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23. Patella, or Stifle Bone.—This, the kneepan or stifle bone, is placed in front of the pully-shaped groove of the femur. It is very compact, its front surface being irregular, round and very much roughened, for ligamentous attachment, and its posterior (or back) surface very smooth to articulate with the groove in the femur, presenting two depressions divided by a ridge, the inner being the larger, and in the fresh state enlarged still more by projecting cartilaginous lip, or elevation. The patella increases the power of the hind leg, and it is this bone that causes stifle joint lameness when it slips out of the groove in which it glides normally.

24. Tibia, or Legbone.—The tibia or leg bone, is a long bone, larger at its upper than its lower end, situated between the femur and the astragalus, slanting downwards and backwards. This bone is three-sided, possessing outer, inner and back surfaces, all of which are wider above than below. This bone gives attachment to the flexor muscles of the hip.