When the horses are between-decks, too much attention cannot be paid to the constant trimming of the wind-sails so as to insure plenty of fresh air. The wind-sails should be well forward, and extended down within two or three feet of the deck. When a horse between-decks becomes ill, and the weather is at all fine, he should be removed to the upper deck, where the fresh air and change will probably soon bring him right again.
Besides the ordinary grooming utensils for stable service, there should be a plentiful supply of stable-brooms, hoes, and shovels for cleaning out the stalls, and baskets or other light vessels for removing the manure. The ship must be well lighted, and the guards attentive; seasick men must not be intrusted with this important duty.
Disinfectants, such as chloride of lime and zinc, carbolic acid, copperas, powdered gypsum, etc., should be freely used, and, upon embarking, the artillery commander will see that they are supplied.
Should any contagious disease appear, the horse or horses attacked will be promptly thrown overboard, and the precautions taken as prescribed under the head of Sick Horses.
The feed-troughs and the nostrils of the horses are washed every morning and evening with diluted vinegar.
Water is allowed at the rate of six gallons a day per horse, and one gallon per man.
During the voyage the artillery commander will make it his especial duty to act in harmony with the master of the vessel. There must, of necessity, be divided authority and responsibility. Order and neatness among the men and cleanliness with the horses are to be looked after by the commander of the troops. In attending to these duties care will be observed not to interfere needlessly with the duties of the crew nor with the belongings of the ship.
Officers are always to be furnished with cabin accommodations, and the men with proper messing arrangements. This should be specified in the charter, and should be clearly understood by all parties previous to setting out on the voyage.
The fitting up of the vessel is generally done by the Quartermaster's Department, but the commander of the artillery to be embarked will, as the one most concerned, give his special attention to see that the work is thorough and complete.