so continue to be termed till killed down too thin to bear the appellation: they are then distinguished by the small numbers they are found in; as, a leash, (three;) two brace, (four;) &c.
COURSE of Medicine,—so called where the case is chronic, requiring a rectification in the animal œconomy, or an alteration in the property of the blood. Chronic cases are disorders of some continuance, (producing symptoms of disquietude more than of danger,) and are thus called to distinguish them from those which, proceeding rapidly, terminate sooner, and with more alarm.Cholic,STRANGURY,FEVER, &c. in horses, areacutediseases: on the contrary,grease,surfeit, and some others, may with propriety be termedCHRONIC, and can only be completely eradicated by suchcourseofmedicineas shall be considered applicable to the state of the frame, and the origin of the disease.
,—so called where the case is chronic, requiring a rectification in the animal œconomy, or an alteration in the property of the blood. Chronic cases are disorders of some continuance, (producing symptoms of disquietude more than of danger,) and are thus called to distinguish them from those which, proceeding rapidly, terminate sooner, and with more alarm.Cholic,STRANGURY,FEVER, &c. in horses, areacutediseases: on the contrary,grease,surfeit, and some others, may with propriety be termedCHRONIC, and can only be completely eradicated by suchcourseofmedicineas shall be considered applicable to the state of the frame, and the origin of the disease.
COURSING—is a species of sport that a celebrated writer has traced to great antiquity; "it having been treated on byArrian, who flourished A. D. 150." The same author, theRev. Mr. Daniel, in his elegant and truly entertaining publication upon "Rural Sports," says,
—is a species of sport that a celebrated writer has traced to great antiquity; "it having been treated on byArrian, who flourished A. D. 150." The same author, theRev. Mr. Daniel, in his elegant and truly entertaining publication upon "Rural Sports," says,
"In our country, during the reign ofKing John, greyhounds were frequently received by him as payment in lieu of money, for the renewal ofgrants,fines, andforfeitures, belonging to the Crown. The following extracts prove this Monarch to have been exceedingly partial to this kind of dogs. A fine paid A. D. 1203, mentions five hundred marks, ten horses, and ten leashes ofgreyhounds. Another, in 1210, one swift running horse, and sixgreyhounds."
"In the days ofElizabeth, when she was not disposed herself to hunt, she was so stationed as to see the coursing ofdeerwith greyhounds. At Cowdrey, in Sussex, the seat of Lord Montecute, (now Lady Montague's,) A. D. 1591, one day after dinner, the Queen saw from a turret sixteen bucks, all having fair law, pulled down with greyhounds in a lawn before the house."
Coursing was formerly extended to theDEER, theFOX, and theHARE; and much ceremony was observed inparkandpaddockcoursing with theformer,even in the Royal presence. It is, however, now principally confined to the hare, (except in the season forfawnkilling;) is not only universal in most counties, but particularly patronized and promoted in others.Clubsare composed of the most opulent and respectable members for the enjoyment of the sport, who have mostly two (some three) meetings in each season; the first established and principal of which is the "Swaffham Coursing Society," instituted in Norfolk by the lateEarlofOrfordin the year 1776, which is supported with true personal spirit and sporting energy; the Bradwell and Tillingham meetings, in Essex; the Flixton Wolds, in Yorkshire; and the Ashdown Park meeting, at Lambourn, in Berkshire.
The meetings at Swaffham are held on the second Monday in November, and the first Monday in February, unless prevented by frost or snow, in which case they are then held the first open Monday in or after November, and the first open Monday in February; and not later. The Ashdown Park meeting to be held at the Red Lion at Lambourn, annually, the second Monday in November.
TheLAWSofCOURSINGwere arranged in the reign ofQueen Elizabethby the Duke of Norfolk, and were sanctioned by the acquiescence of the nobility, gentry, and sporting world, who then followed the diversion; and have since been consideredthe fixed criterion for the decision of all bets, by which they are regulated and determined to the present day. The person appointed to let loose the greyhounds, was to receive into his slips (or thongs) those matched to run against each other so soon as he came into the field; and then to follow next the hare-finder, or him who was to start the hare, until he came tothe form; and no horse or foot men were to go before, or on either side, but directly behind, for the space of about forty yards.
Rules.—A hare never to be coursed by more thanA BRACEofgreyhounds.
—A hare never to be coursed by more thanA BRACEofgreyhounds.
The hare-finder to give the hare threesoho's!before he put her fromher form; to give notice to the dogs, that they may attend tostarting.
The hare to havetwelve score yards lawbefore the dogs were loosed, unless the small distance from cover would not admit it without danger of immediately losing her.
The dog who gave thefirst turn, if there was neithercote,slip, norwrench, during the course,WON.
Acoteis when a greyhound goes endways by his fellow, and gives the harea turn.
A coteserves fortwo turns, and twotrippingsorjerkinsfora cote: if the hare did not turn quite about, she onlywrenched, and twowrenchesstand for aturn.
If there were no cotes given between a brace of greyhounds, but that one of them served the other atturning, then he that gave the haremost turns,won; and if one gave as many turns as the other,thenhe thatborethe hare, won.
If one dog gave thefirst turn, and the other bore the hare, he that bore the hare, won.
Ago-by, orbearingthe hare, was equivalent totwo turns.
If neither dogturnedthe hare, he that led last to the covert, won.
If one dog turned the hare, served himself, and turned her again, it was as much as acote; for a cote was esteemedtwo turns.
If all the course was equal, the dog that bore the hare, won; if the hare was not borne, the course was adjudged dead.
If a dog fell in a course, and yet performed his part, he might challenge the advantage of aturnmore than he gave.
If a dog turned the hare, served himself, and gave divers cotes, and yet in the end stood still in the field, the other dog, if heran home to the cover, although he gave no turn, was adjudged the winner.
If by accident a dog was rode over in his course, the course was void; and he that did the mischief was to make reparation for the damage.
If a dog gave the first and lastturn, and there was no other advantage between them, he that gave theoddturn, won.
He that came in first at the death, took up the hare, saved her from being torn, cherished the dogs, and cleansed their mouths from the fleak, was adjudged to have the hare for his trouble.
Those who were appointed judges of the course, were to give their decision before they departed from the field.
Exclusive of the county clubs and local societies established for the annual enjoyment of the diversion upon a larger scale,COURSINGhas its devotees, who are as energetic in its defence, as its most enraptured advocate can possibly be, for what he calls the inexpressible pleasures of the chase: taken, however, in a more extensive point of view, it is held in nearly an equal estimation withangling, whenput in competition with the more attracting sports of the field; and seems much better calculated for the amusement of acynical solitarydisciplinarian, than a mind open to all the more noble and exhilarating sensations of theCHASE.
COSTIVENESS—will be sound satisfactorily explained under the headConstipation; to prevent which, regular exercise, great friction, flank rubbing, and frequent changes of food, will greatly contribute.
—will be sound satisfactorily explained under the headConstipation; to prevent which, regular exercise, great friction, flank rubbing, and frequent changes of food, will greatly contribute.
CRACKS—in the heels of horses, during the winter season, are found only in stables where the master seldom or ever condescends to appear. These trifles are too frequently attributed to a defect in theconstitutionof thehorse, when, with more propriety, they might be fixed upon awantofconstitutionalpunctuality in thegroom. Horses left withwet legsandheelsafter chase or journey, particularly in sharp easterly winds, or in frost and snow, constitute the evil to a certainty. So severe a rigidity is occasioned in the texture of the integument, that it becomes partially ruptured, (or broken in various places,) upon being brought into action the following day: this, with the irritation and friction occasioned by the sharp particles of gravel and extraneous matter in the dirty roads, soon produce enlarged lacerations of the most painful description. The prudent part of the worldwill always consider, as well in this, as in every other case, thatpreventionis better thancure: servants should be allowed in the stables, linen cloths for rubbers to the heels, that they may never be left in the least wet, particularly in the winter season, when once gettingtender, the stubbed ends of the new and stiff straw frequently occasion or increase such lacerations.
—in the heels of horses, during the winter season, are found only in stables where the master seldom or ever condescends to appear. These trifles are too frequently attributed to a defect in theconstitutionof thehorse, when, with more propriety, they might be fixed upon awantofconstitutionalpunctuality in thegroom. Horses left withwet legsandheelsafter chase or journey, particularly in sharp easterly winds, or in frost and snow, constitute the evil to a certainty. So severe a rigidity is occasioned in the texture of the integument, that it becomes partially ruptured, (or broken in various places,) upon being brought into action the following day: this, with the irritation and friction occasioned by the sharp particles of gravel and extraneous matter in the dirty roads, soon produce enlarged lacerations of the most painful description. The prudent part of the worldwill always consider, as well in this, as in every other case, thatpreventionis better thancure: servants should be allowed in the stables, linen cloths for rubbers to the heels, that they may never be left in the least wet, particularly in the winter season, when once gettingtender, the stubbed ends of the new and stiff straw frequently occasion or increase such lacerations.