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New original cover art included with this eBook is granted to the public domain.

MANUAL
—OF—
Veterinary Homeopathy
COMPRISING DISEASES OF
Horses, Cattle, Sheep, Hogs, Dogs and Poultry
AND THEIR
Homeopathic Treatment

BY

F. HUMPHREYS, M. D., V. S.

LATE PROFESSOR, AUTHOR, ETC., ETC.

Humphreys’ Homeopathic Medicine Co.

Corner William and Ann Streets

NEW YORK

GOLD MEDAL
Dr. Humphreys’ Remedies received medals in the International Exhibitions of Hygiene.
Centennial Exhibition Argentine Republic 1910.
Exhibition of Hygiene United States of Brazil 1909.
Exhibition of Hygiene Argentine Republic 1904.

Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1922, by Humphreys’ Homeopathic Medicine Company in the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.

PREFACE

The world owes much to Homeopathy—more probably, than has ever been told, or will ever be known. It is something to be emancipated from drugs, from lancets, leeches, blisters and poisons; but it is more, to be relieved from the fear of them, and to be restored and preserved by forces mild as love, and gentle as the dews of heaven—forces unknown and unrevealed, until elicited by the genius of this system.

But these benefits are not confined to the human species. Animals may enjoy them as well; and heaven knows how much they need them. For to them the day of sickness is not merely the day of doom, but of suffering and of torture as well. Ignorance and cruelty seem to have controlled this branch of medicine—not that men are of necessity careless in regard to the lives of their animals, or designed cruel as to the measures used to restore them when sick; but so little real knowledge prevails concerning their diseases, and so much error as to the proper methods of cure, that the most absurd and cruel measures almost of necessity prevail with corresponding results. Some judicious stock owners, taught by experience the fatality of the common methods of treatment, notwithstanding the torture and expense, have more humanely, if not more wisely, abandoned all treatment, preferring to let nature contend with disease alone, rather than with disease and drugs united. But, thanks to Homeopathy, there is a better way.

For many years past, Homeopathy has been applied to the diseases of all domestic animals in Europe, with the most brilliant success. In this country, and the British Isles, within the last few years, not only have individual practitioners applied its remedies with equal success, but some large veterinary institutions, and most of our principal traveling equestrian troops and menageries, employ it exclusively in all diseases of their horses, experience having shown them its great value and curative power, and its immense superiority over every other method. But the inherent intricacies of the system rendered its general introduction for the cure of animals impracticable; and though, in the hands of some practitioners and some veterinary surgeons, it worked wonders enough to show its astonishing capacities, yet to the masses it has remained a sealed book.

The principal of Humphreys’ Homeopathy, which has proved so efficient in popular use, we have now applied to the diseases of domestic animals, and, from numerous trials, have proved it an entire success. With this Case and Manual every owner of stock may know every ailment among them, and can treat it successfully.

Not among the least benefits conferred by this new method is the ease and simplicity with which the proper medicine is administered. No tying, bottling, struggling, or choking are necessary. A neat little glass instrument (the Medicator) is put into the medicine, and takes up the requisite dose—a few drops—and at the proper moment, is placed in the mouth of the animal and discharged; in an instant the dose is given, and an amount of labor is thus saved to the owner, and of suffering to the animal, which is by no means trivial. Hundreds of animals annually die, or are rendered valueless from disease and drugging, that may be saved and promptly restored by the use of the Case of Veterinary Remedies. Several of our most experienced horsemen have given it their unqualified commendation, and use it daily in their establishments.

In the execution of this design I have consulted every authority and drawn upon every resource within my reach, and the experience of each has been made to contribute to the perfection of the whole, and all has been combined and compared with my many years of observation, study, and experience in the practice of Homeopathy. We flatter ourselves that for simplicity, completeness, and reliability it will commend itself to the judgement of a discerning public.

F. HUMPHREYS, M. D., V. S.

INTRODUCTION

Proper and enlightened attention to the wants of Domestic Animals, is not only a sentiment of humanity, but a dictate of economy. To know at least in good part what is the particular ailment of an animal, and to know also how to relieve it, would seem to be a necessary obligation of ownership. The least we can return to the many faithful animals given us, is to provide for their reasonable wants, not only in health, but also in sickness and disease. Not that every man who owns a horse, should be necessarily a veterinary surgeon; and yet the way is so simple that any intelligent person may readily cure a very large proportion, nay, almost every disease to which his animals are exposed, and yet bestow upon the subject only a moiety of attention.

Among the many blessings that Homeopathy has conferred upon the world, not among the least is the immense improvement which it has effected in the treatment of the diseases of Domestic Animals. With but little variation, to meet their peculiar habits and susceptibilities, the same remedies which have been so efficient in mitigating and curing the disease of men, women and children, have been found equally successful in arresting the diseases to which all classes of Domestic Animals are liable. The contrast is even greater. Probably from the fact that treatment of sick animals has been but little understood, and intrusted to the hands mainly of ignorant persons, who have pursued the most crude, cruel and destructive measures, often far more dangerous and life-destroying than the disease itself, a large proportion of the sick have died or been tortured to death. But when the same diseases are subjected to the mild and benign influence of intelligent Homeopathic treatment, it is found that almost every disease among them is within control, even the most fatal yielding to its magic influences.

Although at first sight it may seem strange, that animals should be successfully treated by the mild and apparently insignificant doses of Homeopathy, yet a moment’s reflection will suffice to give many reasons why this should be so. Even were it not susceptible of explanation, experience has abundantly demonstrated the fact, that animals are, if possible, even more susceptible to Homeopathic treatment than men, and its success in their case is even more striking and brilliant.

This may be, perhaps, attributed to their more regular habits, confinement to the same food and drink, absence of excitement, and freedom from the many articles of food and drink in use among the human species, which are more or less medicinal.

Owing to these circumstances, animals are very impressible, and the doses for them need not be so much larger than for the human species. It seems to be a law of nature, that the more delicate the organism, the more subject to disease. Wild animals are almost entirely exempt, while the highly artificial lives of some Domestic Animals render them subject to numerous ailments and to some very formidable diseases. Yet, as a whole, animals are far less subject to disease than men, and far more amendable to cure.

The treatment of Domestic Animals with Homeopathic Remedies, has numerous advantages.

The medicines are given at once and without trouble or annoyance, even without taking a horse from his team, or a cow from her stall. They produce no poisonous or prostrating effect so that the animal rallies at once, and without loss or deterioration of value. Animals recover much sooner and hence are able to resume work much earlier after sickness, than under any other system. But more than all, it is far more successful. Slighter diseases yield at once, and often from a single dose, while the most formidable cases that are almost absolutely incurable under old treatment, even when well conducted, often respond to the curative influence of Humphreys’ Homeopathic Remedies, while it is well known that even when animals recover under the old system of treatment such have been the ravages of disease and medicine, that their value and usefulness are generally destroyed.

ADVANTAGES OF
Humphreys’ Veterinary Remedies
OVER ANY OTHER SYSTEM, OR MODE OF TREATMENT FOR STOCK.

I—Humphreys’ Veterinary Remedies, are not an experiment. They have been in use among Farmers, Breeders, Livery Stable and Turfmen, Horse Railroad, Express, Mining and Manufacturing Companies, Menageries and Hippodromes, and others handling large numbers of horses and other stock, with complete success for over sixty years.

II—You have a remedy for any particular Disease or Complaint. For Colic, or Cough, or Founder, or Heaves, or Pneumonia, or Indigestion, or Disease of the Kidneys, or Urinary Passages, Strains, or Lameness. You have it in compact, portable form. You know just what to do, and how to do it.

III—Their use is free from danger to the Animal. In the usual treatment, the medicines are either rank poisons or the most violent alteratives. It is a common experience, that, if the horse finally lives through the treatment he is worthless from the effects of the medicines. Thousands of good horses are every year killed by drugs. In Humphreys’ Remedy system you are absolutely free from all such danger.

IV—They are simple. Being Remedies for particular diseases you know at once what to give. You can scarcely make a mistake. Even if you do, you have only lost your time, and have not killed the animal. When using the common veterinary drugs, a mistake is often fatal.

V—They are readily and easily given. You need not lose a moment. The Remedy is ready just as you want it. With the Medicator you take the dose from the bottle and place it upon the tongue of the animal, without loss of time or danger. No bottling, balling, choking, or strangling—irritating the animal and endangering the owner or his help.

VI—They act more quickly than any other Medicine. Humphreys’ Remedies act through the medium of the nerves and the blood, rather than through the digestive organs. They begin to act before other medicines even reach the stomach.

VII—Every Ten Dollars invested in Humphreys’ Veterinary Remedies will save you $100.00 and every HUNDRED will save a THOUSAND IN PROPERTY, besides an equal amount in time, trouble and care.

VIII—The saving in loss of stock is from one-half to three-fourths. This is the testimony of hundreds of horsemen.

IX—The Treatment is humane, and if we may be humane as well as skillful, surely we should prefer it.

X—Diagnosing the disease and giving of medicine is such, as any sensible, faithful man of ordinary intelligence can master without difficulty.

We could annex Ten Thousand Testimonials of their efficacy.

CAUTION

☞Take care not to confound Dr. F. Humphreys’ Veterinary Remedies with the spawn of imitations which the wonderful success of his Remedies has warmed into existence. Imitators have taken his labels, his doses and directions, and even his name, under which to impose their Imitations upon the public. Care should be exercised to avoid impositions. Several parties have reported the loss of valuable stock through the use of these imitations.

Doses, How Much?

It is an error to suppose that animals require very large doses of Humphreys’ Homeopathic Medicines, for experience has shown sick animals to be very impressible, and easily influenced by appropriate medicine, and in general, not to require as frequent repetitions as the human subject. Those who are accustomed to give large and powerful doses of poisonous medicines in order to produce some revulsive action, such as a cathartic or sudorific, or even as an alterative, can not from hence infer the proper quantity required when only a curative result is desired.

Only experience, hence, can answer the question, How much? And experience has amply shown that for horses ten to fifteen drops is the range of doses best adapted in ordinary cases, and that while cattle and hogs require rather more, sheep and dogs require less than the doses mentioned. We have indicated in each disease the dose supposed to be best for that particular case, yet to give two or five drops more in any given case would probably not be hurtful, while to give a few drops less would not endanger the curative action for want of the requisite quantity. The truth is that precision in quantity is not indispensable to a cure. The doses indicated we think are best, but a deviation from them is by no means fatal. One physician gives much more and another many times less, and both are successful. Medicine gives a curative impulse often as well or better with five or ten drops as with more. Besides, in giving medicines to animals, from their restlessness, dodging the head, and other similar disturbing circumstances we can not, and happily need not, be very positive. Give doses as near directions, as you may be able, and the result will be satisfactory. The best and safest rule is always to follow directions given in book, chart, and on bottles. It is unsafe for you to assume that you know more than the man who made the medicine and has had many years experience and observation in using them. Young animals require but half as much as grown ones.

Repetitions—How often?

The effects of Humphreys’ Homeopathic Remedies are very prompt and positive. Often immediate, in cases of colic or other forms of neuralgia, as the medicine acts at once through the medium of the nervous system. In other acute cases, such as inflammations, the effect is equally as prompt but not so openly manifest. The medicine placed in contact with the nervous papilla of the tongue is at once by means of this connection conveyed over the entire system, while the stomach being a secreting rather than an absorbing surface, repels rather than absorbs a medicinal influence, so that medicines act better for being placed on the tongue than when they are introduced into the stomach.

The time to repeat is when the good effect has terminated. All rules of repetition are based upon this axiom. Thus, in colic and inflammation of the bowels, we repeat every fifteen, thirty or sixty minutes. In inflammation of the lungs, or chest, head, or other noble organ, or in pneumonia or similar acute diseases, we repeat once in two, three or four hours. In the yet less severe forms of disease, such as Fevers, Founder, Strangles, Distemper, Lameness, or similar diseases, a dose once in four hours, or four times per day, is quite sufficient. While in Coughs, Heaves, Ulcers, Eruptions, and similar affections, if recent, a dose morning and night is ample. In old chronic affections, a dose every day, is better than more frequent repetitions. In most cases these Remedies continue to act for weeks after having been given if undisturbed by the use of other medicines.

Alternation of Remedies

In general but one medicine is required for a disease, and it may be repeated from time to time. But cases are often met with where two Remedies are indicated at the same time, one to meet one phase of the disease, and a different Remedy to meet another. In all such cases the two medicines are given alternately. Thus give a dose of one Remedy and then, after the proper interval give the other Remedy, and thus continue the two alternately, at such intervals as the directions demand. Nor should we be deterred from the use of a remedy in a particular case, because the name given it indicates a different use, for a medicine may be curative for a particular disease, and equally so for a different or even seemingly opposite one.

How to Choose the Remedy

In the use of my Homeopathic Remedies nothing can be more simple than the choice of the Remedy, while in attempting to use the ordinary Homeopathic preparations, the choice of the remedy is very difficult and intricate. From an examination of the animal you will have some idea of the nature of its disease, and will at once turn to the Index and page in the Manual describing that and similar diseases. Continue the search until the true description is found, and the proper treatment pointed out. If in doubt as to the particular remedy always give A.A. It rarely fails to help, and prepares the way for other remedies when they are required and gives you time to think and observe. Many good practitioners always give A.A. first. It is not necessary that all the symptoms given should be present, as the Remedy in all cases has a wider range of action than the disease.

If a sufficient length of time has passed to clearly show that no good has resulted, the case should be looked over again, and a more appropriate Remedy selected.

How to give the Remedy

Not among the least recommendations for the use of my Homeopathic Remedies, is the ease and facility with which they may be administered. No tying, struggling, or choking are necessary. The animal should be approached quietly, usually on the OFF SIDE if the Medicator is to be used, and medicine placed, if possible, upon the tongue, well back—thence it is absorbed, and acts at once through the medium of the nervous system. The simplest medium of doing this is best. For this purpose the use of the Medicator is best—a small glass instrument invented by me. It is about five inches in length, made of firm, heavy glass tubing (see 4th cover page), the lower third bent so as to readily enter the lips. The upper end is funnel-shaped the size of the end of the finger, and covered with an air-tight rubber cap, so as to form an air receiver. The Medicator, taken in the right hand, with the forefinger upon the top or rubber valve, is introduced into the proper vial, and pressing slightly upon the valve the air is exhausted, and on removing the finger the fluid is forced up into the tube sufficient for a dose. A little experience will enable one to take up five, ten or more drops as may be required. The Medicator thus charged with the dose, can, at the convenient moment, be inserted just within the lips of the animal’s mouth, the farther back upon the tongue the better, when a slight pressure upon the top of tube injects contents, and medicine is given.

The Medicator should be held upright; never turned down or held horizontally; as the air is thus introduced and the medicine may drop out. Held upright until it is quietly inserted between the lips of the animal, no such difficulty occurs. Nor is it necessary to push the tube far enough into the mouth to expose it to the danger of being broken or crushed between the teeth. The moment fluid from tube comes upon the tongue the animal will open its mouth, and in an instant the medicine is injected upon the tongue or in the mouth, and the operation is finished.

In other cases the tongue may be gently hooked out of the mouth with the finger, and the medicine may be dropped or turned upon it. Horses are fond of sugar, and the medicine may be dropped upon a small lump, and fed from hand. After a few times they will call for their sugar when the owner comes into the stable, at the proper time. With cattle or sheep, raise the head a little and inject the medicine with the medicator, or pull the tongue out on one side, and drop or eject the medicine upon it.

Hogs usually, when sick, lie quietly upon the side, and medicine may hence be injected into the mouth with Medicator, or be given in a spoonful of sweet milk, poured in between the jaws, or given them to drink. Care must be taken in giving fluid to hogs, not to forcibly raise the head, as they are easily strangled—even to death. Dogs may have the medicine in a little sweet milk, or it may be even turned in through the nose. Yet the Medicator is an improvement upon all these plans, as it takes up and discharges the proper dose at once.

N. B.—Take off the rubber cap, and cleanse the Medicator when using it for different medicines.

Housing and Care of Sick Animals

When an animal shows signs of illness, it should be immediately cared for. The horse, unless in cases of very slight Colic, or other ailment, when the medicine be given at once, and his work continued, should be placed in a roomy, convenient and warm stall, well littered, with plenty of dry bedding, and well blanketed, unless in very warm weather. Cattle, Sheep and Hogs, as soon as it is noticed that they are sick, should be separated from the herd or flock, and placed in comfortable, well littered and especially dry apartments. This is necessary not only to prevent disease spreading to other stock on the farm, but for the convenience of nursing them, giving them medicines, and also to place them in the very best position for a cure. Often a little timely care and nursing will save and restore an animal, which, if permitted to run with the stock, and take its chance, would unquestionably be lost. A sick animal as truly needs attention as a sick child. Not always will mere nursing restore a sick animal, but it always places it in the best possible condition to effect a cure, and without it the best medical treatment will often be fruitless.

Diet of Sick Animals

In general, when animals are seriously ill, they are without appetite, and will take little or no food—nature thus indicating the propriety of abstinence. But in all cases the food given or allowed should be quite limited in quantity—one-half, one-third or fourth of the usual quantity, and only that which is nourishing, easily digested, and generally relaxing. With these general restrictions, the usual kinds of food may be permitted, except in the case of dogs, where only stale bread and milk should be allowed in urgent cases, and but little or no meat, and no salted or spiced food in any case. After the more urgent symptoms of disease have passed over, and the animal is recovering, we should be careful and not give full feed, as a relapse may thus easily be provoked, and prove very stubborn and dangerous.

At least half an hour or an hour should intervene after taking a dose of medicine before the animal should be fed as the system is more susceptible then than at any other time.

To evacuate the bowels—injections of water, soap and water, or salt and water are always allowable, and may often be used with great benefit. They are usually administered without difficulty, in no case injurious, and should one fail to produce an evacuation, another or more may be repeated, until the result is accomplished.

How to Feel the Pulse

In the horse, this is best done by placing the finger on the artery, where it passes over the lower jaw, about four inches below its angle. Place the forefinger on the side of the lower jaw at its angle, and trace the jaw along gently towards the mouth. Some four inches below the angle a notch will be found, in which the artery passes over the jaw, and the throbbing of the pulse will be readily felt. Some attention may be required as the pulse beats in health slowly, and often apparently indistinctly.

The pulse makes in the healthy horse from thirty-six to forty-two beats per minute; in spirited lighter horses the latter, and in heavy older horses the former. When the pulse reaches fifty to fifty-five, there is some degree of fever. Seventy-five will indicate a dangerous condition, and few horses will long survive a pulse of one hundred. Care should be taken not to excite an animal before or while examining the pulse, as it may thus readily be increased ten or fifteen beats to the minute, and mislead as to the true condition.

In cattle the temple is the best place to feel the pulse and usually runs forty-five to fifty beats per minute.

In sheep and hogs the femoral artery which extends across the inside of the thigh is most easily felt. This should run seventy to eighty for both sheep and hogs.

In dogs the pulse may be felt by placing two fingers on the inner side of the knee. Dogs run from 90 to 100 per minute.

The heart usually beats four or five times to each breath the animal takes (when in condition of rest). There is also a variation in normal temperature according to the animal as follows:

As this Veterinary Manual may fall into the hands of some who are not acquainted with its use, a few practical hints may be of service.

1st. Follow the directions.—Read and learn what the disease or condition is.—Then give the remedy in the doses, and at the intervals directed, as near as may be. Don’t think you know more about the doses or how much to give, or how often to give it, than the man who originated the system and wrote the book, and whose rules and observations are the result of very large experience.

2d. Don’t mix the Remedies with other medicines. They won’t act if you mix them up with other things; or bring the patient under the influence of other drugs, however harmless you may suppose them to be. The sure way of safety and success, is to trust to the Remedies alone. You will not improve the case by resorting to other medicines or other measures. If the patient does not improve as rapidly as you desire, a little rest will do no harm, and the kindly reaction may come on later.

3d. Don’t be in to great haste.—Medicines must have time to act and time to cure. In some cases, such as colics, neuralgias or nervous pains, the evidence of good action is prompt—almost immediately. In other slower, less pronounced, not so decided.

When you see the patient relieved.—less pain,—more quiet,—more natural,—easier, then you know that the remedy is acting curatively, and don’t interfere with it, by giving new doses or other remedies or medicines. Simply let the remedy act. Hurrying does not hurry the cure. When a good action has begun it will continue faster when quietly permitted to expend its action, than if doses are multiplied upon it. The time to repeat the dose is when the action of the former has ceased or begun to decline. The patient is in more danger from your doing too much, than too little, after a good action has been set up.

4th. Disease of the bones, joints and ligaments, only get well slowly. So of old chronic affections—such as “Spavin,” “Founder,” “Ringbone,” “Wind galls,” “Warts,” or other blemishes. A new action has to be set up in the implicated part, often a process of absorption and of reformation of tissue, and time must be allowed for these changes, through which only a cure can be made. Sometimes a good reaction is only produced after some days or even weeks use of the remedy. Such is nature’s way of cure and you cannot hasten it. So your true interest and true philosophy is, act patiently, perseveringly, if you would act successfully.

5th. The action of Humphreys’ Remedies continues a long time.

PART I.
Diseases of Horses

CHAPTER I.
DISEASES OF THE SKIN and SUBJACENT TISSUE

Abscess—Ulcers—Fistulas

An abscess is a collection of matter. Any tumor softening, or in other words coming to a head, forms an abscess. They are usually the result of injuries, such as a blow or contusion, or may be occasioned by a thorn, nail or splinter entering the flesh. In the more severe cases these act in connection with a constitutional predisposition or peculiar state of the blood.

Symptoms.—A hot and painful swelling; in the earlier stage, hard, and by degrees softening or fluctuating in the center, and gradually approaching the surface, attended with more or less heat and fever, according to its situation and nature.

Abscesses which penetrate deeply along the sheaths of muscles and tendons, or even to the bones are termed FISTULAS. Shallow abscesses are known as ulcers, and these may be mild, readily healing, and secreting a healthy, thick, cream-like pus; or ill-conditioned, unhealthy, secreting a thin sanious discolored matter, and healing with great difficulty. Such are the general characteristics of all abscesses, wherever located, and their situation and extent mark their relative importance and danger.

Treatment.—During the inflammatory stage or before softening, while there is merely a hard, more or less hot and painful tumor, we should endeavor to disperse it without its softening. To this end, give three times per day, ten drops of A.A., and also bathe the tumor as often with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel which will frequently disperse it.

But if the swelling increases and fluctuates, or a yellowish spot is observed in its center, denoting the presence of matter, it should be lanced at once, in the most depending portion, and the matter drawn off, and fifteen drops of the I.I., should be given morning and night to facilitate the healing. Apply the Veterinary Oil to the cut or open sore with end of the finger, three times per day, to facilitate the healing.

For Ulcers or Sores, apply the Veterinary Oil, as above.

In fistulas where the canal is long and crooked, or runs into cavities of pus, it may be laid open with the knife, so as to heal from the bottom, or better, the Veterinary Oil may be injected daily, with a small syringe, or the Oil may be inclosed in a gelatine capsule and gently pressed down into the bottom of the cavity, after having pressed out the accumulated matter. The use of the capsule (which may be had for a trifle at the druggists, or from this Company), is the safest and most convenient.

Abscess of the Poll, Poll Evil

Is often from neglect a very formidable disease. It is generally the result of severe injury upon the top of the head, such as the chafing of the bridle or halter, pressure, or a blow against the manger or stall, or frequent hanging back against the headstall.

Symptoms.—At first a tumor forms at the polls or junction of the head and neck. It soon becomes hot, tense and painful; the horse carries his head low; looks to one side; eats but little from the pain of chewing, especially if the food is hard. If the tumor is not dispersed, it comes to a head, either discharges externally, or the matter failing to come to the surface, sinks downward, burrowing along beneath the surface among tendons, ligaments and bones, forming deep and obstinate fistulous ulcers.

Treatment.—Before the tumor has softened, give the A.A., fifteen drops three times per day, keep the horse on low diet, and bathe the swelling frequently with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel. This course will usually disperse the swelling or should it fail to do so will limit it to the smallest possible extent.

If the tumor has come to a head, is soft or fluctuating, lance it at once, evacuate the contents, and give fifteen drops of the I.I., morning and night, apply Humphreys’ Veterinary Oil three times per day to the sore. For old neglected cases apply the Veterinary Oil, and give I.I., daily.

Fistula of the Withers—Sweeny

This disease very much resembles Poll Evil in the textures involved and the difficulty in curing it. It begins with an inflammation of the connecting tissues of the spinous processes of the dorsal vertebræ and the ultimate formation of an abscess. Being confined by the fascia or ligamentous structures, the matter cannot find its way to the surface, but forms sinuses or pipes, and by the force of gravity, burrows down among the muscles which connect the shoulder with the trunk. Sometimes it consists of a cyst filled with a serum, and then is easy to cure. As the muscles of the withers are connected with all the movements of the neck as well as the back and legs, the disease rapidly increases, and the inflammation extends; the shoulder becomes lower, the ligaments, cartilage, and spinous process are involved, and extensive mischief ensues.

Cause.—A badly fitting saddle, and most commonly a side-saddle, which, pressing on the spinous processes of the vertebræ, produces first soreness and subsequent inflammation.

Symptoms.—Swelling and tenderness either on the top of the withers or a little on one side of the spinal process at that point; and in a short time fluctuation under the finger. Should the skin have been much bruised, a circular portion sloughs out and leaves an unhealthy looking sore, from which there is a discharge, and on further examination with a probe we find a cyst from which there is only one outlet, or we find fistulous ducts (“pipes,” in farriers’ language) leading in various directions. In many more advanced cases we only discover a hard tumor on the withers, which will neither suppurate nor disappear by resolution, and to which, although coming under the head of Fistulous Withers, the term is evidently inappropriately applied.

Treatment.—First remove the cause by taking off and quite altering the bearing of the saddle. If the swelling is recent and does not fluctuate, thoroughly rub in the Veterinary Oil, repeating the operation every day, giving a dose of B.B. also morning and night. If a cyst exists and fluctuation is perceptible, it must be opened at the most dependent portion, and the matter drawn off, and the part rubbed with the Veterinary Oil, and a portion of it injected into the sack or opening every day. If long pipes or sinuses exist, they must also be opened and the Veterinary Oil injected. Give also, morning and night, I.I. daily.

Dropsy

While dropsy is not a common disease in the horse it is sometimes met with; particularly in horses which are fed on the refuse from sugar factories and distilleries.

It may be caused from improper feeding, or may be only a symptom of some other disease, particularly diseases of the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys.

Dropsy is a morbid accumulation of watery fluid confined to certain parts of the body. The disease is divided into varieties corresponding to the respective localization of the accumulated water, as for instance, anasarca (water in the skin); ascites (water in the abdomen); hydrothorax (water in the chest).

Symptoms.—In the first form (anasarca) it is first noticed on the lower parts of the body, as the legs, under surface of the chest, etc. The skin is swollen and doughy to the touch and retains the impression of the fingers; but is neither painful nor of abnormally high temperature.

In ascites there is a gradual enlargement of the abdomen and when pressed upon, the fluid can be felt to flow from side to side and the part with the water gives a dull sound on being struck. Breathing is quicker and impeded and the appetite diminished, but there is no fever.

In hydrothorax the symptoms are much the same except that it takes place in the region of the chest instead of the abdomen.

Treatment.—It will generally be relieved by giving the H.H., in doses of fifteen drops three times per day for trifling cases, or ten drops every three hours for the more severe ones. After a free discharge of urine is established, giving the medicine three times per day will be sufficient.

Eczema

(See also Mange page [23])

In the horse, eczema represents practically all forms of skin disease except the parasitic and is seen in the following forms and regions.

1—A form seen in hot weather and variously known as herpes, lichen, summer or saddle mange, and heat pimples. This occurs under the harness where sweating is most profuse, at first as scabby pimples, after which the hair sticks together and falls, leaving scaly bare patches.

2—Then there is a form of scaly eczema which attacks the head, neck, shoulders, elbows, etc. This is a chronic form, with the production of branny scales with thickening of the skin accompanied by itching.

3—A pustular form which attacks chiefly the skin under the mane and tail. The skin is raw and weeping, while the hair mats together in masses and falls and there is a tendency to the chronic scaly form.

4—Eczema attacking the legs is known as mallenders and sallenders if on the back of the knee, or the front of the hock, while if above the heels, in the bend of the pastern it is known as grease. This is characterized by heat, swelling and redness, followed by a vesiculated weeping surface with the formation of a greasy, offensive discharge, scabs and cracks in the skin, followed by loss of hair. Sometimes the irritant secretion gives rise to production of fungus wart-like granulations, known as “grapes” accompanied by great thickening of the skin and swelling of the limbs.

Eczema probably comes from both external and internal causes. Among the external causes are improper grooming and cleansing of the skin, exposure of the animal to constant rain and the use of irritant soap. Grease may be caused by clipping the hair about the fetlock in cold weather and cleaning before the hair has entirely dried.

Among the internal causes are hereditary disposition, improper diet and use of drugs.

Treatment.—First clean the sores, removing all dirt, scabs, etc. For this purpose olive oil is better than water as soap and water are apt to cause further irritation. (If about the tail or mane, clip the hair around the sores). Apply Zinc Ointment at night and morning. Give A.A. three time per day for two days, then I.I. instead of the A.A.

When in the form of “Grease” on the fetlocks, remove the hair from the sores and cleanse them well. In bad cases the application of a bran poultice cleanses them beautifully. Keep the legs as dry as possible. Feed with relaxing or green food, bran mashes, and less stimulating food, especially in the early stage, and give fifteen drops of A.A. Keep the legs as free from dirt as possible. If the horse is not worked let him have exercise daily, and each night and morning after the leg is cleaned apply Zinc Ointment.

Hidebound

This condition is not a disease of itself, but a mere symptom of some other disease, most frequently of the stomach; such as a disordered stomach; poor food, or long exposure to rough, stormy weather. It not unfrequently exists in connection with Glanders, Grease, Founder or old disease of the lungs.

Symptoms.—It manifests itself by the hair looking rough and unthrifty, without its natural smoothness and gloss; and the skin feels hard, firm and fixed to the flesh.

We can most successfully treat it by ascertaining and removing the cause upon which it depends. But in the absence of any special indication, we may give with the best success a dose of fifteen drops of J.K., each morning, and the same of I.I., each night. A few days treatment will generally produce a most marked improvement.

Mange

(See also Eczema page [21])

Mange is a disease of the skin which has much the same appearance as eczema but is caused by parasites while eczema is not.

There are three forms of mange in the horse.

1—Sarcoptic mange caused by a burrowing mite which feeds and propagates in the lower layers of the skin. This form is usually found on the head, neck, shoulders and outer parts of the body.

2—Dermatodecic mange caused by sucking mites which live on the outer layers of the skin and suck up serum and lymph. This form is usually found on the inside of the thighs, root of the mane and tail, sheat, etc.

3—Symbiotic mange caused by scale eating mites which live and feed on the surface of the skin. This form is usually found on the feet and pasterns.

The last two varieties of mites can be seen by the naked eye but better by a magnifying glass. The first variety can be seen only by a glass and that with difficulty due to their burrowing under the skin.

One should be careful to distinguish mange from eczema as the origin and treatment of the two diseases are quite different, although the eruption looks much the same in each case.

1—Eczema is much more common in the horse than mange.

2—In mange there is a more definite boundary to the patches than in eczema.

3—In mange the itching is much more intense.

4—The actual discovery of the parasites by the aid of the magnifying glass is of course the final test.

Treatment.—Consists of clipping the hair around the infected patches, then cleaning them with oil or glycerine containing five per cent of creolin or lysol. Then apply a thick lather of green soap and leave on for twenty-four hours. This is to soften the scabs and prepare the skin for the actual remedy. For this purpose sulphur ointment (equal parts of sulphur and lard) is an old standby or a three per cent solution of creolin or lysol is good. The remedy must be thoroughly rubbed with a brush into the infected parts and when rubbed off by the animal reapplied for a period of a week. Then wash off and repeat the treatment two or three times.

In addition to this the horse should be removed from the other animals and all stalls, blankets, etc., that he has used should be cleaned by boiling water and a five per cent solution of creolin and lysol. This is necessary in order to destroy the mites which remain on such articles and which might infect the other animals or reinfect the horse.

Swelled Legs

This affection is of frequent occurrence in horses, and is more especially observed in coarse and badly groomed animals. The hind legs are most subject to it, although it frequently extends to the fore legs. Sometimes from metastasis of disease from other parts, the legs swell to an enormous degree, and it is attended with some degree of heat, tenderness, and peculiar lameness. The pulse is quickened, and there is evident fever. In such cases there is some inflammation of the cellular tissue, and an effusion of fluid forming the swelling. In these cases when there is heat and tenderness, a few doses of fifteen drops each of A. A., for Fever, will soon relieve the lameness and swelling. If the legs are swelled without being lame or painful, the I.I., should be given morning and night, with careful grooming and exercise, this will soon reduce the swelling. If the swelling is accompanied with Scanty Urination, the H.H., given three times per day is the proper remedy for the difficulty. Sometimes swelled legs are merely the result of a change of feed, and hence often occur in spring and fall, or when horses are taken from pasture and confined in close stables. Consult also Grease or Scratches.

Swelling of the Teats

Sometimes from cold or injury, the teats in mares are subject to inflammatory swelling. A few doses, ten drops each, of A. A., for Fever, will relieve, and if the parts seem quite tender, bathe them with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel or apply the Veterinary Oil.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a disease caused by a vegetable parasite, or fungus, which lives on hair follicles and the hair itself.

Symptoms.—It makes its appearance most frequently on the seat of the saddle, on the croup or flanks and sometimes on the head. The spots range in size from a dime to a half dollar and usually form a fairly regular circle. The hair has fallen out or is broken off and there is a scaling of the skin inside the circle. The surrounding hair can easily be pulled out. Itching is generally absent.

Treatment.—Same as for mange. (See Mange page [23]).

Lice

Horses taken up from a straw yard, with long, shaggy coats, in poor condition, are sometimes found infested with lice.

Cause.—Contagion.

Symptoms.—The animal is seen continually biting his sides and quarters, rubs himself against walls and posts, or anything within his reach, denuding the skin of hair in patches and making it bleed. On close examination we have no difficulty in discovering the lice in bare patches.

Treatment.—The horse should be removed from the other animals. The stalls, blankets, etc., that he has used should be thoroughly cleaned by boiling water and a five per cent solution of creolin or lysol, to destroy the lice which will cling to stalls, blankets, etc.

The horse should be washed with green soap and water and kerosene (Coal Oil) should be applied night and morning for two days and then removed by soap and water. This must be done three times at intervals of a week, in order to kill the new generations of lice which hatch from the eggs in about six days.

Tubercles

These small, sluggish swellings are caused by friction, contusion, cold, stings of insects, internal disease, etc.

Treatment.—If they are the result of external violence, Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel or Veterinary Oil, applied externally, is beneficial. The I. I., may be given with advantage morning and night.

Sponge

This term is given to a round, spongy excresence on the knee, generally caused by some external injury. It is at first a hot, painful swelling; then becomes a cold, hard, indolent tumor. It sometimes occasions considerable itching and emits purulent matter.

Treatment.—If sponge arises from some injury, the Veterinary Oil should be well rubbed in, two or three times a day; or applied morning and night; at the same time, also administer I. I., morning and night.

Sweating

Sometimes on very moderate exercise, horses sweat to excess. It is often the result of weakness, poor food or some internal condition. Give J.K., a few times, in doses of fifteen drops, morning and night.

Tumors, Swellings

Any unusual or morbid growth or enlargement may be termed a tumor, and when one is found upon any part of an animal, care should be taken to ascertain, if possible, its nature and cause. They are variously named, according to their locality and the nature of their contents.

Sometimes they are globular or conical, or again flattened, or again pedunculated (having a neck). Some are quite firm and hard, others spongy, and others contain fluid.

Encysted Tumors (so called because the enlargement is closed in a sack) are frequent, more or less round, movable beneath the skin, painless, and sometimes attain to a considerable size. They are the result of some internal cause not easily defined.

Treatment.—In all cases where a tumor or swelling is hot or painful, give A.A., every two, four or six hours, in doses of fifteen drops, according to the urgency of the case. Keep the animals on low diet and thus seek to disperse it. If caused by external pressure or injury, annoint the part frequently with Veterinary Oil. If the tumor, notwithstanding the treatment, has softened, grows whitish at some point, painful and smaller, open it, then treat it as an ulcer, giving I.I., morning and night.

In case of cold tumors or hot tumors, after the heat has been reduced, simply give I.I., at night, or noon and night, and the J.K., in the morning, in doses of fifteen drops, until the tumor is dispersed or the condition favoring the production is destroyed. Encysted and fatty tumors will generally have to be taken out by the knife and the opening annointed with Veterinary Oil and again neatly brought together to prevent a scar.

Warts

Warts are so well known as to require no description. Certain horses and young animals are most subject to them. They vary in size and appearance, are smooth or shaggy, pedunculated or have a large base and some are soft, moist or spongy. They sometimes arise after chafing or an injury, but depend essentially upon an internal cause.

Treatment.—Give I.I. in doses of fifteen drops, every two or three days for a few weeks, this should cause their entire disappearance. Apply also daily the Veterinary Oil, scraping off the rough outside of the wart with the thumb nail before or while applying the Oil.

CHAPTER II.—Part I.
MECHANICAL INJURIES AND WOUNDS

The treatment of injuries and wounds is a branch of Veterinary Surgery of the utmost importance to the owners of horses, for accidents are of every day occurrence. We shall, however, not be able to devote so much space to the subject as some would deem desirable.

Flesh Wounds may be classified as Contused Wounds, when there is an injury inflicted on the surface of the body by mechanical violence without rending the skin; Incised Wounds, when such an injury is inflicted by a clean cutting instrument; Lacerated or Jagged Wounds, when the parts are torn and the lips of the wound are irregular; and Punctured Wounds, when the injury is deep rather than broad, and the effect of piercing as by a stab.

Contused Wounds

Definition.—Wounds are said to be “contused” when the skin, although bruised, is not cut through or broken; they are followed by the usual symptoms of inflammation, namely, redness, swelling, heat and pain.

Causes.—These can be best understood by one or two illustrative examples. A horse gets the collar chain around his heels at night when he becomes fast, and, in struggling to free himself, he bruises and excoriates the hollow of the pastern. Next morning he is found very lame, with swelling and great tenderness of the parts, but there is no rent in the skin. He has what is called “Contused Wound.” Or, another cause of injury commonly occurs in cavalry stables, where the horses are separated from each other by an iron bar, over which one of them manages to get one of his hind legs. In struggling to get back, he bruises the inside of his thighs, and probably his belly as well. Next day we find him with his leg considerably swollen, lame, and tender on pressure, from “Contused Wounds.” Other causes are kicks from horses, blows from bad-tempered grooms, and falling on hard ground.

Treatment.—Apply the Veterinary Oil to the part two or three times per day, and give the first day or two, the A.A., three times per day, after which, an occasional dose of I.I.

Incised Wounds

Definition.—Incised wounds are those in which a clean cut is made through the integuments or parts underneath, merely dividing textures without lacerating them, and are generally caused by some sharp instrument.

Treatment.—In such cases it is necessary to bring the lips of the wound together, and retain them so by what are called sutures, the best of which is an ordinary pin passed through the skin a quarter of an inch from the edges of the wound, whose lips are then kept close together by the further addition of a small piece of tow passed over, under and around the pin, forming a figure thus $, after which the point of the pin may be cut off with a pair of scissors. These pins, or, as they are called, “twisted sutures,” may be placed one inch apart from each other. Most Veterinary Surgeons use what is called the “interrupted suture,” as follows: A curved needle, armed with a strong thread, well waxed, is passed through the skin on each side of the wound, when the ends of the thread are drawn together and tied in a common knot. As many of these stitches are to be made as the length of the wound renders necessary, but they should be about three-quarters of an inch apart. These sutures, as a general rule, should be allowed to remain as long as they will; but should an effusion of serum or matter take place in the interior of the wound, the lower or most dependent one should be taken out, and the fluid allowed to escape; and then, but not before, warm applications may be applied. Exceptional cases, however, do occur when, from the extent of the injury, considerable swelling takes place about the third day, and constitutional disturbance intervenes. In these cases the sutures may be removed; but in the majority, the swelling must be looked upon as a natural consequence attendant on the formation of lymph, which may be seen oozing from the lips of the wound, and which is necessary to glue them together, till the small vessels pass from side to side and form a permanent bond of union. Always dress the wound and keep the edges of the opening moist with the Veterinary Oil, applying it from day to day, to prevent inflammation, suppuration and to promote healing by “first intention.” The interrupted or thread suture is preferable for wounds about the head, as the horse would probably tear out the pin by rubbing it against the rack or manger. Previous to applying sutures, we should remove all foreign bodies and clots of blood from the wound, and oil every part well with the Veterinary Oil, and give A.A. four times a day.

Hemorrhage, although causing great alarm to the uninitiated in veterinary science, is generally a matter of very little consequence, except a large artery is divided, as the bleeding will soon stop without our assistance. But should the blood come in jets, be of a bright scarlet color, and not stop in a reasonable time, we should either seize the open mouth of the vessel with forceps and pass a ligature around it or apply a compress of tow and a bandage. Cold water dashed on the part, or Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel will frequently have the desired effect.

Lacerated or Jagged Wounds

Definition.—By these are meant that description of injury to the soft parts where the skin and subtextures, instead of being simply divided, are torn asunder and present a jagged and irregular appearance, and are often much bruised.

Causes.—They are caused by mechanical injuries, such as hooks and nails in stables, or by carriage poles or shafts running into a horse.

Treatment.—Our first object is to remove all foreign bodies from the wound, and to cut off all lacerated portions, whether of skin, muscle or tendon, which cannot be retained in their original position. Then all grit or sand must be washed away by dashing cold water on the wound, should there be much hemorrhage; or bathing it with warm water, should the bleeding be inconsiderable. Having thus produced a tolerably even and clean wound, and removed those parts which we know would be removed by sloughing, we assist nature by sewing up such portions of skin and muscle as are not too much injured to preclude the hope of their growing in their original position, although we may abandon all hopes of the wound uniting by the first intention. This we accomplish by thread sutures, as in the case of incised wounds, but with this difference, that we do not bring the lips of the wound together, but at once have recourse to hot applications and bandages wherever they can be applied. The use of the latter is to preserve the lacerated parts in their original position, to exclude air, and to prevent the water washing away the lymph, which is necessary for the filling up of the wound; consequently the bandage should not be removed for a few days, except that the swelling renders it actually necessary to do so. The warm application reduces the tension in the part, favors circulation and the exudation of lymph, and by its soothing effects prevents that constitutional disturbance which is so much to be dreaded in this class of wounds. In about a week the inflammation will have partially subsided and suppuration will most probably have taken place, when we remove the bandage and discontinue the hot application, merely letting a little water run over the wound to remove superfluous matter. It is undesirable to use a sponge, because it would remove the lymph at the same time and expose the small vessels to the atmosphere, which are busily engaged in repairing the injury, which, acting on them as an irritant, causes them to secrete exuberant and unhealthy granulations called “proud flesh.” For the same reason, unless the matter is very plentiful and has a bad smell, it is better not to apply even water, or in any way remove the lymph.

The best possible dressing for all such injuries is Humphreys’ Veterinary Oil, which should be applied to all the raw or cut surface before being sewed or bound up, and then kept applied to the raw surface, both to prevent inflammation and to promote healing, and to hasten the process of cicatrisation, or the skinning over of the wound. Apply the Veterinary Oil twice per day. Should the granulations rise above the surrounding skin, or “proud flesh” appear, Veterinary Oil is still the best application, and will soon reduce the unhealthy growth and induce a natural healing.

Punctured Wounds

Definition.—These have small openings externally, but are usually deeper and of a much more serious nature than others. Because from their depth they are liable to implicate blood-vessels, nerves, viscera, and other deep-seated parts of importance. And because the parts which they traverse are stretched and torn, and consequently disposed to inflame and suppurate. And because matter, when formed, has no free exit, and is liable to burrow extensively. Finally, because foreign bodies may be carried into great depths without being suspected, and create long continued irritation, and because they are most liable to be followed by Tetanus.

Causes.—These wounds are caused by any sharp pointed instrument, such as a pitch-fork, nail or scissors, or by stabs or thorns, bayonet or sabre thrusts.

Treatment.—Our first object is to remove all foreign bodies, such as splinters, thorns, or balls, should it be a gun shot wound. Should the puncture not be in the neighborhood of a joint, or penetrating a tendon or bursal cavity, it is then generally advisable to enlarge the orifice of the wound by passing a sharp knife to the bottom of it, and convert the punctured into an incised wound, when it must be treated by injecting Veterinary Oil in all cases where it is possible to do so, and in all cases by keeping the Oil applied to the open wound or sore until it is entirely healed. Give also A.A. morning, noon and night; after which give I.I. morning and evening.

When a tendon is punctured and the thecal fluid escapes, the nature of the injury in no way differs from an open joint in the mode of treatment to be pursued, which will be found fully explained in the Section on open joint, page [44].

Laceration of the Tongue

This wound may be caused by a high port bit, by the forcible and careless administration of balls and drinks; by the end of a halter being passed over the tongue to guide the horse instead of a bit; by a fall when the tongue is between the incisors; by rough, long or irregular teeth; by thorns, sharp bones, needles, etc.

Symptoms.—Slavering from the mouth and inability to feed will lead to an investigation of the mouth, when the laceration can be plainly seen.

Treatment.—Foreign bodies should be removed. The horse should be fed on green food, if it can be procured, and no bit put in the mouth for some days. The best application is the Veterinary Oil applied daily. If ulcers form, I.I. should be administered also.

Saddle Galls—Warbles—Sitfast—Serous Cyst

Definition.—When a saddle or collar has galled the skin of the back and shoulders, effusion takes place into the tissue underneath. If a small circumscribed tumor is the result, we call it a “Warble”; or, if a large flat swelling with abrasion of the skin be found, the name of “Saddle Gall” or “Harness Gall” is given to it.

Causes.—These disorders often arise from a ill-fitting saddle or collar, also by removing the saddle too soon. After a march soldiers are not allowed to strip their horses until they cool under the saddle.

Treatment.—Apply the Veterinary Oil morning and night, and give I.I. as often, until the healing begins; then give J.K. morning and noon, and I.I. at night.

Staking

In leaping fences or gates, the belly of the horse is sometimes impaled and wounded. The extent of the injury is not always apparent outwardly, and can only be ascertained by careful examination with the finger. There may be no wound in the skin, but the muscle underneath may be injured and torn, and the bowel may enter the part torn; or the stake may pierce the abdomen and a portion of the bowel may protrude outwardly.

Treatment.—In the former case, a well fitting pad must be made and bandaged on; the bandages or pad being well oiled with Veterinary Oil.

In the latter case, the horse must be kept quite still, and treated where he is. The protruding bowel must be gently and carefully washed from all blood, dust and grit with warm water, then oiled and replaced by very gentle pressure. The lips of the wound must then be oiled and drawn together and kept in place with pins. A pad saturated with the Veterinary Oil should then be placed on the wound and kept in place by a bandage around the body. If the bowel itself is wounded, it must be stitched with catgut ligatures, and then replaced. If this is impracticable at the time, a pad and bandage should be placed on injured part until surgical aid can be obtained.

As there is danger of inflammation, A.A. should be given at two-hour intervals, and also a dose of I.I. each day. The horse should be kept very quiet and fed sparingly on soft food.

Capped Elbow

This is a swelling formed at the point of the elbow, consisting of an infiltration of bloody serum, and thickened skin. It may be the result of a blow, but is most generally caused by the horse in so lying that the calks of the shoe press upon the elbow joint. In some cases, inflammatory action sets in, and the tumor softens and is discharged, or if the pressure is continued, the swelling becomes hard and firm.

Treatment.—When the injury is recent, apply hot water three times per day, and afterwards apply the Veterinary Oil. Alter the shoe by removing the calks and smoothing the shoe, as far as possible, to prevent any further irritation. Should it have become soft and matter formed it should be treated as an abscess.

Capped Hock

This form of injury most frequently results from kicking or some similar violence, and manifests itself either as a swelling at the point of the hock, which consists of an effusion of bloody serum and thickened skin; or the swelling bulges out on each side of the hock, making the enlargement more prominent at the sides. This is found to consist of an enlargement of the bursa or small bags, which contain the lubricating fluid for the part, and over which the sinews glide.

Treatment.—Give ten drops of B.B., three times per day. Wash the part with hot water morning and night, applying the Veterinary Oil afterwards as for capped elbow. After the heat and irritation are reduced, careful hand-rubbing and the use of I.I., at night will do much to disperse the enlargement of the bursa.

Curb

At the back of the hock, three or four inches below its point, an enlargement or swelling arises which has received the name of curb. It is a strain of the ring-like ligament which binds the tendons in their place, or of the sheath itself. It comes on in consequence of a violent strain of the flexor tendons, or from a blow, kick, or contusion upon the part. It is most likely to occur in cow-hocked horses, where the hocks are turned inward, and the legs form a considerable angle outward, as in such cases the angular ligament must be continually on the stretch in order to confine the tendon.

When it first occurs, the swelling may not be great but is attended with warmth, pain and lameness, the leg being moved with caution and awkwardly.

Treatment.—In recent cases, frequent bathing of the part with the Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel diluted one-half water, allowing the horse to rest, and give A.A. at first, then B.B., three times per day. The application of Humphreys’ Veterinary Oil, morning and night will be better after the heat and swelling have mostly subsided. Rest is absolutely essential. If prematurely put to hard labor it is very likely to return again. If the curb is permitted to run its course, the acute stage will pass off leaving a hard, cold tumor, which may materially interfere with the motion of the joint. All old cases require B.B., once or twice daily, for some weeks.

Docking

By docking the tail of a horse, his shape and external appearance are sometimes improved, yet the operation is not without its consequences, such as inflammation, nervous irritation, fistulous ulcers, tetanous, etc. It is hoped that the time is not distant when this barbarous and senseless custom will be abolished, and the stern hand of the law laid upon every man who thus mutilates God’s creatures. Yet if the senseless operation is done, dress the wound with Humphreys’ Veterinary Oil, which keep applied to the wound. Give first fifteen drops of A.A., and after a few hours, the same of B.B., which may be repeated from time to time to relieve the soreness and inflammation.

Fractures

Fractures of the bones of the horse occasionally occur in consequence of some severe blow, contusion, fall, or other injury. They are discoverable from the difference in shape, swelling, lameness of the part, and especially by the “CREPITUS,” or grating sound, which occurs from moving the two fractured ends of bone together. In all doubtful cases, this crepitation is the reliable criterion. In the more palpable cases, the distortion, loss of the use of the part, and extensive swelling, remove all doubt.

Among the most common are fractures of the ribs, forming a swelling over the place, which is very sensitive to pressure. Of the pelvis, rendering one hip lower than the other. Of the leg, rendering movement and use of the limb impossible, the point below the fracture swinging about useless.

Fractures are simple where a single break occurs in one bone, compound when the surrounding parts are lacerated, and comminuted when bones are broken up or fractured in different directions.

The treatment of all fractures rest upon very simple principles. Bring the broken parts to their natural position, keeping them there until they unite, the more perfectly this is done, the more perfect will be the result. Unfortunately, from the weight of the animal, and often his intractability, this is not always easy or even possible. But, on the other hand, nature will eventually heal even the worst cases, requiring, it is true, a longer time, and leaving behind very sad traces of her faulty workmanship. So that in treating a fracture, all these elements should be taken into consideration.

Fracture of the ribs: Bathe the swelling with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, and the parts will soon unite.

Fracture of the haunch bone cannot be reduced, but nature will ere long heal it, though with some distortion, one hip will be lower than the other.

Fractures of the leg, from the weight of the animal, are extremely difficult to manage. It can only be done by suspending the animal by stout canvas passing under the belly and attached to rollers on either side and by means of pulleys raising him up so that the feet just touch the ground, the canvas being supplied with heavy bands, before and behind, to keep the body securely fixed in the canvas. The fractured ends of the limb should then be carefully adjusted and the limb wound well with a roller-bandage, then a pair of iron splints, grooved so as to fit the limb, and well wadded with tow; the splint that is behind two or three inches longer than the foot, should be securely bound on. The whole internal bandage should be bathed with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel and kept wet with it, from time to time, for a week. This will subdue inflammation and hasten the union of the parts. After eight days, the splints should be removed and the limb examined, and again replaced, to remain five or six weeks, at the end of which time the splint may be removed and a simple bandage and lighter splint retained until the cure is perfected in some six weeks longer, when the animal may be trusted to use his limb. If the ends are in proper apposition and maintained there, the union will be perfect, with but little swelling or deformity.

The general treatment of all fractures is to place the parts in apposition, keep them there by proper splints and bandage, and keep the place wet with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel until the heat and swelling have subsided. Give also a dose of A.A., every two hours, for the first three days, to reduce the heat and fever; then alternate the B.B. with A.A. a dose every three or four hours during the day, to promote reunion.

Sprains or Strains and Dislocations

Sprains of various joints or parts occur which are more or less grave or serious, depending upon the extent of injury or the joint involved. If a bone is displaced it is termed a dislocation. The joint becomes painful, swelling soon ensues, and on comparing the joint with its fellow, we perceive the distortion; the limb is longer or shorter, and the animal moves it with great difficulty or not at all. If the bone is not moved from its position, but the ligaments are merely injured, or torn, or joints otherwise bruised, it is termed a sprain. The swelling in this case is often as severe and even more so than in case of actual dislocation. Yet the accident is not so serious, because in cases of horses and cattle, a dislocation is not always curable, and if the joint be replaced the danger of new dislocation is far more imminent than though it had never occurred.

Causes.—Sprains and dislocations occur from false steps, slipping, leaping across ditches, sudden springing, violent effort in drawing a load, or sudden turning, or from falls, blows, kicks, contusions, etc.

Treatment.—In all such cases the indications are simple, yet the execution of them is sometimes very difficult. For sprains, bathe the parts with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, to keep down the swelling and inflammation, renewing the application from time to time at intervals of two, four, or six hours, according to the urgency of the case, and give six doses of A.A. three hours apart, then B.B. morning, noon and night.

Sprains of the Fet-Lock.—A sprain of this joint sometimes occurs, manifested by heat, swelling, and lameness more or less decided, and especially manifested when the horse is moving on uneven ground. When recent, bathe the part with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, and saturate a bandage with it, wrap it up, moistening it from time to time, and giving B.B., two or three times per day, fifteen drops at a dose. The pain and lameness will gradually abate.

Luxation of the Patella, or Stifle.—Under the influence of a severe blow, a sudden leap or strain, the patella, or knee-pan is sometimes displaced. The animal holds his leg stiff and extended, cannot rest on it, and when obliged to walk, draws it along. This displacement of the patella is called being STIFLED. The displacement can be reduced by the aid of sufficient help, and placing a side-line with a hopple on the pastern of the affected limb, and drawing the hind leg forward, the surgeon will then, with both hands, bring the bone to its place.

Often the reduction is effected of itself if the horse makes the slightest effort. The part should be bathed in Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, as the ligaments are always injured; give fifteen drops of B.B. three times a day.

Injuries of the stifle, bruises, strains, etc., often occur, and should be treated by bathing the part with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, and giving the animal the above Remedy for injuries.

Sprain of the Psoas Muscles.—This occurs from drawing heavy loads on soft ground, or from horses’ hind legs slipping back on ice, or from jumping a bank.

Symptoms.—Difficulty in bringing up the hind legs when made to move, and sometimes inability to stand. It may be mistaken for spinal injury, but the difference is as follows: When the spine is injured, complete paralysis takes place, whereas in Sprain of the Psoas Muscles the animal is able to kick and to extend the leg with great force. Examination per rectum will leave no doubt as to the nature of the injury, for pain on pressure, and swelling of the muscles, will be evident.

Treatment.—Give B.B., morning and night.

Sprains of the Muscles of the Haunch.—The gluteal muscles are sometimes sprained by violent exertion. The injury will be followed by effusion, swelling, and stiffness of the quarters, and afterwards by a gradual wasting of the muscles, which can be perceived by standing behind the animal and comparing the quarters.

Treatment.—Warm applications, A.A., and, after the inflammation has somewhat subsided, the B.B. four times per day.

Hip Joint Lameness.—This lameness may be produced by a sprain of the round ligaments, or gluteus externus muscle; but it more frequently arises from a sprain of the tendon of the gluteus maximus at its insertion into the trochanter major.

Symptoms.—A dragging and rotary motion of the leg, pain on pressure, and a swelling which fills up the natural furrow, so well defined in well bred horses, formed by the semi-membranous and gluteus externus.

Treatment.—This is the same as for Sprain of the Muscles of the Haunch.

Sprain of the Stifle Joint.—This is not very common, but when it does occur it may be easily recognized by the swelling, which, being superficial, can be easily felt, and by the pain caused by pressure. The action is also peculiar, the animal is unwilling to advance the hind leg, and drags it after him in trotting.

Treatment.—Warm applications frequently applied, and Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel morning and evening. As soon as the inflammation subsides the warm application must be discontinued, and a dose of B.B. given three times per day.

Sprain of the Hock.—The tendons and ligaments of this joint are all liable to be sprained in leaping and galloping through heavy ground. The tendons of the gastrocnemii internus, or those which retain the latter in its place, sometimes become lacerated, and allow the cap formed by the gastrocnemii tendon to slip off the os calcis to the outside. In such an accident we cannot replace the tendon, but with rest and warm applications the animal may become fit for road-work.

The tendon of the flexor pedis perforans, which passes down the back of the hock, is occasionally sprained, and the sprain is followed by a thickening, and sometimes ossification of the tendon. The extensor pedis at the front of the hock may also be sprained, and this occurs just where the tendon passes under the inferior annular ligaments, and, being accompanied by distension of the bursa, may be mistaken for sprain.

The ligaments connecting the bones of the hock may suffer from an ordinary sprain, which, if discovered and properly treated, may be easily cured. But, unfortunately, the sprain is seldom discovered until the inflammation has wrought an important pathological change in the tarsal ligaments, whereby their structure loses its elasticity and becomes converted into a cartilaginous or bony substance. If this takes place in the inner part of the hock, we call the disease Spavin; but if on the posterior part we call it Curb. These are usually classed as diseases of the bone, but they more properly belong to this category, as they are an effect of long continued and neglected Sprain.

Give fifteen drops of B.B., three times per day.

Cutting, Brushing, Speedy-Cut,

Over-Reach and Tread.

These are names given to bruises caused by one foot striking against another foot or leg.

Cutting or Brushing is caused by a foot striking the opposite fetlock or cannon bone. It may occur before or behind; usually behind. It arises from defective structure of the legs, or from wasting of the legs in horses badly fed, so that they are brought abnormally near to each other.

Speedy-Cut.—The inside of one or both feet usually strikes the fetlock joint of the opposite foot in passing it; but sometimes the cannon bone is struck just below the knee; the bruise thus caused is called “Speedy-cut.” It occurs during fast action, generally in horses with badly shaped legs. It is more dangerous than common cutting, because the pain is more severe and the shock to the system greater, so much so that sometimes the horse falls as if he were shot. Examination may discover a small bare place, partially concealed by adjacent hair, or a contusion, or an abrasion of the skin, or a scab on the inside of the cannon bone. In bad cases the periosteum may be swollen and the bone itself enlarged.

Treatment.—This should be the same as for common cutting; but in all probability the only effectual remedy will be the construction of a speedy-cut boot, with a pad on the inside of the leg reaching from the knee to the fetlock, kept in position by buckles, and resting on the fetlock joint.

Treads and Over-Reaches.—These are names given to a wound between hair and hoof, inflicted either on the fore coronary substance by the shoe of the hind foot, or on the hind leg by another horse treading on it. Cart horses may inflict the injury on themselves with the calk of the shoe. These wounds are sometimes difficult to heal in consequence of the difference in organization of the parts injured, the exterior being highly vascular, but the interior cartilaginous.

Treatment.—Every portion of detached horn, hair or skin must be removed and the wound cleansed and dressed with the Veterinary Oil placed on soft tow and bound up with broad tape. On the third and every subsequent day the dressing may be removed, but warm applications and poultices must be avoided. In cases of neglect or ill-treatment the suppurative process may have become established, and the warm applications may be necessary. If neglected the disease may end in Quittor.

In all cases of Injuries or Bruises, give A.A., and B.B. in alternation, two doses of each per day.

Broken Knee

This is a very vague term and may imply simply to a bruise, an abrasion of the skin, or a division of the tendons or of the capsule of the joints.

Causes.—Mechanical, such as falling or striking the knee against some hard and sharp substance.

Symptoms.—There may be a simple bruise, without perforation of the skin, which, though not strictly speaking a broken knee, may be conveniently regarded as such; the knee is hot, swollen and painful, and sometimes hair is removed, or there may be abrasion of the skin, or it may be cut through, torn and jagged, and the underlying tissues more or less injured, the sheath of the tendon being exposed. If no glairy fluid issue at the time the joint is not open, and there is no cause for uneasiness about anything except the blemish which may remain, but which will generally be very slight if suitable treatment be adopted. A more serious form of Broken Knee is where it is bruised, cut or lacerated, and opened down to the joint, accompanied by the escape of clear synovial fluid, “joint oil,” like the white of an egg;

Treatment.—The horse’s head must be racked up for a few days or placed in cradles, to prevent his biting the wound. In broken knees where the skin and subtextures are very much contused, and where such a quantity of sand has become imbedded that suppuration is a necessary consequence, it is well to put on a turnip or carrot poultice (but never bran, for it acts as an irritant). A leg of a woolen stocking should be drawn up over the knee and fastened around the leg at the lower part with a piece of tape, then, from above, the space in front of the knee can be filled with mashed turnip; the upper part of the stocking can then be fastened as the lower. The poultice may be repeated morning and evening for about three days, when suppuration will most probably be established, and no further treatment be necessary unless the granulations become too luxuriant, when the Veterinary Oil may be applied, but not too freely or too often. In a few days the scab will fall off, and if cicatrisation has not taken place, the process may be hastened by washing the part three times a day with tepid water, or better, with the Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel. Give B.B.

Stings of Bees, Hornets, &c.

Sometimes where a horse has been tied near a swarm of bees, if sweaty or offensive to them, the swarm has been known to attack him, producing pain, inflammation, swelling, and sometimes death. Hornets are as bad or worse. Apply freely Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel. Give A.A., fifteen drops, and repeat it every hour.

CHAPTER III.—Part I.
DISEASES OF THE FEET AND LEGS

Lameness

The adage “No roof, no house,” is matched by “No foot, no horse,” because in either case the value of the thing is measured by the part that is wanting. So lameness or its absence is the essential part to be looked after in a horse. Fortunately it is not always necessary to decide in our practice the precise point, structure, tendon or muscle involved in order to cure, but it is always desirable. Hence the following points are suggested.

If the lameness has come on suddenly during a drive or work, it suggests some accident, or other very recent cause, such as picking up a nail or a stone, a bruise of the sole, an over-reach, or a strain of a tendon or joint. If it has come on slowly or gradually, it would suggest some more deep-seated or constitutional cause.

If it occurs of having been out, or worked in cold rains, or after work standing uncovered in a cold chill wind, it suggests rheumatism or rheumatic lameness, or laminitis, “founder of the feet.”

An examination must always be made quietly. If the horse is excited you are liable to be put upon the wrong track. If the fore feet are affected the hind feet will be likely to be brought far forward in order to take the weight off the sore place. If one fore foot points or is advanced some inches beyond the other, it suggests some difficulty in the heel of that foot or back part of that limb; while, bending the knee and fetlock, and resting the foot or the toe without advancing it, suggests a disease of the shoulder or elbow. In all cases of lameness of one foot, that one will rest more lightly on the ground, and be raised more quickly than the other. In exercise when one limb is affected, that foot comes to the ground less heavily than the other, and the head and fore part of the body are elevated, when it comes down and drops again when the sound foot comes down. With lameness in both fore feet the step is short, and the stroke on the ground weak, the shoulders stiff, head raised, and hind feet brought unnaturally forward. In lameness on one side behind the rising and falling of the hip on the affected side is more marked than on the sound side. When both sides behind are involved, the fore feet will be kept well back under the animal to relieve the weight. With these hints in mind the location of the trouble may be usually ascertained and the treatment by external applications facilitated. Consult also the special form of lameness or disease which the examination has indicated as the directions or hints given therein may be valuable as sprain, rheumatism, bruises, corns, stifle, founder, spavin, splint, etc.

Treatment.—In general, when the point of difficulty is known, and if recent, the place swollen, or heated, apply Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel diluted one-half with water, two or three, or more times per day. In severe cases, put on a compress wet with diluted Marvel, which renew as often as it gets dry, and give A.A., if there is much heat or fever in the part, a dose say four times per day. When the heat has subsided, or if there is no special fever or heat apparent, give B.B. as often at first, and later or in more indolent or chronic cases a dose morning and night. Later, and especially if the lameness is worse on first morning, give I.I. in place of B.B., or alternate the one morning and the other night.

The Veterinary Oil, may be used after the use of the Marvel, or when there is local swelling, bruise, or any chafing, cut, scratch, or ulceration or for bruised or broken hoof or corn. Apply it daily.

Laminitis, Inflammation of the Feet or Founder

This is one of the most frequent diseases of the horse, and one in which the resources of my Homeopathic Remedies are very efficient. The sensible lamina or fleshy plates on the front and sides of the coffin-bone, are, like all other vascular structures, very liable to inflammation, particularly from violence or long continued action of the part. Hence, standing long in one position, as in sea-voyages; battering or bruising the feet in severe or long journeys; sudden changes from heat to cold, or from cold to heat, acting directly oil the feet; standing in snow or cold water after a journey, are the more common causes of this disease. It sometimes occurs as a mere transition of the disease from some other part, and occasionally from excess of food or indigestible food, or food when heated. Many cases of so called Founder are really only attacks of Acute Rheumatism; hence consult what is said on that disease, and compare the two chapters for a better understanding of the subject.

Symptoms.—The disease generally begins with a shivering, shaking chill; the flanks heave; the breathing becomes quick and labored; the pulse full and frequent; the horse shifts his feet from one place to another; lies down and rises frequently, but does not paw the ground nor kick his belly; he will sometimes place his lips on the fevered feet, as if to tell where his pain is; he places his hind legs under him, as if to take the weight of his body from the fore-feet; he moans or groans from the severity of the pain and at last lies down, unable to stand upon the inflamed feet. The feet are intensely hot and painful. If one foot is taken up, he can scarcely stand upon the other and may tumble down. He does not like to get up from the ground, and is moved with difficulty from one place to another. If the disease be not arrested, matter may form inside the hoof, which even may be thrown off.

The disease may exist in a more chronic form, coming on by degrees, and eventually resulting in the ruin of the horse.

It is more common to see it in a milder form than the first mentioned presenting the following symptoms: The horse is feverish, out of spirits, refuses to eat, cannot raise his limbs without evincing pain, trails his feet along with difficulty; cannot readily be made to go forward, or backward scarcely at all. In the stable, horses bring the four feet near together, and there is no little difficulty in making them relinquish this attitude.

Treatment.—In the more severe cases, the shoes should be removed from the feet, and the hoof pared down until the horn yields to the pressure of the thumb. Give the horse rest, and allow him to lie down, wrap the hoofs in cloths soaked in water, and renew them from time to time. If the disease is from the feet having been battered by long driving or riding, bathing them with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel will be of great value. In some cases, a cold poultice, made of mashed turnips or carrots, is of excellent service.

The remedy is B.B., of which a dose may be given every three hours, in acute cases. In recent cases, when there is fever, decided lameness and heat of the foot, and indeed in almost every case, you may better begin with A.A., of which give a dose every two hours, and after three or four doses, alternate with B.B., as often as every two hours, and after the force of the disease has abated, the B.B., may be continued alone at increasing intervals, until entire restoration.

When the disease is clearly traceable to over-feeding, the B.B. and J.K., may be alternated from the first, every three or four hours, in doses of fifteen drops.

In case of chronic founder, the B.B. should be given, a dose of fifteen drops, each morning and night, and the treatment continued for some time. An occasional dose of J.K. will be useful as a constitutional intercurrent remedy, and may be given at noon, while the B.B. is given morning and night.

On the Formation of Joints

Joints are formed of bones which fit into each other by unequal surfaces, whose cavities and eminences mutually correspond. As the roughness of the bones would prevent their moving freely without friction, we find an intervening smooth elastic substance called cartilage, which not only obviates this inconvenience, but in a great measure takes off the jar that would otherwise ensue when the horse moves on hard ground. To render the motion still easier, we find the cartilage covered with a fine synovial membrane, secreting a fluid of an albuminous and oily character, which acts in the same capacity as oil to machinery, namely, to prevent friction.

Besides the membranous connection of bones which enter into the formation of joints, there are strong, flexible substances of a fibrous texture called ligaments, which are the chief bond of attachment, and support the lower joints; while others are further strengthened by muscles and tendons. Bursæ mucosæ are small closed sacs which surround the tendons wherever there is friction; they are analogous in structure to the synovial membrane, and secrete a similar fluid.

Synovitis

Definition.—Idiopathic or constitutional inflammation of the synovial membranes. The inflamed membranes never extend beyond a certain size, nor do they burst, nor do they terminate healthily without treatment, but remain in the same condition from year to year. The inflamed condition is most frequently observed at the hock, when it is called Bog-spavin and Thorough-pin. But it is also found affecting the knee and fetlock, and in the latter case is sometimes confounded with Windgalls, which are inflamed bursæ mucosæ.

Causes.—Rheumatic Fever; exposure to heat and cold; also friction from quick work on a hard road; sprains.

Symptoms.—Lameness quickly succeeded by swelling of some joints, not of the surrounding fibrous texture, as in true Rheumatism; the swelling in this disease is in the synovial cavity, and the effusion is at first generally serous and unattended by the fever which ushers in the muscular or fibrous Rheumatism. As the inflammation proceeds, coagulable lymph may be thrown out and the joint be permanently enlarged, or, from adhesions, the horse be left with a stiff joint.

Give A.A., four times per day at first, then B.B., morning and night.

Ulceration of Articular Cartilage

The inflammation in the synovial membrane sometimes extends to the cartilage, covering the ends of the tibia or astragalus. In such cases there is a diminution of the synovial secretion, also ulceration and wearing away of the cartilage, and a polishing of the surface of the bone, which has been erroneously called a porcelaineous deposit. We have seen this ulceration of the cartilage, and even caries of the bone, in the navicular more commonly than in the bones of the hock; but not a few cases of occult lameness in the hock may be attributed to it. Give B.B. two or three times per day.

Windgalls—Puffs

In the region of the joints, and wherever friction is likely to take place, we find the tendons supplied with little sacs (bursæ mucosæ) composed of membrane similar to the synovial, and secreting in health an oily fluid from their internal surface, in very small quantities; but when the tendons become strained, or increased action is set up in them from over-exertion, nature comes to the rescue by increasing the bursal secretion, and we then perceive a slight elastic tumor, called Windgall or Puff.

Causes.—Tendinous sprains or over-exertion of any kind, and long continued friction from quick work on hard roads. Low, marshy pastures seem to have a tendency sometimes to produce a dropsical effusion in and around the joints of young horses, very similar to the enlarged bursæ from hard work; but they soon yield to constitutional treatment.

Symptoms.—Soft, elastic, circumscribed swellings, at first about the size of a nut, but eventually becoming hard and much larger, which appear in the neighborhood of some of the joints, such as the knee, hock, or fetlock. To the latter, however, the name is usually restricted, although equally applicable to the former; so that when we say that a horse has Windgalls, we mean that he has above, or on each side of, the fetlock, or back sinew, one or more elastic tumors, usually unattended by lameness or any active inflammation. The seat of these bursal enlargements is either between the perforatus and perforans tendons, or between the latter and the suspensory ligament. There is, however, another fetlock Windgall found on the front of the joints, between it and the extensor tendon; and a similar swelling occurs at the supero-posterior part of the knee from the distension of the bursa, between the perforatus and perforans tendons.

Pathology.—These enlargements were formerly supposed to contain wind, and so obtained their absurd name; but, from what has been already stated, the reader will perceive that they consist in an increase of bursal fluid similar to joint oil, and in a majority of cases do no harm, but are rather to be considered as a beautiful provision of Nature to obviate the baneful effects of friction from over-exertion of the muscles and tendons. Morbid changes, however, do occasionally take place in the bursæ, either from inordinate increase of their contents setting up inflammation in their tissue, or from an extension of the inflammation to contiguous parts, in which not only the bursal sacs, but also the lining membrane of the tendinous sheath, participate, when we find the puffy swelling extending up the leg, above the ordinary seat of Windgall, and very tender on pressure. The effect of this inflammation on the bursæ mucosæ is to cause a thickening of the membrane and a total change in the contents of the sac; the fluid, instead of being a straw-color, becomes reddened from the effusion of blood, which, after death, we find clotted and of a dark color. Lymph also is occasionally effused, giving the tumor a firm, hard feel, which, from calcareous deposits, produces lameness.

I.I., given morning and night, often clears up these blemishes wonderfully.

Seedy Toe

This disorder, frequently a sequel to laminitis, often arises without any assignable cause. It can sometimes be attributed to the clip of the shoe pressing on a hoof predisposed to the disease from deficiency in its natural glutinous secretions, whereby the horn becomes dry and loses its cohesive property, and is unable to resist the pressure from the toe clip, which a healthy hoof would do with impunity. It may also be consequent on gravel or dirt working in at the edge of the sole.

Symptoms.—The horn at the toe (of the fore-feet of troop and riding horses, but frequently the hind feet of cart horses) becomes “seedy,” and crumbles away like so much saw-dust or the dry rot in wood; while at the junction between the wall and sole a fissure will be apparent, leading upward between the outer and inner crusts of the wall, sometimes extending up to the coronet, and in old cases laterally, so that there is some difficulty in finding a piece of horn sufficiently sound to hold a nail, and side clips become necessary in keeping the shoe on. Percussion on the wall of the hoof with a hammer will show to what extent the separation has taken place.

Treatment.—The whole of the crust, as far as it is separated from the horny laminæ underneath, must be cut away, and the foot bound up with tar, tow, and broad tape. Veterinary Oil applied to the coronet will hasten the downward growth of the wall. Keep the horse standing in clay, daily anointing the hoof with Veterinary Oil. Both means have been successfully tried. Give J.K. morning and night.

Navicular Joint Disease