(i) Septic Infection of the Limb.—­This we have already once or twice referred to.  It simply means that the septic matters from the wound have gained the lymphatics, and finally the blood-vessels of the limb, and set up local lesions elsewhere than in the foot.  Although dismissed here with these few words, the condition is a most serious one.  Usually, it has resulted from penetration of the pedal articulation and septic infection of the joint.  In the vast majority of these cases slaughter is both humane and economical.

Prognosis.—­The first consideration in giving a prognosis in punctured foot should be the position of the wound.  When occurring in the middle zone, the surgeon’s statements should be most guarded, and the dangers attending a wound in that particular position fully explained to the owner.  A wound in the anterior position is, as we have said, far less serious, and one in the posterior region of the foot even less serious still.

Whenever possible, the nail or other object causing the prick should be examined.  Much of the prognosis may be based upon the estimated depth of the wound, and this, in many cases, it is far safer to calculate from the length of the offending body than from the use of the probe.  We need hardly say that in the middle zone the deeper the prick, the more serious the case, and the less favourable the prognosis.  As in succession the sensitive sole, the plantar aponeurosis, the navicular bursa, the navicular bone, or the pedal articulation is injured, so with each step deeper of the prick is the severity of the case increased.

The shape of the penetrating object may also be considered.  One excessively blunt, and calculated to bruise and crush the tissues, will inflict a more serious wound than one of equal length that is pointed and sharp.

The conformation of the foot should also be regarded.  Wounds in well-shaped feet are less serious than in feet with soles that are flat or convex, or in which the horn is pumiced or otherwise deteriorated in quality.

Although unaffecting the prognosis so far as the actual termination of the case is concerned, it may be mentioned that punctured foot is far more serious in a nag than in a heavy draught animal.  With an equal degree of lameness resulting in each case, the former will be well-nigh useless, but the latter still capable of performing much of his usual labour.

The temperament and condition of the patient will also in many cases largely influence the prognosis.  An animal of excitable and nervous disposition is far more likely to succumb to the effects of pain and exhaustion than the horse of a more lymphatic type.  In the case of a patient suffering from a prick to a hind-foot while heavily pregnant, the attempted forecast of the termination should be cautious.  More especially does this apply to the case of a heavy cart-mare.  Ordinarily, the heavier the breed, the greater the tendency to lymphatic swelling of the