Cause.—Contraction of the neck of the womb, growths on or in the ovaries, Whites or Leucorrhea. The first is the only form of barrenness which responds readily to treatment.
Symptoms.—A mare may come in heat normally, or stay in heat continually, or not come in heat at all.
Treatment.—Wash the hands in some antiseptic solution, such as Carbolic Acid or Bichloride of Mercury, and see that the finger-nails are smooth. Grease the hand and arm with vaseline and proceed to dilate the neck of the womb. It may be difficult at first to insert the finger, but the opening will gradually enlarge. Work slowly and carefully until three fingers may be inserted. Breeding should follow about three hours after the womb has been dilated.
BLEEDING.
(Hemorrhage)
Bleeding sometimes follows operations as castration and wounds due to various causes.
Treatment.—When bleeding from a large artery, it should be tied with a clean silk or linen thread or twisted with a pair of forceps or cauterized with a hot iron. Sometimes compression by the use of tightly bound bandages proves effective, although the former appliances are more practical. Tincture chloride of iron, applied to small arteries or veins, causes the blood to clot in the arteries or veins, and hence stops the hemorrhage. It is very essential that all wounds should be treated antiseptically and I cannot say that I am in favor of washing a wound with water only in cases where the wound is very filthy, and I prefer powder applications in preference to any liquid antiseptics. The following will be found very effective in the treatment of the majority of wounds: Boracic acid, two ounces; iodoform, two drams; tannic acid, two ounces; calomel, one dram; powder finely and mix well. Place in sifter top can and apply two or three times daily.
BLOOD POISONING.
(Septicaemia or Pyemia)