Turpentine, as an enema, is an excellent adjunct. Mr. T. W. Gowing, of Camden Town, cured a lingering fit of colic by administering a pint of turpentine mixed with a quart of the solution of soap. The strong liquor of ammonia, diluted with six times its bulk of water and applied by means of a saturated cloth, held to the abdomen in a rug several times doubled, is likewise frequently beneficial. If these means, used simultaneously, produce no amendment in two hours, watch the pulse, for there is most probably something beyond simple colic to contend with.
APPLYING AN AMMONIACAL BLISTER.
Upon the earliest symptom the horse should be removed to a loose box amply protected by trusses of straw ranged against the walls. Into this the animal should be immediately led—for the reader must understand colic does not always observe the stages in which it has been described. Occasionally it commences in the wildest form; and if a loose box be not at hand, one can always be extemporized by removing the carriage from its house, by throwing the doors wide open and by placing a bar across the entrance.
No disease is more quickly dispelled if treated at the commencement; nor is there one which, being left to run its course, occasions greater agony, is more fearful to witness, or leads to more terrible results than spasmodic colic. A single dose of ether and of laudanum may vanquish the malady at the commencement; yet if the attack be allowed to progress, the fit may set all skill and remedial measures at defiance. The principal attention of the proprietor must be given to prevent the administration of the "groom's favorite" or other ignorant nostrums. The case, when properly treated, is cured for a few shillings; and a horse cannot be killed with decency for less money.
Besides, let any human being, having feelings capable of impression, regard an instance of spasmodic colic which has been aggravated by mistaken treatment; and as he views the fibers of a living body quiver, sees the frame bedewed in sweat and wrenched in mighty torture, contemplates the sad condition of the companion of his pleasures, and hears vented from its throat sounds expressive of agony,—let him, having the image present to his eyes, ask himself whether any man, possessing means at his command, has a right to make a money question of the creature's suffering, which exists in a state of dependence on his bounty.
Horses must be gifted with a certain amount of reason. However furious may be the attack of colic, the mute expression of anguish is quieted when preparation is made for the administration of medicine. The most nauseous drenches are swallowed with a patience that speaks a perfect comprehension of their intent. The most wonderful proof of reason is, however, given by the manner in which the horse will recognize the veterinary surgeon. The author has known animals, in the intervals of spasmodic colic, walk close up to him, look full into his face with an eye beaming with intelligence, and a strain upon the features as though the creature "did so wish to speak;" then finding utterance impossible, the nose has mutely directed attention to the flank.
Every assistance is, by the animal, afforded to him who displays a desire to alleviate its distress. Where language is denied, motives appear to be the more quickly comprehended; and he who wishes to mingle safely among horses, may best protect himself by treating them gently and sympathizing with their emotions.
FLATULENT COLIC, WINDY COLIC, TYMPANITIS, ETC.
