OPIUM.
Is the most valuable drug on the list as an anti-spasmodic; it is also a sedative and astringent. As an anti-spasmodic it enters into the colic drink; as a sedative it relaxes spasms of the muscular system. Opium should, however, be given with caution. In the early acute stage of fever it will be a bad practice to give it even in the smallest quantity. When the fever has passed it may be given with great benefit.
POULTICES.
Few persons are aware of the value of these simple applications in abating inflammation, relieving pain, cleansing wounds, and disposing them to heal. In all inflammations of the foot they are very beneficial, by softening the horn hardened by the heat of the inflamed foot.—Linseed meal forms the best general poultice.
DRINKS OR DRENCHES.
A drink is not so portable as a ball; it is more troublesome to administer, and a portion of it is usually wasted. Medicines given as a drench will act upon the horse much quicker than when given in balls, but the great objection is in wasting a portion. Too much of the drink should not be forced into the horse’s mouth at once, as it will be found very difficult to make him swallow large quantities; small portions should be given, which he should be made to swallow before any more is put into the mouth.
TAR.
Melted with an equal quantity of grease forms the usual stopping of the farrier. It is warm or slightly stimulant, and is therefore useful in dressing bruised or wounded feet; it prevents the penetration of dirt and water to the wounded part; it is also useful in chronic coughs.