does not include the effect of direct injuries of any and
all kinds to which the feet are subjected such as: Concussion in fast
road work, injuries occasioned by tight or ill fitting shoes, contusions
of any kind resulting in non-infectious inflammation of the sensitive
laminae, as well as the causes which produce laminitis where weight is
borne by one foot when its fellow is out of function.

A classification which is practical is that of _acute_ and _chronic_
laminitis. To the practicing veterinarian it is this manner of
consideration that is essential in the handling of these cases.

Symptomatology.--In the acute attack the condition is so well
described by Dr. R.C. Moore[30] that we quote him in part as follows:

The acute form is generally ushered in very suddenly. Often a horse
that is perfectly free from symptoms of the disease is found a few
hours later so stiff and sore that he will scarcely move. They
stand like they were riveted to the ground. If forced to move the
evidence of pain subsides to some extent after they have gone a
short distance, to return more severe than ever after they have
been allowed to stand for a short time. If the disease is confined
to the two front feet, the hind feet are placed well under the
center of the body to support the weight and the front ones are
advanced in front of a perpendicular line so as to lessen the
weight they must bear. If they are made to move, the same position
of the feet is maintained. If made to turn in a small circle, they
do so by using the hind feet as a pivot, bringing the front parts
around by placing as little weight on them as possible.

Placing the hind feet so far under the body, arches the back and
often leads to errors in diagnosis, the condition sometimes being
taken for diseases of the loins or kidneys.

If all four feet are involved, the animal stands in the usual
position assumed in health, but if urged to move, the least effort
to do so usually brings on chronic spasms of the entire body. In
very severe cases, a slight touch of the hand will develop the
spasms. At times they are so severe, and have such short
intermissions, that the disease has been mistaken for tetanus.
However, the clonic nature of the spasm should prevent such an
error. If they are lying down, it is difficult to get them to
arise, and if they