cdc:k: XHEIJR RE AND TREATMENT PRS, L. D. & N. G. LEGIAR. t^ Wain Jjj^ Agric d^pI Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2007 with funding from IVIicrosoft Corporation http://www.archive.org/details/drlegearsstockboOOIegerich ^A #1 O i \ \ \ ^ ■ \ X r^ V x-^ ' i> \\ .«f \^ \ — — 1 x^ >^ \ •» ^^ X o n V n N >-^ X -s n X —1 X --»-i \ * -n — 1 -s X V -i-l K ^' ^-> X •——•% ^ -N*1'> \ "^ ^:)1 .^--f . ^ s X ^ X >^ rvi -^ ^^X 1 ^ ^ ^ ^^ X ^ ^ X NS \ f^j m \ X \ V T* ^> Zf ^ X 5^1 X^^ $^ ^^ • V \ V \ ^ V ^ x^ : X i^^r •x^ X t > ^ ^^ "vs:i, 4 DR. LEGEAR'8 STOCK BOOK A COMPLETE, VALUABLE, INSTKUCTIVE BOOK OF KEFERENCE FOR ALL HORSE AND STOCK OWNERS. COMPRISING A DESCBIPTION OF THE GENERAL CARE, FEEDING AND WATERING, STABLING AND BREEDING, AND ALL THE DIS- EASES AND THEIR TREATMENT, OF STOCK IN TEXAS AND THE SOUTH. IT IS PLAINLY WRITTEN AND CONTAINS THE LATEST AND MOST VALUABLE FORMULAS. By DRS. L. D. and N. G. LeGEAR, GBADUATES OF THE ONTABIO VETEKINABY COLLEGE, TOBONTO, ONTABIO ; HONOEAET MEMBEBS OF THE ONTABIO VETEBINABY MEDICAL society; and VETEBINABIANS fob "the TEXAS STOCKMAN AND FABMEB," SAN ANTONIO. .2tSi AUSTIN, TEXAS PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHO TWO COhts RECEIVED <\ Main IS\ Agric Dc^ Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1897, by Dr8. L. D. and N. G. LeGear, In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D. C. BEN C. JONES AND CO. PRINTERS, BINDERS AND EI.ECTROTYPER8, AFSTIN. TEXAS. / Below is a voluntary testimonial from The Texas Stockman and Farmer Pnblishifig Co., of San Antonio, Texas, who publish The Texas Stockman and Farmer, which is one of the best pa- pers that is devoted to the live stock and farming interests of Texas and the Southwest: The Texas Stockman and Farmer, San Antonio, Texas, August 3d, 1897. To the Stock (]rrower.s and Farmers of Texas: We have examined the advance sheets of the well-written and handsomely illustrated w^ork devoted to the diseases and treat- ment of live stock in Texas and the South, and their proper care and breeding, to be issued shortly by Dr. L. D. LeGear and Dr. N. G. LeGear, veterinary surgeons, Austin, Texas. This book is plainly and simply written, and will be of great value on every farm and ranch. Dr.8. LeGear are both graduate veterinary surgeons, and have built up a large practice in this State. Dr. L. D. LeGear, for several years past, has been in charge of the veterinary department of this paper, and we have reason to know that he is one of the best posted men on diseases of live- stock and their treatment in the South; hence it is that we take gr^at pleasure in endorsing thi.s work. The Texas Stockman and Farmer Pub. Co., Per Vories P. Brown, Editor and Manager. CU-Berkeley 268432 Below is a clipping from the August 26th number of "Tlie Texas Vorwarts," the largest and most widely circulated German weekly paper in the State, published at Austin, Texas, by Judge Schutze. "We have read with great interest the manuscript of a book, very useful to the farmers and stock raisers, principally for such who reside in the State of Texas, or elsewhere in the South, and we can recommend same as a very valuable book. The book is edited by Drs. LeGear. It is indeed a stock book: complete, valu- able, and instructive — a book of reference for all hoi*se and stock raisers and owners. It furnishes an exact description of the general care of stock: its feeding, watering, stabling, and breed- ing. It treats on the diseases of stock, and their treatment in Texas and the South. The book is written in plain language, and contains the latest and most valuable recipes for the cure of the diseases of- stock. The editors, Drs. L. D. and N. G. LeGear, are graduates of the Ontario Veterinary College at Toronto, hon- orary members of the Ontario Veterinary Medical Society, and veterinarians for "The Texas Stockman and Farmer," San, An- tonio, Texas, " JULIUS SCHUTZE, Editor and Manager." INTRODUCTION. After traveling about over Texas and the South for three years, practicing our profession as veterinary surgeons, and in- vestigating the diseases and ailments peculiar to the domesti- cated animals here, we were very forcibly struck with this thought: ^'How greatly in need are the stock raisers and stock owners in Texas and the South of the proper information and instructions on the general care of stock, and their treatment \shile injured or diseased/' This thought, with the request of hundreds of stock owners, stimulated us to the consideration of writing a general Stock Book, plainly written and profusely il- lustrated, by the aid of which every stock owner could treat the majority of diseases and ailments of his stock; and, best of all, learn how to care for them and keep them from becoming dis- eased. In offering our work to the public for sale, we think we have amply filled this want and demand. Texas, with her 7,000,000 cattle, 2,000,000 horses, 2,000,000 hogs, and 4,000,000 sheep, can boast of being by far the greatest and best stock producing State in the Union; and then for her to be so nearly \^dthout veterinary skill, and plainly written veterin- ary books, shows the great need of a stock book of this kind on every ranch, farm, and in the house of every stock owner in the State. We find what few stock books there are in this country are either too old or are not written in a language plain enough for the ordinarj^ citizen to understand. As veterinary science during the last few years has made such rapid progress in in- vestigating the exact nature and more successful treatment of various stock diseases, therefore, a stock book at the present day ii Introduction. is considered old and out of date if it is only five or eight years old. In writing this volume, we have taken special care and pains to write it in a very plain language, so that any one under- standing the English language can read it understandingly. We have made special efforts to make all new treatments as plain as possible, and to give the very best formulas for the same. You will notice in the treatment of some of the diseases given in this book that we recommend Dr. LeGear's Celebrated Veterinary Iiemedies. These are a line of stock medicines, explained fully in tins book, that we are manufacturing for the benefit and con- veniences of the .stock owner. They are put up in a very con- venient form, and are cheaper than you can get formulas filled for the same diseases, and they can be liad from your druggist, of your country merchant. Wq are both graduate veterinary surgeons, having taken a full course of instructions, and graduated with high honors, from the Ontario Veterinary College, Toronto, Canada. In preparing this book, besides our veterinary skill, we have referred to the follow- ing noted modern veterinary writers: Robertson, Fleming, Chau- veau, Strangeway, Liautard, William.s, Courtney, Armatage, Finley Dun, Special Reports of the Bureau of Animal Industry, and The American Veterinary Review. We have endeavored, as far as possible, to illustrate this book by using original, appro- priate cuts, which we hope will be a great aid to all those who read it in understanding the various diseases and their treatment. In conclusion, we wish to express a hope that this work may be fa\orably received by all into whose hands it may find its way, and more particularly the stock man and stock owners of Texas and the South. DR. LeGEAR'S stock BOOK. CHAPTER I. FEEDING AND WATERING HORSES. How often is the question asked, "How and when shall we feed and water our horses?" We shall endeavor to give, in as few words as possible, our opinion on this subject, which is endorsed b}^ the best authorities in this country. Our remarks shall be confined to the driving horse, and the work horse and mule, not referring to horses at pasture. Over one-half the diseases of the digestive organs are caused by improper feeding and watering; therefore, this is a very important subject for all horse owners to consider. The horse, man's mo,st faithful and useful servant, since be- coming domesticated has to depend on man for the feed he eats, the water he drinks, the freedom he gets, the air he breathes, the light he receives, and, in fact, his very existence is at man's will, to properly or improperly care for him. Considering the small size of a horse's stomach, it would lead one to the belief that he ,should be fed often and a small quantity at a time. Some of the large feeding stables in the North feed their horses grain four times a day, but we think three times is sufficient, but it should be done regularly, and at the same hour each day, if possible. Hay, fodder, or whatever roughness is used, should be fed at night, when the racks can be filled up, and let them eat what they want, as they have all night for it to digest. This applies more particularly to driving horses, for if they are fed hay shortly 2 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. before going on a drive their stomach 'and bowels are very dis- tended, which makes it difficult and injurious to perform severe labor. Eapid and severe labor should not be performed on a full stomach. For such horses, food must be given in small quanti- ties, and fed to them one or two hours before going to their work. One of the common errors of feeding, and one that produces more digestive disorders, is to feed too soon after a hard day's work. First give a few swallows of water, then some hay, and in about one hour give what water he will drink, and then his grain. By all means, fee-d sound, wholesome food, for damaged, inferior food is dear at any price. The disproportion between the size of the stomach and the amount of water drank tells us plainly that the horse should always be watered before feeding, as the stomach holds but three and a half to four gallons. A series of experiments has proven this. A horse was given all the water he would drink and fed four quarts of oats, and immediately after eating them he was killed. On opening the stomach, it was found that nearly all the oats were in the stomach and undergoing the process of di- gestion. Another horse was watered and fed in the same way, and was killed one hour after eating the oats. In this case, it was found that nearly all the oats had left the stomach and were found in the bowels, thoroughly digested and undergoing ab- sorption. A third one was given four quarts of oats, then given a bucket of water, and immediately killed. What a sad state of affairs was found. I^early all the oats had been slushed out of the stomach by the water, and were found floating in the water in the bowels in an undigested state. It is the same with all kinds of grain fed in this way. The grain which is washed out of the stomach by watering right after feeding not only passes out of the system only partially digested, but it gives extra work to the bowels, and weakens and overtaxes them. It can be plainly seen by the above that horses and mules should be watered before feeding, and not directly afterward. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 3 Horses at work should be watered often, and a small quantity at a time-; while standing in the stable, three times a day is suffi- cient. Nothing will refresh a horse, while driving on a hot day, like a few swallows of fresh water. It gives him new life and strength, and permits him to pursue his. journey with much greater ease. On coming in, heated from a drive, a few swallows of water is beneficial to a horse, but all he will drink is dangerous. Water should be fresh, pure and wholesome. Impure water is the cause of many diseases of the horse. The quantity of grain fed should be regulated according to the size of the animal and the amount of labor he is required to do. Some horses are like some people — they can stand the violation of the proper laws of feeding and watering for a considerable length of time without experiencing or showing any inconveniences therefrom, but some day its effects will be plainly seen. Sick animals should have a bucket of fresh, cool water before them all the time. The food for a sick horse should be very nu- tritious and easy of digestion. Bran mashes, either scalded or just wet with cold water; boiled oats; green grass, or green food of any kind; linseed gruel, beets, turnips, potatoes, etc., are all very good. Wheat bran is a very necessary article of diet for every horse owner to have about his stable. He should educate his horses to eat it, for it is very healthy to a well horse, and far more valuable to a sick one. 4 Dr. LeCtear's Stock Book. CHAPTER II. STABLING AND GENERAL CARE OF HORSES. This is a subject that is sadly neglected by a majority of horse owners in this country. Very few farmers, and a great many horse owners in the cities and towns, have what can be called stables for their horses; they have merely a lot and sheds, and, in fact, some don't have even a shed. These sheds, as a general thing, are cool, airy, and comfortable for summer, but are cruel- ly cold and disagreeable during the winter "northers." The horse, man's most faithful servant, needs comfort and protection against the cold and wet as well as man does. It is for the- want of proper care and comfort that so many horses become affected with disease. These air}?^, cool sheds are the very best kind of stables for summer time in this country, but for winter we should have stables that we caii close up to keep out the cold, chilly air, and give the animal a good bed of straw to lie on. How comfort- able it seems to u,s when, during a cojd "norther," we can close our doors and windows, and get into a soft, warm bed, provided with plenty of blankets to keep us warm. We should first see that our stock have a warm, comfortable place for the night, and then w^e can lie down and sleep with a clear conscience and an easy mind. Stables should be kept clean and dry, and have plenty of ven- tilation and good light. Close, dark, poorly ventilated stables are very injurious to horses' eyes, and to their general health. Foul air should be allowed to escape through trap-doors or win- dows in the ceiling or top of the stable. The stalls should be large and comfoi-table, box-stalls being the best. The stall floor should be clay or dirt, and nearly level. A hard plank floor is injurious to a horse's feet and legs. The hay racks should not be Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 5 too high; in fact, it is better to feed hay from the ground, which is the natural way for a horse to get its food. If racks are used, they should not be higher than the shoulder. The grain boxes should be in one end of the manger (rack). If the horse has a habit of throwing his hay out under his feet, nail a few slats across the rack. If he is a greedy eater, put a few cobble-stones in his grain box. Horses, while working, should be groomed (cleaned with a curry-comb and brush) thoroughly once or twice a day. Use a fine-tooth curry-comb and a stiff brush, and thoroughly work all the dirt and dust out of the hair each time of grooming. It is claimed by some good authorities on this subject that the curry- comb and brush, well used, is worth half-feed. Good grooming keeps the skin clean and healthy, and makes the hair short, sleek and glossy. Jf your stable is cold, a blanket should be kept on your horse during the cold weather. It is very important and necessary that a .street-blanket be had to put on your horse while he is standing in the cold. It is a cruel practice to hitch a horse in the street, either in the hot sun or cold wind, and let him stay for hours, as some do. If you have to hitch a horse out in a cold wind or storm, stand him with his tail to the wind. Don't be cruel and abusive to a horse. Be kind, but firm, to him, and he mil obey you better than a hired servant. There is no excuse- in working poor horses in a country like this, where so much grass and feed can be raised in abundance, with so little labor; and yet we often see poor horses and mules working to wagons with galled shoulders, and writhing under the whip of a cruel master. These are the farmers who have grassy crops and never get them cleaned out in time to receive the rain necessary to mature them. To prevent this cruel, barbarous treatment to stock, every town and community should form a humane society, whose object shall be the prevention of cruelty to animals. Texas has a law making it a misdemeanor to cruelly mistreat or abuse the horse, but it is not enforced. 6 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Austin has formed a humane society, whose provisions are as follows, viz.: "Article 786. If any person shall wilfully kill, maim, wound, poison, or disfigure any horse, ass, mule, cattle, sheep, goat, swine, dog, or other domesticated animal, or any domesticated bird, of another, with intent to injure the owner thereof, he shall be fined not less than ten nor more than two hundred dollars; and in prosecutions under this article the intent to injure may be presumed from the perpetration of the act. "Article 787. If any person shall wilfully or wantonly kill, maim, wound, disfigure, poison, or cruelly and unmercifully beat and abuse any animal included in the preceding article, he shall be fined not exceeding two hundred and fifty dollars." Let other cities, towns and communities follow Austin in this good work. Another cruelty inflicted on horses, which might be called a fashionable one, is high checking. This is practiced more extensively in the cities, where many a poor horse is checked up so high that he can't see his feet, nor even the ground he is walking on. Moderate checking is all right on short drives, but on long, country drives a horse should have the free use of his head. A practice that is cruel and needless is to let a horse stand hitched in the .street with his head checked up too high. Always uncheck your horse if you can't let him stand ten min- utes, as it rests him. Considerable attention should be paid to a horse's shoulders, neck and back, to prevent saddle and collar galls. Keep the collar or saddle clean and smooth, and see that they fit well. Sponge off the shoulders, neck and back on coming in from a hard drive, or day's work, with cold water, containing a little salt. This will toughen the skin and prevent galls. A horse's foot is a ven^ particular and wonderful mechanism, and it needs special care and attention, for the old adage is very true — " no foot, no horse." The foot should be cleaned out and washed every morning, to see whether a nail has penetrated it or a rock has become wedged under the shoe. Horses used entirely Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 7 on the farm need not be shod only in exceptional cases — ^those of weak, tender feet. For road use, a horse needs shoes on to pro- tect .the wall of the hoof from wearing off too close, and to pro- tect it from bruises it would likely sustain by being driven fast on hard, rocky roads. For general remarks on shoeing, read up on that subject under its respective heading. Every stock man, stock owner and farmer, who is at all inter- ested in stock raising and farming, should take one or more of the following stock and farm papers: "The Texas Stockman and Farmer," San Antonio, Texas; "The Stock and Farm Journal,'' Fort Worth, Texas; or "The Farm and Kanch," Dallas, Texas. 8 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. CHAPTER III. BREEDING. The breeding of hor.ses is a subject that is sadly neglected by a great many breeders. Some men think if a mare can conceive and bring a colt, no matter how old, broken-down or crippled she is, she is just as good as a w^ell-bred, sound, young mare. This is a very false idea. The law of like producing like is very plainly shown in breeding horses; therefore, if you wish to raise good colts, you must breed from sound parents. It is a profitable business to raise good horses, but common horses are raised at a loss. This is exemplified at the present time by the cheapness of the common horse, and the increasing demand and good price of good driving horses. It costs just as much to raise a common, scrub colt as it does a fine-blooded one; the only difference being in the cost of the sire. The first will sell, when four or five years old and broken to harness, probably for from $10 to $40, and the other will bring from $75 to $200. Below is a portion of the paper prepared by Col. Henry Exall, of Dallas, and read before the Livestock Association of Texas at San Antonio, in March of this year. Colonel Exall is one of the greatest horsemen in Texas, and a good authority on this sub- ject; therefore, we think his remarks will be interesting and prof- itable to all readers of this book: '^I will simply state that in my opinion, formed after the most careful investigation of the present status of the horse market, and the conditions surrounding the horse-breeding industry, that, at this particular time, no business offers greater returns, with the same degree of certainty, than the breeding and careful raising of a high class of trotting horse suitable for track and Dh. LeGear's Stock Book. 9 road purposes, having size, substance, good looks, good behavior and speed, ordinary or great, and the more the better. My rea- sons for this belief will be given very briefly: "Breeding has been almost totally abandoned for the past four years, and it is estimated that there are not as many horses in the United States in 1897 as there were in 1890 by about 2,000,000, the decrease being proportionately much larger in the high grades of horses than in the cheaper and less desirable ones. "N'othing but very high prices will stimulate the people to start to breeding again; and, when they do start, the scarcity of merchantable stock will be intensified by the number of mares that will be withdrawn from ordinary use and put to breeding. It ^\dll be at least six years after the breeding industry is well under way again before the colts, resulting from such breeding, will be old enough for general use. "In the meantime, there will be a great scarcity of horses, and corresponding high prices. "The great decline in prices in 1893-96 was, to a great extent, brought about by the fact that during the prosperous times, when horses were very high, thousands of parties, without any practical knowledge, rushed into the breeding business, using anjiihing in the line of stallions and mares that was ever remotely related to anything that had trotted, paying no attention to size, good looks or soundness. "In a great many instances, the stallions and mares upon so- called trotting farms failed to produce more than 2 or 3 per cent of horses that could be made to go in 2:30. Of course, this meant ruin and disaster whenever this character of stock was forced upon the market, as intelligent breeders would not buy them, and to the general public they were of no more value than the ordinary horses of the country. "This indiscriminate breeding of trotters that could not trot and had very few other desirable qualities, very materially helped to increase the number of horses in the United States from about 10 De. LeGear's Stock Book. 11,000,000 in 1866 to about 16,000,000 in 1890. About this time the country began to feel the approach of an impending panic, money began to be scarce, and many parties who had other business interests to protect found it necessary to close out their horse business so as to concentrate their funds, and ac- cordingly consigned their stock to the auction market. "The decline in prices was precipitated and intensified by the fact that thousands of breeders all over the country, discouraged at the outlook and influenced to some extent by the example of others, unreasoningly, or in .some cases from absolute necessity, consigned all their horses, regardless of condition or fitness for sale, to the auction markets. As no one at this time was buying breeding .stock, the majority of these horses sold at ruinously low prices, and the very publishing of these low prices tended to keep up the panic and caused almost total abandonment of the horse- breeding industry. "To-day, the condition is abnormal, and can not long remain as it is, to-wit, good horses ready for use are already scarce and bring remunerative prices in the chief markets of the country, but brood mares and immature young stock, the sources from which a future supply of merchantable horses must come, are abandoned and almost without price. "With the dawn of 1897, a brighter future for the horse busi- ness is already in sight. The recent sales in New York, Lexing- ton and Chicago have averaged almost double the prices realized in the- same markets for the .same class of stock one year ago. "European parties, too, are active buyers at all sales in the United States now, and the recent winning of the greatest race ever trotted in the old world — the grand prize at St. Petersburg, Eussia — ^by an American trotting mare, will give an increased impetus to the rapidly growing demand for high class American horses in Europe. This is evidenced by the fact that within the pa^t ten days eighty-seven richly-bred trotting horses were sold Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 11 in Lexington, Ky., to Kiiro})ean parties, for the sum of $98,800, and shipped on the steamship Prussia to Vienna, Austria. "The great success that has been attained by Woodburn and kindred farms is verydarg-ely due to the fact that they have per- sistently claimed that speed follows blood, and have insisted that their stallions t:nd mares should be of the highest breeding. These are the only lines upon which very great success can be assured. 'J' he short, or half-bred, animal will occasionally pro- duce speed, but not with uniformity. To reach the highest pin- nacle of success, a breeder must determine that the choicest ani- male he raises are too good to sell and must be kept for breeding. "If you will start with the best-bred ones that you can com- mf.nd, and intelligently grow and educate their offspring for a few generations, reserving always the best, we may yet produce not only the 2:00, but the 1:50, trotter on Texas soil, and I hope upon the Lomo Alto farm. "When our colts have long lines of successful speed-producers OK the side of both sire and dam — with size, substance, intelli- gence, docility and speed, that trot naturally and with little training — the type of the American trotter will be fixed, and the A\ ealthy world will take at handsome figures all that we can raise. The breeder who will cause 500 bushels of oats and 10 tons of hay to produce a horse worth from $500 to possibly many thou- sands of dollars, instead of a horse worth from $25 to $100, wdll make a fortune for himself and set an example that should be worth millions to his countrymen.^' In selecting a vstallion or a mare for breeding purposes, see that they are of a kind disposition, good form, size and action, and free from all hereditary diseases, as heaves, roaring, ophthal- mia, rupture, spavin, ring-bone, weak feet, curby hocks, etc. The colt may not be born with any of these diseases, but if the sire or dam is affected with one or more of them, the colt is liable to 12 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. be born weak in those parts, and the disease is very liable to de- velop some time during its life. CARE OF THE MARE. A mare should have a certain amount of special care during the time she is carrying the colt. Regular, gentle work, and good f.eed, is to be preferred to no work and half feed. During the last two or three months of gestation, great care should be taken that the mare is not excited, pulled or run too hard, and should be kept away from the smell of fresh blood. The usual time for a mare to carry a colt is eleven months, although it may vary between ten and twelve months. Time should be arranged so that the colt will come at a time when there is ,«ome grass, as the mare will do better when not confined to dry feed. The virgin mare, or one that has not had a colt for at least one year, should be bred when in season. The mare that has had a colt will be found in season (heat) on the eighth or ninth day, and should be served at that time. After serving the mare, tlie days for trial are the ninth after serving, the seventh after this, and the fifth after this again. Some commence again on the ninth day, and follow up as before, making forty-two days in all. The mare and colt should be well fed and cared for. Moderate work, with good feed, will not, as a general thing, interfere with the colt's growth, but we, think a mare has enough to do if she supplies the colt with sufficient milk for its growth and strength. If the mare is being driven, or doing farm work, the colt snould not be allowed to suck while the mare is hot, and the milk fev- ered. When the colt is about six or seven months old, it may be weaned, and should be turned into a good pasture away from the mare. To thrive and do well, the colt should be fed a little oats and bran once a day. If possible, keep your colts and horses away from barbed-wire fences, as it disfigures and ruins a large Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 13 percentage of the horses in this country. Colts should be han- dled while young, if this is possible, and educated and trained like a child, and, when old enough to work, they can be taught to do so without much trouble. Colts can be broken to harness while yearlings, and driven lightly at the age of two; but it is better not to put them to hard work until about four years old. 14 Dk. LeCxear's Stock Book. CHAPTER IV. HOW MEDICINES SHOULD BE GIVEN. There are various ways by wliich medicines may be given to stock; but, as every hor.se owner, or stock man, isn't supposed to be a professional veterinarian, nor is he equipped with all the necessary instruments and appliances for treating stock, there- fore, we w'll endeavor here to explain a few of the most con- venient and useful ways by which medicines can be administered by any person competent of owning stock: Fig. 1. Drenching Bit. (1) By the Mouth. — Medicines can be given by the mouth in the form of drenches, powders, balls, etc. Drenches. — This is the most connnon and universal way by which medicines are given to animals. Drenches are .to be given when the medicine is a liquid, and the dose large. Drenches must be given by the mouth, and never through the nose. Medi- Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 15 cines given through the nose are very liable to irritate the nasal chambers, strangle the animal, and cause death — some times in a very short time. Water should never be poured through the nose to make a horse swallow. Do not rub, pinch or pound the throat, nor draw out the tongue, when giving a drench. These will not aid the horse to swallow, but are very liable to do much harm. AVhen medicines are to be given as a drench, they should be put in enough water or oil to dissolve or dilute them. Medi- cines given not sufficiently diluted are liable to burn or irritate the mouth and throat. The mast convenient way of giving a drench is by the use of the drenching bit (Fig. No. 1). The med- icine is poured into the funnel at the side of the mouth, and it runs out of the little hole in the hollow bit that is in his mouth. By having the head slightly elevated, the horse will swallow the medicine without any trouble. The next best way to give a drench is to put on a bridle, with a straight, smooth bit. Tie a small rope or strap to each ring of the bridle rings, and pull the head up by this means. A loop may be made on the end of a rope large enough to go around the upper jaw, and back of the front teeth, and the head pulled up with the rope over a limb of a tree, or beam in the .stable. Don't pull the head up too high, but just high enough so the medicine will not run out of his mouth. Use a smooth, strong, long-necked bottle, in which have the medicine. Pull the head up, and insert the neck of the bottle into the mouth from the side, and pour not over four ounces of the medicine at one time. Remove the bottle, and if the horse doesn't work his jaws, rub the roof of his mouth with your thumb, which will make him work his jaws and swallow. Be very careful, and don't let the horse crush the neck of the bottle between hi,s jaw teeth. If he should break the bottle, or cough and strangle, let the head down at once. You may stand on a box or stool to give a drench. Cows can be easily drenched by grasping the nose with the 16 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. thumb and middle finger of the left hand, and pouring the- medi- cine down with the right hand. Powders. — Powders are generally given mixed with damp feed, or dissolved in the drinking water. They should be finely pow- dered, and all bitter powders that are to be given in the feed should be scented or sweetened with a little powdered anise seed, fenugreen or sugar. They should never be put in the feed dry, but either mixed in a bran mash, dampened shelled oats, soaked shelled corn, etc. Those that are not bitter and are readily dis- solved, can be given in the drinking water. Small doses of pow- ders, such as our Condition Powders, can be put away back on a horse's tongue dry, with a long-handled spoon, without wasting them. Powders can also be given as a drench by being shaken up in one-half pint of water in a long-necked bottle. Balls. — This is a means by which very few horse owners can, with any degree of satisfaction, give medicine to a horse. When a ball is properly made, it is about two inches long and three- quarters of an inch in diameter. Balls are frequently used by veterinary surgeons when they wish to give medicine that is ex- tremely disagreeable or nauseating. They should be made up fresh and rolled into tissue paper before given. They should be made up with glycerine, vaseline, or soft soap. Gelatine capsules large enough for veterinary use are'now made and are very use- ful and convenient for giving balls. The way balls are given is to grasp the tongue with the left hand, and with the right hand place the ball back on the root of the horse's tongue, and on let- ting the tongue go he swallows it. The mouth speculum (Fig. Xo. 9) may be used to open the mouth and prevent a horse from biting you while giving a ball. Don't shove a ball down a horse's throat with a stick, as you are very liable to injure his throat in that way. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 17 Mm^mm9m*>' Fig. 2. Hypodermic Syringe. (2) Under the Skin. — Medicines are frequently given under the skin by the use of a hypodermic syringe (Fig. No. 2). This is called the hypodermic (hypo., under; dermic, the skin) method of giving medicine. Such medicines as morphine, atropene, co- caine, eserine, pilocarpine, etc., are given in this way. Great care should be taken in giving these medicines in this way, be- cause they are all poisons, and must be used with care. The needle should be perfectly clean, so as not to poison the animal. In the neck, or on the shoulder, is the preferable place to give medicine hypodermically. {^) By Inhalation. — In certain head, throat, and lung trou- bles, inhalation of steam, containing a small quantity of such medicines as camplior, carbolic acid; turpentine, etc., is very beneficial. Chloroform and sulphuric ether, are inhaled through tlie nose for anaesthetic purposes. To put a horse to slaep, use 18 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. pure chloroform; but with the dog, use two parts ether and one part chloroform. (4) By the Rectum. — Medicines are injected into the rectum to kill pin-worms found in the rectum, to stimulate the action of the bowels, and clean out the rectum. This is done with a large syringe or injection pump. Stimulating medicines and foods may be injected into the rectum, to be absorbed by the cir- culation, during sickness. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 19 CHAPTER V. ORGANS OF RESPIRATION (BREATHING). The principal organs of breathing are the nostrils, nasal cham- bers, larynx, windpipe, and the lungs. Owing to the- large size of a horse's soft palate, he can not breathe through his mouth, but must breathe through his nostrils entirely. The mucous membrane lining the nostrils and the chambers in a horse's head is very delicate and sensitive", and by a horse breathing through his nostrils exclusively explains why a horse catches cold, distemper, etc., so easily. The larynx is situ- ated in the throat, and is the entrance to the windpipe. It be- comes affected in the d'.sease called roaring. The windpipe is the tube that conveys the air from the larynx to the lungs. It can be felt plainly in the front of a horse's neck. The lungs are the principal organs of breathing. They consist of two light, soft, spongy masses, one on either side, commonly called the "lights," being situated entirely in the cavity of the chest. On the outside, the lungs are completely covered by a thin, shining membrane, called the pleura, which also lines the chest cavity. The healthy lungs of any animal, after birth, will float on wa- ter, but will not before birth. It is in the lungs that the blood is purified — the oxygen in the pure air that the animal breathes comes in contact, as it were, with the impurities in the blood, burning it up, and converts it into a substance called carbon dioxide, which is thrown off from the lungs as a poisonous gas. 20 Dr. LeGbar's Stock Book. DISEASES OF THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION. CATAREH— COLD IN THE HEAD. Catarrh, as meant in this article, is a discharge of fluid from the lining of the air passages of the head (nose). Causes. — Sudden changes in the weather, exposure to cold and wet, badly ventilated stables, impure air, etc. The disease is mostly seen in young horses. Symptoms. — The animal is duller than usual, and may or may not have a cough. The discharge, which is at first thin and wa- tery, is usually from both nostrils, but soon becomes thicker and more abundant, and yellowish-white in appearance. It is liable to run into congestion of the lungs if the animal is put to work too soon. It usually runs a favorable course in from six to ten days. Treoiment. — The treatment for cold in the head is very sim- ple, if taken in time; and usually terminates favorably. Protect the animal from the cold and wet by keeping it in a comfortable place, with plenty of fresh air. As a general thing, all the med- icine that is necessary to give is our Condition Powder in one teaspoonful doses, morning and night, in bran mashes or other damp feed. If there is a cough present, bathe the throat w^ell with our Liniment morning and night. Feed on soft, damp food. In very severe cases, if the animal is much weak, give the- following: Dr. LeGbab's Stock Book. 21 Sweet nitre 1 ounce. Alcohol 2 ounces. Nitrate of potash 2 drains. Water 1 pint. Mix, and giv.6 as a drench twice a day until the animal is better. Steaming the head by having the animal inhale- the steam of hoi water containing a little carbolic acid, camphor, or turpen- tine, is beneficial in bad cases. Apply our Liniment, and give our Condition Powders regularly until the cough and discharge from the nose .entirely stops, LARYNGITIS— SOEE THROAT. Laryngitis is an inflammation of the lining membrane of the Jarynx (the upper part of the windpipe). It is a serious aifection, and very often causes the death of the animal. Causes. — Are about the same as those causing catarrh: as, ex- posure to cold and wet, changes in the weather, draughts of cold air, giving certain irritating medicines, etc. Symptoms. — About the first thing noticed is a cough, followed by a difficulty in swallowing, so that the water, and in some cases the food, is returned through the nose. The mouth is hot, and froth dribbles from it. Pressure on the throat causes a violent fit of coughing. The animal usually stands with his head "poked out." The membrane in the nose becomes red. The discharge from the nostrils, if profuse and coming away freely, is to be re- garded as a good sign. Treatment. — During an attack of sore throat, the horse should be laid off work, and fed on soft, easily digested food: as, bran 22 Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. mashes, chops, boiled oats, linseed meal, and, best of all, green orass, if it can be had. In ordinary cases, all the medicine neces- sary is Dr. LeGear's Liniment (see Appendix), well rubbed on the throat morning and night, and Dr. LeGear's Condition Powders, given in the feed morning and evening. The Liniment will draw the soreness out of the throat, while the Condition Powders will cure the cough and build up the animal's system. In very bad cases, the horse may be made to inhale steam from hot water, into which has been put a little camphor, carbolic acid, or turpentine. If there is much fever, ten drops of tincture of aconite may be given every four hours in a little water. One-half teaspoonful each of chlorate and nitrate of potassium may be given two or three times per day in the drinking water, or put on the tongue. NASAL AND PHARYNGEAL POLYPI. These are tumors, usually of a fibrous nature, situated in the air passages. They usually have a small neck, with a free ex- panded extremity. Causes. — These growth are often the result of irritation of the membrane lining the parts, and often occur without any ap- parent cause. Symptoms. — There is generally a discharge from the nostril on the affected side, which may be bloody. The breathing may become very difficult, even to such an extent as to cause the ani- mal to fall down. Treatment. — Make an examination, and if it has a small neck try to remove it with the ecrasure. If in the nose, you might be able to seize it with a pair of forceps and twist it otf. The bleeding is often excessive, and there is always danger of the blood escaping into the lungs and causing death. Dr. LeGexIr's Stock Book. 2a BLEEDING FROM THE NOSE— EPISTAXIS. This often occurs in connection with other diseases, but may occur as an independent disorder. Causes. — It may occur as a result of an injury, as a kick, blow, etc., causing rupture of a blood vessel in the nose. Sometimes severe exertion will also burst a blood vessel, while bleeding oc- curs at times without any known cause. Symptoms. — The bleeding is almost always from one nostril onlv, and is never very serious — usually in drops. Treatment. — Pour cold water over the face and head, or hang a bag with ice in it on the face. If necessary, plug the nostril with cotton wet in cold water. Of course only plug one nostril at a time. If this does not check the bleeding, give 1 dram acetate of lead dissolved in a pint of water, or give 1 ounce of turpentine in warm milk. SPASM OF THE LARYNX. Spasm of the larynx most commonly occurs amongst old horses, and is due in the majority of cases to cerebral (brain) disturbance. Symptoms. — The attack is very sudden. In some cases a frothy spume issues from the nostrils; the breathing is very difficult, loud and labored; the animal staggers, struggles for breath, and finally falls. Treatment. — Hypodermic injections of morphine, inhalations of chloroform, administrations of opium, etc., is the proper line of treatment. When due to cerebral disturbance give the fol- lowing as a drench: 24 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Bromide of potassa 4 drams. Water 1 pint. Mix. CHRONIC COUGH. It may exist without any apparent cause. It may follow laryn- gitis, and may be associated with chest diseases, indigestion, etc. Treatment. — Carefully avoid the feeding of bad hay and oats, dusty food, etc., and give 1 dram of antimony twice a day for ten days; or give the following old reliable remedy: Calomel 6 drams. Digitalis 6 drams. Camphor 6 drams. Powdered opium 6 drams. Mix and divide into 12 powders, and ^ive one every other morning before feeding. CHRONIC CATARRH— NASAL GLEET. This is characterized by a continuous discharo^e of a thick, white, or yellowish-white matter from one or both nostrils. Causes. — The commonest cause is a neglected or badly treated cold, usually following those cases where the horse has been ex- posed, been over-worked, or has not received proper food. Other causes are: blows on the head and face, diseased teeth, tumors, fractures, or particles of food or other foreign bodies getting in the passages of the head. Symptoms. — The discharge from the nose is at first white, ;soon becomes yellow, and sticks around the nostrils, but gener- Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 25 ally is not so sticky as the discharge of glanders. The lining membrane in the nose is reddened at first, but soon takes on a paler color, but has no ulcers. Slight enlargement of the bones of the face may be seen, and tapping the enlargement with the knuckles a dull dead sound is heard, indicating that there is matter beneath. In such cases' the breathing may be affected. When the bones are diseased the discharge will have a disagree- able odor. Treatment. — The treatment of this disease is very important, owing to the fact that animals affected with it (nasal gleet) are very liable to take the glanders if exposed to the contagion. Nasal gleet will not run into the glanders, but it weakens the animal's system and makes it verv^ liable to take the glanders if exposed. If taken in time most of cases of this disease can be cured, but after it is let run on for several months it is then vei-y tedious and hard to cure. It may be well to quarantine (remove it from other horses and mules) the animal for a few days and give large doses of blood tonics as the following: Sulphate of iron 3 ounces. Iodide of potassium 2^ ounces. Mix, and make 20 powders, and give one night and morning in damp feed. When the above are all given get the following prescription filled and give as directed: Sulphate of copper 3 ounces. Powdered nux vomica 2 ounces. Powdered gentian 3 ounces. Powdered anise seed \ ounce. Mix, and make 20 powders, and give one night and morning in damp feed. Dji. LeGeak's Stock Book. Fig. 3. Trephine. Sometimes a good blister applied to the face will be bene- ficial. If there is an accumulation of matter in the sinuses of the face the only relief will be the operation of trephining, which is done by boring into the head with a trephine (Fig. 3) and allowing the matter to escape. If the nasal gleet is the result of a diseased tooth, the tooth must be removed. KOARING. Roaring may be defined to be breathing with a loud and un- natural sound during violent exercise. Roaring in itself is not a disease, but it is only a symptom of disease. Wheezing and whistling are only different forms of the ,same disease, and both finally terminate in roaring. Causes. — Roaring is caused by some obstruction to the free passage of air in the larynx (upper part of windpipe). Such dis- eases as laryngitis, distemper, etc., are liable to terminate in roaring. No doubt hereditary transmission has a great deal to do with it. Tight reining may be regarded as one of the causes of roaring, but, after all other causes are mentioned, it will be found that nine out of every ten well-established cases of roaring are caused by paralysis of the muscles of the. larynx; the muscles of the left side are almost invariably the ones affected. Symptoms. — The best way to test whether a horse is a "roarer^' is to either make him pull a load rapidly up a hill or over a sandy road or soft groimd; or, if he is a saddle horse, gallop him up a Dr. LeG ear's Stock Book. 27 h^ll. After which the animal may be suddenly stopped, and by immediately placing the ear to the nose and throat, any unnat- ural sound may be heard. The above method of examination is to be recommended in all cases, as some cases of roaring are so slight as to be rather diflicult to detect. In may cases, the char- acteristic sound can be heard at a distance. Another test is, to give exercise, then stand the animal by a wall, his head firmly held by an attendant. Now, with a whip make a motion as though you were going to .strike the animal, when he will start forward very suddenly, and, if affected, will usually make the grunt peculiar to "roarers." Treatment. — This disease, when once established, is incurable. But relief may be afforded by an operation called tracheotomy, by which a hole is cut in the front of the windpipe and a tube (Fig. No. 4) put in, through which the animal may breathe, and get sufficient air to undergo severe exercise without distress. This is a delicate operation, and should be undertaken only by experienced veterinary surgeons. Relief may be afforded if taken in time by giving 1 dram of iodide of potassium twice a day for two or three weeks. Sometimes, a good blister applied to the throat is beneficial. A "roarer" should never be used for breeding purposes, as the disease is very likely to be transmitted tu the colt.«. In roaring, the disease is in the throat, and the horse has difficulty in getting enough air into the lungs for fast work, while heaves is an affection of the lungs, and the horse has difficulty in forcing the air out of the lungs. 28 Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. TRACHITIS. This is an inflammation of the lining membrane of the trachea (windpipe). Cause. — It is generally due to the presence of some foreign body, or exists as a complication of sore throat. Symptoms. — The breathing is somewhat hibored, and on plac- ing the ear to the windpipe a rattling sound may be plainly heard. There is usually a discharge from the nose. Treatment. — CHp off the long hair over the course of the wind- pipe, and apply Dr. Le Gear's liniment, or put on a mustard plaster. Give, in each bucket of the animal's drinking water, 2 drams of chlorate of potash. Clothe the patient well, and keep out of draughts, and don't allow the animal to breathe very cold air. BEONCHITIS. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining membrane of the tubes which branch from the windpipe and carry the air to and from the lungs. It is more dangerous when the .smaller tubes are affected. Causes. — The disease may be caused by exposure to cold and wet, sudden changes in the weather, standing in draughts of cold air, improperly giving medicine — as, forcing it down, or giving it through the nose, a part of it passing into the windpipe, thence to the bronchial tubes, causing inflammation. A drench should never be given through the nose. Other causes are, breathing irritating gases and smoke, foreign bodies getting into the parts, etc Dr. LeGtear's Stock Book. 29 Symptoms. — At first, there is noticed a chill, quickly followed by fever. The animal usually stands, and has a somewhat dry, husky cough. On placing the ear to the chest, a rattling, or coarse, wheezing sound may be heard, indicating that the large tubes are affected; or a his,sing or whistling sound, showing that the small tubes are the ones affected. A discharge from the nose soon follows, which, if yellow, may be regarded as a good sign; but, if it is of a reddish or rusty color, it is to be regarded as an unfavorable symptom. Treatment. — Put the animal in a comfortable box-stall, free from draughts; cover the body with a blanket — light or heavy, according to the season of the year. Hand-rub the legs until they are warm, after which apply flannel bandages, from the hoofs to the knees and hocks. Don't fail to apply Dr. LeGear's Liniment (see xA.ppendix) well over the side and front of chest, behind the elbow and shoulder blades, covering a large surface. Rub the Liniment in well every day. Put a tablespoonful of oil of turpentine in a bucket of boiling water, and make the animal inhale the steam. In bad cases, the steam should be inhaled every hour. Give as a drench three times per day the following: Solution of acetate of ammonia 3 ounces. Spirits of nitrous ether 2 ounces. Bicarbonate of potassium 4 drams. Water 1 pint. Mix. If much pain is manifested in drenching, you better not drench, but put in each bucket of drinking water, if the animal will drink, one tablespoonful of bicarbonate of potassium. If the horse won't eat, and seems weak, give the, following drench every four or five hours: 80 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Sweet nitre 2 ounces. Alcohol 2 ounces. Water 1 pint. Mix. li' the bowels are constipated, give injections per rectum of warm water. Don't give a purgative; don't bleed. HAEMOPTYSIS— BLEEDING FROM THE LUXGS. Causes. — Bleeding from the lungs is often associated with congestion of the lungs, bronchitis, pneumonia, etc. Aside from these conditions the principal cause is the performance of some severe exertion when not in suitable condition; most commonly met with in trotting and running horses, and in those in fine condition. Symptoms. — When the blood comes from the lungs the ani- mal has a cough, and the blood is frothy and comes from both nostrils. The ear may be placed against the windpipe along its course, and if the blood is from the lungs a gurgling or rattling sound will be heard. Treatment. — It is very seldom this trouble needs any internal treatment. If the blood is profuse and continues for any length of time, give: Turpentine 1 ounce. Raw linseed oil 8 ounces. Mix, and give as a drench, and repeat in one hour if necessary. One ounce tincture of iron may be given in one pint of water. Keep the animal quiet and in a cool place for several hours. If Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 31 th£ coughing is severe, give 1 ounce tincture of opium as a drench in 1 pint of water. CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS. Congestion of the lungs is simplv an excess of blood in the vessels of the parts affected. It may be considered as the first stage of inflammation. Causes. — Congestion of the lungs in the horse is usually caused by being put to rapid work and severe exertion when the animal is not in a fit condition to undergo more than moderate exercise. Driving an animal while suffering from certain dis- eases, as simple catarrh, distemper, etc., keeping in damp, badly ventilated stables, impure air, draughts, etc., are all causes of congestion of the lungs. The disease runs its course within a period varying from 8 or 10 hours to several days. Symptoms. — Most any intelligent person should be able to recognize a case of congestion of the lungs when caused by over- exertion, as the history of the case is sufficient to point out the trouble. The animal is noticed to stand with his head down, legs spread out, breathing becomes very difficult, with fiapping of the nostrils,. cold sweats break out, and the ears and extremities soon become deathly cold, which is well marked during cold. weather. If the pulse can be felt at all, it will be found to be quick and weak. The temperature gradually rises, there is trembling of the flanks, and by placing your ear to the sides of the chest the char- acteristic sounds (a kind of snoring sound) of congestion of the lungs are heard. Treatment. — The treatment of this trouble should be prompt and energetic. Give some good diffusible stimulant as: 32 Dr. LeGeak's Stock Book. Sweet spirits of nitre 2 ounces. Whiskey 4 ounces. Water 1 pint. Mix, and give as a drench, and repeat every two or three hours until the horse is not so distressed. The animal should be well blanketed. The legs should be bathed with hot water and then bandaged with woolen bandages. Don't put the patient in a close stable, but allow plenty of fresh air. Instead of the above prescription, you may give 1 ounce of tincture of arnica in one-half pint of water every hour until relieved. Or turpentine, 1 ounce, may be given in one-half pint of new milk. Give the animal plenty of pure cold water and good, nutritious, easily digested food, as grass, boiled oats, bran mash, linseed meal, etc. After the alarming symptoms have passed off you may give: Tincture ginger 1 ounce. Tincture iron 2 drams. Tincture gentian 2 ounces. Water 1 pint. Mix, and give as a drench every six hours for a couple of days. Care should be taken of the animal for several days. During recovery give as directed Dr. LeGear's Condition Powders night and morning in damp feed for several days. PNEUMONIA— LUNG FEVER. This is inflammation of the lungs. Both lungs may be at- tacked, but, as a general rule, one lung only is afflicted, and that is usually the right one. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 33 Causes. — Exposure to wet and cold, standing in draughts, neglected catarrh, etc., are among the causes to be mentioned. It may also be caused by irritating substances, as certain medi- cines, inhalation of smoke, and breathing the air of badly venti- lated stables. Such diseases as bronchitis, laryngitis, etc., may terminate in pneumonia. Symptoms.— At first the animal has a chill, which is generally overlooked. The breathing becomes quickened, and the animal hangs its head and has a very dull appearance. The mouth is hot, indicating fever, and has a sticky feeling. The .pulse soon runs np to 80 or 100 or more per minute, and if the temperature is taken it will be found to have risen to 103 degrees Fahrenheit, or higher. There is usually a cough from the beginning. The temperature of the legs and ears is changeable— sometimes hot and sometimes cold. The discharge from the nose may be tinged with blood, while in others it has a mattery appearance. In this disease the ox usually lies down, while the horse always stands, usually with his head toward the stable door to get all the fresh air possible. By placing the ear to the side of the chest during the first stage of the disease a sound is heard quite similar to that made by rubbing a lock of hair between the thumb and fingers. Flapping of the nostrils after a few days' illness is a very bad sympton; in such cases, usually in the course of four or five days, a brownish or rusty-colored discharge may be observed flowing from the nose; the eyes take on a peculiar stare, and the patient seems to be unconscious of everything going on around Mm. The pulse now becomes very quick and w^ak, body and legs deathly cold; the patient may lie down for a few minutes, then get up, stagger, fall, and rise no more. Death may take place in from three to twenty days. Pneumonia is not a very fatal disease if taken in time and treated properly. 34 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Treatment. — It is very necessary that the p^ient be ke})t .s comfortable as possible, and plenty of fresh air allowed. If the weather is cool or cold, cover the animal with blankets. Rub the legs well, and apply woolen bandages to them to keep them warm. Give the horse plenty of cold water to drink, and his food should be nutritious and easily digested. If the fever is high and tlie pulse strong, give 15 drops of tincture of aconite every four hours as a drench in half a pint of cold water. The following should be given to keep up the animal's strength: Liquor acetate of ammonia 4 ounces. Sweet spirits of nitre 2 ounces. Alcohol 2 ounces. Mix, and give 2 ounces every four hours in one-half pint of cold water. One teaspoonful of nitrate of potassium should be put in the drinking water twice a day. It is very necessary that applications be applied to the sides, such as Dr. LeGear's Liniment, well rubbed in on the ribs two or three times per day, or a mustard paste may be well rubbed into the hair and let remain. Blankets wrung out of hot water and applied around the chest are good. Don't give too much medicine in this disease. The great object is to keep the animal comfortable and keep up his strength with nutritious food and stimulants. If the horse don't eat much, raw eggs and new milk may be given with the medicine to keep up the strength. Jf the bowels are costive give enemas of warm water. When the animal begins to improve give him freely of Dr. LeGear's Con- dition Powders (see Appendix), which is a good tonic preparation to tone up the system and promote strength and a good appetite. Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. 35 PLEURISY. The chest cavity which contains the heart and lungs is lined by a thin, glistening membrane, called the pleura. It also covers the lungs. Inflammation of this membrane is called pleurisy. Causes. — Pleurisy is caused by sudden changes in the weather, •exposure to cold and wet, and by the various conditions which cause pneumonia. Other causes are impure blood, wounds of the chest- wall, broken ribs, etc. Symptoms. — It begins with a chill, which soon passes off. The animal stands stiff, similar to founder, with the fore-legs as far apart as possible, and, when compelled to move, he grunts or groans with pain. The breathing is noticed to be done back of the ribs (by the abdominal muscles), while the ribs are kept as still as possible. On placing the ear to the side of the chest a kind of grating sound can be heard, caused by the dry pleural membranes rubbing against each other. But in a few days, pos- sibly less, the animal stands apparently free from pain, and there is no grating sound in the chest; this is a sign that a fluid has collected in the chest between the layers of the pleura. Such a •collection of fluid in the chest-cavity is called hydrothorax, or dropsy of the chest. A great amount of fluid may thus be col- lected, rendering the case a hopeless one, without any very well marked symptoms being observed. Besides these signs, there is a cough, an .elevation in temperature, and pressure on or between the ribs gives rise to con.siderable pain. Treatment. — The general care and comfort of the animal is to bo about the same as in pneumonia. As there is generally a high fever, and a rapid, strong pulse, give 15 drops of tincture of 86 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. aconite in one-half pint of cold water, as a drench, every four hours; or, the following prescription may be given: Liquor acetate of ammonia 4 ounces. Nitrate of potassium 2 drams. Chlorate of potassium 2 drams. Sweet spirits of nitre 1 ounce. Mix, and give as a drench every six hours in 1 pint of water. Dr. LeGear's Liniment should be rubbed in the sides of the chest two or three times per day; also, the sides should be bathed with hot water, and blankets applied. Mustard paste may be rubbed in once or twice. If there is severe pain, it may be re- lieved by giving the following: '^Tincture of opium 1 ounce. Raw linseed oil 8 ounces. Mix, and give as a drench. If the bowels are consti- pated, give enemas of warm water freely. During convalescence, give Dr. LeGear's Condition Powders (see Appendix) in the feed as a general tonic and appetizer; also, give 1 dram of iodide of potassium in the drinking water morn- ing and night for ten days. HYDROTHORAX. This is dropsy of the chest; or, in other words, a collection of fluid in the cavity of the chest. This condition is a result of pleurisy, sometimes resulting from a very mild attack, and even in cases where the animal has had the best of care. Symptoms. — The symptoms are plain: difficult, short and la- bored breathing, and flapping of the nostrils. The eye has a Db. LeGear's Stock Book. 37 peculiar, glassy appearance. The pulse is weak and irregular. There is a heaving motion of the flanks. The animal stands per- sistently, and soon peculiar swellings appear in the. limbs, and extend along the belly. Death usually results when a considera- ble quantity of water collects in the chest. Perhaps several gal- lons of fluid will collect in a few days, and seriously interfere with the action of the lungs. Treatment. — The great aim in the treatment of this disease is to support the animaFs system as best we can, so as to cause ab- sorption of the fluid in the chest. This may be done by giving nutritious, easily digested food and stimulants. Two ounces of sweet nitre and six ounces of whisky can be given as a drench every two or four hours in one-half pint of water; or, alcohol, ale, wine, etc., may be given. Tapping the chest and drawing off the fluid with a suitable instrument can sometimes be done suc- cessfully by a qualified veterinary surgeon, but we will not rec- ommend the operation here. Give two drams of nitrate of pot- assium twice per day, and the best of care must be taken of the animal all through, if a recovery is expected. THUMPS— SPASM OF THE DIAPHEAGM. Thumps, or spasm of the diaphragm, is generally thought to be a palpitation of the heart by inexperienced persons. It may be as well to state that the heart has nothing to do with it. There is a very important muscle (called the diaphragm, or midriff) in the body, which separates the chest-cavity from the abdominal (cavity which contains the bowels). Spasms or irregular move- ments of this muscular partition in the horse, is called the "thumps." Thumps in the horse is the same as "hiccoughs" in man, although the peculiar noise is not always made in the throat of the horse, as in man. 38 Dr. IjeGeab^s Stock Book. Causes. — Fast driving, or violent exertion, if the animal is not in proper condition. Symptoms. — The symptoms are very plain: the breathing is difficult, a thumping sound is heard, which affects the whole body, and is not confined to the region of the heart, but back of it. By placing one hand on the body at about the middle of the last rib, and the other one over the. heart just behind the left elbow, it will be an easy matter to make a distinction between the thumping or jerking of the diaphragm and the beating of the heart. Treatment. — The treatment should be the same as that given for congestion of the lungs. If not relieved, death usually results ftom congestion. HEAVES— BROKEN WIND— ASTHMA. Broken wind is a condition the nature of which is not very well understood. Many horsemen wrongfully apply the term to all ailments where the breathing is difficult or noisy. It is generally accepted to be a derangement of the digestive organs, character- ized by difficult and peculiar breathing and the presence of a long, deep cough, known as "the broken-winded cough." Causes. — Broken wind may be caused by improper feeding of some kind, or by a supply of bad food, or bulky or dusty food of any kind, the stomach being kept overloaded with the same. Se- vere exertion when the stomach and bowels are full has a ten- dency to cause broken wind — that is, when the system is in poor condition. A chronic cough from any cause is liable to run into heaves. Another cause, and a very reasonable one, is that the exciting cause of broken wind is due to an affection of a certain nerve — pneumogastric nerve, which sends branches to the lungs. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 39 heart, stomach, etc. It is claimed that coai*se or indigestible food irritates the branches of these nerves, which supply the walls of the stomach, and this irritation is reflected or extended to the branches of the same nerves which supply the lungs, when the trouble known as broken wind follows. Symptoms. — "Heaves" is easily detected by almost every ex- perienced horseman. When you have once seen a well-marked case, you Avill always know it. The peculiar, bellows-like move- ments of the flanks, and walls of the belly, point out the ail- ment at once. But in mild or recent cases, the affected animal does not show the characteristic breathing unless freely exercised — running or pulling a heavy load. There is always a peculiar cough, which is difficult to describe — the sound is .short, very deep, and something like a grunt. Indigestion is always present in these cases. The animal's appetite is depraved, as shown by a desiro to eat dirt and soiled bedding, which he often prefers to the clean food in the manger. The .stomach is liable to be over- loaded with indigestible food. The abdomen may assume that form called "pot-belhed." The animal frequently passes wind, the odor of which is very offensive. Horses with round chests are said to be subject to heaves; and, in cases of long standing,, the chest usually becomes rounder than natural. Treatment. — Heaves is a disease, when once well established, that can not be cured. All we can do in such cases i,s to relieve the animal for the time being by giving certain remedies, and paying strict attention to diet. All the feed given should be free from dust, and of the very best quality. All hay, grain and dry feed should be dampened, and not very much hay or roughness given. It is well enough to give a pretty good feed of hay at night, but very little, if any, at noon and in the morning. Alwa3^s water the horse before feeding, and not directly after. Strict attention to diet is a great thing in treating heaves. Cases of heaves have 40 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. been cured by bringing horses from the East and North out West, and let them feed on the coarse prairie hay. Heavey horses are comparatively few in Texas to what they are up North. In the early stages, heaves can be checked, 'and in many cases cured, by the following: Oil of tar 3 ounces. Glycerine 1 ounce. Fowler's solution of arsenic 3 ounces. Fluid extract of belladonna 1 ounce. Tincture of opium 1 ounce. Eaw linseed oil _ 3 ounces. Mix, and give one tablespoonful every morning and night in damp feed. Fowler's solution of arsenic given in one tablespoonful doses, night and morning, for two or three weeks, is sometimes very beneficial. Unscrupulous dealers often give some remedies to eheck the heaves for the time being, which are generally poi- sonous, but we will not mention them here, as we don't advocate any treatment or remedy that is not honest and fair. DISTEMPER— STEANGLES. Horse distemper is the common name by which the disease, ^'strangles," is known. It is a peculiar, eruptive fever of the horse, and is a disease that nearly every young horse becomes af- fected with. It is oftener seen among young horses and colts, but horses at any age may take the disease. It received the name, "strangles," from so many cases in the severe form nearly choking or strangling the animal by the formation of a large tumor in the throat. All cases of influenza, sore throat, colds, catarrh, etc., are called distemper by a great many horse owners. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 41 Cause. — Distemper is a contagious disease, and where one case breaks out or is introduced into a herd of horses, nearly all are generally affected. During some seasons, it takes on a very dangerous and fatal form, while again it is very mild, the animals recovering without much inconvenience or loss of flesh. A Case of Strangles. Symptoms. — Before the disease really breaks out, the animal is for a few days generally off its feed, weak, and languid, and easily exhausted. A slight cough may be noticed, and the animal shows some trouble in swallowing. In a regular case, there is noticed in a few days a swelling forming in connection with the throat, or under the lower jaw. These swellings may be small, or may become very large, making it almost impossible for- a horse to breathe or swallow. The animal will have more or less fever, and in scxme cases becomes very weak, languid, and dull. In the irregular form of .strangles, the swellings may form in the bieast, in the groin, among the bowels, in connection with the liver, spleen, lungs, etc., and is a more dangerous form of the disease. The swelling in the throat may break, and run matter out of the nose, or down the windpipe, and cause strangulation 42 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. of the animal. Distemper runs a certain course, its duration generally being from eight to t^relve days, but it may last for several weeks. Treatment. — As this disease has a certiiin couree to run, there shouldn't be anything given to check it; but we should siipport th<' animal's system by giving soft, easily digested, nourishing food, and medicines to purify the blood. The animal should be protected from cold rains and "northers," and have comfort and good care generally. Give what fresh, cool water the animal will drink, into which dissolve 1 dram of chlorate of potassium, morn- Fig. 4. Tracheotomy Tube. ing and night. Also, give one teaspoonful of our Condition Powders, morning and night, to purify the blood, and keep up the animal's strength. Bathe the swelling in the throat two or three times a day thoroughly with our Liniment, to draw it to a head. It may be well to apply a hot poultice, and, after remov- ing it, then apply the Liniment. As soon as the swelling be- comes soft, it .should be opened freely with a sharp lance, to allow the matter to escape. Syringe out the cavity with a weak solution of carbolic acid for a few days, and it will soon heal. Sometimes these swellings in the throat become .so large that th<.' horse can't breathe, and it becomes necessary to perform the oj)€ration of tracheotomy (putting a tube in the throat to breathe Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 43 through. (See Fig. 4.) This is a very delicate operation, and wo wouldn't advise any but a qualified veterinarian to perform it. Some people entertain the very foolish idea that a horse doasn't need any medicine or special care while he has the distemper. Thii is very wrong. It is not so much the distemper that is dan- gerous, but it is the other diseases that are liable to attack the body, while it is weak, and the blood bad from the distemper. So many horses that are not treated for the distemper are left with a chronic cough, catarrh, enlarged glands, thick wind, roar- ing, etc. It is true that a great many cases of distemper look very mild, but they are worse than they look, and all are bad enough. By all means, give your horse some special care and treatment, and, if you don't do anything else, give him some of our Condi- tion Powders, night and morning, in damp feed, according to directions. We don't claim that our Powders are a specific for tho distemper; in fact, there is no medicine that will check it, and keep it from running its course, without endangering the animal; but we do claim that they will purify the blood, strength- en the system, and help the animal throw off the disease. They aivj all the medicine that is necessary to give in the majority of cas-es. PINK-EYE— EPIZOOTIC CELLULITIS. This is a disease of the horse that resembles influenza to a cer- tain extent, but it is a distinct disease of itself. It is properly known as "Epizootic cellulitis," as it is a contagious disease and affects principally the cellular tissues of the body. Causes. — This disease is due to a contagion or gerais that are carried in the air from sick to healthy animals. The germs will remain in the stable or sheds, where the disease has been, for a considerable length of time, and infect healthy horses' or mules that are brough in there. The exact nature of tliese germs is not 4 44 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. as yet thoroughly understood, but it is without any doubt an e])i- zootie (contagious) disease, as it has been known to spread over large districts in a short time. Symptoms. — The first symptom that attracts attention is a watery discharge from the eyes, and a reddened or pinkish color of the conjunctiA^a (lining of the eye) is seen at the same time. The animal appears dull, has a weak pulse, and high tempera- ture. The eyelids become swollen and discharge a white-colored matter. The legs become swollen and the swelling may extend along the belly. The bowels become constipated and the urine scanty. The body is hot all over, and the animal lays down most of the time. Treatment. — As a general thing the treatment for pink-eye is quite successful, except in some very severe forms. Never bleed or physic an animal with pink-eye. Give 2 drams of nitrate of potash two or three times a day. Give the animal plenty of cold water to drink. If the animal is weak, give stimu- lants, as sweet nitre, whisky, etc. Keep the animal in a com- fortable place, and give soft, easily digested food. If the bowels are constipated, give one-half pint of raw linseed oil as a laxative. Bathe the eyes well with water two or three times per day. Good care, a comfortable place, with fresh air and water and easily digested food, are of great benefit in this disease. INFLUENZA— EPIZOOTIC— LA GKIPPE. This is a disease that attacks all the domesticated animals ns well as man, and has been known for ages past. It is a con- tagious and an infectious disease, but during certain seasons and in certain localities it takes on a much more fatal form. There was a ver}- serious and fatal outbreak of this disease in the United States druing the year 1872. It killed over 75 per cent of the Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 46 horses and mules in many cities and localities. In some of the large cities not a horse could be seen on the streets for weeks at a time— ^all the teaming being done with oxen. This disease prevails nearly every winter and spring, but not in a very fatal form as a general thing. Nearly every person can remember, to their sorrow, how tlie la grippe raged all through this country among people last winter and spring. It is nearly the identical disease that attacks the horse, so you will know how to sympa- thize with your faithful servant the horse when he has the ^'grippe." Causes. — It, without a doubt, originates from some atmos- pheric influence, and when once started spreads through the air and is caught by well horses coming in contact with sick ones. The germs or contagion may be carried on the clothing of people from one stable to another. A case is on record where the disease was conveyed three miles across water, either through the air or on the clothing of people, as no animals were taken on to the island for three months previous to the outbreak of the disease. It is seen more frequently and in a worse form in crowded, poorly ventilated stables, and it is more fatal in large cities than in the ooimtry. Colts and old horses are easier victims to the disease than middle-aged, healthy horses. One thing that makes influ- enza such a fatal disease is the other diseases that follow it, as pneumonia, bronchitis, rheumatism, heart troubles, etc. Symptoms. — In the early stages of the disease there is general weakness, dullness, watery eyes, a watery discharge from the nose which turns to matter, a cough, etc. The pulse and temperature run up sometimes very high, and the animal loses its appetite. The symptoms, instead of improving in two or three days, as in ca- tarrh or cold, get worse, and the animal becomes a grea.t sufferer. The tliroat is sore, the cough is painful, the breathing labored and fast, and the animal shows all siijns of weakness and sore- 46 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. ness. These symptoms may continue on to death or they may abate in five or eight days and the animal begin to improve. Any of the complications, as lung troubles, Iddney troubles, heart troubles, brain troubles, etc., may set in at any time. Treatment. — Bleeding, physicing, or any treatment that has a tendency to weaken the animal should not be practiced. As the disease now appears, it is in a form that can generally be treated successfully. As it is a fever that has a certain course to run, we must adopt a form of treatment to help nature throw off the disease, and support the animal while the disease is running its course. We must never try to cut the disease short, as that is dangerous to the animal. Keep the animal in a comfortable place and allow plenty of fresh air and water and what easily digested food the animal will eat. If the weather is cold, blanket the animal, and hand-rub and bandage the legs. Give one dram of nitrate of potash three times a day, either in feed, drink- ing water, or put it on the tongue with a large spoon. Give this regular for two or three days, then give one dram of chlorate of potash three times per day for a few days. Give whisky, alcohol, and sweet nitre, to keep up the animal's strength. Bathe the throat well with our Liniment (see Appendix) twice a day to re- move the soreness. Steaming the head by the use of hot water and a little carbolic acid is beneficial. If the bowels are con- stipated give one-half pint of raw linseed oil as a drench -and give injections of warm water. In mild cases our Condition Powders (see Appendix) is all the medicine that is necessary to give, and in all cases give our Powders after the severe symptoms have passed. If any other disease sets in, treat it according to the treatment given in another part of this book. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 47 CHAPTER VI. THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. The principal organs of digestion are the teeth, stomach, and bowels. Mastication takes place by the teeth, which is the first step toward the process of digestion. A horse has 40 te^th, a mare 36, a cow 32, a dog 42, and a pig 44 teeth. The canine teeth, or tushes, are seldom developed in the mare. Cattle have no upper front teeth, there being nothing but a tough pad of gristle in the place of teeth. The teeth of a horse need a great deal of attention — far more than they get. A horse, dog and pig each have but one stomach, while cattle, sheep and goats each have four stomachs. The capacity of a horse's .stomach averages three and a half to four gallons, a cowl's from forty-five to fifty gallons, and the dog's one to three quarts. The length of a horse's bowels is about 100 feet, while a cow's is about 150 feet. The horse's bowels although shorter than a cow's are larger in capacity. It is estimated that three-fourths of the horses that die, die of some di.sease of the stomach or bowels, and in a ma- jority of cases it is caused by faulty feeding or watering. There- fore, it is very important that every horse owner should have a thorough knowledge of the proper way to feed and water. Below wdll be found all the diseases of the digestive organs, briefly de- scribed. DENTITION. This covers the period during which the young horse is cutting hi> teeth — from birth to the age of five years. -The horse expe- riences more difficulty in cutting the second, or permanent, teeth than with the first, or milk teeth. Too little attention is paid to 48 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. the teeth of young horses by farmers and stock raisers. The mcnths of all horses between the ag.es of one and five years should b3 frequently examined, to see if one or more of the milk teeth are not remaining too long, causing the second teeth to grow in crocked, in which case the first teeth should be removed by the forceps. During the time the animal is shedding a tooth, he may or may not eat well, oft^n cuds his food, and wastes more or less of it The gums are found, on examination, to be red, swollen, and very tender. The irritation of the gums may extend to and involve the stomach and bowels, giving rise to constipation, diar- rhoea, etc. Allow the animal to have soft food, of a laxative and nutritious character. TEETH. The teeth of a horse, the principal organs of mastication, are a very important part of his body, and should have proper atten- tion when diseased or improperly shed. A horse has forty teeth, and a mare 36, the tusks being seldom developed in a mare. The teeth are of three classes, consisting of molars, or grinders; in- cisors, or front teeth; and tusks,*or canine teeth. The horse, like other animals, is provided with two sets of teeth: temporary or colt teeth, and permanent or horse teeth. There are twenty-four tcnsporary teeth, twelve grinders and twelve front teeth. The peimanent teeth are forty in number, consisting of twenty-four grinders, twelve front teeth, and four tusks, except in mares, who seldom have fully developed tusks. A colt, at birth, generally has twelve temporary grinders, and four incisors or front teeth — two above and two below, in the nr'ddle. The name for the two middle front teeth on each jaw is the nippers; the next two, one on each side of the nippers, the lateral incisors; and the outside ones, the corner teeth. At from six to nine weeks, a colt cuts its lateral incisors, and at the age of about nine months the corner teeth appear. The temporary Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 49 incisor teeth differ from the permanent ones by being smaller in size, having a prominent neck, and much whiter appearance. The fir&t permanent grinder, the fourth on the Jaw, comes through when the colt is about one year old; and at about eighteen months old the second grinder, the fifth on each side of each jaw, comes through. At about two and one-half years of age, the colt sheds its nippers, middle front teeth, and the first tv 0 on each jaw of its grinders, and they are all taken place by pfimanent teeth. Between three and four years, the colt sheds its lateral front teeth, and the third temporary grinder, and they are taken place by permanent teeth; also, at about this age, the sixth permanent grinder comes through. Therefore, a colt, at four years of age, has a full set of permanent grinders. Between four and five, he sheds his corner incisors and gets the permanent ones, and at about this time the tusks come through, making a horse at five years of age have a '^full mouth." AGE OF A HORSE. How to tell the age of a horse is something that must be ac- quired by practice, and not theory alone. Most any one can learn, by a little study and practice, how to detect the age up to six or eight years in most cases, bu,t beyond this age is very much harder to tell accurately; in fact, no one can tell within one or twv) years after a horse has passed the age of ten years. If all horses had a uniform wear and growth of th,e teeth, it would be a great deal easier to tell the exact age, but different breeds of horses, and different kinds of food, greatly change the wear and shape of the teeth. Hard, gritty food wears the teeth much faster than soft food, free from .sand and other gritty substances. A horse's teeth are continually growing and wearing off, no matter how old the horse. It is estimated that they grow one inch in about ten or twelve years. 50 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. By carefully reading over the remarks on ''The Teeth," it can be easily seen how to tell a horse's age up to five years. By look- in^^ at the wearing surface of a horse's front teeth at five years old^ you will notice a depression, called the cup or mark. It is by watching the wear and disappearance of this cup that we are erabled to indicate the age up to eleven or twelve years. At about six years, the cups will be worn out of the nippers on the kwer jaw, and at seven years the cups will be worn out of the h.teral incisors of the lower jaw; and at eight, it will disappear fiom the corner teeth of the same jaw. Therefore, at the age of eight, the wearing surfaces of the lower row are perfectly smooth; aho, about this time there will be noticed a little hook-like pro- jection on each of tlie upper corner incisors. x\t about the age of nine years, the cups disappear from the middle front teeth of the upper jaw; at about ten, they are worn out of the upper lateral incisors; and about eleven, they are all perfectly smooth. Tho foregoing is the general rule to go by, but, of course, there are certain cases that vary a great deal from that rule. There are certain signs and rules to go by to tell the age of a horse above twelve years, but they are not very reliable. The front teeth of a young horse are wider from side to .side, but in an old horse they become wider from before backwards. Some dishonest dealers cup an old horse's teeth to make him look young, but thic can be easily detected by looking at the general form and appearance of the teeth. A crib-bitter may be known by the peculiar appearance of his teeth, which are worn and broken off in front. In such a horse, it is hard to tell the age. SHARP AND PROJECTING TEETH. As a horse advances in age the teeth usually wear down in an irregular manner. This is better understood when we know that the grinders (molars) of the upper jaw do not come di- rectly opposite to those of the lower jaw. Consequently sha'.-p Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 51 Fig, Dunn's Float in use on the Molars. points are formed on the outer part of the upper molars, which lacerate and cut the cheeks when chewing the food, and similar points on the inner side of the lower ones, which cut and bruise the tongue. These ragged edges would not form if the upper grinders were directly opposed to the lower grinders. Horses' teeth should be examined occasionally to ascertain whether any such points are causing the animal any trouble. On passing the hand into the mouth the sharp and projecting points can be felt with the fingers, and on examining closer the tongue and cheeks are seen to be sore and lacerated. The mouth speculum, or balling iron (Fig. 8), may be necessary in some cases when it is desired to make a thorough examination of all the teeth. The animal eats but little, on account of the great pain caused by chewing his food, which is cudded and wasted to a great ex- tent. Nor does the animal drive as well as usual, being slow to answer the rein, and may while traveling carry his head to one side, consequently being hard to keep straight ia the road. When these sharp projections are found, it is necessary to re- move them. The best instrument for this purpose is a tooth- rasp (Fig. 6), after which the animal should be fed for a few 52 Dr. LeG ear's Stock Book. days on soft food; nothing more is necessary unless the animal is run down in condition. If so, give one teaspoonful of Dr. LeG ear's Condition Powders morning and night in damp feed. Fig. 6. Tooth- Rasp or Float. Fig. 7a. Haussmann's Lever Open Molar Cutters, for cutting off large, projecting teeth. Fig. "b. Haussmann's Lever Closed Molar Cutters, for cutting small, projecting teeth. LONG PKOJECTIIs^G TEETH. This is a very common condition, and is found most common v in connection with the first grinder of the upper jaw, and the last grinders of the lower jaw. It constitutes quite a serious condition, and more especially is this the case when the sixth (last) grinder of the lower jaw is the one at fault. It gives rise to quidding of the food, imperfect chewing. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 5S loss of condition, etc. A projecting tooth is one that grows longer than the other teeth on account of the opposite tooth immediate- ly over or under it becoming decayed or having been pulled our, consequently the tooth meeting with no resistance grows out longer than is natural, and causes much pain and irritation. When a long projecting tooth is found, it becomes necessary to reduce it to a level with the other teeth. The best instrument for this purpose is a pair of molar cutters (Figs. 7a, 7b), after which file off the roughness with a tooth-rasp. Then feed the animal on soft feed for a few days, and in the course of ten days or a fortnight he will have improved to such an extent as to be hardly recognizable as the same horse. But at the same time don't fail to give in the feed Dr. LeGear's Condition Powders. In all cases where horses "quid" their food, where they are slobbering, or where they show pain in chewing the food, shown by holding their head to one side, the teeth should be carefully examined. DECAYED TEETH. This is indicated by gradual decay or wasting away of the tooth-substance in small particles. It is quite a common condi- tion, especially in connection with the grinders (back teeth), although none of the teeth are free from the trouble. Decay may commence in any part of the tooth. It is by no means as common in the lower animals as in man, on account of people eating so many sweets, etc., which have a bad effect on the teeth. Causes. — Decayed teeth may arise from a great many differ- ent causes, but the most common cause is some injury to the tooth, caused by taking into the mouth with the food some hard substance, as a piece of iron, pebble, etc., which during the act of chewing comes into contact with the tooth, breaks its cover- 54 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Fig. Haussmann's Mouth Speculum, used to open the mouth for work on the teeth, and for examining the mouth. ing, and decay quickly follows. A severe blow on the jaw might also produce decay of the teeth. Symptoms. — It may he noticed that the animal has some diffi- culty in chewing his food, and frequently while eating stops and throws up his head .as though suffering severe pain. While drink- ing cold water he may stop and hold the head to one side, etc. The above are general symptoms when the crown of the tooth is decayed. When the root of the tooth alone is diseased, the symptoms are quite different. 'Then a swelling appears on the face at the side the diseased tooth is on and directly over the decayed tooth. It is the prevailing idea among horsemen that if a horse has a swelling on his face they say he has "blind teeth.*' He may have blind teeth, but they seldom if ever injure a horse. Blind teeth, properly known as Wolf Teeth, are little peg-like teeth, situated one in front of each upper grinder, and are gen- erally harmless. (See Fig. 9a, page 56.) Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 55 We often hear it said that "hlind teeth'' grow or come out through the hones on the face. That is an erroneous idea, and is as foolish as it is absurd. Such a thing never happens. What causes the swelling on the face is the matter which inflames the hone and causes it to bulge out. When the matter becomes abund- ant enough it will burst through the bone and skin and cause a r laming, sore. When there is a cavity from the grinding surface of tne tooth all the way up to the root, the matter will escape into the mouth and not form an enlargement. The above is regard- ing the grinders on the upper jaw. When the roots only of one of the lower grinders become decayed it forms an enlargement on the lower border of the jaw; in the same way the enlarge- ment is formed on the upper jaw. If an enlargement is seen on a colt or right young horse it is generally due to the caps (colt teeth) not being properly shed. Very often the matter from a diseased upper grinder will break into the nostril instead of on the face, and forms a running at the nose of a very offensi^^e smelling matter. If the crown of the tooth is decayed and the matter runs into the mouth you can smell a very offensive odor every time you open his mouth or put on the bridle. Treatment. — As the art of filling teeth in the lower animals can not as yet be successfully done, the only remedy for a de- cayed tooth is to remove it. This is generally done by means of tooth forceps made especially for such work. Figure 9 is a pair of forceps for pulling the molars or grinders from horses. Figure 8 is a speculum for opening the mouth to see which tooth is de- cayed and where to place the forceps for its extraction. It is generally advisable to throw a horse for this operation. After the horse is secured, put on the speculum, grasp the tooth firmly with the molar extractor (forceps) and by using steady force you may be able to remove the tooth. Unless the whole tooth is de- cayed and loosened it will be found a big job' to pull an upper grinder in most of cases. A little wooden block may be placed 56 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Fig. 9a. Wolf Tooth Forceps, for pulling Wolf Teeth (blind teeth). Fig. 10. Handle for Molar Extractors and Cutters. on the sound teeth in front of the one to be pulled which will serve as a lever by which extra power can be obtained. If the crown of the tooth is decayed so there is no hold for the forceps, or if the tooth is implanted in the jaw too solid to be pulled, it may be removed by trephining and punching it out. This opera- tion is done by cutting the skin on the face and exposing the bone over the roots of the teeth. Then bore through the bone by using the trephine (Fig. 3), and with a steel punch about three- eighths size drive the tooth into the mouth. If colts fail to shed their colt teeth, they should be pulled before they interfere with the growth of the permanent teeth. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 57 PARROT MOUTH. Parrot-mouth is a condition in which the incisors (front teeth) of the upper jaw project further forward than those of the lower jaw, and, when the mouth is shut, the upper incisors pass down in f 1 ont of those in the lower jaw. A horse with this deformity does not do very well at pasture, for the simple reason that he ca.n not gather sufficient grass to keep him in good condition. But;, feeding from the manger, he does very well, except when fed on ear corn, in which case he experiences considerable diffi- culty in getting the grain off the cob. About all that can be dene is to keep both the upper and lower incisor teeth shortened by means of the rasp (Fig. 6), to prevent contact with, and ii-jur}/ to, the soft tissues. UNDERSHOT. This is just the opposite from parrot-mouth. It is a deformity in which the under jaw is longer than the upper jaw; conse- quently, the front teeth do not meet. The only thing to be done is to cut or rasp off the front teeth when they get too long. LAMPAS. Lampa,s, or more commonly called lampers, is the name given to a swelling of the membrane covering the roof of the mouth just behind the front teeth. Animals between the ages of three and five years are most subject to it. On examination of the mouth, the gums and rings of the hard palate, just behind the upper front teeth, are found to be unnaturally reddened and swollen, the animal objecting very much to having the parts pressed upon, showing that the parts are very so're. Many horses 58 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. have naturally very prominent gums, etc., but unless the parts are reddened, sore and tender, it is not lampas, although the parts are just as much enlarged as in a case of lampas. Treatment. — Unless it is a genuine case of lampas, let it aione, as you will do more harm than good. Where the parts are in- flamed and tender, with a sharp lance or a pocket-knife make several shallow cuts across the first two bars in the roof of the mouth. The cuts must be made in front of the third bar, and made very shallow, as you are liable to cut an important blood vessel. Under no conditions burn the parts with a red-hot iron, as this is cruel and barbarous to say the least. After bleeding in the mouth, apply alum water to the parts once or twice a day. There is nothing better, though, than Dr. LeGear's Heal- ing Lotion for such purposes. Feed on soft feed for a few days, and lay the animal off work, if possible, as the presence of the bit in the mouth will keep up irritation. APHTHAE— SORE MOUTH. This is an inflammation of the mouth; the eruptions are usual- ly seen about the lips and tongue. Causes. — Irritating medicines, foods, or other .substances, will produce it. Symptoms. — There is a sweUing of the parts, little blisters are formed, and the mouth is found to be hot and tender; the appe- tite is partly or wholly lost, and there is difficulty in chewing. Treatment. — Change the food and give a laxative: as, raw lin- seed oil, 1 pint; powdered gentian, 2 drams; carbonate of soda, 4 drams; Mix, and give as a drench. Swab out the mouth with De. LeGear's Stock Book. 59 chlorate of potash, borax, or alum, about one-half ounce in a pint of water. Feed on soft food, as, bran mashes, chops, etc., and dampen all the fodder you give him. PTYALISM, OR SLOBBERING. 1'his consists of an excessive secretion of saliva (spittle) from the mouth. Causes. — It may be caused by irregular teeth, inflammation of the mouth or tongue, or by such medicines as mercury, lobelia, etc. Foreign bodies, as nails, wheat-chaff, and corn cobs, be- con)ing lodged in the mouth, will cause it, a,s well as certain kinds of food. Treatment. — Ascertain the cause of the trouble, and remov^e it. Change the food, and feed the animal some of our Condition Powders. Wash the mouth out with alum water in case of sore- ness. CHOKING. Choking is the name applied to the trouble where an animal gets some object, or portion of unmasticated food, lodged in the oesophagus (gullet). Cattle are more frequently troubled with choking than horses. Greedy eaters very often take too much into their mouths at once, and try to swallow it without properly grinding it; therefore, the food — a potato, an apple, a turnip, an car of corn, a cob, shelled oats, or whatever it may be — becomes lodged in the gullet by being too large to pass into the stomach. Symptoms. — The animal makes continued e^orts to swallow, and may have spasms of pain while doing so. Slobbering at the 5 60 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. jnouth is abimdanl, and there may be coughing. If the animal attempts to drink, the M'ater runs out through his nose. In cat- th^, there is always more or less bloating (accumulation of gas in the stomach). If the substance is in the throat, or lodged in the gullet between the throat and breast, it can generally be plainly felt from the outside. After the object has been lodged in the gullet for one or two days, swelling and inflammation sets in and causes great pain to the animal. Treatment. — If the obstruction is in the throat, it may be worked out by pressing and kneading at it from the outside; or it may be removed with the hand, by passing it into the mouth; the latter being held open by the mouth speculum. If it is below the throat, a probang (Fig. 11) may be used to gently force Fig. 11. Probang, used in choking, in horses and cattle. it on into the stomach. The probang is a pliable leather tube, six feet long, with a knob on the end to press on the object. The probang is also hollow, through which a little oil can be pour.ed for the purpose of softening the object and making it more easily moved. In place of a probang, a pliable whalebone whip may be used. Never run a broom-stick or hoe-handle down an aiiimars throat, for you will surely injure the gullet and kill the animal. A gag or speculum can be put on the animal to keep it from biting the probang. If taken in time, the probang, })roi)erly used, will generally relieve the animal in a few minutes; but, if let go until the gullet becomes swollen and inflamed, it is often a very difficult job to unchoke the animal. In cattle, you can let out the gas through the hollow probang by letting it re- main in the stomach for a minute or two after the obstruction is removed. A probang is something that every town or community ou<>ht to have for the benefit of the public, where there is no Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 61 veterinary surgeon. If the obstruction is lodged between the throat and breast, and can't be- dislodged with the probang, it may be cut down upon and removed. This is a delicate opera- tion, and seldom proves successful, except when performed by a qualified veterinary surgeon. The hole in the gullet must be tightly sewed up, also the muscles and skin, by separate stitches. An animal should be fed on soft, wet food for several days after a bad case of choking. RESULTS OF CHOKING. Choking may result in rupture, stricture, or dilalation of the oesophagu? (gullet), but, as little can be done for these condi- tions, we will not describe them. BOTS— LAEVAE OF THE GAD-FLY. Bots are of two kinds: the stomach hot, which infests the horse's stomach during development; and the fundament bot, which is found in the rectum (last gut), anus, etc. It is surprising what erroneous ideas are entertained amongst most horse owners, and even some "horse doctors," about bots. As every obscure lamenes,s in the foot is supposed to be in the shoulder, so when a horse is taken sick with abdominal pain, nine times out of ten it is laid to bots. If he turns up his upper lip, looks at his side, paws and rolls, or shows any uneasiness, it is taken as a sure sign of bots. Bots as a rule are harmless parasites, seldom if ever producing any mischief, and they are found in the stomach of almost every horse that dies, sometimes in great numbers, adhering to its coats. One of the best authorities on the subject, is Cobbold, who writes as follows: 62 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. "The cominoii gad-fly (Gastropilius eqiii) attacks the animal while grazing late in the summer, its object being, not to derive sustenance, but to deposit its eggs. This is accomplished by means of a glutinous excretion, causing the ova (egg) to ad- here lo the hairs. The. parts selected are chiefly those of the shoulder, base of the neck, and inner part of the forelegs, espe- cially about the knees, for in these situations the horse will have no difficulty in reaching the ova with its tongue. When the animal licks those parts of the coat where the eggs have been placed, the moisture of the tongue, aided by warmth, hatches the ova, and in something less than three weeks from the deposition of the eggs the larvae have made their escape. iVs maggots they are transferred to the mouth, and ultimately to the stomach, with food and drink. A great many larvae perish during this passive mode of immigration, some being dropped from the mouth and others being crushed in the fodder during mastication. It has been calculated that out of the many hundreds of eggs deposited on a single horse scarcely one out of fifty of the larvae arrive within the stomach. Notwithstanding this waste the interior of the stomach may become completely covered (cuticular portion) with bots. Whether there be few or many they are anchored in this situation chiefly by means of two large cephalic hooks. After the bots have attained perfect growth they voluntarily loosen their hold and allow themselves to be carried along the aliment- ary eanal until they escape with the feces. In all cases they sooner or later fall to the ground, and when transferred to the soil they bury themselves beneath the surface in order to undergo transformation into the pupa condition. Having remained in the earth for a period of six or seven weeks they finally emerge from their pupal-cocoons as perfect dipterous (winged) insects — the gad-fly. It thus appears that bots ordinarily pass about eight months of their lifetime in the digestive organs of the horse.'' It is very common to hear bystanders declare, when a horse is suffering from what is commonly called colic, "that the horse Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 63 has the bots/' and their suggested treatment is always varied and heroic. It is true, we have good reason to beHeve that they could cause serious trouble, as claimed by some veterinary sur- geons, by blocking up the passages, but these instances are so rare that such cases are not seen in a lifetime. At post- mortem examinations, when the stomach is found to be ruptured, the opinion, frequently expressed, that "the bots have eaten through the stomach," is asrain a mistake. Bots seldom or never do this; the rupture is due to over-distention of the viscus with food or gases. Bots may, and probably do, when in large enough numbers to be attached to the true digestive portion of the stomach, slightly interfere with digestion; the animal may not thrive, the coat stares, and emaciation may follow; but beyond this, with a few exceptions already noted, they are harmless. Even if they were the cause of the trouble, there are no medicines which will loosen them from their attachments and cause them to pass out of the body. Treatment. — It is useless to give treatment in order to loosen the bots from their attachments, as they will go their allotted time, loosen themselves, and pass out in spring or early summer. Horse owners, noticing them in the manure, unhesitatingly say that his horse "has the bots." WORMS. (INTESTINAL.) Worms that infest the horse are of many kinds, and may be found in almost every part of the body, but the ones we shall refer to -are found in the stomach and bowels. They are most common in young horses, especially those that are weak and un- thrifty; or those that graze on low, wet or marshy pastures. We shall speak of but a few of the most common ones: First, the Lumbricoid, which infests principally the small intestines, is 64 Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. white or reddish in color, and measures from four to twelve inches in length. Some have been seen that were nearly thirty inches long. It resembles the common earth worm, being thick- est at the middle and tapering at the ends. Second, the pin- worm, found principally in the large intestines, is another com- mon variety of worms. It is a thread-like worm, and is but one or two inches long. The third variety is the tape-worm; and when once seen is easily recognized. It is white, flat, broad ^nd jointed, and sometimes measures from twenty to thirty feet. Its head is found at the smaller end of the worm. Symptoms. — The surest sign, and one that most people depend upon, is the passage of worms in the horse's dung. Other im- portani symptoms are slight colicy pains, rubbing of the tail or rump, depraved appetite shown by eating dirt, licking the walls, and being particularly fond of salt; the horse becomes poor, doe.s not shed his coat, is hide-bound and pot-bellied. Some place much dependence upon turning up of the upper lip; while others declare that when we see a dried whitish substance adhering around the anus, worms are present. Treatment. — In preparing our Worm Remedy, we were very careful that we put in it medicines that would act on and kill {ill kinds of stomach and bowel worms; therefore, in ordinary cases, all that is necessary to give-, is one teaspoonful of Dr. LeGeai^'s Worm Remedy (see Appendix) night and morning in bran mash or other soft, damp feed, for about ten days or two weeks. It :"s advisable to give bran mashes freely, as bran is a laxative and easily digested, and is benf.fi cial in the treatment of worms. If in bad cases the Worm Remedy fails to rid the horse of all ^he worms, give the following physic after you have given the Worm Remedy for ten days: Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 65 Powdered Barbadoes aloes 6 drams. Powdered ginger 3 drams. Calomel 2 drams. Turpentine IJ ounces. Eaw linseed oil 8 ounces. Mix, and give as a drench. The Worm Remedy will kill the worms, and the above physic will drive them out. If pin-worms are present, it is well to give the horse an injection of warm water every day for four or five days, to which add one ounce of turpentine to every gallon of water. The turpentine has a tendency to kill the little worms lodged away back in the rectum. You may inject tobacco water instead of the turpentine. Our Worm Remedy is sure death to tlie worms, but perfectly harmless to the hor.se. It not only kills the worms, but it aids the horse's digestion, tones up his stomach and bowels, purifies his blood, and builds up his whole system in general INDIGESTION, OR DYSPEPSIA. Indigestion in the horse is similar to that in man. This is an age of dyspeptics in man, and w^ould be, no doubt, in the horse were he fed on similar "dainties," prepared by the good ^\dfe to suit our highly cultivated tastes. Happily for the horse, that is not so! Indigestion may be applied to all those conditions, from any cause, where digestion is improperly performed, and not pro- noimced enough to produce colic. Tlie seat and causes of indigestion vary considerably in difierent liorses, and may vary in the same horse at different times. One of the* first things to examine is the teeth. If these are sharp, ir- regular or decayed, the food is improperly masticated (chewed), and taken into the stomach before there has been a proper ad- mixture of saliva (spittle). Food in this condition is anything 66 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. but fit for the organs of digestion to act upon. The bile (fluid secreted by the liver) may be deficient in quantity or quality; there may be lack of secretion of the pancreas; or there may be lack of perstaltic (worm-like) movement of the stomach and in- testines, which is very essential to the passage of the ingesta. OUier causes are, wintering on hard, dry hay or corn stalks, or any bulky or innutritive food; irregular feeding or over-feeding, though the latter is more liable to cause engorged stomach. Symptoms. — It is characterized by an irregular appetite, which is often depraved: refusing food at times, and at others eating ravenously; his depravity is shown by eating wood, dirt, soiled bedding, or even his own feces; to-day the bowels may be loose and bad smelling, to-morrow bound; grain often passes whole in the dung. The animal loses flesh, the skin becomes hard and dry, and seems very tight (hide-bound). Treatment. — If the teeth are sharp or irregular, have them rasped by a veterinary surgeon; if any are decayed, they must be extracted; if due to ravenous eating or bolting the food, compel it to be eaten slowly by spreading it out on a large surface, or by putting some rocks in the feed-box. Also, pay particular atten- tion to the quality and quantity of the feed, and the time of feed- ing; examine the water supply, and see that it is given before feeding. Don't forget, the seat of trouble may be in the stom- ach, intestines, or other organs of digestion. To remove any ir- ritation of the bowels, such as worms, undigested food, etc., give as a drench, linseed oil, 1 pint; oil of turpentine, 1 ounce; and follow with Dr. LeGear's Condition Powders, according to tlie directions on each box. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 67 RUPTURE OF THE STOMACH. Causes. — It is usually caused by the horse throwing himself down violently when the stomach is full of gas, food, etc., during an attack of acute indigestion, etc. Symptoms. — The symptoms are never very positive, and in no case will you be able to state, positively that rupture has taken place. Vomiting is a prominent symptom, which may take place before or aft-er rupture does. The animal turns round, or walks in a circle, lies down, and sits upon his haunches after the manner of a dog; the eyes take on a peculiar stare, cold sweats break out, and death soon occurs. Treatment. — Nothing in the way of treatment can be done for it. FLATULENT OR WIND COLIC. Flatulent or wind colic is also a very dangerous disease, unless relieved, and is characterized by an over-di.stention of gas in the. large intestines. Causes. — Among some of the principal causes of this form of colic are, coarse, inferior food, especially hay or com that is sour or mouldy, imperfeet mastication (chewing), owing to defective teeth, etc., and especially in old animals, whose digestive powers are impaired; sudden changes of food of any kind, too long fast- ing, crib-biting, etc., and, in fact, anything that produces indi- gestion may operate in causing flatulent colic. Symptoms. — Quite similar to cramp coHc, but not so suddenly produced. At first, the animal becomes uneasy, turns his head 68 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. to one side and paws, generally throws himself down, and rolls; the pulse soon runs up, and the abdomen (belly) is seen to in- crease in size — becoming distended with gas. In a well-marked case, the ribs of the leanest horse can no longer be located. The pains are continuous, and the suffering of the poor animal now becomes very great. In addition, there is difficult breathing, profuse, sweating, trembling, staggering gait, and, finally, if relief be not quickly given, death will very soon follow. Treatment. — ^Whatever is done must be done quickly. Give at once Dr. LeGear's Colic Cure, according to the directions on each bottle. Give, frequently, injections per rectum of warm Fig. 12. Trocar and Canula, used for tapping an animal in wind colic (bloating). water, with a small quantity of common salt in solution. Gas escaping by the anus gives relief, and is to be regarded as a fa- vorable sign; and at this time don't push remedies too far, as harm may result. Tobacco injections are highly useful in all forms of colic. If the above treatment fails to give relief, and the belly still continues to enlarge, recourse must be had to the operation of puncturing (tapping) the colon to allow the gas to escape. This operation must be done with an instrument for the purpose, called the trocar, and canula. Select a spot on the right, midway betwixt the point of the hip, the last rib and the lumbar transverse processes, plunge the instrument in, draw out the trocar, thus leaving the tube (canula) in for the gas to pa,?s through. This operation must be performed before the animal gets too weak. This gives the animal instant relief, and, by the time the gas has all escaped, the animal ceases to suffer. The af- ter-treatment consists of easily digested food in .small quantities. De. LeGear's Stock Book. 69 tonics, etc. Dr. LeGear's Condition Powders will regulate and tone up the digestive organs, and prevent a return of the trouble. If the bowels are constipated, give the following: Turpentine 1^ ounces. Raw linseed oil 1 quart. Mix, and give as a drench. SPASMODIC OR CRAMP COLIC. Spasmodic or cramp colic is a very common as well as a very dangerous disease of the horse, and is more commonly known as gripes, bellyache, etc. It is wholly of a spasmodic nature, and if not promptly relieved, will, in severe cases, run into inflamma- tion of the bowels, causing speedy death. Causes. — The common causes are a sudden change in the feed; dnnking large quantities of cold water when in a heated or ex- hausted condition; indigestible food; foreign, bodies, as nails or stones, in the bowels; driving a heated horse through deep streams; cold rains; draughts of cold air, etc., may cause it as well as other troubles. Symptoms. — This form of colic is characterized by the sud- denness of the attack. All at once the animal is suddenly seized, stamps and paws, and sometimes kicks as though he were trying to strike his belly with his hoof; he throws himself violently down, rolls from side to side, and appears to be suffering intense pain. After rolling a while he gets up, stands quietly for a few minutes, evidently free from pain, when he is suddenly seized again and goes through the same performances as before. As the attack progresses these intervals of ease become shorter and shorter, until the spasms are continuous or nearly so. Now the animal breaks out in profuse perspiration, continues to throw 70 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. himself down, rolls violently, jumps up, drops down again, paws iiud strikes, and makes fr-equent attempts to urinate, but can not. Because he can't make water, those ignorant of the disease are sure to pronounce it trouble of the kidneys or bladder. It is no positive sign because a horse yields or sinks when pinched over the loins that it is kidney trouble. During a spasm the pulse runs up; between spasms it rapidly decreases, till it is normal. Sometimes constipation is present; in others, diarrhoea. It is a bad sign to see diarrhoea in a severe case of colic. It will be difficult in many cases to distinguish between colic and inflammation of the bowels, as the symptoms are quite sim- ilar. Fig. 13. Injection Pump, used to Kive injections into the womb, or rectum (lower bowel), of warm water, etc. Treatment. — If taken in time it is a disease usually satisfactory to treat. Wliatever plan of treatment is pursued, it must be prompt and energetic. As soon as possible a draught .should be administered, the very best one being our Colic Cure. Dissolve half the contents of the bottle in a pint of water in a long-neck ijottle, and give as a drench at once. If at the end of lialf an liour pain is still present, give the other half as you did tlie first. j^esides this, give in a drench 1 pint of linseed oil as a laxative Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 71 to clear out the intestinal tract, for, if any foreign substance is- allowed to remain in the bowels it may cause another attack in a day or two afterwards. Also give injections per rectum (Fig. 13) of warm water containing a little soap and turpentine. Put the animal in a place where he can not hurt himself and allow him to roll as much as he wishes, as it gives him some relief. But don't put a man or boy on him and run him up and down the road. This is a cruel and dangerous thing to do. If the animal is still in pain after you have given two or three doses of our Colic Cure, inject under the skin with a hypodermic syringe (Fig. 2) 3 or 5 grains of morphine dissolved in one dram of water. Repeat it in one hour if necessary. If you haven't a syringe to put morphine under the skin, give as a drench in one- half pint of cold water 8 or 10 grains of morphine, and repeat in one hour if necessary. Inject one or two buckets of warm water into the rectum every hour. The following may be beneficial in some cases: Chloral hydrate 1 ounce. Sulphate of morphine 5 grains. Water 1 pint. Mix, and give as a drench. Repeat in one hour if necessary. Never give medicine through the nose, as this is a dangerous and cruel procedure. Many a poor horse is killed by the igno- rant owner pouring medicine through the nose. CONSTIPATION. Constipation is an undue accimiulation of feces in the in- testinal canal. It may be only a symptom of disease as well as being a disease of itself. 72 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Constipation or costiveness is often witnessed in the horse, and more particularly in the foal. The colt should always get the first of the mother's milk, for, at first, this milk possesses laxative properties. Whenever the foal's bowels fail to act, and more particularly if there are signs of colicy pains, or straining, some- thing should be done for it. In most cases it will only be neces- sary to give a few injections of soapy water per rectum and to introduce the finger through the anus to break down any hard- ened feces found there. If this fails to regulate the bowels, give from 2 to 4 ounces of castor oil, according to age. Linseed oil is also good for such purposes. Constipation in adult horses is gen- erally due to long feeding on dry, innutritions food, lack of in- testinal secretions, lack of exercise or water supply, derangements of the liver, etc. It may also follow indigestion, as well as other diseases, or any derangement of the digestive system. Symptoms. — At first there may be a slight diarrhoea, which soon ceases. If any manure is passed, it consists of hard pellets, and perhaps covered with mucus. The animal is dull and sluggish, and shows abdominal pains in the usual way. He rolls and paws, but not in a manner so violent as in colic. A symp- tom often noticed, especially when in connection with the large intestines, is a tendency on the part of the animal to back his buttocks up against the wall or manger and press upon the parts. More or less protrusion of the rectum is noticed on acount of frequent straining while endeavoring to expel the feces. Treatment. — In many cases a change to light, sloppy diet, as bran mash, etc., or a run at grass, is all that is required. If colicy pains are present a physic must be given: Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 73 Barbadoes aloes 6 drams. Bicarbonate of soda 4 drams. African ginger 2 drams. Nux vomica 1 dram. Powder, and mix into a mass with syrup or soap, and give as a ball; or dissolve the powder into a pint of water and give as a drench. If the above does not move the bowels in from 24 to 36 hours, administer the following: Raw linseed oil 1 quart. Tincture of nux vomica 1 ounce. Mix, and give in one dose as a drench. Repeat every six hours until a passage is effected. If there is much pain the following anodjme mixture may be given every four hours if necessary: Sulphate of morphia 8 grains. Water 8 ounces. Mix, and give as a drench. When due to lack of intestinal secretions, give fluid ex- tract of belladonna three times a day in two-dram doses, and a handful of epsom salts in the feed daily. Injections per rectum of soapy water should be freely employed to remove all hardened ft?ces from the rectum and colon. It may be necessary to remove the feces with the hand every day for a week or two, if any paralysis of the rectum is present. In all cases of constipation be sure to follow up with Dr. Le- Gear's Condition Powders, to tone up the .stomach and bowels, to purify the blood, regulate the liver, kidneys, etc. 74 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. IMPACTION OF THE LAEGE BOWELS. This is a very common, as well as a very dangerous, bowel trouble, and usually results in death, unless promptly recognized and properly treated. Causes. — Over-feeding on grain, on old, dry, hard hay, lack of waler, want of exercise, lack of the watery secretions of the bowels, or paralysis of nerve-endings, etc. Symptoms. — A slight abdominal pain, which may disap- pear for a day or two, to reappear with more violence. The manure passed is hard and dry. The belly is full, but contains no ga.s; he paws, and looks back at his sides. Soon the animal lies down, head and legs extended, occasionally raising his head to look toward his flank; he rises occasionally (from five to fif- teen minutes), walks about the stall, looks at his sides, backs up against the stall, paw.s, and soon lies down again, in his former position. The bowels cease now to move at all. A horse may gufi'er from this trouble from one to three weeks, and then re- cover, but they seldom last over four or five days. Treatment. — Give at once the following purgative: Powdered Barbadoes aloes 1 ounce. Calomel 2 drams. Powdered nux vomica 1^ drams. Powdered ginger 2 drams. Water 1 pint. Mix, and give as a drench. If the bowels don^t move in twenty-four hours, the above dose may be repeated, but not before that time. Give injections of Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. 75 warm water and so: (c-^ O t, X — ^ t) ^ ^ t- •— c ° °«s o Qi t- V Oiaa 5i£ai o «- © es t? J= « C •?iS52 3 .H « = a -j5Cas« P » o c o ^^ >>a fc--H 3 3 ^K o asd to 1 2>e 5ia d w eg£ W' i' fa |*'r . ' o d d \ '' ? C/j §^§ W k\ '' 1 I H o2 fl r/2 PJI i ^- 1 93 o eS g ! 'i O o a 0.58 s a K ;. ] w c«Jcwcn W SSSS W O ^ ^ 0) Q 4} f 1 Q ^ ^ ^D 0-1 < yj D O .V " ^^ i Q a 3 -j; i!-^«S < o Ifi r maxil •flower proces fossa ( III Inferio Angle c Styloid Orbital o x^o — Sjco^ O J ->^-w-^^ ^^^-"~^^^ rJl ca J o w 1^ t t*5 © 02 z C3 . u . » §. 1-^ l-H 2^ §ia5 P4 3 it of the iporal fo ntal bon al (nose) al peak, erior ma -maxilla aj a o 2 2 »!> £ « u C8 c3 3 t. Ob^^ZZ-np^ — rTec^'.'oS'P 152 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. FRACTUEES. Fractures are more or less common among the lower animals, but probably occur with greater frequency amongst dogs. They rank among the most serious troubles to which an animal can be subjected. There are several kinds of fractures, which are as follows: Simple fracture is that form in which the bone is broken in a clean manner, and straight or nearly straight across. Compound fracture is where the broken ends of the bone separate, pierce the soft tissues, injure the skin, etc. Comminuted fracture is where the bone is broken in several places or shattered. Compound comminuted fracture is a combination of the two forms of fracture described above. In this form of fracture the shattered bone also enters the so;^t tissues, lacerating them to a greater or less extent. Besides the above kinds of fracture, we may have the "complicated," when important blood vessels, nerves, or a joint are involved; an "oblique fracture" is so called on account of the break extending obliquely (slantingly) across the bone. It frequently happens that there is fracture without displacement, being held in place by the periosterim (bone cover- ing) for days or weeks, until complete reunion takes place. Fractures may occur in a great many ways, and sometimes in a .very simple manner; slipping in some cases being sufficient to break a bone. Muscular contraction, during the struggles of an animal when thrown and tied for an operation, is not an uncom- mon cause of fracture; rearing up and falling backwards is a com- mon cause of fracture of the bones of the neck or back part of the head. External injuries, such as blows, kicks, etc., also cause fractures. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 153 Symptoms. — As a general thing, fractures are easily recog- nized, but in cases of much swelling it becomes a matter of diffi- culty to state positively whether a fracture has taken place. Sometimes the fractured ends of the bone may pass each other, when it is easily recognized, as it can be felt with the fingers, or even detected with the eye. On examining a fracture, the broken ends of the bone come into contact, and passing over each other give rise to a grating sound. In some cases this sound is very plain, but in cases of swelling, or where the bone is deeply situated, this grating sound might not be heard. Fig. 20. The Sling. Treatment. — There is good reason to believe that a fractured bone in the lower animals can be repaired in much less time than would be occupied in the union of a similar fracture occurring in man; but treatment of fracture in the lower animals is rendered a matter of great difficulty on account of the trouble in applying and retaining splints and other appliances; also on account of the difficulty in keeping the patient quiet. Generally speaking, if the animal be of little value it will be well to have it killed and 154 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. put out of its misery. On the otlier hand, if tlie animal be a valuable one and the fracture not too extensive, it may be well to try treatment. The fractured ends of the bone should be brought as nearly together as possible and kept in place by bandages, splints, or other appliances, according to the location and ex- tent of the fracture. If the fracture be in one of the limbs, the animal should be placed in slings (Fig. 20) to keep him quiet and keep the weight off the injured limb. Plaster of paris bandages may be applied by spreading the plaster of paris on a domestic bandage about four inches wide and as long as neces- sar}\ Then roll the bandage up and wet it, and apply it snugly to the leg above and be- low and right over the fracture. When the bandage dries it will get very hard and stiff and make a good support to the broken bono. Fig. 21. Bandages wet in starch may be used in place Fracture Splint. ^^ ^^^ above, which work well in some cases. Splints may be bound on with bandages of plaster of paris, which in some cases are a great help in keeping the bones in place. Cooling applications should be applied above and beh)w the bandages if any swelling takes place, such as cold water. Also bathe the parts well with our Liniment (see Appendix) two or three times per day. Keep a bucket of cool water before the animal all the time, into which may be dissolved 1 dram of salt- petre twice per day. Keep the bowels moving freely by giving raw linseed oil as a drench. Give bran mashes, chops, boiled oats, green grass, fodder, etc., to eat. Give regularly in the feed morning and night one teaspoonful of our Condition Powders (see Appendix) to purify the blood and aid reunion of the broken bones. Broken legs in dogs can generally be successfully treated by applying a plaster of paris bandage nicely to the parts and Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 155 keeping the animal quiet for two or three weeks. It generally takes from one to three months for a fracture to unite in a horse, so don't be in too big a hurry to put the animal to work after you think a fracture is healed. A horse may be kicked on the inside of the hind leg just above the hock, and although the bone is cracked or broken it may not separate for one or two weeks, and then the bone gives way and the leg breaks clear off. Why it remains in place so long is because the periosteum (covering of the bone) is so thick in this location. If a horse gets kicked in this place he should be kept perfectly quiet for two or three weeks to give the bones a chance to unite if they are broken. If any of the bones of the leg become broken clear off and the bones come through the skin, it is advisable to kill the animal at once, as a recovery is hopeless. RICKETS— RACHITIS. Rickets, or rachitis, occurs in young animals of all kinds, but is more common in puppies than the young of other animals. It is due to a lack of lime salts, or an excess of animal matter, in the bones. Causes. — It has a tendency to occur among the offspring of stallions or dogs that have been overdone in stud service, and is more likely to appear in weakly or unhealthy animals. Weaning the animal at too early a period, and forcing him to eat food that is only fit for an old animal to eat, or milk deficient in certain elements received from the mother, may also be mentioned as causes of rickets. Symptoms. — The bones of the limbs are seen to bend unnat- urally; the fore-legs may bend outward and the hind ones bend inward; and in the horse there is a tendency to curb, bog-spavin, 11 156 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. etc., and the joints usually become enlarged. There is also weakness and debility, and in a well marked case affecting the horse the fetlock may descend nearly to the ground on the out- side, with stiffness and difficulty in progression. Treatment. — The treatment of this trouble must be both local and constitutional. If the mother's milk is the cause by not be- ing rich enough, increase her feed, and let it be of the very best quality: wheat bran, ground oats, good hay, fodder, grass, etc. Give the mother the following: Powdered sulphate of iron 1 ounce. Powdered gentian 2 ounces. Quinine 4 drams. Anise seed 2 drams. Mix, and make eight powders, and give one in her feed night and morning. She will impart strength to the colt from the medicine through her milk. Support the weakened legs with nice soft bandages. Keep the colt in a comfortable place and nature will do a great deal in forming a cure. Give the puppy bones to gnaw on; lime water and cod liver oil will be found beneficial. CAEIES. This is decay or death of bone in small particles. The bones of the spine (backbone) are often affected, as in poll-evil and fis- tula. The bones oftenest affected in the extremities are the bones of the hock, the pastern, and navicular bones. A dried specimen of decayed bone presents a dry, worm-eaten appearance. In the hock-joint caries is associated with spavin, and in the navicular bone with navicular disease. Caries is sometimes ac- companied by a discharge of a very offensive odor. Dr. LeGear^s Stock Book. 157 Treatment. — If it is in connection with fistula or poll-evil, cut down upon the parts and remove all diseased portions of bone with a bone spoon or pair of bone forceps, and cleanse the ends of the bones with peroxide of hydrogen applied full strength twice a day. If the decay of bone is in a joint, a good stimulating, penetrating blister should be applied, and there is nothing equal to our Spavin Cure (see Appendix) in these cases. NECROSIS. This simply means death of bone. It is not very common in the lower animals, and when it does take place it is generally due to some injury. After a bone dies it looks real white, and it seems to be harder than natural, and finally, becoming exposed to the air, it crumbles, separates, and comes away. Necrosis is seen in connection with the lower jaw, caused by the action of the bit. When a portion of bone dies it must be got rid of in some way; if nature fails to remove it, surgical means must be employed. Symptoms. — x\fter necrosis takes place a kind of material is thrown out which covers the dead portion to a certain extent. After a while a discharge from the affected parts takes place and an abscess is formed, at which time the dead bone is sep- arated from the living, etc. The discharge from decayed bone is very offensive. Treatment. — Enlarge the opening with a sharp lance and with a pair of forceps or tweezers remove any dead portions of bone that are present. Thoroughly syringe out th'e cavity with clean water and carbolic acid, 1 to 40. Then wash out the cavity every morning with clean water and inject peroxide of hydrogen, which will cleanse and heal the bone. 158 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. SPLINTS. A splint is a bony enlargement, usually situated on the inside of the leg between the knee or the hock and the fetlock (ankle) joint. Occasionally splints are seen on the outside of a horse's leg. There is what is called the high splint and the low splint, the former being the most serious. Splints are more often seen in young horses. Causes. — Some colts are more subject to splint than others, owing to their build and action when traveling. External in- juries of various kinds, as kicks, blows, cuts, etc., are quite com- mon causes of the trouble. The most productive cause of splint, however, is concussion, due to riding or driving on hard roads. Country horses coming to the city usually develop splint very quickly, and it is very common among city horses. Improper shoeing and allowing the feet to grow out of shape, are con- ditions which are apt to cause splint, espe- cially if the animal is driven on hard roads. Symptoms. — In most cases the animal shows lameness: lie walks almost or quite sound, and when trotted he drops on the sound leg, especially if driven on hard ground. The hand should* be passed down the sides of the cannon bone of the leg affected, to discover, if possible, any enlarge- ment. This may be of some difficulty, as the enlargement may not be as large as a pea. The presence of heat in the part may be of some use as a guide to discover the trouble. When found, press upon the en- largement with the fingers and observe (a) ilfgh.' &)'"low. whether the animal shows or manifests Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 159 pain; tap upon it and the animal will flinch, and on being trotted out immediately afterwards the lameness is increased. An animal may have very large splints for years and never be lame from them. Treatment. — Unless a horse is lame from a splint, it is advis- able to let it alone. After a horse has had a splint for several months, it becomes solid bone, and there is no medicine that will take it off without seriously injuring the leg. If the splint is taken in time, before it turns to solid bone, it can be removed by using our Spavin Cure (see Appendix) as directed. If taken in time a splint may be rubbed off by thoroughly rubbing it two or three times a day for several weeks. If the animal is lame nothing more is required to cure him than our Spavin Cure well rubbed in according to directions. If the animal is much lame he should have two or three weeks rest during treatment or. a run at pasture. RING -BONE. A ring-bone is a bony enlargement extending around the leg just above the foot. They are divided into high and low ring- bones. A low ring-bone is one where the bony enlargement conies down under the hoof and affects the coffin-joint, while a high ring-bone affects the pastern joint, and may even affect the ankle joint. It is a false ring-bone when the bony growth does not come on any of the joints. Eing-bone may come on the front or hind legs, but is oftener seen on the hind legs. Causes. — The most common cause of this trouble is hard and fast work, especially on rough ground or on hard roads. Im- })roper shoeing, blows, kicks, etc., all are causes of ring-bone. 160 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. It is a hereditary disease, and will be transmitted to tlie colts from the sire or dam if they are affected. Symptoms. — Occasionally a well developed ring-bone will come on a horse without making him lame, but it generally makes him lame from the start and all the time during its growth. In the early stages a ring-bone is sometimes very diffi- cult to detect, but after they are well formed they are very easily seen. Treatment. — The treatment is similar to that of spavin. Give the am'mal complete rest for one or two months, and repeatedly blister with our Spavin Cure. If after you have blistered thor- oughly for three or four times and the animal is still lame, the only remedy is the operation of firing (see Fig. 26), which should not be undertaken except by a qualified veterinary surgeon. Oc- casionally after an animal has been repeatedly blistered or fired he still remains lame; but on putting him to work the lameness gradually disappears. ^^»ii Fig. 23, A Ring-bone. Fig. 24. Side-bones. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 161 SIDE -BONES. A side-bone is a bony tumor situated on one or both sides of a horse's foot just above the hoof. It ^s due to ossification (turn- ing to bone) of the lateral cartileges. The lateral cartileges are pads of cartilege (gristle) one on each side of the foot partially inside the hoof, which are so situated that in their natural state they form a spring to the heel while the horse is traveling. In the healthy foot these cartileges are pliable and will spring on being pressed with the fingers. But when, from some cause, they are turned to bone, they are then called side-bones and are enlarged, hardened, and unpliable. Causes. — Side-bones are caused by hard and fast work upon hard roads. A horse traveling rapidly upon a hard road strikes the road very hard with his feet, which is apt to bruise the foot, set up inflammation in the lateral cartileges which is very likely to turn them to bone. Side-bones are also caused by punctures, bruises, and injuries, as by one horse stepping on the side of his mate's foot, injuring the lateral cartilege and resulting in side- bone. Symptoms. — Side-bones very seldom come in the hind feet, but are nearly always seen in the front feet. They are more com- mon in heavy draft horses, but are not nearly so serious as when affecting light horses used for driving or riding. In some cases the cartilege turns to bone and remains the natural size, while in others it becomes very much enlarged, making an ugly appear- ance on the side of the foot. While traveling, the toe of the foot is first brought to the ground, and there is — in case both front feet are affected — a peculiar stilty action and stiffness of gait. 162 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Treatment. — If there is much fever and soreness in the foot, remove it by frequent bathing and poulticing. Give the ani- mal a good long rest. After the inflammation has befen relieved, blister the enlargement well with Dr. LeGear's Celebrated Spavin Cure. (See Appendix.) In most cases this will effect a euro. There are some cases that baifle all treatment, and the only relief is to perform the operation of neurotomy. This is an operation which should be undertaken only by a qualified veterinary sur- geon. SPAVIN. There are two kinds of spavin recognized by the veterinary profession — bone spavin and bog spavin. We will first consider bone spavin, and later on consider bog spavin. Bone spavin is a bony growth afi'ecting the hock (gamble) joint. The general location of the en- largement is on tlie front of thi inside of the joint, but the disease may affect the whole joint. It is called high spavin when the en- largement comes on the upper part of the joint; and low spavin Avhen it comes on the lower part of the joint. High spavin is by far the worst disease and much harder to cure. Spavin never comes on the front legs, and only on the hock joints of the hind legs. A horse may be spavined and not show a himp at all on the joint. Such a spavin is called an ocult spavin (not visible), and is a very bad disease, as it affects the true articulations oC of the joint. Fi^. 26. Bone Spavin. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 163 Causes. — There are various causes of spavin, the most common of which are hard and fast work, straining by slipping in the mud, injuries to the joint, etc. In the pase of an injury to one of the hind legs, causing the animal to stand upon the sound leg, the latter becomes liable to spavin in consequence of the extra weight thrown upon it. Spavin is one of the hereditary diseases, and it is a mistake to breed a mare or breed from a stallion affected with the disease, as the colt invariably will be born with. weak joints and predisposed to spavin, and will in most cases take the disease after being put to work. Symptoms. — Spavin is a disease that nearly always comes on very slowly, and when once started it will continue to grow worse nnless checked by treatment. The first sign of spavin is slight stiffness or lameness in the affected leg, which will disappear on exercise, but will show again after standing for a few minutes. In some cases the horse will be lame all day, or in fact get worse the farther he goes, but in most cases they will warm out of the lameness after being driven a short distance. On causing the animal to move over in his stall, to move about from side to side, etc., it is noticed that he drops on the affected limb; but on be- ing made to walk or trot it is noticed that he drops on the sound leg. Sometimes the enlargement is seen first, but generally the animal is lame one, two, or three months, or even longer, before the lump can be plainly seen. The lump keeps on growing as long as there is fever, soreness, and lameness present, and some- times becomes larger than a man's fist. In long standing cases the hip will be perished, making it look as though the disease was in the hip. If you have a horse lame in one of his hind legs and you can notice nothing wrong in any other part of the leg, it is well to look for spavin, as the hock joint is more liable to disease than any otlier part of the hind leg. In most cases the horse will 164 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. knuckle at the ankle in starting off, which may lead you to think the trouhle is in the ankle and not in the hock. Treatment. — There is no medicine better than Dr. LeGear's Spavin Cure in the treatment of spavin. If it used soon enough, before the disease gets too old, and used according to directions, it will cure every time. Kest is very necessary in treating spavin. The animal should be kept quiet and not worked for four or six weeks, as every step the animal takes works the joint, irritates the disease, and prevents the medicine making a cure. What we mean by a cure in spavin is to stop the lameness and put the animal in a condition so he can do his usual work. After the lump has been on the horse for several months there is no medicine that will remove it. In old chronic cases there is no medicine that will cure them, and the treatment we would rec- ommend is the operation of firing. (See Fig. 26.) This is an operation which requires practice and skill to perform, and when properly done is the most successful treatment in old chronic cases of spavin. After this operation it is very necessary that a good penetrating blister be applied, and there is none bet- ter than Dr. LeGear's Spavin Cure. ^ Fig. 26. Pointed Firing Iron, for pin-firing. Pig. 27. Firing Iron, for feather-firing. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 165 BIG-HEAD. This disease is properly termed "Osteo-porosis," as it is a porous condition of the bones. It is commonly known as big- head, as the disease is more noticeable about the head by the bones of the face and lower jaw becoming enlarged. The bones become enlarged, but are lighter, more porous, and more easily broken than in health. Not only the bones of the head are affected, but every bone in the body becomes more or less changed. It is a disease of young horses, as it is never seen in an old horse. Big-head is rather rare in Texas, but we have seen a few cases in our practice during the last three years. We are often called upon to examine and prescribe for horses said to have the big-head, when it is nothing but an enlargement on the face caused by a bad jaw tooth. Causes. — The causes of big-head are rather obscure. Some authors claim it is due to a deficiency of lime, while others claim it is due to eating certain grasses and foods, and drinking certain kinds of water. Symptoms. — Perhaps the first symptom noticed is the enlarg- ing of the face. One or both sides may enlarge, and usually both sides of the face and each side of the lower law bulge out. The animal may appear somewhat stiff and dull in its movements. In many cases when the animal lays down it is difficult for it to get up. Also as the bones are so very porous and brittle, fracture may take place very easily. Treatment. — Treatment is almost useless. A complete change of food, water, and climate is about all that can be done. A change of climate has been known to cure big-head, but as a general thing, when a horse becomes affected with the disease it is a hopeless case. 166 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. CHAPTER XIII. WOUNDS. Wounds may occur in any part of the body, and are classified as incised, punctured, lacerated, contused, gun-shot, and poisoned. Incised Wounds, or cuts, are made with some sharp body. The edges of the wound are smooth, as though cut with a knife. These wounds are the simplest we are called upon to treat. Jf they occur in fleshy parts, where no important structures are injured, they soon recover, and often without very much treat- ment. Punctured Wounds are made by either sharp or blunt pointed substances, as sticks, thorns, nails, etc. The depth of these wounds is always greater than their width. In veterinary prac- tice, punctured wounds are very common, and more dangerous than the other kinds, and require special care and treatment. Lacerated Wounds are those in which the soft tissues (skin, muscles, etc.) are more or less torn. Lacerated wounds are usually caused by coming into contact with some blunt object, as where a horse runs against fences, the corners of buildings, through barb wire fences, or by a kick from another animal. The edges of such wounds are ragged and uneven. As a rule these wounds are not attended with any serious results when early given proper attention. Contused Wounds are commonly called bruises, and are those wounds in which the skin is not injured to any great extent, and in some cases is not even broken; but the deeper structures are Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 167 more or less affected. A good example of contused wound is "speedy cut" (interfering). A black eye, quite common among certain classes of men, is a good example of a contused wound. Gun-Shot Wounds are seldom seen except in times of war, when they are quite common. Such wounds should be thor- oughly probed to be sure that the bullet is not lodged somewhere in the body. If the ball should strike a bone it is usually shat- tered and splintered to such an extent as to warrant us in hav- ing the animal destroyed. Poisoned Wounds most frequently result from the bite of some venomous reptile, as the rattlesnake, copperhead, viper, etc., in America, and the cobra, etc., in India. This kind of wound may also be caused by the careless and improper use of certain poi- sonous medicines, as arsenic, etc., getting into a sore or cut and poisoning it. Treatment. — The treatment of wounds varies considerably, and is governed by the nature, variety, situation, and extent of the wound under consideration. When bleeding to any considerable extent follows a wound of any kind, we must first of all stop the flow of blood before attempting to close the wound itself or ap- ply any other treatment. This object is effected in different ways, according to whether the bleeding is from an artery or a vein. If from an artery, the blood will be bright red or scarlet in color, and flows in spurts, spouting out with every beat of the heart. If from a vein, the blood is darker in color and flows in a regular stream. Bleeding from large vessels may be stopped by either compress bandages, torsion, hot iron, or ligatures. By Bandages. — If the blood is from an artery, the pressure should be applied between the wound and the center of circula- tion, that is, towards the body; if from a vein, toward the ex- tremities. 168 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Pig 28. Artery Forceps. Torsion (twisting). — This is done by grasping the divided ves- sel with the artery forceps (Fig. 28) and twisting it the proper number of times, or until the bleeding ceases. The hot iron may also be used to sear the end of a blood vessel, and thus stop the bleeding. The ligature is, however, the best means to stop the flow of blood from a large vessel. The cut end of the bleeding vessel is to be caught up with a pair of artery forceps and firmly tied about one-half inch from its division. In case of profuse bleeding from the incision of a great num- ber of small vessels, it is best stopped by compresses of cotton, tow, cobwebs, etc., moistened with the tincture of the chloride of iron, ice water, etc. Our Healing Lotion is a good application for such purposes. After bleeding has ceased we should endeavor to remove all foreign bodies, if any be present. Very often splinters of wood or other foreign substances are thus lodged, and unless removed prevent the wound from healing. All deep wounds should be thoroughly examined or probed to the very bottom to see if any foreign body be present. After a thorough exploration, and all foreign substances have been removed, the wound should be care- fully and thoroughly cleansed with cold or warm water, accord- ing to the season of the year, after which bathe the parts nicely with Dr. LeGear's Healing Lotion. Now, if the character of the Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 169 wound admits of it, the edges are to be brought together and secured, which is usually done by means of sutures (stitches); the interrupted suture being the best. Fig. 29. Surgery Needles — fuU curve. Fig. 30. Surgery Needles — half curve. Sutures may consist of wire, either of tin, Silver, or some soft metal coated with silver, and are known as metallic sutures. There are also sutures of silk, catgut, etc., which may or may not be carbolized. For ordinary wounds silk thread will do as well as any of the other kinds. A medium sized suture needle will 170 Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. be found the most convenient and best to use. (Figs. 29 and 30.) Sutures are further described as twisted, quilled, interrupted, etc. The twisted suture is the one usually employed to close the wound made by the fleam in bleeding from the jugular vein — the large vein in the neck. The edges of the wound are to be l)rought together and secured in place by means of a pin, which in turn is to be held in position by hair or silk, which is wound around the pin after the manner of a figure eight (8). The quilled suture consists of two pieces of whalebone, wood, or some other material, one on each side of the wound, and con- nected by a silk thread, wire, etc. This form of suture is very useful in large wounds where the lips have a tendency to gape, and considerable force is required to prevent the wound opening, the ordinary suture in such cases being liable to tear out. The interrupted suture is formed by passing the silk or wire through the edges of the wound, drawing them together and tying the ends of the suture. By this method each stitch is sep- arate from and independent of all the others; so that if one or more stitches break, sufficient may still be left to hold the edges of the wound in position. This is the best of all forms of sutures. In sewing up a wound, you should have the animal well se- cured, to prevent any injury to himself. Take a good firm hold of the lips of the wound with the fingers, as the animal will offer less resistance than if the parts are handled in a gingerly manner. Be sure to bring the edges of the wound into perfect apposition, and you should have your mind made up as to where the first stitch should be made. If the wound is not properly stitched and the parts brought into perfect apposition, an ugly pounch or gap may be left to constitute an eye-sore and ever after be a source of aggravation. Always leave a sufficient opening at the lowest part of a wound to allow of proper drainage, the free Dr. LeGear^s Stock Book. 171 escape of puss, etc. Other ways of securing wounds are by straps, bandages, etc. Strapping is done by causing a number of pieces of domestic, or ©ther material, of proper size, shape, etc., to adhere to the parts by means of an application of pitch, or some similar adhesive. Where it is feared that sutures may give way, strapping is fre- quently of great assistance in affording support to sutures, espe- cially in large wounds. Bandaging consists of binding or securing a part by means of a roll or sheet of some material, usually cloth or rubber. Certain kinds of incised wounds are readily secured and the edges kept in place by a properly adjusted bandage; and a bandage, as a rule, leaves less blemish than the sutures. Bandages also serve a useful purpose in keeping out dirt, flies, etc., and in many cases afford a useful support to sutures. Dressixg of Wounds. — Most unprofessional people have an idea that there is a specific for each variety of wound. Such is not the case. Still, there is a great difference of opinion among surgeons as to the best way of dressing wounds. Some believe that the air should be entirely excluded in the treatment of wounds; others do not believe in this theory, consequently do not make any attempt to exclude the air and scarcely dress wounds at all, merely having the wound kept clean. In veterinary prac- tice wounds do very well in many cases when exposed, but of course may receive some poisonous germs through the medium of the air; but the probabilities are that in a large majority of cases the air not only does no harm, but, on the contrary, often exerts a beneficial influence. Wounds in a healthy animal heal faster than in an unhealthy animal. So don't expect to heal up wounds in animals with imhealthy constitutions as fast as you would if the system is healthy. After the wound has been thor- oughly cleansed with warm water and stitched up, the treatment 12 172 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. niut^t be governed altogether by circumstances. If intlaniuiatiou be present, a free use of hot or cold applications to the parts will be beneficial; where there is not much pain cold water will be found very good. Inflammation may often be prevented, and, Avhen present, may be reduced by a dose of physic and giving the patient a laxative diet. As a cooling application, and at the same time exerting great healing powers, there is nothing better than our Celebrated Healing Lotion. (See Appendix.) This wonder- ful antiseptic and astringent preparation should be applied ac- cording to the directions on each bottle. In all external sores and wounds,^ and where flies are liable to bother a sore, there is nothing equal to our Screw Worm Powder. It has wonderful antiseptic, healing powers, and is a sure prevention against th(^ much dreaded "screw worm." ABSCESSES AND TUMORS. These enlargements are quite often seen in connection with horses' shoulders, as the result of some injury. Badly fitting col- lars sometimes cause them, and they are often caused by sudden jars from the plow striking a stone or the wagon hitting a stump. They may also be caused by a kick, or by an animal running against some hard object. Symptoms. — The swelling will be seen, which is generally hard, and may be hot and tender. Sometimes fluid can be de- tected in an abscess, but generally they have to be lanced before it is certain that fluid or puss is present. At first the fluid is thin and watery, called serum, but later on it turns to white pus. A tumor has no matter or fluid in it, but consists of a solid mass of callous tissue. Treatment. — If a serous abscess, it should be opened up freely with a clean sharp knife or lance, to let the matter out. Make Dr. I^Gear's Stock Book. 173 a good big opening, as success will depend upon keeping the hole open until the cavity heals inside. Syringe out the cavity well with water 1 pint and carbolic acid 1 dram. Sometimes the secreting cells in the sack will have to be destroyed by using a caustic. This can be done by packing the cavity full of cotton soaked in a very strong solution of bluestone. Let it remain in twelve hours, then remove and dress the sore with our HeaHng Lotion. If it is a tumor, cut it out, and then heal up the wound iis an ordinar}^ sore. BURNS AND SCALDS. These may be slight or may be so severe as to cause death from pain and exhaustion. In the former case, where only a red- dened condition of the skin is produced, the pain and irritation soon subside. Some bums are more serious, depending on the character of the burn inflicted. Some bums cause only sHght blisters to form, while others destroy the skin and cause it to undergo complete destruction. The worst form of bum is that in which the skin, and the tissue beneath the skin, is destroyed. This form of burn, when extensive, usually causes death. Treatment. — As soon as possible after a burn is produced the air should be excluded. One of the best preparations is the fol- lowing: Raw linseed oil Lime inseed oil ) ^ . ^ . y Lqual parts, water j ^ ^ Mix, and apply freely to all the burned or scalded sur- face. A good remedy to use at once to draw out the pain is to cover all the burned surface with a thick layer of baking soda. An ointment as follows is good : 174 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Oxide of zinc 4 drams. Vaseline 3 ounces. Mix, and apply freely to all affected parts. SNAKE BITES. This is a very common and serious trouble to stock owners in various parts of the country. Eattlesnakes, copperheads, etc., are very poisonous, and sometimes cause death to horses and cat- tle by biting them. The parts bitten generally swell up exten- sively, and after a time sloughing of the skin and flesh takes place, leaving a very ugly looking sore. Treatment. — If bitten on the leg, and the animal is seen im- mediately afterwards, a string or rope should be wound tightly around the leg above the bite, so as to keep the poison from being absorbed into the system until some of it can be destroyed by applying hot irons, caustic, or bleeding freely at the point of injury. Large doses of alcohol, whisky, or brandy should be given often to counteract the effects of the poison. After the swelling forms it should be bathed well with warm waf^r two or three times a day and our Liniment (see Appendix) well rubbed in. If sloughing takes place, it should be treated according to treatment for wounds. PHLEBITIS. Inflammation of a vein is called phlebitis. It was at one time quite common in the horse, the juglar vein (the large vein of the neck) being the one most commonly affected, as it is the vein usually selected for blood-letting. At one time the poor horse used to be bled for nearly every disease horseflesh is heir to. The age of bleeding horses is a thing of the past, except among Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 175 some of the old-time "horse doctors," who still cling to their old-time customs. Causes. — Blood-letting from the large vein in the neck is prob- ably the most common cause of the trouble and is the most dan- gerous kind. Other causes are injuries, abscesses, tumors, etc. Symptoms. — In most cases the vein is swollen, thickened, and hardened considerably. The swelling, with great tenderness, may extend along the affected vessel, and the animal show gen- eral disturbance and fever. Treatment. — Tie the horse's head up high and bathe the swell- ing with warm water for one or two hours at a time. After bathing with warm water, dry off the parts and rub them well with our Liniment (see Appendix). Give one pint of raw lin- seed oil as a drench, and give one teaspoonful of saltpetre in the drinking water twice a day. Use the animal carefully, and give a laxative diet. The large vein usually becomes destroyed, after which a horse is considered unsound. OPEN eJOINT. What is meant by open joint is where a joint in the body is laid open by an injury and the joint-water (synovia) is allowed to leak out. It is one of the most serious injuries to which the horse is liable. Every joint is surrounded by a thin membrane, called the synovial membrane, which has the powder of secreting or making the joint-water. When the joint is not in motion, very little, if any, is secreted, but while the joint is working there is sufficient oil (joint- water) secreted to keep the joint oiled so H will work easily. The joints are like all machinery — they need plenty of oil to keep them in good working order. It is a mis- taken idea, if a joint is opened and the joint-water runs out. 176 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. that it will not be formed again. Stiff-joint is caused by the inflammation forming a bony deposit about the joint, which forms anchylosis (stiff joint). The joints most liable to this in- jury are the stifle, ankle, hock, and knee. There are little bur- sae (membranes) that secrete synovia to lubricate the tendons (leaders) where they ply over joints and prominent places. Some- times these are opened and by the synovia (oil) running out of a wound might lead a person to suspect open joint. This is not open joint nor nowhere near as bad an injury. Causes. — The causes of this trouble are generally some kind of an injury, as kicks, blows of any kind, falls, punctures, etc. It is often caused by unprofessional parties trying to perform some surgical operation in the region of a joint — by cutting into the joint and allowing the synovia to escape. Any person not thor- oughly familiar with the anatomy of the joints should never cut into one under any consideration. The worst form of open joint is where it is caused by a kick, or by an animal falling on his knees and cutting them wide open. This form of injury not only opens the joint, but bruises and lacerates the tissues, causing very severe inflammation and extensive sloughing of the parts. Symptoms. — In a case caiised by a shai-p instrument, as a knife,, pitchfork, etc., penetrating the joint there may not be any severe symptoms for one or two days. The synovia (joint oil) runs out, air gets into the joint, irritation and severe inflammation follow, accompanied by great swelling, and the suffering of the animal becomes most agonizing, and, unless speedily checked, death is certain. Joint oil is a clear fluid, of a watery, oily nature, and will coagulate (thicken) on the edges of the wound on becoming exposed to the air. At first the discharge is clear joint-water, but later on it becomes mixed with pus, and in some cases streaked with blood. When pus and blood escape in any great quantity, there is very liable to be stiff- joint. The animal has a Db. LeGear's Stock Book. 177 very high fever and may not eat at all on account of the excru- ciating pain he has to suffer. We have known several cases to die within one week, from the severe pain of open joint. Treatment. — In the treatment of open joint our great aim should be to check the flow of joint-water as soon as possible. It is a very serious disease, and the treatment is very difficult and not very successful. Keep the animal as quiet as possible, as the working of the joint irritates the disease and prevents recovery. A stream of cold water should be let run on to the parts for hours at a time. This may be done where the waterworks are conve- nient by fastening the hose to the ceiling over the horse and let the end come down and fasten it to the affected part by bandages. Then turn on a small stream of water and let it run for hours at a time. This is to take out the fever and swelling. Wash the sore as little as possible to keep it clean. Apply some astringent healing wash as our Healing Lotion once or twice a day. A poul- tice of equal parts of wheat flour and oatmeal, to be applied warm two or three times a day, is an excellent remedy, as it has a ten- dency to coagulate the joint-oil and close up the wound; or equal parts of tannic acid, dried alum, and gum arabic, well ap- plied to the parts, and held in place by pledgets of tow or cotton, will be found an excellent application to arrest the flow of sy- novia. With close attention and proper treatment a few cases will recover, but the majority of cases terminate in stiff-joint or death. If the joint is enlarged after the wound heals, blister it well with our Spavin Cure, which will remove a great deal of the enlargement and perhaps limber up the joint. CURB. A curb is a small enlargement on the back part of the hind leg, about five inches below the point of the hock. It is caused from a strain of the calcaneo-cuboid ligament, which is a strong liga- 178 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. ment passing from the point of the hock down to a short distauoe below the location of the curb. (See Fig. 31.) Causes. — It may be caused from slipping and straining the leg while drawing heavy loads in the mud or up hill. In some cases it is hereditary, as certain breeds of horses have curbjr hocks (bowed beliind), and are liable to throw out a curb on being driven fast N^|!§j^J or worked to a heavy load. Symptoms. — After a hard day's work pulling a heavy load, the animal may be noticed lame, and on exam- ining the leg you will no- tice a firm, hot swelling on the back part of the hind leg about five inches below the hock. On pressing it the animal shows pain. After the soreness and in- flammation passes away it forms into a hard knot, and unless properly treated will always remain there. Treatment. — Lay the horse ofi:' work, and don't use him at all for at least one w^eek. In the early stages when fever and sore- ness are present, bathe it with cold water and afterwards rub it well with Dr. LeGear's Liniment (see Appendix). A great deal will depend on rubbing it well. Eub the Liniment in thoroughly twice a day with a corn-cob or a smooth piece of bone. If you fail to remove the lameness and the lump by this treatment, kept up for one week, then there is nothing better to cure it than our Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 179 Spavin Cure (see Appendix), which, if properly used, will remove the lameness and take off the enlargement. WIND PUFFS. Wind puffs are soft, puffy tumors at the back of the fetlock (ankle) joint. They were formerly supposed to contain air, but are now known to contain the same kind of fluid as bog spavin and thorough-pin. They seldom ever cause lameness. They are seen more frequently on horses with straight pasterns and those that are driven fast on hard rocky roads. Causes. — Wind puffs are generally brought on by hard and fast work on hard roads, drawing heavy loads, jumping, or any work that is liable to strain or weaken the legs. In most cases they are just soft, flabby, cold swellings, which appear to do the animal no harm at all, but occasionally they are hot and firm and cause lameness. « Treatment. — Old chronic cases of wind puffs are generally very hard to cure. Any fever or soreness in connection with them should be removed by using Dr. LeGear's Liniment and bandag- ing with cold, wet bandages. Thorough hand-rubbing two or three times a day may do good. All else failing, there is nothing equal to our Spavin Cure (see Appendix) well rubbed in and repeated when necessary. THOROUGH -PIN. Thorough-pin is a soft, puffy swelling in the hollow on each side just in front of the point of the hock. It is very often seen in connection with bog spavin, and when seen alone seldom causes lameness. It is the same kind of an enlargement as bog spavin, only is in a different place on the joint. 180 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Treatment. — A thorough-pin truss (Fig. 32) is very beneficial in some cases, but there is no treatment better than Dr. I^eGear^s Spavin Cure when used according to directions. Fig. 32. Thoroughpin Truss. Fig. 33. Bog-Spavin and Thorough- pin Truss. BOG SPAVIN. A bog spavin is a soft, puffy swelling on the inside of the front of the hock joint, in about the same location as high bone spavin. It is an accumulation of synovia (joint-water) in a distension of the capsular ligament. Large heavy draft horses are very liable to bog spavin, and it very seldom injures such horses. But in light horses, or those used for fast work, the presence of bog spavin or any unnatural fullness in the region of the hock should always be viewed with great suspicion. Where bog spavin is present thorough-pin is nearly always found. Causes. — Bog spavin is usually caused by hard and fast work, irregular or too little exercise, high feeding, etc. It is sometimes produced very easily, especially in young horses. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 181 Symptoms. — Bog spavin can generally be detected quite easily, as the swelling can be easily seen. In large horses the swelling is generally flabby and cool, and does no harm. In light driving horses it is very liable to cause lameness, and if much fevered ia very liable to turn to a fibrous or bony lump. Treatment. — Give rest and blister thoroughly with our Spavin Cure. In heavy horses and those that are not lame, it is best to let the spavin alone, as it will seldom do harm. Hand-rubbing is very useful, and what is still better is a bog spavin truss (Fig. 33), which gives pressure. Careful firing is sometimes very bene- ficial, but there is no remedy better than Dr. LeGear's Spavin Cure. (See Appendix.) CAPPED HOCK. Capped hock is an enlargement on the point of the hock. It is generally quite small, but may become very large. (See Mg. 34.) Causes. — Capped hock is generally caused by blows, kicks, etc., or by the horse lying with the points of the hocks on the hard ground. It is sometimes due to a dropsical condition of the legs. If a horse has capped hock it is well to suspect him as a kicker. Treatment. — The best treatment in the early stages of the dis- ease, when it is due to an injury, is to bathe it thoroughly two or three times a day with Dr. LeGear's Liniment. (See Appen- dix.) If it does not go away in the course of a week, apply some of our Spavin Cure (see Appendix), and repeat in two weeks if necessary. Always remove the cause. If the horse is a kicker, try and keep everything away from his hocks. If he lays on them, put a large pad on his hocks and give him a good soft bed to lie on. 182 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Pig. 34. Capped Hock. Fig. 35. Capped Elbow. CAPPED ELBOW, OE SHOE BOIL. . This is commonly called Shoe Boil, and consists of an enlarge- ment at the point of the elbow, due to an injury. Capped elbow is a very common condition, and varies considerably in character, size, etc. (See Fig. 35.) Causes. — The most common cause of this condition is the elbow coming into contact with the shoe when the animal is ly- ing down. It may also be caused by the elbow coming in con- tact with the hoof, the ground, or the belly band, etc. Symptoms. — At first there is only a slight irritation of the part, producing more or less enlargement. In some cases there is considerable inflammation, which terminates in a collection of fluid. In aggravated cases this fluid solidifies and forms a hard tumor on the point of the elbow, and in some cases an ab- •scess may form. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 18-^ Treatment— li taken when the swelling first comes on, bathe it well with hot water three times a day and apply our Liniment after each time of bathing. Remove the shoe and keep the press- ure off the parts, and the swelling will soon disappear. It may be well to not let the horse lay down for several nights dur- ing treatment. Sometimes a quantity of fluid forms in the swell- ing, which will have to be let out by lancing the place. After lancing, syringe out the cavity every day with a weak solution of carbolic acid until healed. The swelling sometimes will de- velop into a fibrous tumor, and may get to be very large. In such cases the only treatment is to dissect the tumor out, and let the place heal up as an ordinary sore. Before the tumor gets too large it may be removed by blistering well with our Spavin Cure. A seaton put through the tumor may drain it out. A circular padded leather boot can be buckled around the horse^s foot just below the ankle to keep the shoe pressing on the elbow while the animal is lying down. This boot will prevent the tumor from forming a^ain. KNUCKLING, OE COCKED ANKLES. Knuckling is an unnatural position of the fetlock joint, which is more or less bent, causing a prominent enlargement on the front part of the joint. While knuckling is not always an unsoundness, it nevertheless predisposes to stumbling and to fracture of the pastern. Causes. — It is a condition often seen in young foals, due, no doubt, to a bent condition of the limbs before birth, and as a general thing soon disappears. Horses with' straight pasterns are very apt to knuckle as they grow old, especially in the hind legs. All kinds of heavy work, especially in hilly districts, se- vere pulling, and fast work on race tracks are exciting causes of knuckling. It may occur as a result of irregular exercise, sprain 184 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. of the ligaments, disease of the suspensory ligament, or of the flexor tendons, whereby they are shortened. Allowing the feet to grow out of shape, poor shoeing, etc., no doubt have a great deal to do with it. Treatment. — In young foals, treatment is not necessary, as all that need be done is to keep the feet in proper shape and the legs will straighten up in a few weeks' time. In adult animals it may be relieved by shoeing when due to contracted tendons. Shorten the toe of the foot as much as possible, leaving the heels high; or thin the shoe at the toe with thick heels or high calks. On the hind feet put long-heeled shoes with calks. An operation in some cases is indicated, that of dividing (or cutting) the back tendons, between the fetlock and knee, for the purpose of secur- ing relief. Firing and blistering in some instances may effect a cure. KNEE-SPRUNG. . This is a bending forward of the knees, in consequence of contraction of the back tendons. (See Fig. 36.) Causes. — The causes which may be mentioned are hard and fast work, irregular exercise, as keeping the animal up and feed- ing well for several days, then taking out and driving freely. It is often the result of a hores standing in a stall with a floor sloping from before backwards, especially so when there is a weak conformation of the parts. Overgrowth of hoof, poor shoeing, etc., must be included among the causes. Treatment. — If it is due to standing on a sloping floor, place the animal on a level surface, or in a stall lower in front than behind. It is considered incurable in old horses, and is liable td Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 185 return even in young animals. Special atten- should be paid to the shoeing. Be sure that the feet are balanced from side to side. If he drops on his toe while traveling and wears his shoe at the toe most, the toe is too high or too long, and it must be lowered. If the toe can not be lowered sufficiently, attach heel corks to the shoe. If he lands on the heels first while at speed, and wears liis shoe at the heels most, his heels are too high, and must be lowered to overcome the trouble. A stim- ulating liniment, as Dr. LeGear's (see Appen- dix), or even a good blister, as Dr. LeGear's Spavin Cure, or the firing iron, may be found very beneficial in cases of knee sprung. This is to be applied to the back tendons as direct- ed for use on other parts. Great benefit will also be found by giving the animal a run at pasture for two or three months. Fig. 36. Knee- Sprung. Calf-Knees. — This is exactly an opposite condition to that of sprung knees. Such a limb is very weak, and liable to sprains, etc. Treatment. — We know of nothing that can be done for it. SPRAIN OF THE FETLOCK. This is most common in the forelegs, and usually affects one at a time. Horses doing fast work and those, that interfere are particularly liable to this injury. CaiLses. — It is generally produced by a misstep, stumbling, slipping, etc., or where the foot is caught in a rut, hole in a bridge, or in a car track. 186 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Symptoms. — There is more or less lameness, accompanied by heat, pain, and considerable swelling. While at rest the affected leg is flexed at the joint affected, but this is not to be considered an infallible sign, as the animal may have picked up a nail, in which case he will also knuckle at the fetlock. Treatment. — If the injury is slight, cold water bandages and a few days^ rest is all that is necessary. In severe cases the leg should be placed under a stream of cold water for hours at a time, and after drying, apply some good, stimulating liniment and put on a cold water bandage. There is no better than our Liniment for such purposes. Keep up the applications of water, liniment, and cold water bandages for several days, or until the fever and swelling are reduced. When the inflammation has sub- sided a good blister, such as our Spavin Cure, should be applied, well rubbed into the part. SPEAIN OF THE SUSPENSORY LIGAMENT. The suspensory ligament is a strong band of fibrous tissue ex- tending from the knee down the leg between the bone and the back tendons (leaders), and divides just above the ankle joint; the divided portions passing over the ankle joint and becoming attached just below. This ligament is the stay to the ankle, as when it becomes ruptured (torn in two) the ankle joint will come clear to the ground, constituting what is known as break-down. The suspensory ligament is liable to sprain from various causes, as from stepping on a stone, slipping, jumping, etc. Symptoms. — The animal will be more or less lame, and will especially show it when turning around short. It is invariably seen in the front leg. There is seldom any swelling takes place, which makes it such a hard lameness tO locate by inexperienced parties. If you squeeze the ligament with the thumb and finger the animal will show considerable pain. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 187 Treatment. — This lameness needs complete rest, as by work- ing the animal before the sprain is cured the ligament is liable to rupture, and break down. If in summer apply a bandage wet in cold water two or three times a day. Let the bandage envelop the leg from the knee to the foot. Also rub the parts well two or three times a day with our Liniment. Keep the animal quiet for perhaps one or two months. When the fever is pretty well gone from the parts, apply our Spavin Cure and give the animal a run at grass. BREAK -DOWN. Break-down is rupture of the suspensory ligament. It gen- erally ruptures just above the ankle joint. It may be caused by an animal being worked or ridden while suffering from sprain of the suspensory ligament. By the ligament being sprained it is naturally weakened and very liable to tear or rupture if too much weight is put upon it. It is seen more frequently in race horses. Symptoms. — The animal goes suddenly lame, and the fetlock (ankle joint) comes clear down to the ground, or nearly so. If only one portion of the ligament is broken the ankle will come only part way down, but will lean to one side. If partial break- down is suspected, don't put the animal to work again for sev- eral months, or until the parts are entirely well and strong again. Treatment. — In break-down there may be a great deal of fever and swelling take place, which must be removed by bathing with warm water and a good stimulating liniment, none being better than our Liniment. Keep the animal perfectly quiet and apply a bandage snugly to the ankle, which will serve as a support. After the fever is reduced apply a good stimulating blister, as 13 188 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. our Spavin Cure, applied as directed. The animal may be given a run at pasture for two or three months. It is surprising how this injury will in some cases recover and the animal be useful for slow work for years. SWEENY. This, properly speaking, is Shoulder-slip, but in this article we have used the name in common use. It is atrophy (wasting away) of the muscles of the shoulder. Causes. — Sweeny is a condition frequently met with, as it may be caused in a variety of ways. It is more commonly seen in young horses that are put to heavy work when the muscles are soft. Plowing is a common cause, where the animal walks with one foot in the furrow and one foot out. Sudden jerks, such as might be caused by a plow striking a root or a rock, or suddenly starting a heavy load, a badly fitting collar, jolts or jars, bruises, or any injury to the shoulder, etc., all tend to produce the condi- tion known as sweeny. Long standing cases of lameness cause sweeny by the disuse of the muscles of the limb and shoulder. Symptoms. — About the first thing noticed by the owner is wasting away of the muscles of the shoulder, and the animal may be somewhat stiff, or even lame, for a few days previous. There is also an unnatural bulging of the shoulder joint. In some cases atrophy occurs to such an extent that one might think the mus- cles had disappeared entirely. Treatment. — There are a great many forms of treatment used in curing sweeny, and some of them are very cruel and useless. The only treatment we use, and we never find it to fail, is our Spavin Cure. (See Appendix.) This is a stimulating, penetrat- ing, sweating blister that stimulates the growth of the muscle Dk. LeGear^s Stock Book. 189 and reproduces the shoulder in a remarkably short time. It sel- dom if ever requires over two or three applications to make a cure. Use according to directions. A good, but very simple, remedy is as follows: Oil of turpentine 2 drams. Sweet oil 4 drams. Mix, and inject under the skin in several places at the upper part of the wasted muscles. A swelling may follow the above injection, extending as far down as the knee and lasting for forty-eight hours, when it gradually disappears. Give the horse a run at pasture, or gentle exercise by riding, or driving with a breast collar. SHOULDER -JOINT LAMENESS. The shoulder joint is liable to injuries in various ways, al- though not so often affected as some people commonly suppose. Among a certain class of "horse doctors," who, when they can not locate a case of lameness, always refer it to the shoulder joint at once, and blister and seton the same, putting the poor animal to an endless amount of torture, when in all probability the trouble is in the feet. Causes. — A common cause is direct injury, as by an animal running away, falling down, slipping, etc., and in young horses is often produced by turning and circling them violently when breaking them to work. It is a common trouble among cavalry horses. Symptoms. — Where the lameness is well marked, the animal has considerable difficulty in extending the limb; and in travel- ing the limb is kept as straight as possible, and is brought 190 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. forward with difficulty — swinging it outward instead of carrying it forward in a natural manner. When the animal stands at rest the affected limb will be slightly bent, with the toe resting upon the ground. In some cases there will be swelling, heat, etc., in the region of the shoulder joint. On pulling the limb forward the animal will rear up, showing considerable pain. On allow- ing the animal to stand all night after being driven and warmed Fig. 37. Shoulder-Joint Lameness. up, he is found in the morning to be very stiff and lame;, warm him up and the l^neness decreases. He usually strikes the toe and stumbles when traveling, and on being made to step over some object, he either refuses, or does so with the utmost difl&- culty; in which case he drags his limb over, or strikes his toe against it. In some cases it is rather difficult to distinguish between shoulder-joint and foot lameness, especially where the lameness is slight and not well marked. In causing an animal to back, if he drags the foot it is a good indication of shoulder lameness. (See Fig. 37.) Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 191 Treatment. — The animal should be g-iven a rest, and hot water applied to the affected parts for an hour at a time two or three times a day. Bathe the parts with our Liniment (see Appendix), well rubbed in two or three times a day. This is undoubtedly the best liniment made for sprains and bruises and all muscular soreness. After the inflammation and swelling has gone down and the horse is still lame, the parts should be slightly blistered by rubbing in our Spavin Cure (see Appendix) lightly, according to directions, and give the horse a run at pasture. ENLAEGED JOINTS. Enlarged joints are very frequently seen on horses that have had rough usage and hard work. They may be due to an injury, as from being snagged, kicked, or from a thorn. They are often due to sprains and hard work, that inflame the joint and cause an inflammatory swelling which may remain until removed by treatment. Treatment. — If the enlargement is of a bony formation it can not be removed. If the horse is lame, the lameness may be re- moved, but the enlargement will remain. If the enlargement is of a fleshy nature it may be removed by applying some good ab- sorbing, sweating blister, as our Spavin Cure. If our Spavin Cure will not remove an enlargement of this kind, no medicine will, for it is the best absorbing, penetrating, and sweating blister made. Use according to direction on each bottle. STIFLED. Stifled is the general name for "dislocation of the patella" — meaning that the patella, or little bone covering the stifle, has slipped out of place. The patella in the horse is a little bone covering the stifle, the same as the knee-cap covers the knee in 192 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. man. This is rather a rare trouble in the horse, but still we see it quite often. Causes, — Stifle may be caused by a horse slipping, falling, stepping on a stone that rolls or gives way, especially if the ani- mal is in a weakened condition or suffering from some debilitat- ing disease. Partial stifle is where the litte stifle bone slips par- tially out and in, making a clucking noise at every step, which is often seen in colts, especially those running on hilly pastures. Symptoms. — Stifled is an affection which when once seen can be easily told. The little bone (patella) slips to the outside, causing an enlargement on the outside of the stifle joint. But the most noticeable symptom is the position and action of the leg. The foot is extended backward and the animal can't bring it forward. The stifle bone (patella) serves as a pully to the hind leg, and when once out of place the leg can't be brought forward until the stifle bone is put back or flies back in its place. In "partial stifle" there is a peculiar stiffness of the hind leg, and a clucking noise is noticed at every step, which is produced by the stifle bone slipping in and out of its socket. Treatment. — The treatment is not difficult, and as a rule is successful, if properly carried out. The first thing to do is to put the stifle bone back in place, which is done by tying a rope around the foot of the affected leg and letting one man stand in front of the animal and gently pull on the rope, while you press in on the stifle bone or enlargement on the outside of the stifle, when the bone will slip back in place with a clicking sound. In some cases, by exciting the animal, as by whipping, causing him to move suddenly, etc., the bone may fly back into place and the animal have free use of the leg until it slips out again. When once in position keep it there by tying the foot so it can't extend backwards, and bathe the stifle thoroughly with warm water, and Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 193 use Dr. LeGear's Liniment (see Appendix) twice per day, well rubbed in. Give the animal complete rest for some time. After about ten days the whole stifle should be well blistered to strengthen the ligaments that have been stretched and torn. There is no blister better than Dr. LeGear's Spavin Cure. In some cases a stifle shoe is very beneticial. In "partial stifle,*' where the bone slips in and out at every step, the animal should be kept quiet for a week or two and a good blister applied as rec- ommended above. HIP-JOINT DISEASE. The hip-joint, one of the strongest joints in the body, is some- times the seat of disease, but not so often as is commonly sup- posed. Why this should be is plain to any one understanding the structure and situation of the joint, it being formed of some of the heaviest bones in the body, secured in place by extremely powerful ligaments, etc. Causes. — Any exercise of a violent character, as jumping, sud- den turns while running, slipping, falling, etc., may all operate in causing hip- joint lameness. When inflammation occurs in this joint, a series of pathological changes take place in exactly the same manner as in other joints. Symptoms. — The animal persists in standing; the foot is ele- vated from the ground and not allowed to descend, unless the animal is forced to move. Wasting away of the muscles of the part takes place, and in many cases the animal becomes unable to He down, or does so with the greatest difficulty. In milder cases the animal may be able to place the foot upon the ground, and even travel. The animal travels with a kind of hop, and lias considerable difficulty in bringing forward the limb. The limb may also be brought forward in a circular manner, with the toe dragging upon the ground. 194 Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. Treatment. — Give absolute rest, and apply fomentations of hot or cold water, according to the season of the year. After foment- ing for several days, and the heat and soreness is considerably re- moved, thoroughly blister the parts with our Spavin Cure, or use the firing iron, according to the directions for spavin. COLLAR GALLS. Collar galls are very common among working horses, and may be the means of coneiderable trouble and render the animal less liable to do his work. They are found in the region of the neck and shoulder, and are c^ised by a badly fitting or rough-seated collar, which sets up an irritation, resulting in a kind of tumor, etc., which being pressed upon by the collar causes considerable l^ain. Treatment. — If the sore is on the top of the neck, clip the hair closely and have the sore washed every morning thoroughly with castile soap and water and apply Dr. LeGear's Healing Lo- tion (see Appendix) two or three times per day. This is without doubt the finest preparation ever used for collar galls and saddle galls. It will heal the sore and let the horse work every day. Apply the Healing Lotion every morning after washing the sore, and on coming in at noon or night bathe the sore with a little cold water and apply the Healing Lotion. Keep the collar scraped perfectly clean. If the collar is too small or too large, change it and put on one that fits well. SADDLE GALLS. Saddle galls are similar to collar galls, only they have a dif- ferent situation and are caused by badly fitted saddles, etc., and are more common in hot weather. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 195 Treatment. — Tlie treatment of saddle galls is precisely the same as that given for collar galls, which see. SITFASTS. Sitfasts are horn-like sloughs of limited portions of the skin, the result of pressure by badly fitting saddles, collars, harness, etc. They are most common under the saddle, but may be found under collar or breeching, as well. The sitfast is a piece of dead tissue which would be thrown off but for its firm con- nection with the healthy tissue beneath. Treatment. — By laying a horse off work for a few weeks a sit- fast will generally heal up quite smoothly, but when put to work again it breaks out as bad, if not worse, than it was at first. There is a callous piece of dead skin that must be removed, and the only way to do that successfully is to thorousrhly dissect it out. Split the skin and dissect out all the diseased tissue from under the healthy skin, and put in two or three stitches if neces- vsary. Then have it well washed every day with soap and water to remove all matter and scabs, and apply a little of our Healing Lotion (see Appendix) twice a day. The Healing Lotion will heal it rapidly and toughen the skin, and thus prevent it from breaking out again when the animal is put to work. A long rest of two or three months should be given after a sitfast is cut out before a horse is rode again. KIDNEY-SORES. Kidney-sores are of the same nature as sitfasts, but are located back on the loins over the kidneys. They are caused by badly fitting saddles and require exactly the same treatment as sitfasts, which see. 196 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. POLL EVIL. Poll evil is similar to fistula, only in a different location — on the poll just back of the ears. It is an inflammation of the parts named, and pus may burrow down between the muscles until it reaches and causes disease of the bones. Causes. — The cause is an injury of some kind, as blows, the horse striking his iiead while passing through a low doorway, and the wearing of badly fitting halters and bridles. It is also said to be caused by too tight reining. Symptoms. — The heat, pain, and swelling of the parts soon follow the injury, whatever kind it may be. Swelling continues, an abscess forms, and pus is discharged, at which time the swell- ing goes down. Pipes are formed, which may extend in all direc- tions, and the poll soon becomes one mass of disease. The animal protrudes his head, and on handling the inflamed parts pain is manifested. In some cases the swelling is so slight as to be over- looked, especially in those cases where the mane hides the dis- eased parts. Treatment. — As poll evil is the same kind of a disease as fistula, only situated in a different place, it requires the same kind of treatment as recommended for fistula, which see. FISTULA. A fistula really means a pipe or duct which leads from a cavity to the surface of the body, through which a discharge is con- stantly taking place. A fistula may then exist at any part, but it is commonly understood to mean a diseased condition of the withers. In this article it means disease of the withers. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 197 Caiises. — ^Fistulous withers are seen mostly in those horses that have thick necks and in those that are high in the withers; or among saddle horses that are very low on the withers, the sad- dle moving forward and bruising the parts. It is often caused by badly fitted collars or saddles, by direct injury from blows, and the horse rolling upon rough or sharp stones. At first there may be only a simple abscess, or an ulcer of the skin^ which if not properly treated may become fistula. In such cases the pus burrows and finds lodgment deep down among the mus- cles, which makes it very difficult for the matter to escape. Symptoms. — About the first thing noticed is a swelling on one or both sides of the withers, which is hot and painful and rapidly enlarging. If the matter which has formed in this cavity does not get out by natural or other means, it dries up and becomes hard and forms a kind of tumor which gradually develops into a fibrous nature. Treatment. — This is a very common disease of the horse in Texas, and is in most cases very hard to cure. If taken when first coming on it may be driven away by applying some good penetrating blister, as Dr. LeGear's Spavin Cure (see Appendix) well rubbed in. After some standing the only treatment to pur- sue successfully is to thoroughly open up the enlargement and cut out what diseased tlesh you can, and give free drainage to the pus by opening the sore low down. If the bone is diseased it should be scraped and all diseased portions removed. The cavi- ties should be injected with turpentine every three or four days to destroy any unhealthy tissue that is left.' Grease the horse's shoulders under the sore well with lard just before putting in the turpentine, so as to keep the turpentine from burning him. If the holes you have made have a tendency to close, you can keep them open by inserting a seton of domestic or linen cloth. The wound should be washed well every morning with soap and 198 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. water and one of the following lotions injected well into the sore €very morning except when the turpentine is used: Corrosive sublimate 10 grains. Alcohol 1 ounce. Watsr 7 ounces. Mix. Or— i Creolin 1 dram. Water 8 ounces. Mix. Or use Dr. LeGear's Healing Lotion. If in the summer time, jou can keep the flies away by using Dr. LeGear's Screw Worm Powder. (See Appendix.) CEOOKED TAIL. Horses are occasionally seen that carry their tails to one side when traveling, but when standing the tail generally hangs straight. They are either born that way or do it from habit. It is very annoying to the owner of the horse if he uses it for single driving. It is not objectionable as a general rule in a farm horse, but looks bad in a driving horse. Treatment. — As a general rule the tail can be straightened by cutting in two one of the muscles at the side to which the tail crooks. The muscle on that side is shorter than the one on the opposite side. The place of operation is a few inches from the root of the tail. An incision is made through the skin and the muscle cut in two. The tail is then fastened around to the other side to allow a division to sfrow in between the divided ends of Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 19^ the muscle. The tail is kept tied around to the side for eight or ten days. The wound should be washed and dressed every day and a bandage applied. Use our Healing Lotion as a dress- ing to heal the sore. If the muscle that is too short is fully devel- oped, the tail can as a general thing be straightened; but if the muscle is not developed fully, a cure is hopeless. Fig. 38. Hand-CUppers. CLIPPING HORSES. This is practiced to a considerable extent in some parts of this country during the winter and spring, when horses' hair is heavy, thick and long. The points in favor of clipping are that a horse will drive easier and freer and is not so liable to take cold as when they have such a heavy coat of hair. When a horse witii very long, heavy hair becomes warmed up and sweaty, it takes liim a long time to dry off; while a horse with short hair will dry off in a few minutes. To make a universal practice of clipping horses, we would condemn it, but in certain cases it is all right. Nature grows the thick, long coat of hair on a horse as a protection against the cold; therefore if we remove it, we must provide an artificial protection during the cold weather while the horse is not driving. A blanket should be carried to put over the horse while standing in the street if the air is cold or chilly; and one is to be worn in the stable during the cold ^00 Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. weather if the stable is not extra warm. To clip a horse and let him stand out in the cold without any protection, is ti cruel prac- tice. Some horses, generally those that are well bred, have naturally short, fine hair and never need clipping. As a general i:hing, if a horse has a warm stable for winter and is well groomed once or twice a day, the coat will not grow so long that it will need clipping. In some of the large stables in the cities they have clipping ir^chines run by motor power, which can clip a horse in a few minutes, but it is generally done by the use of the hand clipper. (Fig. 38.) Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 201 CHAPTER XIV. PARTURITION, OR FOALING. The period of gestation in the mare is usually about eleven months, although it may vary from ten to thirteen months. As a general thing, horse colts are carried a few days longer than fillies, and as a rule an old mare will carry her foal longer than a young mare. The period of pregnancy with the cow is about nine months; the sheep and goat about five months; the sow four months; the bitch two months; and the cat on an average of eight weeks. SIGNS OF PREGNANCY. As a rule, when a mare conceives, heat or the desire for the male is no longer observed, and when brought in the presence of a stallion she is generally unusually vicious. She becomes of a more quiet disposition, especially noticeable in nervous, vicious mares. An increase of fat, \vith softness and flabbiness of mus- cle, a loss of energy, indisposition for active work, and manifesta- tions of laziness are pretty good signs of pregnancy. The belly gradually enlarges and the udder increases in size as gestation advances. The vulva becomes swollen and the muscles on the hips sag down and the flanks get hollow. Milk forms in the ud- der, and a good sign of foaling time is the formation of a wax-like substance on the ends of the teats two or four days before. The foal can generally be made to kick by giving the mare a drink of cold water. It may also be felt or seen kicking while the mare is eating as well as drinking. There may also be a flow of mucus from the vulva for a day or two before parturition. The animal 202 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. may show slight uneasiness and abdominal pain for a day or two before foaling. NATURAL PRESENTATIONS. As a rule, foaling is easily and quickly done in the mare, it requiring usually not more than ten or twenty minutes. If labor is continued any length of time the colt usually dies; while with the cow it may last one or two days and the calf live. When the time comes she becomes uneasy, getting up and down frequently. Presently true labor pains begin, the womb contracts on its con- tents, assisted by the diaphram and abdomimil muscles; and the whole body becomes convulsed with the effort. The mouth of the womb becomes dilated, and the water bag appears and bursts, and a few efforts forces it out. If the head of the unborn is cov- ered with membranes, they should be removd at once, and if the cord is large and strong it should be tied with a string about three inches from the navel and then cut off an inch below that. If the cord breaks oft' close and there is a leakage from the navol it should be sewed up as soon as possible. The natural presentation is for the front feet to come first, with the head on top of or between the knees, as seen in Figure 1, Plate. IV., or the hind feet may come first, as in Figure 2, Plate IV. In some cases the mouth of the w^omb is rigid and doesn't open sufficiently to allow the passage of the foal. In such cases it may be dilated by the hand or by smearing the parts wit-h extract of belladonna. UNNATURAL PRESENTATIONS. There are a great many unnatural presentations, and it will take too much space to describe them all here; therefore we will try and make plain a few of the more common ones. Considering the immense number of mares in a breeding district that will Plate IV. NATURAL PRESENTATIONS IN THE MARE. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 203 give birtli to a foal every year, this trouble is very rare, but is more frequent in cows. A common presentation is that in which the head of the foetus is presented in a proper manner with the fore limbs turned backward. (Figs. 1 and 2, Plate X., as seen in unnatural presentations in the cow.) In all cases, before making an examination, the operator should prepare himself by taking off his coat and vest, shirt and undershirt, so as to have free use of the bare arms. Get your hand and arm warm and clean by washing well in warm water and soap, and lubricate them well with sweet oil. If after examination you should find the trouble to be as just mentioned above, the head should be pushed back to allow the hand to pass into the womb and grasp the ankles of the front feet, which may be brought forward, and as a rule delivery is then easily done. In some cases it may be necessary to pass a small cotton rope around the ankles to help pull them into position. After once in proper position, gentle pulling can be done to aid the mare in delivering the foal. It is best to pull when labor pains are on. Presentation of the front legs with the head turned back is a very bad one, and often requires a great deal of work to get the foal in the proper position. (Figs. 4 and 5, Plate X.) Push back on the feet and tiy and grasp the underjaw with your hand, when the head may be brought into the proper position and de- livery made easy. It may be well to fasten a cotton rope around each foot and then try and loop another rope around the lower jaw. When you have the rope fastened to the lower jaw, push back on the feet and pull gently on the jaw, and in this way you may succeed in bringing the head into the natural presentatiou. Sometimes the foal is found lying on its back, and only the ears and back of its head can be felt. (Fig. 6, Plate X.) In a case of this kind every effort should be made to turn the foal on its belly, and by securing the front feet delivery may be made. Breech ])resentation, or presentation of the hind quarters, is 14 204 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. one in which delivery is very frequently rendered impossible, or can be made only with the greatest difficulty. We have had cases of this kind in large mares, where we have worked six hours or more before delivering the foal, and in some cases delivery is im- possible ^vithout cutting up the foal and taking it away in pieces. You must try and push the colt forward, and either try to turn it around or get hold of the hind feet, and get them in the passage, and then delivery may be effected quite easily. After the mare has been trying to foal for two or three hours, the colt will as a general thing be dead; so now every effort should be made to save the mare by getting the colt away as best you can. A ])air of partu- Fig. 39. Haussmann's Obstetrical Shears. rition shears (Fig. 39) are very useful in cases of thi.s kind. By pushing the foal forward you can then loop a rope around the hind legs above the hocks and straighten them back into a hori- zontal position. Then insert your parturition shears and cut off the legs above the hocks as far up as possible; then the foal may be delivered. The jaws of these shears can be opened and closed by turning the lever at the end of the handle. Occasionally there may be one fore-limb and one hind-hmb presented. In such cases great care should be taken not to pull on these two limbs, as it would be impossible to deliver the foal in this way. After making an examination and you decide to bring the colt away backwards, push the front leg back into the womb and secure the other hind leg, and then the foal may be delivered; or vice versa. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 205 Back presentation is one of the most difficult of all unnatural presentations to deliver. Every effort should be made to turn the foal into its proper position. In twins, one foal should come with the front feet and head first, while the other should come backwards. Occasionally a case is met with in which there is a large accumulation of water on the brain, making it impossible for the head to come through the channel. In such a case the Fig. 40. EnTbryotomy Knife. ^kull may be CUt iuto with a knife, as in Fig. 40, and the water allowed to escape, when, as a general thing, deliver}^ may be effected. There may be a large accumulation of water in the abdominal cavity (belly.) This can be punctured, and then de- livery effected. Monstrosities are sometimes found. A monstrosity is a de- formed foetus (young animal), and it is sometimes of such a shape and size as to make delivery impossible without dissecting and removing it in pieces. AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE MARE. In all severe cases of delivery the mare should have special care for some time afterwards. If she is weak, and there is dan- ger of inflammation setting in, give a drench of the following: Laudanum 1^ ounces. Sweet nitre 2 ounces. Whisky 4 ounces. Water J pint. Mix, and give as a drench, and repeat every four hours until you have given three doses; then leave off the laud- anum and repeat the sweet nitre until the animal is stronger. 206 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Inject into the womb with a large syringe or injection pump (Fig. 13, p. 70) one or two gallons of warm water, into which put 1 teaspoon of carbolic acid to each gallon of water. If necessary, repeat the injections every morning for three or four days. Give her all the fresh water she will drink, and soft, easily digested food to eat. RETENTION OF THE PLACENTA (aFTERBTRTH). This is of rare occurrence in the mare, but is very common among cows. It is never advisable to remove the afterbirth im- mediately after delivery, as serious results are liable to follow. If it is allowed to remain twenty-four hours it may come away '.f itself. In the cow the placenta is attached to the womb by means of sixty or seventy small round fleshy bodies called cotyledons; while in the mare the attachment is by small villi. If the after- birth remains in longer than twenty-four hours it should be re- moved, as decay will set in, and the animal is very liable to take blood poisoning from it. We advise its removal with the hand, where there is any one who understands how to remove it. Great care should be taken not to injure the womb and cause bleeding. The bare hand and arm should be oiled and gently inserted; and in the cow the afterbirth should be carefully unbuttoned, as it were, from each cotyledon, great care being taken not to pull off the cotyledons themselves. In the mare it can be gently sepa- rated from all its attached portions and removed. After remov- ing the afterbirth wash out the womb well with water and car- bolic acid as recommended above. If the afterbirth has started to decay and smells bad, the operator should oil his arm well with sweet oil 4 ounces and carbolic acid 2 drams, to prevent taking blood poison. The hand should never be inserted in cases of this kind if it has any sores on it. Sometimes the afterbirth may be brought away by giving the cow 1 ounce of ergot as a drench every four hours, until two or three doses have been given. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 207 hemorrhage after delivery. Very profuse bleeding sometimes takes place after delivery in both the mare and the cow, due to rupture of some blood vessel in the womb. This may be checked by applying cold water and ice to the loins and cleaning out the blood clots and injecting into the womb a strong solution of tincture of iron. The womb may be packed full of cloths wrung out of cold water. Also may give 1 ounce of ergot of rye. INVERSION OF THE WOMB. This is a turning inside-out of the womb, generally due to dif- ficult delivery, and of violent straining by the animal due to ^fter-pains. It is more common among cows, and may take place immediately after calving or not until twenty-four hours or more. The womb protrudes from the vulva sometimes as large as a water bucket, and the animal in lying down gets the parts all dirty and filthy. Treatment. — The animal should be made to rise and stand in a position so that the hind quarters are 8 or 12 inches higher than the front parts. The womb, if dirty, should be nicely washed with warm water and a little carbolic acid and gently re- turned to its place, which in some cases is found very difficult. If the animal has a tendency to strain after the womb is returned, it may be quieted by giving 1 ounce of laudanum in 1 pint of water as a drench every two hours. In some cases it is found very hard to keep the animal from forcing th& womb out again. Keep the animal standing or lying with her head down hill, and a truss may be applied to keep the womb from coming out. The most convenient truss for a cow we have used is made from a piece of small cotton rope about twenty feet long. Tie a loop in the center of the rope large enough to go over her head and 208 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. back on the neck. Pass the ends of the rope between the fore legs, and bring one up on each side and make a single tie over the loins; then pass it back and make another single tie right under the tail, and another over the vulva; then pass the ends of the rope between the hind legs, one on each side of the bai^. Then bring them up on each side of the body and tie them to the ropes that pass along her sides. Keep this moderately tight for a day or two. If the womb has been out for two or three days and is partly decayed, it will have to be removed. This is not success- ful in the mare, but is quite so with the cow. It can be removed with the ecrasure, which is the best and safest means of cutting it off. It may be cut off with a knife, and the arteries tied to stop the bleeding. INFLAMMATION OF THE WOMB. This is a very serious condition, and when the womb is in- flamed to any great extent, is invariably fatal. It is caused by difficult delivery, injuries to the womb, exposure to cold and wet, and from the irritant action of putrid products within the womb. Symptoms. — There is a stiff, slow gait, an arched back, dml- ness, uneasiness with lifting of the hind feet, indicating pain, a discharge from the vulva of a watery nature at first, then becomes reddish or yellowish, and foetid in character. By pressing the animal's sides there is pain shown. Treatment. — Great pains should be taken that the womb be thoroughly washed out with warm water and carbolic acid or warm water and corrosive sublimate; 1 part to 200 may be used with benefit. Syringe the womb out thoroughly every day. Give internally the following: Dr. LeUear's Stock Book. 209 Laudanuiu 1^ ounces. Tr. aconite 20 drops. Alcohol 3 ounces Water J pint. Mix, and give as a drench every four hours until three or four doses are given. Keep the animal in a comfortable place and give what water and food she will take. If a cow, you may give half a pound of Epsom salts, and repeat in twelve hours. If a mare, give half a pint of raw linseed oil. This is a very serious disease, and most cjifies will die. LEUCORRHOEA, OR WHITES. This is a white, glutinous, chronic discharge from the womb. It is generally due to a continued sub-acute inflammation of the mucus membrane of the womb. Treatment. — Wash out the womb with warm water, and then inject the following: Sulphate of zinc 6 drams. Acetate of lead 1 ounce. Water 1 quart. Repeat this twice a day for several days. Or a solution as fol- lows may be injected: Permanganate of potash 2 ounces. Water 1 gallon. Give the following: 210 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Sulpliato of iron 2 ounces. Powdered mix vomica H ounces. Gentian 3 ounces. Mix into twelve powders, and give one ])owder night and morning in damp feed. ABORTION. Abortion is the expulsion of the young animal at any period from the date of impregnation until the animal can live out of the womb. Abortion is quite a common occurrence among mares, but still more prevalent among cows. There is one form of abortion that is contagious, and it causes immense losses to breeders in certain sections of the country. Causes. — Abortion may be caused by rapid driving or riding, blows on the abdomen, drinking a quantity of cold water, excite- ment, or fright, etc. Slipping, falling, bleeding an animal, or inflammation of any of the internal organs, as the lungs, kidneys, liver, bowels, etc., may tend to cause miscarriage. Giving strong doses of physic, or for the animals to eat certain kinds of irri- tant foods and grasses, such as ergot of rye, etc., will have a ten- dency to cause the trouble. In the contagious form it is caused by a certain germ gaining access to the animal's system, and exciting the womb to contractions and abortion. Symptoms. — The symptoms vary greatly according to whether the abortion takes place earl}^ or late in pregnancy. If it takes ])lace during the first two or three months there are generally very little symptoms to be observed, and frequently an animal will abort and be in heat before the owner is aware that anything has happened. I^ater in pregnancy it may be very dangerous co the animal for miscarriage to take place. The animalwill often become very sick, with severe straining and much uneasiness. Dr. LeG ear's Stock Book. . 211 There is often swelling of the vulva with a mucus or bloody dis- charge. There will be all the symptoms of parturition, and un- less the young is in a natural presentation, it will have to be rec- tified before delivery can be affected. Abortion may also be fol- lowed by retention of the afterbirth, bleeding, etc., as in parturi- tion. Treatment and Prevention. — Both in the pregnant mare and cow all treatment and usage that is liable to cause abortion should be abandoned; for if an animal is caused to abort, from whatever cause, it is very liable to abort again the next season. If the symptoms of abortion are noticed coming on, the animal should be removed from all other pregnant animals: and if there is much pain it should be quieted by giving one or two ounces of laudanum as a drench. Black-haw in 1 -ounce doses may prevent the impending abortion. Keep the animal perfectly quiet and give the very best of care. If miscarriage takes place, the ani- mal, especially if it be a cow, should be at once removed from all pregnant cows, and every trace of the calf, afterbirth, etc., re- moved and burned or buried deeply. Wash out the womb with warm water containing half an ounce of carbolic acid to the gallon. Keep her away from the other pregnant animals until all discharges from the vulva cease, which will be from eight to twelve days. If a cow that has aborted is let remain with the other cows, they are very liable to abort also. If the afterbirth does not come away with the foetus, it should be removed and destroyed. Cases are on record where contagious abortion has caused nearly all the pregnant animals on a farm or ranch to abort. STERILITY, OR BAKliENNESS. This is a condition that may be found in all animals, both male and female. A very common cause in cattle is breeding too 212 . Dr. LeGeab's Stock Book. young and inbreeding too closely, whioli naturally weakens the constitution and causes barrenness. Jerseys have especially been injured in this way. Sterility in the stallion is often due to one or both testicles failing to conio down into the scrotum (bag). The testicles that haven't come down are seldom developed suffi- ciently to secrete the semen. Therefore *it is quite safe to say that ridglings arc barren as a general thing. Inflammation of the testicles, resulting in a hardened condition of the same, may be a cause of barrenness; or fatty degeneration of the testicles. Any disease that weakens the system or makes it painful for the stalhon or bull to mount, may be a cause of sterility. Occasion- ally there is a local paralysis or weakness in connection with the penis which makes it impossible for the animal to protrude his penis far enough for service. Cows and mares may be too fat to breed; also the opposite condition may be present. There may be an imperfect development of the ovaries, cysts or other tumors of the ovary. A chronic inflammation of the vagina and womb, as whites, etc., may cause barrenness. Another very common cause of this trouble in the mare is the closure of the neck of the womb. This can be remedied by introducing the hand and gradually dilating the parts with the fingers. Cows and mares used for breeding purposes shouldn't be overfed nor underfed, but fed moderately and well cared for. They should be free from all diseases and blemishes, and of strong mature age — not too old nor too young. excp:ss of veneral desire. This is seen both in mares and cows, and is very troublesome to the animal and very annoying to the owner. It is seen more frequently in cows, and they are called "perpetual bullers." It may be caused by certain strong, stimulating kinds of food, but it is more frequently caused by irritation in some portion of the generative organs. Disease of the ovaries is the most common Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 2 IS cause, as it excites the sexual desire and causes the animal to seek the male continually. It may be due to tumors in the vagina or womb, and if they do become pregnant they generally abort. The animal is generally so irritable and restless that it falls off in flesh and is a source of annoyance to the whole herd. Treatment. — If it is due to disease of the ovaries, remove them by spaying the animal, and the trouble will cease. If due to an inflamed or irritated womb or vagina, that may be relieved by in- jections of water containing a little carbolic acid. As it is in- curable in a great many cases, it may be well to get rid of the animal, as they are not desirable property to have about. 214 Dr. LeGeab's Stock Book. CHAPTER XV. CASTRATION OF STALLIONS. The proper age usually for castrating colts is about one year old, but it may be perfomed at a few months old, or several years old. Taking everything into consideration, we believe at one year old is the best time for castration, provided the colt is in good health and his testicles are down. About the best time for castration is during March and April and October and No- vember. It is not advisable to castrate during the summer, as the flies are too bad and the weather too hot. Any time during the winter does very well, if a norther doesn't blow up in a day or two after the operation; but if a warm stable is to be had, there is no danger from the cold. As far as the "signs" of the moon are concerned, that is all bosh. It is an old grandmother idea, and very hard to get out of some men's heads. Have your colts in good condition and the weather right, and that is all the "signs" jou need; and then if the operation is properly performed your colts will do all right. Castrating old stallions is more danger- ous than young colts, but if they are in good health, with clean surroundings, and the operation properly performed, there is no danger whatever to be feared. There are several methods by which the operation can be per- formed, such as the clamps, searing, ligaturing, torsion, ecrasure (Fig. 41), and emasculator (Fig. 42). The last two ways are the only proper methods to be used. The first four methods named are old-styled and away out of date, and are not used at all at the present time by the veterinary profession. To operate by either of the two last methods the animal is either thrown or operated on standing; we prefer to throw (Fig. 43) the animal. When the animal is tied, make an examination of the parts, and Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 215 Fig. 41. Miles' Ecrasure, Fig. 42. Haussmann's Emasculate r. if no hernia (rupture) is present, take a finn hold on one of the testicles, and with a sharp knife (Figs. 44 and 45) make a free incision from before backwards about three-fourths of an inch to one side of the centre division (raphe). Be sure you have your hands and instruments perfectly clean before operating, so as not to poison the wound. Cut deep enough to let the testicle out of the scrotum (bag). Then grasp the other one and let it out by cutting on the other side about the same distance from the center. Put the chain of the ecrasure on the cord, or grasp it with the emasculator, and cut it in two with whichever instru- 216 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. (a) The horse ready to be thrown. b. (b) The horse thrown and tied. Fig. 43. THROWING THE HORSE. Dr. LeGeak's Stock Book. 217 inent you use. These, by their structure and method of cut- ting, stop all bleeding from the cord. Before letting the horse up, see that you have a good, big hole, so that all the matter will drain that forms in the wound for several days. The after-treat- ment consists in giving the animal good, nutritious food, plenty of exercise, and don't let him get wet in a cold rain for at least ten days. As there are certain normal and abnormal results that follow castration, we will <:^ive a few of them below: Fig. 44. Castrating Knife — single blade. Fig. 45. Castrating Knife — double blade. Swelling. — This is a normal condition, as it takes place more or less after every castration. As long as the animal has its ap- petite and shows no signs of high fever, there need be no alarm over the swelling. If the swelling becomes considerable, bathe the parts frequently with warm water and insert your clean fin- gers up into the holes to keep them open. Give plenty of gentle exercise, and turn out to pasture if one can be had. 218 Dr. IjeGear's Stock Book. Pain. — Pain, called ''after pains," sometimes takes place after castration, and many occur in connection with the cord, or as a result of colic, etc. This may be relieved by walking exercise, but if it still persists, it can be relieved by giving Dr. LeGear's Colic Cure. (See Appendix.) Fig. 46. Operating Hood, to protect the eyes and quiet the animal while being thrown for an operation. ])Lep:ding. — lileeding from the wound in the scrotum (bag) may be quite free, especially in warm weather, but need not cause any alarm, as it w ill invariably stop of itself. If bleeding takes place to any alarming extent from the large artery in the cord, it should be checked before the animal bleeds too much. This can gnerally be done by plugging up the wound with cloths wet in cold water. If this fails to check the blood, the animal should be thrown and the artery secured and tied with a silk string. Peritonitis. — Peritonitis (inflammation of the lining of the bowel cavity) may take place after the operation has been per- formed in a bungling manner, or by exposing the animal to wet and cold. This result is known by severe swelling, loss of appe- tite, high fever, severe internal pain, but the animal does not Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. 219 roll. When peritonitis sets in, the animal will die^, as a general thing. Bathe the swollen parts freely with warm water and give internally Dr. LeGear's Colic Cure. (See Appendix.) Keep the animal comfortable, in a dry, warm place, etc. Fig. 47. Baker's Hobbles, used for throwing a horse in common operations. Lockjaw. — Lockjaw occasionally follows the operation of castration. It may be brought on by exposure, or by the animal being kept in a damp, filthy stall or lot. Not much can be done for it. KuPTURE. — It is quite a common thing for certain breeds of horses to be affected with hernia (rupture). -Before castrating you should always examine the animal for rupture. Sometimes it may occur after the operation is performed, and the bowels protrude through the opening and may extend to the ground. If seen in time the animal should be thrown, the bowels put 15 220 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. back and the wound sewed up. If they protrude to a consider- able extent, it is almost useless to try to save the animal. Cas- tration can be performed on a ruptured animal by what is known as the "covered operation," but this shouldn't be undertaken ex- cept by an experienced veterinarian. Seedy Cord. — This is the formation of a tumor on or in con- nection ^dth the cord, caused by rough handling or dragging upon the cord, or by leaving it too long, which adheres to the side of the wound and begins a fibrous growth. Castrating with the clamps is the most frequent cause of this, as the clamps hold and stretch the cord down for one, two or three days, and after they are removed the cord has lost its power of retracting and is very liable to adhere to the sides of the wound and cause seedy- cord, or water-seed. These tumors generally keep on growing, and sometimes become of an enormous size, making it almost im- possible for the animal to walk. The only remedy for this trou- ble is to thoroughly dissect them out. If taken before the tumor is very large it can be removed with not much trouble, but when the growth is of several months standing only a qualified vet- erinarian should undertake the operation. Castrating Kidglixgs. — A ridgling is an animal where one or both of his testicles has never come down. They are either lodged in the channel (inguinal canal) or in the abdominal cav- ity. The castrating of these animals is a very difficult task, and one that we can not explain so that the unprofessional mind can understand the operation. The testicle has no certain place to be lodged, but has several places where it is liable to be found. Although it is a serious and severe operation, yet if it is under- taken by a person thoroughly versed in the anatomy of the ])ai*ts, and who understands tlie operation, there is no particular danger to the animal. IJidglings are as a rule very mean, ugly-disposi- tioned animals, and are not at all desirable to have about. Al- Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 221 though they can serve a mare, it is only in exceptional cases that they can get a colt. The testicle or testicles that haven't come down are not very thoroughly developed, therefore the reason why the animal is barren. SPAYING THE MARE. Castration of the mare is a much more dangerous operation than in the females of other domesticated animals. Itisperformed only in those cases where the ovaries (pride) are diseased, and in those mares which are not wanted for breeding purposes. The operation can be performed in the flank or through the vagina. Tlie latter is the best and safest method, but it takes considerable practice and certain costly instruments to be able to successfully perform it. Before thoroughly understanding this operation through the vagina, you must have a thorough knowledge of the anatomy of the parts. In operating in the flank, a hole is cut in the abdominal muscles in the left flank I'arge enough to admit the hand. The hand is introduced into the abdominal cavity and the ovaries brough out and removed with the ecrasure. (Fig. 41.) The wound is then sewed up and the operation is complete. As we said before, this operation is a serious one, and should not be undertaken by any one save an experienced surgeon. 222 Db. LeGear's Stock Book. CHAPTER XVI. DISEASES OF THE MALE ORGANS OF GENERATION. ORCHITIS. Orchitis is inflammation of the testicles, and is generally a very serious and painful affection. Causes. — As a rule it is caused by direct injury, such as blows, kicks, covering mares in an improper manner, etc. It may also be caused by exposure to cold, and being confined in cold, damp lots, stables, etc. Symptoms. — The parts become swollen and the animal suffers great pain. There is heat and tenderness in the scrotum (bag), and the animal walks in a stiff, straddling manner, and shows ail signs of pain and misery. The animal will have more or less fever, a rapid pulse, and generally remains standing. Treatment. — The treatment must be both local and constitu- tional. Keep the animal perfectly quiet and bathe the swollen testicles with warm water for hours at a time. Support the tes- ticles by putting on a bandage, the ends of which may be passetion (see Appendix), and plugged with cot- ton to keep out the dirt. If the hole is found filled up, it should be well opened and cleaned out, and a warm poultice of equal parts of wheat bran and linseed meal be tied on the whole foot, and changed every six hours until four or five poultices have been applied. While the poultice is off, keep the hole plugged with cotton saturated with our Healing Lotion. While you are not poulticing, the cotton should be changed every day and the wound dressed nicely. Keep the horse in a dry, clean place until the sore heals up. Give rest and a laxative diet. Close attention and thorough cleanliness will often ward off an attack of lockjaw. QUITTOE. A quittor is a running sore at the top of the hoof, extending down inside of the hoof, sometimes penetrating deeply and in- volving the bone. Causes. — Pus occurring in the foot, from any cause whatever^ may result in quittor, for the reason that the pus, being unable to escape, extends in various directions, destroying the tissues in its course, increases in quantity, until, finally reaching the top of the hoof, it bursts forth, making an outlet for itself and form- ing a running sore, when it becomes known as a quittor. Nail in the foot, suppurating corns, or pricks from being shod, may all run into quittor by the matter being unable to get out the. bot- tom of the foot. A gravel will sometimes work out the top of the hoof and form a quittor. Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. 239 Symptoms. — The animal becomes very lame, and on examining the foot a hard swelling will be found at the top of the hoof, which becomes soft in a day or two and bursts and runs pus. A hole remains which does not heal. Sometimes two or three holes are formed, and then it is a very serious thing. Very fre- quently matter will burst out at the top of the hoof, and in a day or two will all heal up. Such a ease is not a quittor. Treatment. — Quittor when once well established is very hard to cure. Remove the shoe and thin down the sole and try and let the matter out at the bottom by free drainage. Inject a little of the following solution into the opening: Corrosive sublimate 1 dram, alcohol 2 ounces. Dissect away all the diseased portions above the hoof and cauterize it with a hot iron. In a bad case of quittor a qualified veterinary surgeon should be employed. Treatment is so difficult and uncertain that the average horse owner will not make much headway in the treatment of quittor. THRUSH. Thrush is a disease of the horse's foot, shown by a very bad smelling, dark-colored matter coming from the cleft of the frog. Causes. — The most common cause of thrush is the filthy con- dition of the stable or lot in which the horse is kept. A sudden change from dryness to excessive moisture may cause the disease. Muddy streets and roads, especially where mineral substances are plentiful, cause the disease. Contracted heels, scratches and nav- icular disease predispose to thrush. Symptoms. — There is a discharge of a yellowish or dark-col- ored matter from the cleft of the frog. This matter has a very offensive smell, and if once smelled ^vill always be remembered. 240 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. There may be some tenderness, but it is seldom that the disease causes lameness. Treatment. — If the animal is standing in filth or mud, remove him to a clean, dry place. Trim off all diseased and ragged portions of the frog and wash all dirt and filth thoroughly from the whole foot and apply a linseed or wheat bran poultice to the affected parts for one or two days. Add a little carbolic acid to the poul- tice to remove the bad smell. After removing poultice, clean out the cleft of the frog and pour in a little peroxide of hydrogen twice a day and pack a piece of cotton well into the frog to retain the medicine and keep out dirt. Calomel dusted into the frog once a day and retained in it by a little cotton is a good remedy. CANKER. Canker is a cancerous-looking fungoid growth in connection with the frog or heel of the horse's foot. Causes. — This disease is seen more frequently in heavy draft horses. The essential cause of canker is the presence of a vege- table parasite, which gains access to the foot of the horse by standing in filthy stalls and stables. It may also follow thrush, grease, or cracked heels. Symptoms. — There is a soft, spongy, unhealthy looking growth in connection with some part of the frog or heel of the foot. On being cut it bleeds very freely, and there is generally a mattery discharge of a very offensive odor. The growth may extend and involve the whole sole and frog, and the horse is more or less lame. Treatment. — The treatment of cankers is tedious, and not very successful, it being in all cases difficult to cure. Unless in a valu- Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 241 able aBimal we wouldn't advise treatment, as it will take more time and expense than the animal is worth, and then you are liable to fail in your efforts. If treatment is advisable, cut away all diseased parts you can with a sharp knife, and cauterize it with a hot iron to stop the blood and destroy what remaining portions of the disease you can. Keep the foot as clean as pos- sible and apply equal parts of powdered charcoal and calomel twice per day. A weak solution of carbolic acid may be bene- ficial. Give in the feed 2 tablespoonsful of Fowler's Solution of Arsenic once a day for two or three weeks. SAND-CEACK. A sand-crack is a fissure or crack in the wall of the hoof. These cracks may exist in any part of the wall, and receive vari- ous names, according to their loca- tion. Thus a crack in the front part of the hoof is called a centre-crack or toe crack, and one at the quarter a quarter-crack. (Fig. 52.) The crack may extend part way or all the way from top to bottom. Some cracks begin at the top and extend downward, while others begin at the bottom and work up. The Fig. 52. Quarter- Crack. ^ former are much more severe. A crack beginning at the bottom and extending up a short distance seldom if ever causes any trouble. Causes. — Horses having thin, brittle lioofs. and being driven o\i hard roads in dry weather, are liable to have sand-cracks. They are very common among trotting and running horses by being worked so fast on hard tracks. Shoeing with high heels and toe calks may cause sand-cracks. Horses standing on hard, 242 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. dry floors, with ho care being taken of tlie feet, are liable Lo have the trouble. Every horse that is worked or ridden during the dry summer should be stood in water for an hour at a time two or three times a week. This cools out the feet and keeps the hoofs moist, pliable and healthy. Symptoms. — The crack can generally be plainly seen, but at first it may be very small, but still cause lameness. The crack may be very small and just beginning at the top, but it is sore and painful, and causes blood to ooze out. A toe-crack in the hind foot is generally a very serious trouble. Dishonest traders or dealers sometimes fill up the crack with tar, hoof ointment, guttapercha, etc., or walk a horse through the mud to conceal the crack before trading. A horse may have an extensive toe- crack or quarter-crack and not be lame at all. It constitutes an unsoundness, and should be looked upon with suspicion. Treatment. — Give the animal rest, pare the foot under the crack, and put on a shoe to take pressure off the affected quarter or part of the toe. There are several forms of treatment used in this trouble, all of which are very good if properly carried out. The form of treatment we prefer is to take out a piece of the hoof the shape of the leter V with the base upwards, and right at the top border of the hoof and the point comes into the crack. Have each side of this letter V about one inch long. By taking out a piece of the hoof right across where the crack begins will let the hoof grow solid when it grows in. A good blister of our Spavin Cure should be applied in the hair just above where the crack was after operating on it, to stimulate a more strong and healthy growth of hoof. After blistering, grease well every day with sweet oil. Keep the horse quiet for a couple of weeks dur- ing treatment, and then turn him to grass for two or three months, when a cure is generally complete. Another form of treatment is to put on a nice, light brass plate or clinch to pre- Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 243 v.ent motion in the parts. A small cotton rope may be wound around the hoof from top to bottom very tightly, and then paint it with tar, and turn the horse on pasture for a couple of months. Sometimes a nail can be expertly driven through the edffes of the crack to hold it together. COFFIN- JOINT LAMENESS. This disease is more properly known as "Navicular Disease/'* as the little navicular bone is the part mostly affected. (See Fig. 53.) The flexor tendon and bursa of the joint are also diseased in most of cases, but the disease more, frequently begins in the bone. It is estimated that this disease is the cause of a majority of all serious and obscure lame- ness in the front feet of horses, and if neglected or not properly treated for three or six months, it becomes in- curable by certain changes taking place in the parts. Fig. 53. Navicular Disease. Causes. — The most frequent cause of coffin-joint lameness is hard and fast work on hard roads, and sprains of the joint. In some cases the disease is produced suddenly, as by a severe sprain* and at other times it comes on very gradually. The disease is seen more frequently in certain breeds of horses, as those having straight, upright pasterns and a pounding action while traveling. One or both front feet may be affected, but it rar(»ly ever occurs in the hind feet. The disease may be caused by nails piercing through the frog and injuring the flexor tendon or the coffin? 244 Dr. LeGeab's Stock Book. joint. Improper shoeing is undoubtedly a very frequent cau^ of coffin-joint lameness. This is brought about by raising or lowering the heels too much, allowing the toe to grow too long, or any cause of changing the proper adjustment of the foot, etc. The frog is nature's great cushion or support to the foot, and when it is removed from the ground by paring or by high-heeled shoes, the foot is then far more Hable to diseases of various kinds. The frog should be allowed to come on the ground, as nature intended it should. Symptoms. — This disease in most of cases comes on very grad- ually. The horse is noticed slightly lame, or a little tender, for one, two, or three days or a week, when it will disappear as mysteriously as it came. In a few weeks the lameness returns, but will be a little worse, and last a few days longer than the first attack. It may continue to appear and disappear for three or four attacks, when it is liable to come to stay. The horse points the foot — that is, places it out in front of the other — and con- traction may or may not be present. After a time contraction of the heel, wasting of the frog, and in fact the whole foot gets smaller than the healthy one. When both front feet are affected the animal will first point one and then the other. By placing the foot out in front it takes the strain off the flexor tendon and the navicular bone, thus giving relief. The wall of the foot gets hard, smooth, and glassy, and not rough and in ridges as in founder. The animal has a tendency to stumble and wears the toe of the shoe off first. The soreness of this disease is in the heel, and the animal tries to bring his toe to the ground first, while founder affects principally the toe of the foot, and the ani- mal tries to get relief by standing and walking on its heels. If this disease is caused by a severe sprain or by an injury, the symptoms will be more suddenly developed. He may improve after a few days, and then take worse and run much tlie same course as that described above. The advancement this disease Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 245 makes depends a great deal on the kind of work an animal ha* to do. If used regularly on hard roads, they will as a general thing get so lame they are useless in a few months; while for farm work they may go on and work tolerably well for years. When both front feet are affected about alike, an animal can't limp, but will have a peculiar short step, called "groggy action." Treatment. — The curative treatment of this disease, unless taken in the early stages, is almost useless. There are certain changes that take place in connection with the navicular bone and flexor tendon that can not be rectified when once established. So many horsemen and would-be horse doctors locate every ob« scure lameness a horse has in front, in the shoulders, and put the poor brute to unnecessary suffering by blistering, burning, seatoning, etc., the shoulder, when invariably the lameness is in the foot. In shoulder lameness the animal has difficulty in picking up the foot and bringing it forward, but if the soreness is below the knee he will have no trouble in this respect. A horse affected in both feet does look, to an ordinary observer, as though it might be in the shoulders, by the animal being so stiff, but this is brought about by the animal trying to keep both feet on the ground all the time; therefore he steps very short. When the disease is first detected the animal should be laid off from ail work, the shoe removed, and the foot at the toe pared down, and a shoe with slightly thickened heels put on to tip the foot slight- ly forward. Then place the foot in a warm water bath. Provide a tub or box, into which put about eight inches of water as warm as the hand will stand, and keep it at about the same temperature by adding hot water occasionally. Stand the horse in the water for two hours at a time twice a day for one week or ten days. If tlie fever and soreness seem to be pretty well gone by that time, then apply a good blister, using our Spavin Cure (see Appendix) well rubbed into the heels and quarters. This form of treatment thoroughly carried out at the beginning of the disease may form 246 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. ^ cure. In place of the hot water bath, warm bran poultices may be kept on the feet several hours a day. After the disease is well ^tablished the above treatment will only relieve and not cure it. When the disease becomes incurable, all we can do is to relieve the animal by certain forms of shoeing, keeping the foot soft by bathing, or by nerving the foot. Apply either a bar shoe with slightly tliickened heels, or a light, plain shoe with a small heel salk, to raise the heels slightly. (See Figs. 4 and 5, Plate VI., special shoes, page 254.) During the dry summer weathet stand the horse either in a mud or water bath to his ankles three or four times a week for an hour at a time, and blister the quarters and heels once a month with our Spavin Cure. After the animal gets so lame he is useless for the work he is intended to do, then the only relief for him is bv performing the operation of neurot- omy (nerving), which is done by cutting a small hole just above the ankle on each side and removing a portion of the nerve. It is advisable to perform this operation only in animals that have good, strong feet. No matter how sore the foot is, the ani- mal will not limp after the operation is performed, as there is no feeling left in the foot. By being careful what kind of feet we operate on, we have had good success with this operation. In some cases the animal will go on and do its regular work for years without laming at all. This operation, although not suc- cessful in all cases, is in some cases an act of mercy to perform, as it instantly relieves all pain from the poor sufferer's foot. As this is a particular operation, we wouldn't advise any one but a rincipal causes are faulty conformation, allow- the feet to grow too long, improper shoeing, weakness from ex- haustive labor, etc. Treatment. — It may in some cases be difficult to overcome. See that the foot is perfectly level and properly balanced be- fore nailing on the shoe. If this does not stop it, lower th«; inside quarter by rasping down the .wall, and then put on the shoe; or weight the shoe on the outside web, to widen his action. (Fig. 2, Plate VII.) Bear in mind that what will overcome inter- fering in one animal will not in another. So the success of the horseshoer will depend much upon the horse's construction. A glance from the front or rear, or from the side, will tell the man of experience why the horse strikes, or if he is likely to. In very stubborn cases let a natural angle of the foot be ob- tained, and adjust a tip, which will give the horse the most nat- ural footing. Light shoes are the best in every case to prevent interfering, for they will serve to give the horse confidence, which weight frequently destroys. When the injury produced by interfering is made on the in- side of the fore leg, just below the knee, it is called "speedy cut," and requires about the same treatment as for any ordinary wound in the same region. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 259 STUMBLING. Stumbling is not at all uncommon among certain horses of faulty conformation, and in many cases is a serious trouble. It may be produced by straight shoulders, short, upright pasterns, high heels, and carrying the head low. Treatment. — It may be overcome by certain kinds of shoeing. No doubt a rolling motion shoe will prevent tripping and stum- bling in more cases than any other kind of shoe. If a full roller shoe is not suitable for the horse, shorten the toe of the foot and give the toe of the shoe a good roll. If the above shoe is properly made, and the foot placed on the natural angle, the worst cases can be prevented. 260 Db. LeGear's Stock Book. CHAPTER XIX. CONTAGIOUS DISEASES. GLANDERS AND FARCY. Glanders and its external form designated as farcy, has been known from early antiquity. Probably no contagious disease of the horse is so widely spread, there being but one country — Aus- tralia— so far as we can learn, in which the horse is said to be wholly free from the disease. Its prevalence in various countries varies greatly, however, and there are also great variations in the prevalence of the disease in the same country at different periods. It affects not only the horse, but spreads by contact directly or indirectly to the ass, mule, and other solid hoofed animals, and to man. Sheep, goats, and pigs may have the disease, but cat- tle will resist it entirely. Scientific investigations in all parts of the world have proven that the two complaints are only different manifestations of one and the same disease. This has been shown time and again through inoculating animals with either the discharge from the nose of a glandered horse or with the matter from a farcy ulcer, and having either or both forms of the disease produced. The term glanders is applied to the disease when the interior of the nose, the lungs or other portions of the organs of respiration are affected, while the term farcy is used when superficial parts, the skin, etc., of the body are invaded. Eminent investigators have definitely established the fact that glanders is a specific con- tagious disease, due solely to the glanders bacillus, and that the disease is incapable of spontaneous generation, but must at all times depend upon the presence of the bacilli, which in turn must be derived from the parent bacilli of the same kind. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 261 Causes. — The cause of glanders and farcy, as has already been stated, is a living organism belonging to the group known gen- erally as bacteria, under the specific name of bacillus malleus, or glanders bacillus. But even supposing the bacillus mallei is the direct cause of the complaint, we must not forget that im- proper sanitary surroundings and any weakening, debilitating disease, such as influenza, distemper, catarrhal fever, lung fever, etc., are important factors in the production of the disease by weakening the animal body and making it very liable to become affected with the disease if exposed to the contagion. The germs outside the body retain their Uf e and vitality under ordinary con- ditions in a moderately dry state for four or five months, al- though when exposed freely to very dry air with sunlight they probably perish in a few days, and when in water and decom- posing fluids they perish in two or three weeks. On the other hand, when large quantities of glanders matter is thickly smeared or spread over stalls or mangers in stables where it is protected from rain and in a measure from light and the deeper parts well excluded from the air the germs seem to retain their vitality for a year or more. The germs are usually spread through care- less stable attendants, through public watering troughs, and by the matter discharged drying upon harness, blankets and the like, for after it dries it is readily distributed by currents of air, and this dust, if exposed to a certain degree of heat and moisture, ^vill grow and produce the disease upon susceptible animals with tol- erable certainty, if it gets into the interior of their economy. Period of Incubation. — The period of incubation in the acute form of glanders is short, the disease usually appearing in from four to seven days from the time of exposure, while the chronic form may appear any time in from seven to eight days up to two or three months from the time the animal was exposed to the contagious influence. 262 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Symptoms. — The disease is most frequently seen in the chronic form, there being a discharge from the nostrils which varies in appearance and can not be considered as characteristic; it may either sink in water or float on the surface; usually is somewhat viscid and adheres around the nostrils; may be thin and almost clear and small in amount, or thicker and yellowish with or with- out odor. The discharge may be from both nostrils, or from only one, either right or left. Glanders may be, and not infre- quently is, confounded with other affections somewhat resem- bling it in some of its symptoms, especially those diseases in which nasal discharge constitute a prominent feature, such as nasal gleet, strangles, pink-eye, acute and chronic nasal catarrh, infectious and epizootic catarrhal fever, disease of the facial sinuses, diseased teeth, tumors in nostrils, etc. The most char- acteristic symptoms of glanders is the occurrence of ulcers on the partitions between the nostrils, but they are absent, per- haps, in a majority of cases, or situated so high up as to be out of sight. The glands beneath the jaws (sub-maxillary lymphatic glands) become enlarged and hardened, and may or may not be attached to the bone. Discharge from the nose and enlarge- ment of the sub-maxillary glands are nearly always present, but in many cases there may be, for a long time, no other symptoms presented, and such cases can not be diagnosed by mere physical examination, even by an expert. In acute glanders the course is more rapid, with fever, greater discharge from the nose often streaked with blood and a sudden swelhng of one or more limbs; ulcers soon appear upon the lin- ing membrane of the nose, and death is the common termination, but in some cases the acute is followed by the chronic form. In the form known as farcy, they are small nodular enlarge- ments of the size of a pea or larger, which form in different parts of the body, but most frequently along the course of the blood vessels inside the limbs, or on the face and neck. Only s. few may be present at a time or they may be numerous. They Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 26a ultimately burst and discharge a thin yellowish viscid materiaL They may heal after a time, but are generally replaced by others. Both forms of the disease are incurable, and dangerous to other animf^ls and to man. Diagnosis. — By reading the above it will be seen that it is im- possible to diagnose with any degree of certainty a great many cases of glanders by mere physical examination. In 1891, Pro- fessors Kalning and Helman, of Russia, discovered a substance called mallein, which has rendered wonderful service in detect- ing doubtful and suspicious cases of glanders. During the short time since the discovery of mallein it has been tested by leading scientific veterinarians in every part of the world, and all unite in asserting that its use has at least furnished us with an agent by which we can readily and safely diagnose the disease, not only in suspected cases, but in those animals where the most care- ful physical examination can detect no signs of the disease. In, the annual report of the Bureau of Animal Industry may be found the following: "Glanders is a contagious and incurable disease of horses, more widespread than is generally supposed. It is also communicated to man from affected horses, and is then nearly always fatal in its results. This disease has been allowed to spread without ade- quate efforts for its control, until it can now be found in nearly every city of any considerable size and in many country districts. The greatest obstacle to its eradication heretofore existing was the difficulty of making a positive diagnosis in many suspected animals. With many affected horses the symptoms are obscure and indefinite, but the power to communicate the disease is just as marked as those having the most apparent symptoms. For- tunately it has been shown by recent researches that the bacillus of glanders produces a substance during its growth in culture liquids similar to the tuberculin produced by the bacillus of tuberculosis, and that this substance, which is called mallein,. 264 Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. may be used for the diagnosis of glanders in the same manner as tuberculin is used for the diagnosis of tuberculosis. The greatest problem connected with the control of glanders is there- fore solved, and the question is no longer one of possibility, bat of expediency." Treatment. — As glanders is an incurable and contagious dis- ease, every effort should be made to have the animal destroyed as soon as it is known to be affected, and the carcass burned. The stable, harness, blankets, and all utensils used in connection with the animal should be thoroughly disinfected. Suspicious < f'f Dr. LeGtear's Stock Book. 285 CHAPTER XXIII. PARTURITION — PARTURIENT DISEASES. For a description of the general remarks on parturition in the cow, we will refer you to those given under this heading in the Horse Department. All such troubles as abortion, barrenness, natural presenta- tions, unnatural presentations, retention of the afterbirth, in- version of the womb, inflammation of the womb, bleeding after parturition, whites, etc., are fully described under their respec- tive headings in the Horse Department, and can be referred to there. MILK FEVER. There are three or four diseases that follow calving, such as parturient paralysis, parturient apoplexy, garget, etc., and the name Milk Fever is applied to them as i' wliole by most dairy- men. We will describe them later on. All animals, and more especially cows, have more or less fever after delivery of their young. It is due to the nervous shock and the agonizing pain they have to endure at this time. Symptoms. — The animal is somewhat dull, and has more or less fever according to the severity of the case. The appetite may be impaired, and the bag sometimes becomes swollen and feverish. . Treatment. — Give the cow a physic, as No. 1, and give ^ ounce of nitrate of potash and 25 drops of tincture of aconite in one pint of water as a drench three times a day for one or two days. Milk her often, and bathe the bag well two or three times a day 286 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. with warm water; then apply our Liniment well rubbed in. Feed on bran mashes and green food. PARTURIENT PARALYSIS. Paralysis occasionally follows parturition, generally coming on in from one to three days after calving, but it is not a danger- ous trouble as a general thing. It is due to a rush of blood to the spinal cord or to pressure on the large nerves in the hind quarters. Symptoms. — The cow on being made to walk is seen to be unsteady in her gait, perhaps staggers from side to side, or has what is known as a paddling gait. The animal may soon grow worse, and, being unable to stand, falls to the ground, the loss of motion becoming better marked, x^lthough not able to rise, there is not much, if any, pain present, and the appetite generally remains good. Treatment. — A good physic, as No. 2, should be given, and if necessary stimulants may be given every four or six hours. Blan- kets wrung out of hot water should be applied to the spine and across the loins, and the loins bathed well two or three times a day with our Liniment. Prepare and give the following pow- ders: Nitrate of potash 3 ounces. Powdered copperas 2 ounces. Powdered nux vomica 2 ounces. Mix, and make twelve powders, and give one powder morning and night in damp feed. • The cow will generally recover, although it may take a couple of weeks to get her on her feet. While lying down, turn her over once or twice a day. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 287 PARTUEIENT APOPLEXY. This is a disease peculiar to mature, fat cows, at or a day or two after calving. It is seldom if ever seen in the common breeds of cows, but the well bred, heavy milkers that are big fat at the calving time are the ones that suffer more frequently from this disease. It is seldom if ever seen in cows that are poor in flesh, or at first calving; nor ever seen after a case of difficult calving, as the severe labor, loss of blood, etc., have a tendency to weaken the system to a certain extent and prevent the disease. It invariably follows an easy calving, and the large amount of blood which after delivery of the calf should go to make milk, instead of doing so is thrown back upon the system, and causing congestion of the brain and spinal cord, gives rise to the various symptoms of parturient apoplexy. It is one of the most serious and rapidly fatal diseases with which the Veterinary Surgeon has to deal. High feeding, with the animal fat and full of rich blood, and an easy delivery, are the main causes of this terribly fatal disease. It is more prevalent during very hot weather, as the heat helps to bring on the fever. Heavy milking cows that are in good flesh and fed heavily up to the time of calving are very liable to this disease, if they come In during a very hot spell of weather. Symptoms. — The disease comes on from one hour to several days after calving, it being seldom seen before calving. The nearer to the time of calving the disease comes on the more fatal it is. All cases that come on within two days after calving gen- erally die, while a majority of cases can be cured that come on after the third day. The animal is generally first noticed to be somewhat dull, with unsteady, staggering gait. There is a pecu- liar paddling action of the feet which is characteristic of partu- rient apoplexy. In severe cases the paralysis increases rapidly, 288 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. and the animal is soon unable to walk or stand alone, therefore goes down. It may, in a fit of excitement, try to rise, but fails, and soon quiets down into a comatose (sleepy) condition, with the head turned to the side with the nose resting on the ground. Occasionally the animal will stretch out at full length with the head on the ground. She is now in a dead sleep, as it were, with no signs of life except a weak, slow pulse and very slow breathing. You can touch the ball of the eye without her even batting the eyelid. The animal may live in this condition for several hours, but as a general thing they will die in from two to four hours after it comes on. Many valuable cows have we been called to see in this comatose condition, but all we could do was to watch them die. The ani- mal has no power of swallowing, neither is there any digestion going on. Medicine put into the stomach with a stomach pump does no good, as there is no digestion or absorption. Treatment. — If the cow is seen before she falls and before the power of swallowing is lost, a good physic should be given, as No. 4. If the physic is given six or eight hours before the coma- tose condition comes on you may save her. But if she goes off to sleep before you give the medicine, or shortly after, the case is hopeless, and she will die. The head should be kept cool by applying ice or cloths wrung out of cold water. The animal should be protected from the sun or cold wet weather. All milk should be removed from her bag often. If the animal can yet swallow give: Tincture of aconite 20 drops. Nitrate of potash \ ounce. Bromide of potash 1 ounce. Water 1 pint. Mix, and give as a drench every four hours. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 289 Prevention. — Prevention is of far more value in this disease than all the treatment you can give. Cows that are heavy milk- ers and big fat should be cut short on their feed for a couple of weeks previous to calving. Plenty of salt and all the water they will drink is beneficial. A dose of epsom salts, as No. 1, should be given about one day before the cow is expected to come in. If she comes in unexpectedly, don't delay to give her the physic as soon as found, if she is fat and a big milker. One ounce of nitrate of potash may be given every day for several days instead of the salts. If the udder (bag) becomes much distended before calving, it should be milked every day, as it gives relief to the cow and wards off disease. Plenty of exercise, light feed, and a dose of salts, are the great preventatives against this dread dis- ease. Many a poor cow is killed through kindness by her owner feeding her very heavy previous to calving, so she will give a good flow of milk when she comes in. MAMMITIS— GARGET. Garget, more properly known as Mammitis, consists of in- flammation of the mamary gland (bag), and is brought about in various ways. Some cases are very mild and pass off in a day or two, while others are more severe, and may either destroy the udder or kill the cow. Any one or more of the quarters may be affected, and sometimes the whole bag is involved. Garget gen- erally comes on shortly after calving, but may take place even before calving, or any time while the cow is giving milk. Causes. — Garget may be caused by an injury to the udder, such as kicks, blows, wounds from briars or thorns, lying en sharp objects, etc. A frequent cause of the trouble is irregular milking, and not completely emptying the bag at each milking. Over-driving with distended udder may cause it, and also it very often follows calving by the fever in the system settling in the 290 Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. udder. Sudden changes of temperature, as hot da3's and cold nights, may be a cause of garget. Symptoms. — There is a swelling of a part or the whole of the udder, with heat, tenderness, and a hard feeling. It is in some cases so tender and sore that the animal will refuse to have it touched or handled. Instead of natural milk, a thin, yellowish fluid is drawn from the teat, which soon becomes thicker and in curdled lumps, and has a bad smell. The animal is more or less stiff and lame in the hind quarters and especially on the side where the swelling is. The animal is restless, fever- ish, and has lost her appetite. Milder cases generally yield readily to treatment, while in some of the severer forms the udder becomes mortified and great portions of it slough off. In other cases abscesses form in the affected quarters, which have to be freely opened to let the pus escape. If a cow recovers from a case of garget she seldom regains her full flow of milk until after her next calf. Where abscesses form, or where mortifica- tion and sloughing sets in, the quarter or whole udder is gener- ally destroyed. Treatment. — Give the cow a physic, as No. 2, and give the following: Tincture of aconite 20 drops. Nitrate of potash 4 drams. Water 1 pint. Mix, and give as a drench, and repeat every four hours until four or six doses have been given. If the udder is much swollen it should be supported with a large bandage padded softly with cotton and such like. Cut holes in the bandages for the teats to come through. Bathe the bag well for an hour at a time, and apply the following, which Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. • 291 is undoubtedly the most effectual remedy to remove the cake (hardness) from a cow's bag: Fluid extract of belladonna 1 ounce. Soft soap ^ pound. Mix, and use only what you need at a time, and apply twice per day. =^ Fig. 56. Milking Tube. Another way this can be done is to wet the bag with the belladonna, and then with a piece of strong lye soap make a thick lather on all the swelled, caked portions of the bag, and let remain for six or eight hours, when you can wash off with warm water and apply again. Keep this up as long as there is any fever in the bag. Long continued, gentle hand-rubbing and kneading the affected parts is very beneficial. Strip out all the milk you can four or five times a day, or the milking tube (Fig. 56) may be inserted to drain off the milk as fast as it forms. If, after the fever leaves the udder, there are hard places still re- maining, apply the following: Tincture of iodine 6 ounces. Tincture of opium 2 ounces. Soap liniment 4 ounces. Mix, and apply with friction, tw^ or three times per day. Also give 2 drams of iodide of potash as a drench in 1 pint of water every morning and night before feeding. If abscesses form they should be lanced and let the matter out; and sjrringe out the cavity once a day with a weak solution of carbolic acid. 292 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. BLOODY MILK. Cows occasionally give bloody milk, which may be due to some injury to the udder, or to congestion or inflammation of the same. It may be due to some diseased condition of the ud- der, or from eating some acrid or irritant plants. Treatment. — If it is due to congestion or injury of the udder, give physic No. 1. Bathe the bag well with warm water twice a day, and each time after bathing apply our Liniment well to all affected parts. After the cow has physicked out, give our Con- dition Powders in bran mash for a week or ten days. If due to eating certain kinds of weeds, change the pasture. Don't use the milk while it is bloody or for several days afterwards, for it may be due to some poison or from tubercular disease (consumption) in the udder. BLUE MILK. Cows sometimes give bluish or watery milk, which is generally due to the presence of a germ in the teat or udder that infects the milk and changes its color and character. Give internally physic No. 1, and give 2 drams of hyposulphite of soda twice a day in the feed or as a drench. Our Condition Powders given regularly for one or two weeks will be beneficial. STRINGY MILK. This is a condition in which the milk gets in a stringy white or yellowish condition. Its causes and treatment are about the same as for Blue Milk, which see. Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. 293 BLOCKED OR CLOSED TEATS. This is quite a common trouble among dairy cows, and is due to various causes, such as warty growths, fleshy growths, thick- ening of the mucus membrane, calculus, etc. In some cases the little warty or fleshy growth can be felt by squeezing the teat. Many a valuable cow has been made to lose one or more quarters by this trouble. It is generally first noticed when the cow comes in. On trying to milk, her, no milk can be gotten from the af- fected quarter, and the general procedure is to run a knitting needle or the like up the teat to try and force an opening. You can generally force an opening, but it will close right up again. You may get a little milk from the teat, but it swells up for a few days and then gradually dries up and withers away, and will not fill up again until the next calf. Fig. 57. Teat Slitter, for opening closed (blind) teats in cows. Treatment. — The milking tube should be inserted, but if there is a fleshy or warty growth in the teat, the teat slitter (Fig. 57) should be inserted and an opening be made -through the growth with the little knife on the side near the end, and then the milk- ing tube inserted and used until the cut surface heals around the cavity. If this is done in time a great many cases can be saved. But as a general thing treatment is not successful, and the teat will dry up. 294 Dk. LeGeak's Stock Book. OPENING IN THE SIDE OF THE TEAT. This trouble is occasionally met with, and is very unpleasant to the milker while milking. It is generally caused by an ex- ternal wound, as a barb-wire cut which penetrates the milk canal, And when it heals it leaves a hole by which the milk escapes at the side of the teat. Most of cases of this kind can be cured by scarifying (making raw) the edges of the hole with a sharp lance, and then stitch the raw surfaces tightly together by the use of the quilled suture (see quilled suture in Horse Department). If the cow is giving milk, draw off the milk two or three times per day with the milking tube. Leave the stitches in for eight or ten days, when they can be removed with safety. SOEE TEATS. When sores exist to any considerable extent on cows' teats, they make it very painful to the cow and unpleasant to milk her. They are caused in various ways, as from barb-wire cuts, scratches from thorns and briars, chapped from cold winds, lying ■down in filthy places, etc. Treatment. — There is nothing that will heal up sores of this kind as fast as our Healing Lotion. After each time of milking wash the teats all off nicely with soap and water, and wet the i5ores with the Healing Lotion. Remove all the scabs at eacli time of washing, as you will heal the sores faster by so doing. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 295 CHAPTER XXIV. INSECTS AND THE STIFF DISEASE. TICKS. There are several species of ticks that attach themselves to cattle. The most common in this country, and the one we will describe here, is the Boophilus hovis. It is important and inter- esting to know something of the life history, development, and habits of this parasite on account of the important part it plays in its relation to Texas fever, and the annoyance it causes stock when they infest them in countless numbers. It was not until about 1889 that any attention was paid to this tick. Experi- ments show that the life of a tick, or of one generation (from the time the eggs are laid until the tick is matured and full grown), is from 45 to 70 days. It will be found that by taking mature female ticks from cattle and putting them in a glass vessel, they will remain quiet for two or four days, when they will begin to lay their eggs, and continue to lay them for several days. Stat- istics gathered at experiment stations show that the average full grown mature tick will lay a little over 2000 eggs. All female ticks at any age after maturity, that have been fertilized by the male, will begin laying eggs in a few days after being taken from or fallen off the host (cattle). The eggs will hatch out in from three to four weeks, according to the temperature, moisture, sur- roundings, etc. They will hatch out much quicker in hot, damp weather than when it is cool or dry. These young ticks will re- main on the ground alive for several months in favorable weather, but will not grow or mature unless they can get upon an animal. By having the power of living so long in this larval state, they are very liable to get upon an animal if they are in a 296 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. pasture frequented by cattle. When the larval tick gets upon an animal, it at once begins to grow, and in about one week it has its first moulting (shedding its skin). At the end of the second week it moults again and becomes sexually mature, when fertilization is liable to take place, as a male and a female tick are generally found together. After fertilization, the female tick enlarges very slowly until from the nineteenth to the twen- ty-second day, when she swells up very rapidly, and in a day or two loosens her hold and falls to the ground, where the laying of eggs begins in a few days. It will be seen by the above that the length of time a tick remains on an animal is about three weeks. Ticks are more numerous on uncultivated land, prairies and woodland. They bore into the skin, and when in large num- bers cause considerable irritation and annoyance to the animal. Treatment. — The subject of a cheap, reliable and convenient remedy that will eradicate ticks from cattle has received a great deal of thought and investigation during the past few years. If such a remedy could be worked out it would be of great benefit to the cattle and farming industry of the whole country. The danger of infecting northern territory in the transfer of southern cattle would be overcome; a market previously closed would be opened to summer feeders in the north, in seasons when there occurs an abundance of com and grass and a scarcity of native cattle. This surplus food stuff could be turned to the profit of the farmer. The present necessary though burdensome quaran- tine regulations would be greatly eased; foreign countries could no longer exclude these animals on the grounds that they are liable to introduce a dangerous disease. In some parts of the country ticks are so bad that stock owners have to resort to some means by which they can rid their cattle of the tick, for they are a great curse to the comfort, welfare, and growth of the animal. There have been various remedies and modes of appli- cation advocated, but none seems to be so effectual or easily Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 297 applied as by dipping. A large vat or tank is constructed, lead- ing to which is a narrow chute and trap door, by which the cattle are plunged into the solution in the tank and made to swim out at the other side. Various preparations have been tried, to make the solution in the tank, such as crude carbolic acid, tobacco, chloro-naptholeum, cotton seed oil, etc. With some, the oily preparations have proven very satisfactory, while others claim it is not a sure remedy. For dairy cows and for gentle farm cattle the ticks can be de- stroyed by painting the cattle with 15 parts crude carbolic acid dissolved in 80 parts of crude cottonseed oil. Extensive experiments have been made with the dipping of cattle for the eradication of ticks by Dr. Francis, at College Sta- tion, Texas, and by Mr. R. J. Kleberg, of Alice, Texas. We think we can not do better here than to quote some of Dr. Fran- cis' remarks on dipping cattle: "The destruction of these parasites on the bodies of our cattle has engaged a large share of our attention for several years. It is evident that whatever means be adopted, it is of first import- ance that every tick be reached. This is accomplished by forc- ing the cattle to swim through a large dipping vat, somewhat similar to the dipping process employed against certain para- sites of sheep. The device consists of a large wooden vat, about ten feet deep and forty feet long, having a working capacity of about five thousand gallons. It is constructed in a large trench so that the lower two-thirds is below the ground line. The en- trance is through a narrow chute at the end of which there is provided a trap door balanced over the end of the vat, so that when the animal passes through the chute .and arrives on the trap, the latter tilts, and the animal, losing its balance, plunges into the vat. The animal is almost always completely sub- merged, thus bringing the solution in contact with its entire body. On rising to the surface it swims to the exit, which is 298 Dr. LeGeak's Stock Book. provided with a cleated inclined floor to enable it to make its way out and reach an inclined dripping platform where the cat- tle are detained a short time. This device has a working capacity of about one thousand head per day. It is, perhaps, not desira- ble to burden this report with the details of the construction of the vat. Those who are seriously interested in the subject will be provided with plans and dimensions. In our earlier studies of the subject we began testing the different varieties of sheep dips, with the view of finding a suitable and efficient commercial preparation that could be supplied in large quantities and be of uniform quahty. We selected a certain one which seemed to be typical of the carbolic acid group. Of this we made up 4000 gallons of a 5 per cent strength. The cattle were then forced to s\^dm through it. The results were not satisfactory, because it irritated the animals considerably and did not kill all the ticks. We also tried other carbolic preparations in a similar manner, but found ourselves confronted with this condition: That some of the ticks would survive solutions that would probably be fatal to the cattle if immersed in it. On one occasion we seriously scalded about ninety animals by using a too concentrated car- bolic preparation. We found, also, that carbolic emulsions are very unstable, and undergo changes very rapidly, which makes them almost worthless for dipping purposes. Our attention was next engaged ^dth an arsenical sheep dip, which we used in a 1 per cent solution. Of this we made up 4000 gallons and forced cattle to swim through it. This preparation was stable, uniform,, and non-irritating, but its action on the ticks was so indifferent that it was discarded. Emulsions of kerosene and decoctions of tobacco were also tried in a small way with no practical results. We next began using oils. The first season we used cottonseed oil to which had been added 10 per cent crude carbolic acid and 5 per cent pine tar. We filled the vat with water and added about 100 gallons of the oil mixture, which made a layer on the Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 299 surface of the water three-fourths to one inch in depth. The cattle were forced through the chute and plunged into the vat. On rising to the surface and coming out they became covered with oil, which was exceedingly fatal to the tick without causing any positive injury to the cattle. We noted, however, that such a coating of oil in the vat soon became greatly altered in appear- ance and quality, from contact with the water, which eventually induced us to seek a substitute. We next tried a cheap natural or mineral oil, called "Winter West Virginia." We used this in the same manner as the cotton oil. It bears agitation with water quite well, but it occurs to me that it is not so fatal as the cot- ton oil to the tick. We sometimes use it alone, and sometimes add carbolic acid to it. In some instances we have dipped a bunch of cattle with absolutely perfect results, and sometimes we notice an animal on which the work was imperfect. There is yet a third condition of aifairs for which we have no satisfactory explanation. It sometimes occurs that half-grown ticks will be noticed several days after dipping. This has caused us great an- noyance and much study. At present we attribute it to the con- dition of the tick at the time of dipping, viz., that it was moult- ing. These young ticks sometimes increase in size, and may have the appearance of healthy ticks, but we have invariably failed to hatch their eggs, which seem to have been aborted, though the conditions were suitable as proven by eggs of other ticks hatching under the same conditions. This has led us to be somewhat guarded of late, in claiming that one dipping will offer sufficient safeguard against Texas fever, if the dipping pro- cess be adopted on a commercial basis. For purely experimental purposes it may, but in our Judgment it would be somewhat risky for general use. It occurs to us then, that if a change in the present Federal regulations be contemplated, it would be wise to require two dippings with an interval of several days. This we believe would be absolutely safe." 20 300 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. By reading the article in this book on Texas Fever, it will be seen that the tick is without a doubt the sole transmitter of the disease, and a large dipping vat is now being constructed at Fort Worth, Texas, where cattle will be dipped under State and Fed- eral inspection, and if pronounced free from ticks they will be admitted into the State of Kansas for feeding purposes, thus opening a market from Texas to summer feeders in the North. This is a long stride in the direction of breaking down quaran- tine barriers, and will be watched with interest. HORN FLY. This is a little black fly which infests certain districts of the United States and causes great annoyance to cattle. They have received the popular name of "horn fly" from the fact that they collect upon the horns of cattle while they (the flies) are at rest. This fly first made its appearance in any great numbers in the United States about ten years ago, and at that time some very wild stories were told about it. It was claimed that the fly ate through the horn, caused it to rot, and laid egffs inside, which, after hatching, penetrated the brain. This, however, is not the case; but they do cause great annoyance to cattle by biting them. They prevent thrift in beef cattle and milk production in dairy cows. When they are present in large numbers they collect upon the base of the horns, along the top of the neck, or under the belly. They attack cattle in the field by piercing the skin and sucking the blood. Certain cattle will be covered with the flies and mind them very little, while others lose flesh very rapidly. But as a general thing they are not very injurious to stock and will never cause death to the animal. They will not make sores on cattle, but sores will form by the cattle rubbing themselves against trees, fences, etc., to get rid of the flies. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 301 Treatment. — The only thing to be done is to keep the cattle in dark stables during the day or apply some greasy or oily sub- stance to the skin. Crude cottonseed oil 1 gallon, and crude car- bolic acid 4 ounces, thoroughly mixed and painted on the cows with a large brush, will keep off the flies for four or five days at a time. The female fly lays its eggs in the droppings of cattle, which soon hatch out and form a new generation of flies. These droppings by being burned when a little dry will destroy the eggs. SCREW-WORMS. The maggots from the screw-worm fly (Lucillia macellaria) are the greatest curse to stock, and cause the stockmen of Texas more trouble than any other thing. The flies deposit their eggs on sores on stock, and these eggs hatch out in a remarkably short time; and then the maggots grow very rapidly, and in two or three days there are dozens, or perhaps hundreds, of good-sized screw- worms burrowing and boring into the healthy flesh; and unless killed, they will in many cases kill the animal. Dogs and pigs will drown them out if they can get to water, but they have to be killed by the use of medicine as a general thing on horses, cattle and sheep. The best and safest remedy we know for kill- ing screw-worms is chloroform 1 part and alcohol 2 parts, to be injected into the sore. iVfter kilUng them out, dust the sore with Dr. LeGear's Screw Worm Powder, which is a fine healing preparation and keeps out the screw-worms. THE STIFF DISEASE. ' This is a fragilitis (brittle) conditon of bone, and is variously known as "the stiffness,'' "the cripple," etc. It appears to be more or less dependent upon a peculiarity of soil, being common to that of a porous or sandy nature, and more or less sterile. 302 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. We have been confronted with similar trouble in Texas, counties of Burnet, Lampasas, Tom Green, etc., where the disease seems to be quite common, and appears to be due to a lack of phos- phates, and amonia in the soil. Symptoms. — The animal has a depraved appetite, the milk de- creases and becomes thin, watery, and of a bluish color, yielding but little cream. The animal soon gets poor, becomes stitf and weak, rises with difficulty, drags the hind limbs in walking, and usually lies down a great deal; the joints swell, the animal evi- dently suffering much pain; fracture of the bones are common; paralysis of the limbs may take place. The disease may continue for months, or even as long as a year, but may be arrested in the early stages. Treatment. — Remove the affected animals from the soil on which they contracted the disease to a pasture where the char- acter of the land is entirely different, and make a change in the water supply also. Nutritious food, those rich in phosphates, are most important, for the assimilation of which common salt should be given. If the drinking water is soft (rain water), give water that contains carbonate, sulphate, or phosphate of lime, and chlorate of magnesia, etc. Not much can be done for ad- vanced cases, and treatment is almost useless. We believe it is generally due to the influence of the drinking water, and con- sider that the relation between lime-salts in the water and soft- ness of bone deserve far more consideration on the part of stock owners than is generally done. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 303 CHAPTER XXV. CONTAGIOUS DISEASES. CHARBON OR ANTHRAX. Anthrax may be defined to be a malignant and contagious dis- ease of the blood, attacking particularly cattle, horses, mules, sheep and goats, but communicable to all domestic animals. It may be communicated to man, and is then known as "malignant pustule." On account of it attacking such a variety of the do- mesticated animals it is one of the most dreaded scourges of ani- mal life. History. — This disease dates back to the siege of Troy, in Asia Minor, and was a terrible plague of the cattle of Egypt in the time of Moses. And in response to the casting forth of ashes from the furnace by Moses, the modern name of charbon, an- thrax and carbuncle, all signifying burning, would seem some- what remarkable. The Greeks in writing about it in regard to man called it anthrax, while the Latin writers termed it car- buncle. In Germany it is called milzbrand; in Australia, Cum- berland disease. In the Middle Ages it was frequently confound- ed with another plague, rinderpest, but the outbreaks of it in 996 A. D. and 1090 A. D. in France, clearly identified it as a different disease. In 1617, at Naples, Italy, numbers of hu- man beings died from eating the fiesh of aAimals which were affected with the disease. Serious outbreaks constantly occur in the United States, and it has a great tendency to spread. In re- cent years the most noticeable outbreaks have occurred in Dela- ware, New Jersey^ New York, Illinois, Louisiana and California. Between June 15 and October 15, 1893, 970 animals succumbed 304 Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. to the disease in five counties in Illinois. In July, 1895, 2Z2 died in one county in New Jersey. And it is reported that thou- sands of animals have died during the recent outbreak in Louis- iana. It is quite common among the mules of Mexico. Gen- erally speaking the germs of anthrax seem to exist wherever the soil is of a marshy nature, and outbreaks are always likely to take place where such soil is found. Causes. — The causes of anthrax were at one time attrib- uted entirely to climatic influence, the soil, etc., and no doubt they are important predisposing factors in the development of the disease, for it is most prevalent in low, damp, swampy districts during the warm season, especially when out- breaks over any number of animals occur. Decaying vegetable matter seems most favorable for nourishing and preserving the virus, while it is more frequent in districts where low-lying swamp lands dry out during the heat of summer and are then covered with light rains. The direct cause of anthrax is the an- thrax bacillus (bacillus anthrax), which is a rod-like, vegetable organism. These bacilli are very small, and require a powerful microscope to see them. The bacteria multiply very rapidly in the blood by becoming elongated and then dividing into two, and each of these dividing, and so on indefinitely. Outside of the body, however, when under conditions favorable to growth, they multiply in a different way. Small round bodies appear within the rods, called spores (seed germs), which remain alive after years of drying. They also resist extreme heat, so that boiling water is necessary to destroy them. The bacilli themselves, on the other hand, show only very little resistance to heat and dry- ing. The spores may remain in the ground for years and then pro- duce an outbreak of the disease. They may be carried to land on skin scraps which are used as fertilizers. Weather, rainfall and temperature in particular govern the source of the contagion. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 305 Heavy rains may wash the seed into the ground as deep as the water itself goes, but as long as they remain there of course they are harmless. Now during dry weather the water is drawn up through good soil from a very considerable depth, evaporated and deposits on the surface whatever it brings up in it. Or dur- ing light rains after a dry spell earth worms in seeking moisture may bring the spores to the surface from the same depths. This places the seed in suitable soil and temperature to sprout and multiply at once, or they may find their way into the animal's body still in the form of seed, therein germinate and develop an epidemic. This explains why a long drouth followed by light rains is characteristic of anthrax weather. The first discovery of the specific virus of anthrax was made by Davaine in 1851. But it was left to M. Pasteur, the great French scientist, who in 1877 defined the exact nature of the bacillus, the manner of its production, and its exact relationship to an- thrax, as the real cause of the disease. The anthrax bacilli may be introduced into the body in three different ways: either through the mouth or alimentary canal, through the respiratory organs, or through the skin. When the infection takes place through the skin it is usually introduced by the sting of some insect, especially the large horsefly. This fly carries the poison from the carcasses of the animals which have died of the disease and simply inoculates it into the skin of live animals. The germs may also be introduced into the system by coming in contact with a wound or abrasion of the skin or mucous membrane. And when it ailects the digestive organs the germs of the disease are usually taken into the body with the feed or water. Symptoms. — The symptoms as a general thing are suddenly developed and very alarming in character. An animal may be left at night in apparently a state of perfect health and found the next morning dead. Milk cows have been milked in the morning and at noon found dead. Horses and mules will sue- 306 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. cuinb to the terrible disease while working in the field. Pigs eating at a trough have been known to step back, turn around, squeal, tumble down and die in a minute. This may properly be called the apoplectic form of the disease, and the most thrifty animals in the flock or herd may become victims of the disease, contracting it usually in its most acute and malignant forms, while the poorer animals may escape entirely or take it in a mild form. As this form is so suddenly developed, death takes place before any symptoms are noticed. But in other forms it runs a somewhat longer course. The symptoms are different in dif- ferent animals, and may differ in the same class of animals. As has been stated before, the disease germs may gain access into the animal in several ways, viz., on the feed or in the water, thus gaining access into the alimentary canal; through the air, passing into the lungs; and by inoculation into the skin or mu- cous membrane, by coming into contact with diseased animals or infected pastures, premises, etc. When the infection takes place through the skin a hard, warm, painful swelling with well de- fined margins form under the skin and spread rapidly over the surface. The infection is usually accompanied by fever, loss of appetite, and quickened respirations. The swelling becomes cold and painless in a few days, and either may be absorbed or the disease spreads to the intestinal organs and proves fatal to the animal. But when the disease gains access through the alimen- tary canal or the lungs, there is a very high fever, a small, rapid pulse, the visible mucous membranes of a bluish red color, and in some cases symptoms of congestion of the brain, also of colic and diarrhoea often mixed with blood. Chills and muscular tremors may appear, and the skin show uneven temperature. The animal becomes dull and stupid, the eyes staring, and mani- fests great weakness. There is also losa of appetite, labored breathing, and the region of the throat may become swollen to such an extent that the breathing becomes roaring, and may be followed bv suffocation. The disease usuallv lasts from a few Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 307 hours to two or three days. Recovery is very rare. An examina- tion of the blood shows a dark fluid, which is not clot, and which remains black after exposure to the air. After death the bodies putrify very rapidly and bloat, the tissues are filled with gases, and a bloody foam exudes from the mouth, nostrils, etc. The spleen becomes enlarged from two to five times its natural size, and the pulse is blackish and soft. The liver has a cooked ap- pearance, and the kidneys are congested and also soft. Treatment. — When the animal becomes affected with charbon it almost invariably dies, as there has been no reliable treatment discovered as yet. Nearly every drug in the pharmacopoeia has been tried with negative results. There is only one form of the disease in which treatment is of any avail, and that is the form in which the disease germs gain access through an external wound or abrasion of the skin. In such cases the swellings should be opened freely by long incisions with a sharp lance and the wound dressed several times a day with strong antiseptic solutions. No matter whether treatment is adopted or not, a few of the affected animals may recover, but recoveries are doubtful. Pasteur in 1881 very fortunately discovered a protective vac- cine, which has been thoroughly proven to be a sure preventive against the disease. It is well known how human beings are protected from smallpox by vaccination. All domestic animals can in the same way be protected from anthrax by the use of Pasteur's anthrax vaccine. It is a specially prepared liquid, a few drops of which are injected under the skin by the use of a hypodermic syringe. Vaccination consists of two inouculations, the first with a very weak virus, while the second is somewhat stronger and injected about twelve days later. Pasteur's vaccine is not, and is not intended to be a cure for charbon, but animals after being vaccinated enjoy immunity from the disease in nearly every case. Vaccination of the domestic animals against this disease is being practiced quite extensively in various parts of 308 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. the United States and receives the highest approval of our lead- ing veterinarians. In a locality where charbon has appeared all stock should at once be inoculated with Pasteur's anthrax vac- cine. By vaccinating all unaffected animals and immediately burning all dead bodies, a check can very quickly be made in the spread of this dread disease. TEXAS, OE SPLENETIC FEVEE. This is a specific fever communicated by cattle which have been moved northward from the infected district, or which is contracted by cattle taken into the infected districts from other parts of the world. It is characterized by a high fever, greatly enlarged spleen, destruction of the red blood corpuscles, escape of the coloring matter of the blood through the kidneys, giving the unrine a deep color; by a yellowness of the mucus membranes and fat; by a rapid loss of strength, and by fatal results in a large majority of cases. This disease has various names in dif- ferent paris of the country, as Spanish fever, acclimation fever, red water, bloody murrian, etc. As early as 1814 the people of Virginia prohibited cattle from a certain district in South Carolina from passing through their State, on account of these cattle so certainly diseasing all others with which they mix in their progress to the north; while these cattle were in perfect health, they gave to all others, whether from Europe or the Northern States, a disease that generally proved fatal. Similar observations have been made in regard to nearly all of the Southern States, and it is now known that the infection is not peculiar to Texas or even the Gulf coast, but that it extends far inward and northward almost to the southern limit of Maryland. On account of the frequent and severe losses following the driving of cattle from the infected districts in Texas into and across the Western States and territories, the name of Texas fever became attached to this disease. Dr. LeGear^s Stock Book. 30^ Northern cattle taken into the infected district contract this disease usually the first summer, and if milk cows or fat cattle, nearly all die. Calves are much more likely to recover than adult cattle. Calves which survive are not again attacked, as a rule, even after they become adult. Experience shows that the disease is not communicated by animals coming near or in con- tact with each other. Cattle from the infected district first in- fect the pastures, roads, cars, etc., by the mature cattle-tick dropping from their bodies; and susceptible cattle obtain the virus (poison) from the young ticks which hatch out from eggs deposited on the ground, and which crawl upon them. But if sufficient freezing takes place during the winter season, these infected pastures, etc., will be free from any attack next season, as all the ticks have been killed. The investigations made by the Bureau of Animal Industry prove that ticks which adhere to cattle from the infected dis- trict are the chief means of conveying the infection to non-in- fected cattle; that the disease is never transmitted by the saliva (spittle), the urine, or the manure through eating of foods con- taminated by these excretions. The feet of cattle are not capa- ble of carrying the germs. Grasses and pond water of the infected districts of the Southern States do not cause the disease when given to cattle. In studying the causation and prevention of this disease, the tick theory has attracted the most attention, and it stands to reason that if cattle could be freed from this parasite when leaving the infected district, they would not be able to cause the malady. That this is true has been conclusively proven by recent experiments in connection with the Texas Ex- periment Station near Bryan in co-operation -with the Missouri Experiment Station at Columbia. Ten Texas cows covered with ticks were forced to swim through a large dipping vat made for such purposes, and afterwards sent by car to Columbia, Missouri. Missouri cattle were put in the pasture with the Texan cattle, and remained there for a period of 79 days, but failed to contract 510 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. the disease. And throughout this period not a tick was found •on the Missouri cattle; nor could any be found on the Texas cat- tle, save a few brought with them, which soon disappeared. It would appear from this experiment that great benefits would accrue to the cattle and farming industry of the whole country from the dipping process; the danger of infecting northern ter- ritory in the transfer of these animals would be overcome; a mar- ket previously closed would be opened to summer feeders in the North, in seasons of abundance of corn and grass and a scarcity of cattle. Nature and Cause. — Texas fever is caused by a micro-parasite (little animal living on another) which lives within the red blood- corpuscles and destroys them. It is therefore a disease of the blood. The little organism is carried and introduced into the blood of animals by the cattle tick (boophilus bovis) which may be found on nearly all Texas cattle. It is not, therefore, a micro- scopic plant, but it belongs to the lowest form of animal life. This very little animal multiplies very rapidly in the body of the infected animal, and in severe cases causes great destruction of the red blood corpuscles in a short time. All the disease processes which go on in Texas fever, as seen by examining the organs after death, all result from the destruction of red blood-corpuscles. When this destruction is rapid, we have the acute, usually fatal, type of Texas fever, usually witnessed during the latter weeks of x\ugust and the early weeks of Septem- ber. Cases of the mild type occurring early in the season usually become acute later on and terminate fatally. Symptoms. — The disease first shows itself in dullness, loss of appetite, and a tendency to leave the herd and stand or lie down alone. The temperature of the body, taken per rectum by a fever thermometer (Fig. 19), shows an elevation, in acute cases, to 106-107 degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperature does not Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 311 rise above 104 degrees Fahrenheit, the disease is milder and more prolonged. The bowels are usually constipated, and t*)- ward the fatal end the feces may become softer and tinged with bile. The urine near the fatal termination is deeply stained with the coloring matter of the blood, while during the course of the disease it may be quite natural in color. The pulse, as well as the breathing, is also quickened. As the end approaches the animal becomes very weak and stupid, the blood is thin and watery, and the poor sufferer may lie down most of the time, or until death takes place. Examination after Death. — It is very important at times to know whether an animal died of Texas fever or some other dis- ease. This can as a rule be determined at once by a thorough microscopic examination of the blood. But as this method is en- tirely in the hands of experts, the general reader will have to depend on certain changes caused by this disease, which may be detected by the naked eye when the animal is opened. These changes in the internal organs are as follows: The spleen or milt is much larger than in a healthy state, weighing three or four times as much, and its contents or pulp consists of a mottled blackish mass. The liver is also found to be enlarged, has lost its natural brownish color, and has on its surface a paler, yel- lowish hue. The gall bladder is found to be fully distended with bile of a cloudy or flaky consistency. The contents of the blad- der should be examined. This usually contains urine which varies in color from a deep port wine to a light claret. These are the principal changes and sufficient proof of the trouble. Prevention. — According to the latest experiments, Texas fever is carried north only by the cattle tick. Hence, to prevent Texas fever north of the quarantine line, the pastures, etc., must be kept free from cattle ticks, and to do this, no Southern cattle with ticks must be allowed upon them. Cattle cars may also be 312 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. the means of conveying ticks from one part of the country to another. Knowing that Southern cattle when free from ticks are harmless to Northern cattle, various experiments have been going on as to the best means of destroying these ticks. The flipping process, up to the present time, has proven the most effectual. All cattle, before being shipped North, should be dipped in a vat made for the purpose, when they can be safely taken into non-infected territory. Treatment. — ^When once the disease has broken out, the heal- thy should be separated from the sick animals and put upon non- infected pastures. While this may not cut short the disease, it may save the lives of some by removing them from the possibility of being attacked by more young ticks; also prevents a second later attack in October or November, which is caused by another generation of ticks. As far as possible, remove all ticks from the sick and well animals. To accomplish this, apply some oil, as cottonseed oil or black machine oil, with a paint brush, to those parts usually affected. The giving of sulphur is said to cause the ticks to loosen their hold and drop off. Medicinal treatment, so far, has been useless, as nearly all animals having the acute form of the disease die. It is quite probable that the blood serum (sero-vaccine) treatment by vaccination, lately com- ing into use, will produce immunity from the disease. This is a departure from all the methods previously employed in this dis- ease. It is simply a test of a law laid down by Behring, namely, that if an animal has acquired immunity against a disease pro- ducing micro-organisms or its toxins, the serum from the blood of the immunized animal will prevent the disease in another sus- ceptible animal. How well we know that immunity (proof) from smallpox is acquired by vaccination; also the anti-toxin treatment in the cure and prevention of diphtheria. So we believe the same re- sults can be obtained by what may be called the "anti-toxin" or Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 313 "serum" method of treatment in Texas fever. It is true that Texas fever is caused by an animal parasite (protozoon); while in diphtheria, the cause is a vegetable parasite (bactera). This difference in the nature of the cause of these two diseases, has led most investigators to the belief that there must be a differ- ence in the process by which immunity is acquired. But the simple law of immunity will teach us that there can be no essen- tial difference in the process by which immunity is acquired against micro-organisms and poisons of any kind. Immunity against Texas fever is certainly acquired, and is fully as effective as that acquired against any of the bacterial diseases. In natur- ally acquired immunity against Texas fever the ticks have taken the place of the hypodermic syringe in the way of inoculation. The animal may while young, if the dam is immune, gain im- munity through the milk; and on Southern soil the ticks keep up the natural inoculations from year to year by which immunity from the disease is obtained. The serum used in this preventative treatment must be ob- tained from a Texas steer or cow, or any other animal that has had the disease and recovered, or is naturally immuned. It is in- jected or inoculated by a hypodermic syringe under the skin of the animal to be treated. This blood serum sets up a slow pro- cess of disease in the animal, and after sufficient has been in- jected to make the animal safe from an attack, the ticks that infest her body from year to year afterwards continue to keep the animal in a state of immunity. The serum is meant to tide them over the acclimation period, and can be prepared and used by any one having the apparatus and proper instruments. It can be obtained at the Texas Experiment Station, where they keep it on hand or prepare it fresh on short notice. '\3^ Dk. LeGear's Stock Book. 315 BOVINE TUBERCULOSIS, OR ANIMAL CONSUMPTION. In speaking of consumption, it is generally understood io mean a disease of the human family characterized by an affection or "wasting away" of the lungs. But we may have consumption of other organs of the body as well, and so are the lower animals subject to this same disease. We are not sure of the exact time that this disease made its first appearance, but it has been known for many centuries, and legislative enactments having reference to the destruction of af- fected animals and forbidding the use of the flesh date far back into the Middle Ages. Nature and Cause. — All kinds of theories prevailed as to the nature and cause of consumption until Robert Koch, in 1882, proved it to be a disease due to a germ (bacillus tuberculosis) and that this germ caused the disease in all the lower animals and in man. This wonderful discovery at once put an end to all disputes and controversies as to it causation. The germ is a slender, rod-like body, so small that it can not be seen with the naked eye. When it has become lodged in any organ or tissue it begins to multiply, setting up an irritation which leads to the formation of little nodules or tubercles; these, when full grown, are about the size of a millet seed. When these tubercles con- tinue to form in large numbers they run together, forming masses of various sizes. There are several ways in which these germs may find their way into the body: First, by inhalation into the lungs; second, into the digestive tract in the milk of consumptive cows. Other ways could be given, but the two named are the most common modes of infection. It has been shown by thousands of experiments that the dis- 21 316 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. ease is transmissible from one animal to another of the same species, and from one species to another. No matter how the germs may enter the system, whether inhaled, taken in with food or inoculated, the disease is liable to ensue. A consumptive ani- mal placed among, animals communicates the disease to those previously healthy. Milk from an affected cow fed to cats, calves, hogs, guinea pigs, etc., produces the disease in them. In- oculating the infected milk into other animals produces the dis- ease. Sputa coughed up by man and carelessly spit out has been licked up and devoured by animals and produced the disease in them. When the stomach, intestines and mesenteric glands are dis- eased, it is probably the result of food infection. The germs of the disease may have been scattered upon the feed by diseased animals. But the milk of consumptive cows is the most common source of such infection. Calves may become infected in this way, and the disease may not develop until the animal becomes older. Up to a recent period the opinion prevailed that it was only milk from cows with diseased udders that was extremely dan- gerous, but the experiments of Professor Ernst of Harvard Uni- vei-sity and many others have demonstrated the fact that milk from a consumptive cow may contain the germs, even though the udder is absolutely free from disease. While we believe in the germ theory, yet there are conditions which must be recognized as almost necessary to an attack of the disease. Unsanitary conditions, such as overcrowding in poorly ventilated and lighted stables, and feeding of food that is not nutritious are conditions which favor the genns in their attack. Any injury to the lungs such as inhalation of dust and smoke and all conditions which may induce chronic inflammation of the bronchial tubes. Of all points in the subject none seem to be more assailed than heredity. There has been no positive proof of the disease having Dr. LeGeak's Stock Book. * 317 l)eeii inherited, but it is a fact nevertheless, and one of almost daily occurence, that the disease reaps its harvest among the off- spring of consumptive parents. A weakly, consumptive parent generally transmits a similar constitution, which is extremely liable to the disease; and when it appears at an early age those who believe in heredity think that there has been an "hereditary infection^' instead of an early "direct infection." Among the wild herds of the plains consumption is practically unknown, while among the cows of closely confined dairy herds it is quite common. Prevalence, etc. — Consumption, whether in man or the lower animals, is a disease prevalent in -all civilized countries. In some countries, such as the northern part of Norway and Sweden, on the steppes of eastern Europe and Kussia, in Sicily and Iceland it is said to be quite rare. Where cattle are few, or absent, consumption is relatively less in man. Dr. Burich pointed out the fact in countries like Aus- tralia and the Sandwich Islands consumption among the people did not exist until after dairy cattle were introduced. He also called attention to the fact that consumption prevails in all coun- tries where the dairy products are derived from cattle. He fur- ther says: Morocco, where there are no European dairy cows, is exempt from consumption, while in Spain and Portugal, where dairying is carried on in European style, the disease exists. In most countries an effort is now being made to determine more accurately the prevalence of the disease. Statistics show that 75 per cent of old dairy cows in Germany have tuberculosis. In Denmark nearly 40 per cent of the cattle have been found to be consumptive. Some herds tested in the United States showed that 32 per cent were affected. Some herds tested proved to be entirely free from the disease. Of all the cattle killed in Ger- many at the slaughter houses from 16 to 25 per cent have been found affected. 318 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. In the West and Southwest of our country, where cattle are reared mostly in the open air, the disease is apparently quite rare,, as most of the animals are ahle in a measure to resist the con- tagion, and only occasional animals in a herd show any physical signs of the disease. Symptoms. — In the first stages of the disease it is very diffi- cult to detect. It is a disease slow in its course, and at first un- noticed; many cases never show any symptoms, and are found only to be tuberculosis when killed. In those animals showing symptoms there is generally a dry, hoarse cough, at first slight, occurring after feeding or drinking; it may be easily excited by running the animal. As the disease progresses, the animal grows thin and has an unthrifty appearance of the coat, etc.; this per- sists in spite of good feed. The cough now becomes more fre- quent and the breathing more rapid, especially on slight exer- tion; the breath becomes offensive, and usually there is a dis- charge from the nose. Weakness continually increases, followed by disorder of digestion — bloatinp- and diarrhoea — and the ani- mal finally dies from exhaustion. Often all symptoms are want- ing in spite of the existence of the disease, and in such cases the tuberculin test must be used. Tuberculin Test. — Tuberculin is a glycerine extract of the culture of the bacillus tuberculosis (germ of the disease), and when injected under the skin it has the property of causing a rise in temperature in all animals suffering from this disease. It is also known as Koch's lymph. In animals free from the disease no reaction takes place after the use of the tuberculin. It is therefore a valuable agent for detecting all tuberculous cattle in an infected herd, and is the only means by which this can be accomplished. In 1890 Koch, under pressure, made public his work on tu- berculin. This resulted in a tremendous and intense excite- Dr. LeG ear's Stock Book. 319 ment all over the world, and consumptives undertook journeys of hundreds of miles for the sake of being treated with the new cure for consumption. It was noticed by several observers that when a person suffering from consumption received an injec- tion of the lymph, it invariably caused a rise in temperature; and in 1891 Gutman, a Russian, took advantage of this fact and began to make experiments with it as a diagnostic agent in cattle; and as a result of which, we are able to detect the slightest forms of the disease. On account of the deep-seated tubercles usually existing with superficial ones, they render tuberculin almost useless as a cura- tive agent, since, to eradicate the disease, the deep-seated tuber- cles must be afterwards removed by surgical means. But this action which renders tuberculin so objectionable as a curative agent, makes it of the highest value as a test of tu- berculosis in cattle. The minute (small) dose which has no •effect on a healthy cow, sheep or goat, when employed on the slightly tuberculous one, produces an acceleration of the disease process, and in eight to fifteen hours a material rise of tempera- ture. This has been now employed on thosuands of cows, and those who have used it most value it the most highly; whereas many who at first reported reactions in non-tuberculous animals are now acknowledging with Nocard, one of the best veterinarians in Europe, that the fault has been mainly their own, for the tuber- cles were present, but were overlooked through careless and iaulty post mortems. The explanation of the reaction under tuberculin may be sim- ply stated as follows: The dose is so small that it will not affect a healthy cow under ordinary conditions. In the slightly dis- eased cow the system contains a certain amount of tuberculin produced by the bacillus (germ) in the tubercles, or nodules, I)ut to this the system has become accustomed and it causes no appreciable fever. But when, in addition to this, we introduce 320 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. into the body of the cow the small amount of tuberculin used for the test, the increased dose acts on tubercle and nerve cen- ters alike, and a fever is produced. . Post Mortem. — An examination after death of internal organs should always be made on any animal that dies, or which has been slaughtered, presenting the above symptoms, which will generally enable even the inexperienced to recognize this disease if present. In advanced cases the principal changes are usually found in the lungs and the lymphatic glands or in connection with the same. The surface or substance of the lung will gen- erally show solid cheese-like masses of varying size. A favorite- situation for these tubercular masses is in the glands between and at the root of the lung. They may also be found in the ab- dominal organs; in fact, the germs of the disease may find lodg- ment in any organ of the body. Treatment. — Inasmuch as there is no specific for this disease^ it is of the utmost importance that all animals, as far as pos- sible, be protected from the contagion. The difficulty of know- ing when cattle first become affected makes it impossible (except by the tuberculin test) to prevent the possibility of infection. Too much care can not be bestowed upon the breeding, the sur- roundings, and the food of the animal so that the latter may be the more able to resist infection even when exposed to it. A rigid exclusion of tuberculous animals is all that is necessaiy to prevent the appearance of the disease, provided consumptive persons or other animals do not infect the cattle. The carcasses of all animals which have died of consumption should be burned or buried deeply, so that other animals can not eat them. Hogs, dogs, cats, etc., eating such carcasses and con- tracting the disease, may in turn give the disease to other ani- mals and man. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 321 Danger iu Mill-. — It is plain that the only means we have to insure a safe milk supply to consumers is the inspection of the source of the milk — the cow. The examination of the milk it- self would be a farce, for the simple reason that the time required for microscopical examination and chemical analyses of all milk sold would make such tests utterly impossible and impracticable. We need not fear intentional or criminal adulteration of milk by the dairyman; he will add nothing harmful to human health; it is the cow we must fear, and in order to make inspection of benefit to hiimanity, the cow should be ascertained to be free from consumption beyond all doubt. Happily for mankind, this is being done all the world over with perfect success. The "tu- berculin test" applied to the cows at regular intervals will enable the disease to be kept out of the herd. People who have had no experience with tuberculin may talk against it and argue against it, but their idle boasting, wild statements, and pretended knowl- edge do not do away with the fact that tuberculin is a reliable diagnostic for bovine (cattle) consumption, and has been proven to be such in proper hands so invariably that all civilized gov- ernments, including our own, employ it in their official work in connection with consumption. Cattle consumption is a question that must come under State supervision sooner or later. There can be no doubt of the con- tagious and infectious nature of the disease, and hence the State and local boards of health should have their powers enlarged to be able to handle the question. There is no reason why con- sumer/? of milk should continue to daily run the risk they now do, when it is only necessary for the city council to pass an or- dinance creating the office of dairy inspector, whose duty it should be to test all cows in dairies supplying milk to consumers and see that no milk is sold which does not come from cows })roven to be free from consumption. 322 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Danger in Meat. — The flesh is not so dangerous as the milk of tuberculous cows. It is quite rare to find tubercle in the sub- stance of the muscle of cattle. They are common, however, in the lymphatic glands lying between the muscles; but in swine they are common, even in the red flesh. The flesh of tuberculous pigs is therefore far more dangerous than that of consumptive cattle. A further safeguard against the eating of the flesh of animals is that it is cooked before it is eaten, while milk as a general thing is not. In meat that is thoroughly cooked, all the germs of the disease are destroyed. Thoroughly cooking or boiling the milk renders it entirely safe to be used as an article of food. BLACKLEG— BLACK QUARTEK. Blackleg is a very fatal and infectious disease of young cattle, which is at the present time causing considerable mortality among calves and young cattle in various portions of Texas, as well as in other States of the Union. It is a world-wide disease, causing large losses among young cattle in Germany, France, Italy, Bel- gium, Australia, England, etc. In this country it is known by various names, such as blackleg, black quarter, quarter evil, quar- ter ill, symptomatic anthrax, etc. Until within the last few years it was considered identical to anthrax, but it is now proven to be a specific disease produced by bacilli (germs), which are easily distinguished from anthrax bacilli. Cattle between six months and four years of age are most susceptible to the disease. Certain pastures and. districts are more favorable to the growth of the bacillus, therefore the disease is more common there. Swamps, bottom lands, or any low lands along streams that are subject to inundations and floods are the most frequent places for outbreaks of the disease, although it will occur in any locality regardless of soil, location, altitude, etc. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 323 Causes. — Blackleg is causd by a bacillus, which is a micro- scopic organism, or bacteria, visible only by the use of a power- ful microscope. The bacilli are cylindrical or rod-like bodies and have the power of indefinite multiplication, and in the body of an infected animal they produce death by rapidly increasing in number and producing substances which poison the body. In the body they multiply in number by becoming elongated and then dividing into two, each new germ continuing the same pro- cess indefinitely. They will grow and multiply outside the body when in a favorable locality and position for growth. Oval bodies appear within the bacilli, which are called spores (seeds), and which remain alive and grow and produce the disease after sev- eral years of drying. They have a wonderful power of resist- ance against heat and cold, as it takes boiling water to destroy them. These spores often collect in sufficient numbers in feed and cause serious outbreaks of blackleg among stall-fed cattle. There is practically no danger of a transmission of this disease from one animal to another, since it is contracted on the pas- tures from the ground and in the stables from the food. The bacilli, if not already in the soil, finds its way on to a farm or ranch in what appears at times to be the most unaccountable way. Throwing carcasses of animals that have died of blackleg into running streams, or shallow burial near running streams, is a fertile source of infection to pastures along such streams be- low. Dogs or wild animals may dig up carcasses not buried deep and scatter the bacilli and spores over the pastures. M. Pasteur by a series of experiments has proven that earth worms bring the spores to the surface which remain a source of danger to all young cattle that graze in the vicinity. Before the disease can be produced the germs must gain entrance to the animal's sys- tem by some means. They may enter the system through sores and abrasions on the feet or legs of animals as they walk over the pastures or through mud and water. The most common source of entry of the bacilli is with the food and water. There may 324 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book/ be small sores or abrasions on the lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, ot any abraded surface, or ulcers in the stomach or bowels through which the bacilli gain entrance to the blood, and when once in the blood they multiply very rapidly and cause death quickly. Symptoms. — The disease is generally produced in from one to three days after the animal is infected, and death most always follows in from one to three days after the disease sets in. The first symptom of the disease shown is loss of appetite and rumi- nation, with dullness and debility and a high fever. The most noticeable symptom is the appearance of a turiior or swelling under the skin, which may appear before the animal is noticed sick, or shortly after. This tumor may be located on the neck, shoulder, breast, thigh, rump, flanks, etc., and when in connec- tion with the limbs causes stiffness and lameness. When the tumor is handled a peculiar crackling sound is heard under the skin, due to a collection of gas formed by the bacilli as they mul- tiply. The animal's breathing becomes difficult; there may be attacks of colic, and the animal's weakness increases until death ends the scene, which may all t-ake place in a few hours or in two or three days. Treatment. — Up to the present time medicinal treatment for Black Leg has been almost an utter failure. . Nearly all animals attacked die. As the disease runs such a rapid course, the ani- mal is too near death before noticed sick for medicine to relieve. Since medicinal treatment is of little or no avail, prevention is the most important subject demanding consideration. When the disease breaks out, the healthy ones should at once be removed from the diseased. Those that die should be at once burned r buried deeply. All well animals under two years of age should be vaccinated with Pasteur's Black Leg Vaccine, which has proved to be a sure preventative against the disease. It is well Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 325 known how human beings are protected from smallpox, by vac- cination. Young cattle can in the same way be protected against black ]eg by the use of a special vaccine which is a preparation of weakened virus discovered by Louis Pasteur, the great French scientist. This preventative inoculation is being extensively practiced in Texas and other States in the Union with very grati- fying results. In some districts the death rate from year to year has reached upwards of 30 per cent, but since Pasteur's Black Leg Vaccine has been used it is almost entirely overcome. Stat- istics show that out of 75,000 head of cattle vaccinated against black leg in Texas and other portions of the United States with Pasteur's Black Leg Vaccine, less than one-third of 1 per cent died from the disease, while over 10 per cent of unvaccinated cattle died in the same districts from black leg. Vaccine is put up in a fine white powder to be dissovled in a little water at the time of using. Vaccination consists of two inoculations about ten days apart, by the use of a graduated hypodermic syringe. The most suitable and convenient places for the inoculation are in the shoulders, ears or tail. The most convenient time for vaccinating is at branding time, when one inoculation can be given, and the second given ten days later. The operation can be easily and quickl}^ done in the chute, and when once properly vaccinated the animal is proof against the disease through life. All spring and summer calves should be vaccinated at the fall branding, as black leg generally begin,s late in the fall and is liable to break out at any time during the fall, winter, or spring. The operation is perfectly harmless to the animal and causes no sore or sickness. It is not advisable to vaccinate during very hot or very cold weather, but at most any other time it is perfectly safe. [Any one wishing further particulars regarding the use, price, etc., of this vaccine can address Dr. L. D. LeGear, Austin, Texas,, who is Texas agent for Pasteur's Black Leg Vaccine.] 326 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. VAEIOLA VACCINA (COW POX). This disease, commonly known as cow pox, is more common among cattle than any other class of animals. It is an eruptive pustular disease, usually found in connection with the udder (bag). Cause. — It is caused by contagion, which exists only in the fixed form. Symptoms. — There is usually a slight fever, the flow of milk is arrested, and the appetite is impaired. The skin of the udder and teats presents a reddened appearance, and soon red patches ^ccur, known as papulae. This is the papular stage and lasts three or four days. The papulae gradually take on the character of vesicles, becoming filled with serum (a watery fluid), and, like the vesicles in horse pox, are depressed in the center, as though bound down. This stage is the vesicular or second stage of the disease. The vesicles gradually become pustules, and the third or pustular stage of the disease is now reached. As many as five of these pustules may be upon one teat, and each the size of a finger. Treatment. — As a general thing but little treatment is neces- sary. The animal should be fed upon food of a laxative nature. Great care must be taken not to expose the animal to draughts of cold air, taking cold, etc. If the teats are so sore as to be very painful in milking, use the teat syphon, which should be nicely oiled and gently passed up the teat, when the milk will come away of itself. Anoint the sores on the teats and udder nicely twice a day with caxbolized vaseline. Separat-e the ani- mals from other animals, and the milk should not be used. The attendant should not be allowed to attend to animals un- Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 327 affected, as the disease can in this way be carried from one animal to another. The lymph or vaccine matter used to vaccinate- people for purposes of protection against smallpox is obtained from cattle suffering from this disease. One attack gives proof against subsequent attacks. ACTINOMYCOSIS— LUMP-JAW. Lump-jaw is the formation of a peculiar tumor on the head,, more often the lower jaw. In some cases the soft tissues only are affected, while in others the bone is diseased, the latter being far more serious. In these latter cases the bone swells out and becomes porous and honeycomb-like, and later on the jaw teeth will become loose and fall out from the results of the bone spreading away from the teeth. Causes. — Lump-jaw is caused by a germ or fungus (actino- myces or ray-fungus) which gets into the body from the food or by an abrasion of the skin. It generally gains access through a hollow tooth, and the germs, once in the jaw-bone, begin to gi'ovi and multiply and disease the bone to such an extent that it begins to swell and enlarge, causing the regular lump- jaw tumor. These germs have frequently been found on the straw of certain kinds of grain and grasses. Symptoms. — The first symptom noticed in an enlargement on the jaw. It may appear suddenly and grow rapidly, or it may come on gradually and grow very slow. After a time they gen- erally break and discharge a thick matter, and soon form into a raw, unhealthy-looking sore. The matter that comes from the tumor contains great quantities of the germs, and if discharged on the pastures or in the feed troughs is dangerous to the other cattle. The disease is far more prevalent in certain districts and localities, as the germs are more prevalent in these places. An 328 Dh. LeGear's Stock Book. animal affected with lump-jaw is unfitted for human food and is rejected by inspectors in all stock yards; therefore, as soon as they are noticed with the disease, they should either be thor- oughly treated or killed, as a recovery seldom, if ever, takes place without treatment. Fig. 58. Two Cases of Lump- J aw. Treatment. — This is a disease unless properly treated, very seldom if ever recovers. If the tumor is just in the soft tissues about the head, it can be cured by thoroughly cutting it out. This operation should be undertaken only by a qualified man, as there are many large and important blood vessels about the head, which, if cut, would cause serious trouble. If the tumor affects both the bone and soft tissues, it can be cured in the majority of cases, if taken in time, by thoroughly cutting it out and giving the animal iodide of potassium in 1-dram doses twice per day for one, two, or three weeks, as the case demands. The United States Bureau of Animal Industry has made extensive experi- ments with iodide of potassium in treating this disease, with gratifying results. The best treatment we have found is to thor- oughly dissect out the tumor and all the diseased portion of the bone that can be easily removed, and give iodide of potash in- Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 329 ternally. The wound should be left open and washed off every day with soap and water, and some good antiseptic dressing ap- plied, as Dr. LeGear's Healing Lotion or Dr. LeGear's Screw Worai Powder. For an ordinary sized cow, give one dram of iodide of potash morning and night as a drench in 1 pint of water, or give 1^ drams once a day. Give the medicine before feeding. After you have given the iodide for six or eight days you may notice a discharge from the nose and eyes and a scurf forming in the skin. When that is noticed, just stop giving for two days, when you can continue again as before. FUNGUS HAEMATODES, OR BLEEDING CANCER. • This consists of a dark-colored, bloody-looking or vascular fungoid tumor protruding from the cavity of the eye. It is a malignant disease, and, fortunately, is very rare. The tumor, being removed, always has a tendency to return, and in fact does reappear in nearly every case. Causes. — It may follow several attacks of ophthalmia, by which it is thought to be caused; but, on account of its malig- nant nature, it is due, no doubt, to a certain morbid (unhealthy) condition of the blood. Symptoms. — First, there is a slight irritation of the eye, caus- ing a flow of tears; a small fungoid tumor soon puts in an appear- ance, growing steadily and rapidly, so that it soon pushes the eye aside and hangs down over the cheek. It gives an unsightly appearance to the eye. Treatment. — With a sharp knife remove the tumor, and if necessary the eyeball as well, and touch the parts with caustic potash, nitrate of silver, or the hot iron. To stop the bleeding, which is apt to be very profuse, use'tincture of iron, acetate of 330 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. lead, or the hot iron. To be successful, the operation must be performed as soon as possible, and even then it is nearly always useless. The bones may become diseased also. In such cases, treat the same as that indicated for caries. It is very essential that all diseased structures be removed, or the treatment will not be successful. ^-i^s^ Dr. LeGeae's Stock Book. 881 CHAPTER XXVI. MEDICINES. It is very necessary that every stock owner, more especially farmers that live some distance from town, should keep a few of the more important drugs and medicinal preparations on hand for cases of necessity and immediate use. Many a poor animal is ruined or dies for the want of proper medicines, used at the time the injury was inflicted or the disease commences; time saved is money saved in treating diseases of stock. MEASURING MEDICINES. 60 drops make 1 teaspoonful. 1 teaspoonful makes 1 dram. 4 drams make 1 tablespoonful. 2 tablespoonsful make 1 ounce. 16 ounces make 1 pint. 2 pints make 1 quart. 4 quarts make 1 gallon. A wineglass will hold about two ounces; and an ordinary sized teacup \vill hold about 4 or 5 ounces. Below will be found a dose table, giving the average size doses of the more common drugs used in treating stock. Colts at one month old take about one twentieth of what a horse does; three months old, about one tenth; six months old, one fifth; one year old, one third; two years old, one half. Medicines given to suck- ling mares transmit the effects of it to the colt through the milk. 22 332 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Doses for the Horse of Drugs Commonly Used. Name of drug. Action and uses, Dose. Antidote. Aconite, tincture of. Alcohol Febrifuge and sedative 10 to 20 drops 1 to 2 ounces H to 1 ounce 1 to 4 drams 2 to 4 drams H to 1 ounce 2 to 5 grains.. 2 to 4 drams.. V4 to 1 ounce 1 to 4 drams.. 1 to 2 drams.. 1 to 4 drams.. 10 to 30 drops 1 pint Stimulant and antiseptic [pine, ether. Aloes, Barbadoes Alum Purgative and tonic Astringent Stimulant and antacid Milk and oils. Arnica Stimulant and alterative Tonic, stimulant, and alterative.. Febrifuge Sesquioxide o f [iron Antifebrin Arsenic, Fowler's Alterative and tonic solution of. Belladonna. Fl. Ext. Camphor (gum) Cannabis Indica Carbolic Acid Antispasmodic and anodyne Stimulant and anodyne Anodyne and antispasmodic Antiseptic and disinfectant Sulph. of soda Castor Oil Laxative Leggs, gruel. Calomel Purgative and alterative 1 to 2 drams.. 1 to 3 drams.. 2 to 3 drams.. Vi to 1 ounce H to 1 ounce 10 to 15 drops 10 to 30 gr'ns H to 1 ounce 1 to 2 ounces 2 to 3 drams . Vi to 1 ounce 20 to 30 gr'ns Vz to 1 dram .. 1 to 2 pints... 1 to Wt ozs... 3 to 10 grains H to 1 dram.. I to 2 drams.. 1 to 2 drams.. Vi to 1 dram.. 4 to 6 drams.. Vi to 1 dram.. 1 to 2 drams.. 1 to 3 drams.. 2 to 4 drams.. 1 to 2 ounces 1 to 2 ounces 1 to 3 drams.. 1 to 2 ounces 1 dram Catechu . Astringent Chloral Hydrate Anodyne, hypnotic, anaesthetic... Stimulant, antispasmodic, and anodyne. Powerful purgative Croton Oil Opium. Digitalis (leaves) Ergot Ether, Sulphuric Sedative and diuretic Astringent Stimulant, carminative, and an- tispasmodic. Ginger Carminative and stomachic Iodine Antiseptic, alterative, diuretic... Tonic and astringent Iron, Sulphate (cop- Linseed Oil, raw Laxative and purgative Anodyne, antispasmodic, and as- tringent. Antispasmodic and anodyne Nerve tonic Atropine, strong coffee, brandy, belladonna. Chloral hydrate. Atropine, bran- dy, belladonna. Nux Vomica Anodyne and astringent Potassium, Chl'rate Potassium, Iodide... Diuretic, alterative, antiseptic... Alterative and diuretic Potassium, Br'mide Nerve sedative Quinine Febrifuge and tonic Saltpetre Diuretic, alterative, febrifuge Antacid and alterative Soda, Bicarbonate... Soda, Hyposulphate Antiseptic Sweet Nitre Stimulant, diuretic, diaphoretic. Stimulant and diuretic Turpentine Tar, Oil of Antiseptic and expectorant Dr. LeGear's Colic Cure. Dr. LeGear's Con- Antispasmodic, anodyne, astrin- gent, and stimulant. Tonic, diuretic, and alterative ... Worm destroyer dition Powders. Dr.LeGear's Worm Remedy. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 333 Doses for the Cow of Drugs Commonly Used, Name of drug. Action and uses. Dose. Antidote. Aconite, tincture of. Alcohol Febrifuge and sedative ^ Stimulant and antiseptic 20to30drops 2 to 4 oimces 3 to [) drams.. 3 to 4 drams.. 3 to 6 drams.. 15to30drops 1 to 2 pints... 2 to 4 drams.. 3 to 6 drams. I to 2 ounces Vi to 1 dram.. H to 1 dram.. 1 to 2 ounces 1 to 2 lbs 1 to 2 ounces H to 1 ounce 3 to 6 drams.. 1 to 2 ounces 1 to 2 drams.. AlcohoU ether, [atropine. Ammonia, Aqua Antifebrin Antacid and stimulant. .,..„.„ Febrifuge Belladonna, Fl.Ext. Carbolic Acid Anodyne and antispasmodie. Antiseptic Eggs, grueI,oils. CastorOil Catechu . ... Astringent Antiseptic and deodorant AnaBSthetic and anodyne Chloroform Powerful purgative „ Opium. Digitalis Heart sedative and diuretic Astringent and ecbollc Epsom Salts Purgative and febrifuge Stimulant and antispasmodic Purgative Ether, Sulphuric Gentian -. Tonic . . Ginger Carminative and stomachic Iodide of Potash Iron, Sulphate (cop- peras). Linseed Oil Diuretic, absorbent, alterative.... Laxative and purgative 1 to 2 quarts 1 to 2 ounces 5 to lOgrains 1 to 2 drams.. 2 to 4dKHns.. 2 to 4 drams.. 4 to 6 drams.. 1 to 2 drams. 2 to 4 drams.. 2 to 4 drams.. 3 to 6 drams.. 2 to 4 ounces 1 to 4 ounces 1 to 2 ounces 1 to 2 ounces 2 drams 2 drams Laudanum. . , . Anodyne, antispasmodic, and as- tringent. Anodyne and antispasmodic Nerve tonic... Morphine .. . Nux Vomica Opium Anodyne and astringent Atropine, bran- Potassium, Chi' rate Potassium, Bromide Diuretic, antiseptic, alterative... Nerve sedative dy, belladonna. Quinine Febrifuge and tonic Saltpetre Diuretic and febrifuge Soda, Bicarbonate.... Soda, Hyposulphite Alterative and antacid Antiseptic Sweet Nitre Diuretic, stimulant, diaphoretic. Laxative and alterative Sulphur ... Turpentine Dr. LeGear's Colic Cure. Dr. LeGear's Con- dition Powders. Dr.LeGear's Worm Diuretic and stimulant Anodyne, antispasmodic, stimu- lant, and astringent. Tonic, diuretic, and alterative Worm destroyer Remedy. PART III. SHEEP DEPARTMENT. SHEEP DEPARTMENT. In this department, as in the cattle department, we will not attempt a lengthy discussion of the various breeds of sheep, but will give the more common diseases that the sheepmen of Texas have to contend with. Texas has about 1,843,678 sheep at pres- ent, and Western Texas is one of the best sheep districts in America. Owing to the free trade that was in force during Cleveland's administration wool dropped down to such low prices that most of the sheepmen had to quit the business and look to some other business for a livelihood. This of course decreased the number of sheep in America a great deal. Since a tariff has been levied on wool, the prices of wool and mutton have nearly- doubled, therefore the sheepmen are enjoying good times again. Below will be found a few of the more common diseases of sheep: [p. 337] 388 Db. LeGear's Stock Book. CHAPTER XXVII. THE DISEASES OF SHEEP. SCAB, OR SCABIES. Scab, or scabies, is a very common disease in some countries, causing serious loss to sheep owners. It is very contagious, and the insects which cause the disease may remain in the pasture for years and then cause the trouble. Every precaution should bo taken to keep the infection out of the flock. Causes. — This disease is purely of a local nature, and due to a parasite. This parasite or insect is of the class "dermato- dectes," which simply hold on to and prick the skin. This para- sitic insect is very small, and does to a certain extent burrow be- neath the outer layer (cuticle) of the skin, but never burrows very deeply. Symptoms. — Scab is easily detected, as the symptoms are very plain. The animal is very restless and uneasy, and will rub and scrach itself on some object or with its hoofs until the wool begins to fall ofl^ in patches. Examine the skin and it will be found to be considerably reddened and inflamed, with the formation of blisters which break and discharge- a watery fluid (serum). These finally dry up and form sores or scabs, a characteristic sign of the disease. The whole fleece may drop off, or nearly so, and leave the poor animal a sight to behold. The animal loses flesh and spirits, becomes weak and debilitated, etc. Treatment. — It is not difficult to cure, if the treatment is thorough and of the proper kind. It is of the utmost importance to keep all animals that are free from the disease away from Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 339 those affected, or off from infected pastures, as those free from the disease will contract it from those that have it. Also the pens should be thoroughly disinfected. A good effective remedy, though poisonous, is the following: White arsenic 5 pounds. Pearl ash 5 pounds. Soft soap 5 pounds. Sulphur 5 pounds. Boiling water 20 gallons. Mix, but don't inhale the fumes, and when cold add 180 gallons of cold water, and stir until well mixed. This mixture must be put in a tank or dipping vat prepared for the purpose and the sheep dipped in it. Dip the sheep in such a way, back foremost, that the head will remain out, and leave in for at least one minute. As soon as the sheep is brought out of the bath, its wool should be thoroughly squeezed to rid it of all the liquid preparation possible before turning into a clean yard to dry. To reach every part not touched by the dip, go over the heads of the flock with the following: Mercurial ointment 1 pound. Oil of turpentine i pint. Eosin 1 pound. Lard 3 pounds. Mix, and apply to all parts of the head not touched by the dip. A tobacco dip as the following is a very good preparation: Tobacco leaves 20 pounds. Sulphur ." 6 pounds. Pearl ash 6 pounds. Soft soap 6 pounds. Hot water 90 gallons. Mix. 340 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. In preparing the above, put the tobacco in the water and boil, and stir in the other ingredients while the liquid is still hot. In this dip the head may be dipped occasionally, while dipping the rest of the body. The sheep may remain in the liquor, as hot as can be borne, four or five minutes. A dip very much used in Australia, where immense flocks are kept, is the following: Tobacco leaves 10 pounds. Sulphur 10 pounds. Water 50 gallons. Boil the tobacco in the water, and add the sulphur while hot. THE SCAB LAW. The following is the new scab law passed by the Texas Legis- lature, May 7, 1897: An Act to prevent the introduction of scab disease among sheep in the State of Texas, and to prevent the spread of and secure the eradication of same, and providing a manner of examin- ing such animals, together with the manner of taxing and col- lecting costs therefor, and making it a misdemeanor to vio- late the provisions of this act, and prescribing penalties for such violation. Section 1. Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Texas: That from and after the passage of this act, it shall be unlawful to import into this State, or to move from one county to another, or to move from their accustomed range on to lands owned or leased by any person, without permission of such per- son, any flock of sheep in which one or more such animals are infected with scab, and any person or persons violating any of the provisions of this section shall be deemed guilty of a mis- Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 341 demeanor, and upon conviction thereof, shall be fined in any sum not more than two hundred dollars for each such offense. Sec. 2. Any person having knowledge or notice of the exist- ence of scab on any sheep owned or in charge of such person, who shall fail or refuse to dip in some preparation known to be effectual in curing scab, all flocks of sheep in which one or more such are so infected, within twenty days after such knowledge or notice has been received, shall be deemed guilty of a misde- meanor, and upon conviction thereof shall be fined in any sum not less than one hundred nor more than two hundred dollars; provided, that every successive twenty days of failure or refusal to dip such sheep, under the provisions of this section, shall be considered a separate offense. Sec. 3. For the purpose of determining the existence of scab, under the provisions of this act, and to serve notice on persons as provided in section 2, the justice of the peace having jurisdic- tion, upon complaint of any person owning or having charge of sheep, supported by affidavit as to his belief that a flock of sheep within such jurisdiction are infected with scab, .shall forthwith issue order to a constable or some peace officer of his county, di- recting such officer to summon to his aid two persons having knowledge of scab, and to proceed mth such persons and examine the sheep so designated, and to notify in writing the owner or person in charge of said sheep, of the result of such examination, and to return to the court of issue such order, showing how he has executed the same. Sec. 4. Any person refusing to permit the examination pro- vided for in section 3 of this act, or to place the sheep in pens for such purpose, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof, punished by fine of not less than one hundred nor more than two hundred dollars. Sec. 5. Upon return of the order provided for in section 3 of this act, the justice of the peace shall, if it states said sheep are 342 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. not infect^'d, or that they have been dipped, within ten days next preceding such examination, dismiss such cause. But if such order states said sheep are infected with scab and have not been dipped within the ten preceding days, said justice of the peace shall issue warrant of arrest forthwith against the owner or person hav- ing said sheep in charge, and proceed as in other misdemeanor cases; provided, should defendant show, by competent testimony, that such infected sheep were held only on his own or accus- tomed range, and that he had dipped all flocks so infected, as provided in this act, within twenty days after receiving notice, or within ten days next preceding the serving of such notice, he shall upon payment of all accrued costs be discharged. Sec. 6. The constable or other peace officer and the person summoned to assist, shall receive as compensation for services performed under the provisions of this act, and for attendance at court as witnesses in such cases, the sum of two dollars and fifty cents per day for each day actually and necessarily so en- gaged, and such fees shall be taxed as costs against the owner of such sheep, and execution shall be issued; provided, in all cases where it is found such sheep are not infected or have been dipped within the ten days next preceding the examination so made, the costs and fees shall be taxed against the person who made the complaint, and execution shall so issue. Sec. 7. All laws and parts of laws in conflict with the pro- visions of this act be and the same are hereby repealed. FOOT ROT. Cause. — It is now believed to be caused by a parasite, and the other so-called causes, such as irritant soils, damp pastures, foul yards, etc., are believed to be only indirectly concerned in caus- ing this disease, from the fact that they probably constitute fav- orable grounds for the parasites to harbor in. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 343 Symptoms. — Lameness is noticed, and at the top of the cleft of the hoof it becomes red, moist, warm and rough, soon followed by a discharge, which .soon becomes offensive and purulent, and the whole foot becomes a mass of corruption. The animal loses its appetite, and at length dies of exhaustion. Treatment. — Treatment should be begun early, and the first thing to do is to cut away all diseased parts, after which the af- fected part may be touched with the following solution: Chloride of zinc 2 drams. Water 1 pint. Or, Butter of antimony 1 part. Compound tincture of myrrh 1 part. Or, the following may be found very useful: Sulphate of copper ^ pound. Acetate of copper J pound. Lin.seed oil J pint. Tar 1 pint. Solutions of carbolic acid, nitrate of silver, oil of vitriol, etc., may be found very useful also. If so desired, a foot bath may be used instead of the above, as follows: White arsenic 1 pound. Sodium carbonate '. . . 1 pound. Water 50 gallons. Or, Sulphate of copper 1 part. Water 50 parts. 344 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. The sheep may be walked through a trough or vat containing either of the above solutions. The sheep should be kept in perfectly dry pens, and dry up- land pastures. ROT, OR LIVER FLUKE. This condition is due to the presence of a parasite (Distoma htpaticum), or common liver fluke. These flukes, or parasites, are the cause of the disease, and have a peculiar life-history. The fluke worm lays the eggs in the ducts (vessels) of the liver; these ova, or eggs, descend into the bowels and pass out with the feces; after which they gain entrance into the soft-bodied mollusks found in stagnant water. The sheep, on drinking the water, take into the stomach these mollusks, which contain the parasites of the disease. They soon gain access to the liver, and when developed deposit their eggs, to go the same round of existence again. These parasites, when full grown, vary in size from one-half to one inch in length, and may be two-thirds of an inch wide. Symptoms. — The animal is dull and inactive; there is yellow- ness of the lining membrane of the eye, best se^n when the eyelid ir pushed back; the abdomen becomes large and pendant (pot- bellied), the back becomes razor-like, the flanks tucked up, usually with dropsical swellings in different parts of the body. The breathing becomes quick and short, and the animal suffers from diarrhoea and great weakness, followed by stupor and death. Treatment. — Remove the sheep to a high, dry pasture, and give them water to drink from a deep well. Feed on highly nu- tritive food. Prepare and give the following: Db. LeGear's Stock Book. 345 Epsom salts 2 ounces. Oil of turpentine 2 drams. Water 1 pint. Mix the salts and water together, add th«. turpentine, and give as a drench. Repeat every other day until three doses have been taken; then prepare the following: Oatmeal 40 pounds. Powdered gentian 2 pounds. Powdered anise seed 2 pounds. Common salt 4 pounds. Sulphate of iron 1 pound. Mix. Give of the above half a pint to each sheep once a day; wait three weeks, and repeat. Or, our Condition Powders may be given twice a day in the feed, instead of the above tonic. grtjb in the head. This dise^ase is one of the most serious the sheep owner has to deal with, and one that needs close attention on the part of the farmer. Causes. — It is caused by the egg of the gadfly (Oestrus ovis) being deposited in the nostrils of the sheep during the summer months. From the eggs hatch maggots, which find their way up into the chambers (sinuses) of the head, causing much pain. Each larva (grub) is supplied with a pair of hooks on its head, by which it attaches itself to the lining membrane, of the cavity V. here it is lodged. It remains there nearly a year, when it falls to and buries itself in the soft ground, and in from thirty to forty days it hatches out into a gadfly. 346 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Symptoms. — When the sheep are attacked by gadflies, the ani- mals will crowd together, with their noses to the ground, stamp violently at times, or run from one part of the pasture to an- other. At other times they will lie down, with their nostrils buried in the dust, etc. When the grubs get up into the head, and begin to mature, the animal soon shows signs of dullness, stands or lies down in one place nearly all the time, and notices bul little. The appetite is gone, the- head lowered to and resting on the ground, or turned to one side (usually the side affected), and th-ere is a discharge from the nose. If the animal can keep up its strength until the grubs are dislodged, or come away of themselves, recovery may take place; otherwise-, death usually ends the scene. Treatmsnt. — The grubs may be extracted by a qualified veter- inarian, but scarcely pays, except in the case of a valuable ani- mal. For this operation, a special instrument, called a trephine (see Fig. 3), must be used. AV^ith a sharp knife make an incision thi'ough the skin over the cavity (sinus) that contains the grub, large enough to let the trephine down upon the bone. With this instrument a piece of the skull can be removed, after which the grubs may be easily taken out through the opening. The grubs should all be removed, the opening in the skin stitched and dressed as an ordinary wound. The grubs may often be dis- lodged, when they are not firmly fixed, by injecting up the nos- trils equal parts of sweet oil and turpentine, but care must be taken not to strangle the sheep. Another means is to cause the animal to inhale smoke of some kind, to induce sneezing, which may dislodge them. But when the grubs are well up, and firmly attached, inhalations of smoke, or injections of liquid prepara- tions, are useless. Prevention. — The preventative mode of treatment in this dis- ease is of the utmost importance. Smear tar on the nose of each Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 347 fcluiep, around the nostrils, which is distasteful to the fly, and death to the egg. Where the sheep are pasturing, always keep a piece of ground well plowed and pulverized, so that they can go at any time, when attacked by the gadflies, and bury their noses in tiie soft earth, to protect themselves from the insect. STUKDY, OE GID. This disease is not so common in America as it is in England, prc'bahly from the fact that there are fewer dogs in proportion to the population here than there. It is also known as turn-sick, hydatid of the brain, etc. Cause. — This dangerous disease is caused by the bladder worm — a form of tapeworm preceding the true or sexually perfect worm — which is developed from the tapeworm of the dog. This parasite (coenurus cerebralis), if given to the dog, will produce a tapeworm, ^^hich, becoming fully developed, leaves the dog in pieces (segments), each ripe piece containing a large number of eggs. The eggs are picked up by the .sheep whilst grazing or drinking. In the stomach its shell is dissolved, setting free the minute parasites, which soon find their way to the brain; it be- comes encysted (enclosed in a sac), and sets up a considerable amount of irritation. The disease is apt to be more common where dogs and sheep mix. The hydatid may attack any part of the brain, but usually locates itself in the upper part of one of the great lobes, or between them. Symptoms. — The affected animal is found off by itself, walk- ing in a circular manner, with the head carried to one side, if the hydatid is located in one of the lobes of the brain; when it is situated between them, the head is carried in an elevated posi- iion. If the animal turns to the right, the hydatid will usually 23 348 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. be found in the right, lobe; if to the left, in the left lobe. If deeply situated in the middle of the brain, the animal will be apt to lower the head, instead of elevating it, as in the upper part. Sometimes the entire brain may become affected before death takes place. Treatment. — About all that can be done is to make an opening down upon the hydatids (if they can be found) and draw them out in the water they are in, with, a syringe; or, inject into the cyst containing the hydatid one-half teaspoonful of the follow- ing solution: Iodine 1 grain. Iodide of potash 5 grains. Water 1 ounce. Mix. PART IV. SWINE DEPARTMENT. SWINE DEPARTMENT. CHAPTER XXVIII. THE DISEASES OF SWINE. HOG CHOLERA, AND SWINE PLAGUE. These- are two separate diseases, but resemble each other very closely in their symptoms, and it requires an examination of the internal organs after death to clearly distinguish between them. They are not only similar in symptoms, but in their effect upon the bodies of diseased animals. It is not .so important to the stock raiser to know whether his hogs are dying of hog cholera Of swine plague, as the agents which destroy the germs that cause the disease in the one will generally destroy them in the other. The ditficulty of distinguishing betw-een the two diseases is, therefore, not a matter of much importance in controlling them. It is important, though, to know that one or the other of these maladies is present among the herd, because such knowl- edge will lead us to adopt proper treatment for such infectious diseases. The annual losses from hog cholera in the- United States alone must be very heavy, although all diseases of swine are called cholera by most people, yet the researches of the Bureau of Ani- mal Industry have shown that there is another disease, known as swine plague, which is almost as common and fatal as hog chol- era. Hog cholera and swine plague affect hogs in all parts of the United States, and cause heavy lasses, estimated to reach from $10,000,000 to $25,000,000 annually. Causes. — Both hog cholera and swine plague are caused by bacteria (vegetable parasites), which may be- easily identified by 352 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. persons accustomed to such researches. The hog cholera gemxs are slightly larger than those of swine plague. They are pro- vided with long, thread-like appendages, which enable them to move rapidly in liquids, while the swine plague germs have no such organs, and are unable to move in like manner. Both diseases are produced by injecting cultures (growths) of their respective germs directly into the blood vessels. From results of experiments with these two diseases, it has Ix'en found that the germs of hog cholera find their way into the bodies of swine mainly with the food and drink, and with the air; while those of swine plague are taken almost entirely with the air, or, in other words, they gain entrance through the lungs in nearly every case. Hog cholera germs are very hardy and vigorous, while those of swine plague are very delicate and easily destroyed. Hog cholera germs are able to multiply and live for a long time in the water of ponds and streams; they may live in the soil for at least three months, and amongst straw and litter for a much longer time; they withstand drying in a remarkable manner. Swnne plague germs, on the contrary, soon perish in water or by drying; the temperature for their growth must be more constant, and every condition of life more favorable, than is required for the hog cholera germs. Symptoms. — In the most severe forms of the disease the ani- mals die very suddenly, either before sickness has been observed or after they have been ill but a few hours. Such cases are usually seen at the beginning of an outbreak. In the majority of cases the progress of the malady is slower, and, fortunately, giving an opportunity to observe the symptoms. There are no- ticed signs of fever, shivering, unwillingness to move, loss of appetite more or less, elevation of temperature, which may reach 106 to 107 degrees Fahrenheit; the animals appear stupid and dull, and have a tendency to hide in the litter or bedding and remain covered by it. The bowels may be natural at first, but De. LeGeak's Stock Book. 353 later there is generally a liquid and fetid (bad smelling) diar- rhoea, and persisting to the end. At first the eyes are congested and watery, but soon the secretion thickens, becomes yellowish, collects in the angles and sticks the lids together. The breath- ing is quicker than usual, acompanied by a cough, which, how- ever, is not very frequent, and generally heard when the animals are driven from their bed. The skin may be congested and red on different parts of the body, varying from a pinkish red to a dark red or purple. Sometimes there is an eruption, which leaves crusts or scabs of various sizes over the skin. There is a rapid loss of flesh, the animal grows weak, stands with arched back and the belly drawn up, and walks with a tottering, uncer- tain gait. There is less and less inclination or ability to move, and the weakness and exhaustion increase until death takes place. The course of these diseases vary from one or two days to two or three weeks. Diagnosis. — When a disease breaks out among swine it is very important to know what it is. If several animals show symptoms similar to those already given, and the same disease has been affecting the hogs, on neighboring farms, we may be safe in say- ing that it is one or both of the diseases in question, since no other such disease has been recognized in this country. In anthrax districts there may be occasional outbreaks of the disease, in which there is great inflammation and swelling of the tongue, or of the throat, or simply a fever with no visible swellings. If the disease is anthrax, other animals, such as horses, cattle and sheep, will also be affected. The carcasses should be examined after death, and if project- ing, button-like ulcers are found in the large bowels, we know that hog cholera is present. It must be remembered, however, that these ulcers are not found in the most acute cases, but only in the sub-acute and chronic, where life is prolonged a sufficient time for them to form. If there is inflammation of the lungs, and 354 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. particularly if cheese-like masses are found in these organs, the disease is probably swine plague. Small blood spots in the tissues or scattered over the internal organs indicate hog cholera, while inflammation of tlie serous mtmbranes indicates swine plague. The germs of hog cholera collect or grow in chim]).s in tiie blood vessels, which leads to a plugging of the smaller ones, with frequent rupture and escape of blood. This causes red spots to form where the blood leaves the vessels and collects in the solid tissues. In swine plague the bacteria are evenly diffused through the blood, never form plugs, and, therefore, bleeding from this cause is not seen. In hog cholera the first effect of the disease is believed to be upon the bowels, with secondary invasion of the lungs; in swine plague it is the reverse of this. Notwithstanding the difference in typical cases of the two dis- eases, there are many outbreaks where it is impossible to distin- guish betwen them, as both diseases may be affecting the same animal at the same time, or the changes may somewhat resemble both diseases. In such cases a diagnosis can be made only by microscopic examination and cultivation of the germs. Prognosis. — The result of an outbreak of this malady is im- portant to know, but difficult to state, as the losses will depend partly upon the susceptibility of the hogs to the disease and partly to the ^drulence of the contagion in the particular out- break. If the animals are very susceptible and the conla. ion very virulent, the loss even in large herds may reach 90 to 95, or even 100 per cent in those cases where the disease is allowed to run its course. In milder outbreaks, or with the animals more capable of resisting the contagion, the losses vary from 20 to 60 per cent. More animals recover toward the end of an outbreak than at the beginning. A portion of those recovering will fatten, but otlicrs Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 355 remain lean, stunted in their growth, or never become really healthy animals. Treatment. — Like all diseases of this class, preventive treat- ment is far cheaper and in every way more satisfactory than medical treatment. Our great aim should be, therefore, to pre- vent the spread of infectious diseases. Every swine raiser should use the utmost precautions to prevent the introduction of these plagues into his herd. As soon as the hogs are found to be af- fected with hog cholera or swine plague, the lot or pens where they have been confined should be disinfected by dusting plenti- fully with dry, air slacked lime, or by sprinkling with a 5 per cent solution of crude carbolic acid. The animals should then all be moved into new quarters. If possible, the sick and appa- rently well should be separated before they are moved and put into different lots. This is not essential, but an aid to the treat- ment. Keep them in dry lots or pens where there is no mud, and above all no stagnant water. It is also advisable to keep these lots disinfected with carbolic acid or air slacked lime. The medical treatment must be begun as soon as possible, and the following formula will be found as good as any: Wood charcoal 1 pound. Sulphur 1 pound. Sodium chloride 2 pounds. Sodium bicarbonate 2 pounds. Sodium hyposulphite 2 pounds. Sodium sulphate 1 pound. Black antimony 1 pound. Mix. These ingredients should be completely pulverized and thor- oughly mixed. The dose of this mixture for a 200-pound hog is a large tablespoonful given once a day. For feed, corn alone 356 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. is not sufficient, but they should have at least once a day soft feed, as bran and middlings, or middlings and com meal, or ground oats and corn mixed, and then stirring into this the proper quantity of medicine. Animals that are very sick and that will not come to feed should be drenched with the medicine shaken up with water. Great care should be exercised in drench- ing hogs or they will be suffocated. Do not put the hog on its back to drench it, but pull the cheek away from the teeth so a& to form a pouch, into which the medicine may be slowly poured. From this pouch in the cheek the medicine will flow into the mouth, and as soon as the hog finds out what it is it will stop squealing and swallow. This medicine may also be employed to prevent an outbreak of the disease, and for such purpose should be put into the feed of the whole herd. See that each animal gets its proper share. Give this medicine a fair trial, and it will cure most of the ani- mals that are sick and will stop the progress of the disease in the herd. It is an excellent appetizer and stimulant of the processes of digestion and assimiliation, and when given to unthrifty hogs it increases the appetite, causes them to take on flesh and assume^ a thrifty appearance. TRICHINOSIS— TRICHINA. Perhaps no other parasite has attracted so much attention as the Trichina Spiralis, which lives rolled up in flesh; it is very small, nearly microscopic, varying from one-eighteenth to one- sixth of an inch in length. Trichina may be found in all animals, but usually in man, the hog, and the rat. If any of the flesh containing trichinae is eat^n, the parasites are set free dur- ing the process of digestion. Their growth is extremely rapid, and each female lays an immense number of eggs. From each egg the- little wonn is hatched, which bores through the walls of Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 357 the stomach, or of the bowels, and buries itself in the flesh, where it lies hidden until it is eaten and introduced into another stomach. Man obtains this disease- through eating of the flesh of swine. The trichinae are not always destroyed by the ordinary methods of roasting, cooking, pickling, and smoking. Pork should al- ways be thoroughly cooked, as in this way the parasites will be destroyed; but there is always danger in eating partially cooked or raw pork and sausage. The use of the microscope is the surest and most reliable preventive against all danger. It appears that the heart, liver, kidneys, brain and fat of the pig are sel- dom, if ever, afl'ected with trichinae. As a general thing, swine obtain trichina from rats, to which latter man, as the natural bearer, conveys them. Symptoms. — In man there is swelling and soreness of the muscles affected; great pain, emaciation and exhaustion; it is often mistaken for rheumatism. In the lower animals the symptoms are the same, but not so well marked; there is loss of appetite, the muscles are sore, stiffness in the hind quarters, and the animal is not inclined to move. If those affected live through the six weeks (the time it takes the little worm to become lodged in the muscle, after being set free from the egg in the stomach) they will recover. Treatment. — Not much can be done. During the six weeks,, stimulants, such as alcohol, in tablespoonful doses, may be given three times a day in grael, and a teaspoonful of sulphur in the food morning and night. In the first stages of the disease, give our Worm Remedy in the feed night and morning, to rid th*c bovrels of the worms before they find their way into the mus- cular system. 358 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. MEASLES. Measles in swine is a different disease- entirely to that called measles in man. Causes. — ^In swine, measles are caused by a parasite (the blad- der worm) from eating the eggs of the tapeworm of man (taenia solium) in its food; dogs also carry and void the eggs of the tape- wc-rm. and hence care should be taken that swine do not eat their excrement. If the flesh of measly pork is not thoroughly cooked before being eaten by man^ he is sure to be affected by tapeworm. Since there is always danger that some of the cysts may escape death in cooking, it is never safe to eat measly pork. This hydatid, or bladder worm (cysticercus cellulosa), is what forms measles in pigs; it becomes encysted in the muscles, brain, liver, lining membranes, etc. Symptoms. — The symptoms of the disease are a cough, run- ning from the eyes, discharge from the nose, and weakness of the hind quarters, with general debility. The cysts, some of which are about the size of a grain of barley, may be seen scat- tered through the muscles and other tissues of the pig. Their presence may sometimes be detected in the eye or under the tongue. When once encysted, further annoyance to the animal is stopped. Treatment. — But little can be done for this disease. If reeog- nized at the beginning of an attack, the following powders might pass the eggs from the bowels: Sulphur 4 drams. Saltpetre J dram. Mix, and give as one powder every day for two weeks. Db. LeGeab's Stock Book. 359 Swine should never be allowed to feed upon human excre- ment, nor pastured on land manured with the same. Some prefer turpentine in the treatment of measles. Two teaspoonsful may be given in swill if the hog can swallow; if he can not swallow, swab out his throat with equal parts of turpen- tine and oil. PART V. DOG DEPARTMENT. IMPORTED JOE FLOCKMASTER. DOG DEPARTMENT. CHAPTER XXIX. ^■ THE DISEASES OF DOGS. DOG DISTEMPER. This a very common affection of the canine race, and it is often very fatal, especially among the finer breeds, where there has been close in-and-in breeding. It is usually seen in puppies under one year old, although age is no preventive. Distemper is a specific fever, and very contagious and wide-spread in its prevalence. It is of a catarrhal nature, usually affecting the mucous membranes of the head and digestive tract. Distemper usually runs a definite course, and generally terminates favorably when not accompanied by other diseases, but when complicated it is not very satisfactory to treat. Frequently dogs pass through life without contracting the disease, and one attack does not render the animal proof against a second one. The period of in- cubation (exposure) is from four days to three weeks, and that of duration from ten days to two or three months. Causes. — That dog distemper is caused by a germ is quite cer- tain, although this specific microbe (germ) is not as yet very well understood. The virus (poison) of the disease has great vitality, and can be communicated from one dog to another by immedi- ate contact or through the air, or from a kennel in which the dis- eased dog has been kept. We are satisfied it is due to a specific 24 fp. 363J 364 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. virus, although the surroundings have a great deal to do with it, *uch as improperly ventilated, damp kennels, etc., or improper feeding, especially that of a meat diet. Spring and fall are the most common seasons of the disease, and, as the annual bench shows are held then, we have more distemper than at other sea- sons of the year. Symptoms. — The principal symptoms in an uncomplicated case are catarrhal discharges from the eyes and nose, tliin and watery at first, finally becoming muco-purulent; high fever, rapid pulse, sneezing, dry hot nose, dullness, loss of appetite, etc. Complications usually accompany the disease, the most common ones being those of the respiratory organs, such as congestion, broncho-pneumonia, etc.; those of the digestive organs, such as gastritis, jaundice, enteritis, etc.; and those of the cerebro-spinal system, such as mengengitis, myelitis and chorea. There is a hard dry cough; bowels may be constipated, but diarrhoea is usually present, the discharge being very offensive. When skin eruptions occur, they are usually seen on the belly. Treatment. — There is no specific for distemper in dogs any more than there is in the horse. Good nursing is all important. Make the patient as comfortable as possible by placing him in a warm place, free from draughts of cold air, and feed him on nu- tritious food, such as eggs and milk beaten up together, beef tea, mutton broths, etc. Bulky food of any kind should be avoided. If the patient will not eat he should be fed with a spoon. The importance of pure air can not be over estimated, but cold air must be avoided. It is advisable to disinfect the kennel, or »\'here the patient is kept, with a preparation of carbolic acid or lime. If constipation is present, give injection.^ per rectum of warm soapsuds, oil, or glycerine; either will be found very use- ful in such cases. If a physic is necessary, give the following: Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 365 Buckthorn syrup 4 drams. Castor oil 2 drams. Mix, and give at once with a large spoon. If there is still a tendency to constipation, the bowels may be kept regular on a diet of liver, oatmeal, etc.; also continue the injections per rectum. To reduce the high fever, from 5 to 8 grains of quinine may be given in a capsule at once, and follow up with the following in case of lung trouble: Quinine sulphate 2 grains. Muriate ammmonia 2 grains. Mix, and give in a capsule three times a day. A constant supply of pure drinking water is very essential, to which add two teaspoonsful of the chlorate of potash to every quart of water. In case of irritability of the stomach and bowels, and the ten- dency to vomiting, milk and limewater, beef tea, etc., are indi- cated; or give subnitrate of bismuth in 5-grain doses four times a day in case of persistent vomiting. If diarrhoea is present it may be relieved by teaspoonful doses of paregoric combined with twice that quantity of prepared chalk and given as needed. The discharge from the eyes and nose should be washed off every day with clean borax water, and oftener if necessary. All changes in diet should be made cautiously. In convales- cence, tonics, such as cod liver oil, will be found especially valu- able. Other diseases setting in should be treated according ho the nature of the complication. The following is a simple but a good remedy in most cases of distemper: 366 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Tincture of iron 1 ounce. Tincture of aconite | dram. Whiskey 15 ounces. Mix, and give one teaspoonful three times per day. Continue this as long the the fever and hard breathing lasts. ECZEMA m DOGS. Eczema is a non-contagious disease of the skin, characterized by formation of scabs with more or less irritation and itchiness. The skin becomes reddened, moist, and swollen, and the disease has a tendency to spread over the body. Causes. — Eczema may be caused from any irritation of the skin, as appl3dng caustic medicines, scratches, etc., but comes more frequently from indigestion, injudicious feeding, want of exercise, and bad blood. P^czema is not contagious, but in cer- tain stages it may be transmitted to another dog by sleeping to- gether for some time. Symptoms. — There will be noticed great itchiness and a scurii- ness and scabby condition of the skin, with falling out of the hair. Continuous scratching may form thickened rough por- tions of the skin devoid of hair. In some cases the skin becomes very much reddened and inflamed and causes the animal a great deal of discomfort. Treatment. — Great cleanliness is very essential in the treat- ment of eczema. Give the dog a clean bed to sleep on, and keep his kennel as clean as possible. Make a complete change in the food. If the animal is fat, reduce the food and give a light, cool- ing diet. If the animal is thin in flesh, give a good nutritious Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 367 diet. In some cases it is advisable to clip the hair all off short so as to be able to apply the external applications more easily and more effectually. Wash all affected parts thoroughly every morning with cold water and carbolic soap. After washing, dry off the skin and apply the following ointment: Oxide of zinc 1 ounce. Oil of tar 1 ounce. Flour of sulphur 1 ounce. Vaseline 4 ounces. Mix. Give internally 5 drops of Fowler^s solution of arsenic morn- ing and evening. The following may also be tried: Creolin 1 ounce. Water 4 ounces. Mix, and apply every morning after washing. Some cases of eczema will be found very difficult to cure, but patience and continued treatment will be rewarded with success. MANGE-*^ITCH. Mange is a contagious disease of the skin, due to the presence of insects which burrow into the skin and cause irritation, and in some cases severe inflammation of the skin. Causes. — The disease is caused by the mange insect, which gains entrance into the skin, multiplies rapidly, and spreads over various parts of the body. Although the insects (mites) must be present to produce the disease, filth and unclean beds, kennels, etc., are important factors in causing the disease. One 868 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. dog in a kennel affected with mange will soon infect all the others. Symptoms. — In certain stages mange is very hard to detect from eczema without a microscopical examination. There is in- tense itching, falling out of the hair, rough, scabby, scaly skin, etc. When the insects burrow into the skin they cause a pimple or pustule, and on being scratched by the dog the pustule opens up and a small quantity of matter with the insect runs out. Ec- zema more commonly occurs in poor, debilitated dogs, while mange has no preference. The disease may attack any part of the body, but more commonly the head is first affected. In some cases the hair falls out and the animal emits a very offensive odor. The appetite is rarely lessened. As the disease progresses, loss of weight, debility, and impoverishment of the general sys- tem results. Treatment. — The bedding of the infected animal should be destroyed and the animal removed from all healthy ones. Wash the kennel, woodwork, etc., where the dog sleeps, with hot white- wash, into which put 1 ounce of pure carbolic acid to every gal- lon of whitewash. Wash the infected animal thoroughly with carbolic soap and water, and apply either of the following lo- tions once a day for six or eight days: Creolin 4 drams. Methylated spirits 4 drams. Water 3 ounces. Mix. Or, Trikresol 30 drops. Water fi ounces. Mix. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 369 Or, Sulphur 2 parts. Carbonate of ])otash 1 part. Oil of tar 1 part. Benzine 2 parts. Lard or oil 10 parts. Mix, and apply to all affected parts. Or, Iodide of sulphur 1 part. Glycerine 8 parts. Mix, and apply as above. Long hair must be closely clipped or shaved; the affected parti? freely nibbed with soapsuds, allowed to remain on for twenty minutes or half an hour; crusts and scales are thus softened and removed by subsequent thorough scrubbing with warm water. As mange is a local affection, there is very little use in giving internal treatment. SPAYING BITCHES. • This is an operation that is being quite extensively practiced among dog fanciers. If you have a bitch that you don't wish to breed from, you can prevent the unpleasantness and trouble of having her coming in heat (rutting), by having her spayed. A bitch can be spayed any time in suitable weather, except when they are in heat or with pup, after they are six months old. The operation can be performed in the side or in the centre of the belly. We prefer the last-named place of operating. A bitch should not be too fat, as it makes it much harder for the oper- ator and more dangerou.s to the bitch. If she is big and fat, shut her up for several days and feed her very little; or, let her run out, and feed nothing at all, to reduce her flesh. Feed nothing 370 Dr. LeGeae's Stock Book. for at least eighteen hours before operating, so the bowels will not be- full. Some recommend hanging a bitch up by the hind legs, and others strap them upon a rack, but we prefer putting them to sleep on a table hj the use of 1 part chloroform and 2 parts sul- phuric ether. If the bitch is large and strong, tie her legs and muzzle her, so she can't bite. If a small bitch, one man can hold her legs. Saturate a small, new sponge with the anaesthetic (chloroform and ether), put it down in a funnel made of tough paper, and shove her h^ad down into the funnel and hold it there tight until she goes to sleep. Care should be taken not to give her too much, or she will never wake up. If she stops breathing, take the sponge away and throw water on her head and work her front legs. When she is a.sleep, the hair, if long, should be clipped from the place of operation, which is best done between the last four teats. Wash off the skin with a weak solution of carbolic acid, and with a sharp, perfectly clean lance, cut through the skin and flesh into the abdominal cavity. Make a hole about two inches long; insert the finger and bring out the ovaries (prides), and remove them one at a time with a pair of dull scis- sors. Sponge off the blood nice and clean and draw the wound together by the use of silk sutures. The wound will heal in six or eight daA^s, when you can remove the stitches. It is well to wash the skin and wound nicely every day with soap and water, and apply a little of our Healing Lotion to cleanse the wound and heal it quickly Feed the- bitch on light diet for four or five days after the operation, and keep her from running around a gieat deal. A spayed bitch will make the very best kind of u dog; they will be smart, quick, and intelligent. Occasionally, it will be noticed that a bitch, after being spayed, will come in heat once or twice, but this will pass off and not botlier them any m.ore. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 371 RABIES, OR HYDROPHOBIA. Rabies, which prevail cliiefiy among animals of the canine, species, as the dog, wolf, fox, etc., is at the present time accepted as "being an acute, infectious disease of the central nervous sys- tem, characterized by fever, a high degree of irritability and ex- citement, the presence, of a spa»sm, generally a disposition to bite, great prostration, and finally death. Man, and all warm-blooded animals, are liable to this malady. It was called hydrophobia because it was supposed that the rabid (mad) animal had a dread or fear of water, which is not true-, for it will drink water greed- ily to the very last, providing the power of deglutition (swal- lowing) is not lost. Rabies, which means "to rave," being a far better name for the disease. History. — The antiquity of rabies i.s not exactly known. Aris- totle, Xenophon, Virgil, Horace, Ovid, and many others, in their writings, mention it as one of the maladies in their time. Then come the writings of Caelius Aurelianus, who treated all the im- portant questions relating to it in a most masterly manner. Af- ter him, centuries passed, during which time but Kttle or noth- ing was added to the present knowledge of the subject. But toward the end of the last century investigations were renewed, and since then a great deal of light has been thrown upon the subject, especially by M. Pasteur, Koch, Williams, and many other noted men of our day. Rabies has recently been quite prevalent in England and in some of the United States of Amer- ica, while in Australia and New Zealand it is very rare. Until lately, it has been comparatively rare in Canada and in the Unit- ed States, while in Peru, Chili and some other countries it is very common. It has occurred in every State in this Union at some time or another during the present century, but, fortunate- ly, never to any alarming extent. 372 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Causes. — The theory of a spontaneous development of rabies is still a question of controversy among our best authors. It is now universally accepted that the poison is communicated almost invariably by means of the bite of a rabid or infected animal. Chmate does not appear in the least to exert any amount of in- fluence over its production. It is very generally imagined by people that dogs are more liable to have the disease during very hot weather. Experience, however, proves that hot weather has not the slightest influence, so far as being the actual cause or producing the disease is concerned. Statistics show that Janu- ary and August, the coldest and hottest months, furnish the fewest cases. In Egypt and Syria, both very hot countries, the disease is unknown, and Greenland, on the other hand, being a very cold country, is also exempt. So far as is known, the con- tagious principle or virus exists only in the fixed form, and is found in every tissue of the body. In the brain, spinal cord, and saliva, it is found in its most potent forms, but its vitality is soon lost after death. We are justified in saying that hydro- phobia is a specific blood disease, due to an unknown germ. As yet, the germ has not been isolated or cultivated, but, by the process of inoculation, sufficient proof has been found of its presence in the blood of an affected animal. This virus, without doubt, is developed in the saliva of all affected animals, and is in- oculated by a bite or by its coming in contact with an abrasion of the skin or mucous membrane, thus producing the disease in other animals and in man. The virus seems to be weakened in its transmission from one animal to another, so that the first bites of a mad dog are said to be the most dangerous. French authorities go to show that not one-third of those bitten by rabid animals die of rabies, while only 1 per cent of those bitten through the clothing die. Some people think the bite of an angry dog will produce hydrophobia, and all the more so if the animal should go mad, even years after. M. Pasteur, the noted French scientist, says: "The bite of a dog is only dangerous when Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 373 lie is suffering from rabies. The non-rabid animal, however en- raged, can not give rise- to hydrophobia by his bite." No doubt a great many persons die from mental derangement (delirium) caused by fear of taking the terrible malady. The period of incubation is extremely variable — from a few days even up to a year or more. In man, nine days was the time generally accept- ed to elapse between the infliction of the bite and the first sym- toms of the disease. Symptoms. — In giving the symptoms of canine madness, two foims will be noticed: the furious or violent, and the dumb or sullen. About the first thing noticed in the first form is a period of dullness, showing that the brain is affected. This period of dullness is followed by a period of restlessness or excitement, and after a time may again be followed by a period of coma. The animal has a tendency to seek confinement in out-of-the-way places, where he can lie undisturbed. When disturbed, he be- comes very much excited, and may become furiously enraged without any apparent cause. Now the countenance becomes anxious and appalling, the eyes become bloodshot, with a spark- ling, bright appearance, and a tendency to distorted vision or squinting. A very prominent symptom is a depraved appetite, the animal eating or swallowing pieces of wood, stone-s, coal, leather, and even pieces of iron, lead, etc. — ^in fact, any kind of filth or dirt that comes in his way is swallowed seemingly with great relish. Prof. Lagarris, of the Pasteur Institute, Chicago, 111., eays this symptom alone is characteristic of rabies, and is sufficient to justify any man giving his opinion as such, who also adds that in making post mortems on animals supposed to be affected with rabies the contents of the stomach always plays an important part in his decision, and always, where rabies are found, the stomach is partly filled with stones, gravel, pieces of wood and other indigestible material. An intense thirst is early acquired, and in his endeavors to quench it he will push his head 374 Dr. LeGea-r's Stock Book. up to the e3^es into the vessel containing the liquid, and drink eagerly, unless prevented b}' a spasm of the larynx, when he be- comes enraged and furious at the sight of drinking liquids. The animal now becomes very restle-ss and irritable, and if allowed his hberty will seek seclusion as the disease advances. He will leave his home and a kind master and go off in nearly a straight line along the street. He travels in a peculiar, long, swinging trot, the tail hanging down and often with the tongue hanging out of his mouth. He looks neither to the right nor to the left, and keeping his head in a straight line with his body hastens on as if in search of something he doesn't seem to find. Thif is characteristic of the rabid animal, and nothing else. An ■excessive secretion of saliva, called frothing at the mouth, usual- ly takes place, and flows from the mouth. He seems to take no notice of any one or anything until pursued and bodily hurt, when he ^vill wreak his vengeance on the offender, or anything, else that comes in his way. Still, he will not go out of his way to do any mischief, and wdll even pas,s through crowds of people v/ithout attempting to bite them, but, instead, he tries to escape his pursuers and hide. When by himself, he will bite at imagin- ary objects, and will attack only real ones when placed in his way. His snapping at the open air is a very characteristic sign. The inclination on the part of the mad dog to wander about seems to be an instinctive attempt to get rid of the disease by muscular activity, as rabies, if spontaneous, is only so in non- perspiring animals. A rabid dog when at large always alters his course, when compelled, by turning at right angles, and never breaks this rule unless compelled to by a furious mob. It is nothing unusual to see a dog hounded about the streets, and said to be mad, when he is not, but is only excited or frightened. He never thinks of going out of his way to clear any object, attempt- ing to go over, under or through it, and never giving up until he is completely exhausted. The wound from the bite of a rabid animal heals very rapidly, and is rarely accompanied by inflam- Dk. LeGeak's Stock Book. 375 mation; but when the disease itself has set in, the wound may show evidence of irritation or inflammation, which causes the animal to gnaw or bite it, without feeling the slightest pain therefrom. If the animal is confined by a chain, he attempts to bite it in two; if by a door, he vents his fury on that. At this stage he has not the slightest sense of pain, as he will bite a red- hot iron exactly as if it were cold, if presented to him. If al- lowed water to drink, he will usually upset the vessel in his hurry to quench his thirst. At the appearance of some stranger he will bark as if angry, suddenly changing to a voice of joy and ec&tacy, then he will whine as if desiring something, then change again into a lonely, dismal howl, as if lost, or that approaching trouble was at hand; then he may become really natural for a few minutes, followed with the same symptoms, only increased until the whole muscular system is completely overcome with hideous, tetanic convulsions, which, however, soon disappear, and the characteristic howling commences again, which is readily recog- nized by an expert as that of a mad dog. The constitutional symptoms are increased temperature, nerv- ous excitability, respirations of a sobbing or sighing character, etc. One peculiarity of the disease is that the affected animal shows a great antipathy to animals of its own species. After two or three days of terrible suffering the animal succumbs, death taking place either from a paroxysm of choking or in a tranquil mfmner from nervous exhaustion. The power of swallowing usually returns shortly before death, which generally takes place in from two to five days. The second or dumb form is but a peculiar type of the disease, which runs a much shorter course and without' the violent or irritative stage. The animal is quiet and depressed and has but little disposition to bite or run away. Paralysis of the lower jaw early sets in, appetite perverted, changed voice rarely heard, pro- gressive emaciation and exhaustion, and the poor sufferer seldom lives beyond the third day. 576 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. Treatment. — Medical treatment, after the disease has become menifest, is of little or no avail, hence the affected animal should bo destroyed at once. In case of a valuable animal, or a member of the human family, being bitten by a rabid animal, the wound should, as soon as possible, be well cleansed and freely cauter- ized. One of the first things to do is to endeavor to prevent the absorption of the virus into the system. This may be accom- plished by complete excision of the part bitten, or by suction by means of a cupping glass, or even by the mouth if practicable, after which the part should be thoroughly cauterized with nit- rate of silver, caustic potash, nitric acid, or the actual cautery. Liquid caustics are preferable, as they penetrate every recess of the wound. At the same time, apply a ligature between the wound and the body, if the location of the wound will allow it, then place the animal in confinement to await developments; one month is considered a long enough period. If you kill the dog, it prevents the person from knomng whether hydrophobia will develop or not. If it does not mature, the person bitten need be in no way uneasy. No doubt many a valuable, wTll-bred animal has been killed with the supposition that he was rabid. An antidote for the poison has not yet been discovered, except the attenuated virus of the disease itself, pre- pared by M. Pasteur, who claims to prevent the development of thi". disease by inoculation of this prepared virus after infliction of the bite of a rabid animal. No doubt the prophylactic treat- ment is the only proper one to pursue. Still, Pasteur's method is not as yet universally accepted, but experiments up to the present time have been eminently satisfactory, and will, in all probability, lead to a specific, if not already. Medical treatment consists of ner\'e sedatives, anti-spasmodics, etc., which are to be given hypodermically, by inhalations, etc. APPENDIX. VETERINARY REMEDIES. DR. LeGEAR'S Celebrated Veterinary Remedies PREPARED BY DRS. L. D. AND N. G. LeGEAR, GBA1>UATE8 OT THE ONTARIO VETEBINARY COI,IiEGE, TORONTO, ONTABIO. VETERlISrARY SURGEONS, AUSTIN, TEXAS. These are a line of Stock Medicines we have prepared for the cure of the diseases of stock here in the South. They are not carelessly prepared by unprofessional men, as a great many jf the "would-be cure-alls" for stock are that flood the markets, but are guaranteed to be composed of strictly pure drugs, in the proper doses, and compounded with the greatest professional care and skill possible. We wish to ask all stock owners the following question: "Where are the stock medicines you have been using made?" Your answer will be, "Away up North." Let us ask again. How can men that live five hundred or perhaps, a thousand miles from the South and never were down here make up medi- cines that will cure diseases of stock in this country, as there is just as much difference in the disease of stock and the 25 [p. 379] 380 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. medicines required in curing them between there and here as there is between the chmate in the two places. Our long, hot summers and mild winters give all animals a different tem- perament and different diseases to what they have up North, therefore it takes specially prepared medicines to cure them. Again, do you know the men who put up these quack medicines? Are they Veterinary Surgeons studying, practicing, and treating the diseases of stock? Xo; they are not. They perhaps don't know as much about the diseases of stock as you do, but they have a few fonnulas from which they are putting up their "would-be cure-alls." Some of these preparations may do to use on stock up North, but they are no good in this climate. You say "these remedies seem to help our stock." You may think so, but it is only imaginary. AVe would invite one and all to try Dr. LeGear's celebrated Veterinary Remedies when any of your stock are sick, lame, or injured, and see for yourself how much better they are than any other kind you ever used. We are preparing these remedies right here in the South after carefully studying and investigating the various diseases of stock and the medicines best suited to cure them. We wish to say that we are graduate veterinary surgeonvS, studying, practicing, and treating the diseases of stock here in the South, and that our celebrated Veterinary Remedies are the results of our hard study and later practical work and scientific researches. We ask all readers of this book to carefully read over the following brief description of each of our celebrated Veter- inary Remedies and testimonials from the best stockmen on each, for after you read them over carefully and note their superior qualities over all other stock medicines we know you will try them, and when once tried you will use no other. The testimonials we have on the merits of our medicines are from some of the best stockmen and horse owners in Texas who Dk. LeGeak's Stock Book. 381 have tixoroughly tested and used them. We have accepted no false or bogus testimonials. All are real and voluntary. If you doubt the reality of any of these testimonials, we would be pleased to have you write to the parties or call on them in person. HEALING LOTION. This is without a doubt the very best healing prepartion ever made. It is unequaled in its results in curing sore backs, sore shoulders, saddle and collar galls, barbed-wire cuts, scratches, cracked and greasy heels, sore teats in cows, or sores of any kind on all animals. It has wonderful antiseptic, astringent and heal- ing properties, which makes it such a valuable remedy for sores on stock. Use according to directions on each bottle and you will be highly pleased with its results. Price, per bottle, 50c. Prairie Lea, Texas, April 14, 1897. Drs. L. D. (fe N. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. . Dear Sirs: I take pleasure in saying that your Healing Lotion, which you gave me, is a sure and speedy cure for all sores on stock. One bottle cured my jack, which had sores on him for one year. Yours truly, C. POLK, Stockman. Cameron, Texas, January 20, 1897. Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. Gentlemen: I have been using your celebrated Healing Lotion for the last six month for barbed wire cuts, sore backs and shoul- ders, and sores of all kinds on my horses, mules and cows, and find it the best healing medicine I ever used. I can highly rec- ommend it to all horsemen and stock owners. Yours respect- fully, W. K. DICKINSON, Liveryman, and dealer in Missouri mules and Jersey cows. 382 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. LINIMENT. There are over one dozen different kinds of liniment made and sold for stock, but many of them are- of very little good. There is as much difference in liniments as there is in different biands of whisky — some good, and the rest no good at all. In preparing our Liniment, we have used the very best stimulating, penetrating and soothing medicines, therefore, we guarantee it to be one of the best liniments made. It will remove all pain, soreness, lameness and swelling in all cases of sprains, bruises, sore tendons, enlarged joints and glands, inflammatory swellings, sore throat, rheumatism, and all muscular soreness and lameness in horses and cattle, etc. Try it once, and you will use no other. It is a clean, speedy and reliable remedy, and can be used with perfect safety. Price per bottle, 50c. CONDITION POWDERS. Nearly all animals, sometime during the year, more especially during the spring, need some good, reliable condition powders to purify tlie blood, rectify their stomachs and bowels, and tone up the whole system in general; therefore, we offer our cele- brated Condition Powders to the public for sale, with the- assur- ance that they will give perfect satisfaction to all those who use them. They are not recklessly prepared by unprofessional par- ties from cheap, inferior drugs and adulterations, as most of the coLdition powders are, but are prepared with great care and skill from strictly pure drugs of full strength; therefore, much smaller doses are required, and much more good derived, from one box of our celebrated Condition Powders than from half a dozen packages of the inferior kinds. Our Condition Powders is a med- icine, and not a food, and, therefore, it takes only one teaispoon- ful for a dose, and not from one to three tablespoonsful, as is Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 383 u-sually prescribed of the inferior kinds. It is a waste of money to pay medicine prices for feed, as you do when you buy most of th(.' "condition powders" and "stock foods" that flood the mar- ket for they are composed principally of bran, linseed meal, etc. When you buy our celebrated Condition Powders, we. will assure you that you are buying medicine, and not adulterations, and when given according to directions will give perfect satisfaction every time. They are especially adapted to keeping horses, cat- tle, sheep and hogs in general good health and condition, giving them sleek, glossy coats, plenty of life and spirits, renovating the blcod, and the whole digestive, muscular and nervous system in general. They are unequaled in their results in relieving hide bound, indigestion, loss of appetite, liver troubles, rough, staring coats, general debility, bad blood, loss of flesh, all chronic kidney troubles, thick, ropy urine, coughs, colds, distemper, epizootic, bladder diseases, etc. A trial will convince you that they are first-class in every particular. Price, 50c. Giddings, Texas. Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. Dr. LeGear's Condition Powders for stock have been thor- oughly tried by me and I found it to work like magic. It is all that they claim for it, and a good article to have at your bam. I purchased it on trial, to use it for thick, ropy urine, and in a few days the powder had done its good work. It is an exceed- ingly good appetizer and tones up the system to perfection. J. W. NORTHRUP, Publisher Giddings "News." Luling, Tex-as, March 1, 1897. Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. Dear Sirs: Have been using your Stock Condition Powders on my entire herd of Jerseys for past six weeks with entire satis:^c- tion. For animals that are run down, off feed or wormy, the 384 Dr. LeGear'8 Stock Book. reeults are marvelous, and it is with a great deal of pleasure that I recommend your stock medicines to breeders of fine stock and the public in general. Have found nothing in my eight years^ experience in handling fine stock that acts as promptly and to the point. Wishing you all the success you are entitled to, I am, yours very truly, JAMES A. PRYOR, Proprietor Oakland Jersey Farm. COLIC CURE. There is no disease of the horse that has so many would-be remedies as colic, and nine out of every ten of these remedies are no good, and many of them do a horse more harm than good. In order to prepare a remedy that is safe, sure, and reliable in all forms of colic and all internal pains we have after great study and scientific research compounded our celebrated Colic Cure. It is absolutely composed of the best pain-killers, anodynes, anti- septics and correctives which are needed in the treatment of colic and all those troubles of the stomach, bowels and kidneys shown by pain, cramps, bloating, uneasiness, etc. It is a safe, sure, and reliable remedy for all forms of colic, acute indiges- tion, flatulency, inflammation of the bowels, diarrhoea, dysen- tery, irritative kidneys, inflammation of the kidneys, and all internal pain that can be cured by medicine. As colic is a dis- ease that comes on very suddenly without a moment's warning, and is so liable to kill the horse or mule before you can go to the store for any medicine, we will advise all persons owning one or more horses or mules to always keep a bottle of Dr. LeGear's Celebrated Colic Cure on hand, as you will in many instances save the life of your animal by doing so, for "time lost is money lost" in treating colic. We can refer you below to testimonials of stockmen and horse owners who have used and thoroughly tested the merits of our Colic Cure. Another great advantage our Colic Cure has over all others is its cheapness. It is not only Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 385 the best colic cure on the market, hut it is the cheapest. Just think of it, a big bottle of Colic Cure for only 50 cents. Burnet, Texas, Aug. 2, 1897. Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. Gentlemen : We have used your Colic Cure for the last twelve months on our horses and find it all 0 K. It gives ready relief, and is a safe cure for the Colic. Yours with best wishes, SKAGGS & FOULDS, Liverymen. Brownwood, Texas, June 17, 1897. To whom it may concern: This is to certify that I had a fine mule that had been sub- ject to fits of colic for more than a year, and the last attack he had I gave him up to die. Had tried everything recommended for colic to no avail, when finally Dr. Eufus Payne suggested "Dr. LeGear's Colic Cure," which was given, and to my aston- ishment the first dose gave perfect relief — not only relief, but a cure, and the mule has not had an attack since. I can un- hesitatingly recommend Dr. LeGear's Colic Cure for horses. J. H. BYRD, a Eanchman. EYE WATER. The eye, the organ of vision, is very delicate, and is one of the most important organs of the body, and one that should have special care and proper treatment when diseased. There is no remedy equal to Dr. LeGear's celebrated Eye Water for curing all diseases of the eyes of stock. It is prepared with the greatest care and ,«kill from the best eye medicines known. It is a mild, non-irritating and safe preparation, and is a reliable remedy for all curable diseases of the e5^es of horses, cattle, dogs, etc., such as simple ophthalmia, periodic ophthalmia (moon blindness), svelled lirls. flow of tears, hooks, cloudiness or milkiness of the 386 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. eye, inflammation, ulceration, injuries, etc. Don't injure your horse's eyes by putting salt, burnt alum, etc., in them, but use our celebrated Eye Water, which is cheap, safe and sure. Price per bottle, 50c. Austin, Texas, August 30, 1897. Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. Gentlemen: This is to certify that I have used Di*s. L. D. & N". G. LeGear's Eye Water, and with three applications it perfectly cured my pointer dog's eyes. Very truly, LOUIS N. BRUEGGERHOFF. Cameron, Texas, July 29, 1897. Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. Gentlemen: I have used your Eye Water on quite a number of horses and had splendid results in every case. With best wishes, I am, very respectfully, W. K. DICKINSON, Liveryman. Cameron, Texas, July 39, 1897. Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. Gentlemen: You doubtless remember the condition of my horse's eye, and instructing me how to use your Eye Water. I aiu glad to be able to state that in a few weeks after beginning its use the eye, instead of appearing like a blind eye, was restored to its natural appearance. Yours very truly, W. B. STREETMAN. SCREW WORM POWDER. Screw worms and flies are such a common annoyance to stock and stockmen that a line of stock medicines would not be com- plete wifhout some good, reliable remedy to keep flies and screw Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 387 worms away from sores on stock. Our Screw Worm Powder is a safe, sure and reliable antiseptic protection against the inva- sion of all flies, screw worms and poisonous germs. It not only keeps out scr^w worms, but heals all sores very rapidly. It is put ver}' conveniently in tin cans, with little holes in the top, so the powder can be dusted on the sores without any trouble. Try it, and be convinced that this is the best preventive against screw wonns you ever used. Price per box, 50c. Brownwood, Texas, June 18, 1897. Drs. L. D. & jSr. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. Gentlemen: We have been using your cekbrated Screw Worm Powder for the past year and find it to be the best healing medi- cine for all kinds of sores on stock we ever used. It is also a sure preventive against screw worms, and keep all flies away from sores. We can highly recommend it to all stock owners as an excellent remedy for curing barbed wire cuts or sores of any kind on stock. . G. W. HALL & SON, Livery and Transfer M;en. WORM REMEDY.' You will learn, by reading elsewhere in this book, that there are several different kinds of worms that inf€st the stomach and bowels of stock, and that they are a very common and trouble- some pest. In preparing our celebrated Worm Remedy we have used several different kinds of medicines, which make it the best worm destroyer ever prepared. It not only kills the worms, but aids digestion, tones up the stomach and bowels, cleanses the blood, and conditions the animal in general. It is perfectly harmless to the animal, but sure death to the worms. Price, 50c. 388 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. SPAVIN CURE. This is our favorite blister salve, and it is one of the best blis- tering preparations made. Don't think, because it is called Spav- in Cure, that it is only useful in curing spavin. It is the best penetrating, absorbing and sweating blister that can possibly be made, and, therefore-, is very useful in a great many diseases. A remedy of this kind has a great call for and is certainly much needed wherever horses are owned. We have spared no skill, time or expense in making our celebrated Spavin Cure complete and effectual in every particular to meet the demand. It is a safe, speedy and reliable remedy for spavin, ring-bone, splints, side bones, curbs, thorough pin, bog spavin, wind puffs, sweeny, all chronic enlargements of joints, all bony or callous tumors or enlargements, navicular disease, chronic founder, and any fever or soreness in the feet. It has wonderful vesicant and absorbent effects, penetrating to the seat of the trouble, and in- siiring speedy action and sure results in all cases where a cure is possible. It is guaranteed not to kill the hair when used according to- directions. When applied to the feet, it draws out all soreness and fever, softens the hoof, and makes it grow^ very rapidly. Price per bottle, $1. Brownwood, Texas, June 15, 1897. Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear, xVustin, Texas. Gentlemen: It is with pleasure that we testify to the merits of your Spavin Cure. We cured one very bad case of enlarged hock-joint in one of our horses which we thought was incurable. It is the very best penetrating, absorbing, sweating blister we ever used, and can highly recommend it to all horse owners who. have occasion to use it. G. W. HAT.T. & SON, Livery and Transfer Men. Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. 389 Holman, Texas, July 38, 1897. Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. Dear Sirs: I have sold your line of medicines for stock for about twelve months, and could not get along without them, as they give the most gratifying results among my customers. Very respectfully yours, G. W. LEWIS. Brenham, Texas, July 26, 1897. Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. Gentlemen: Your veterinary medicines have given entire sat- isfaction wherever sold. You will notice my orders have been quite frequent during the last twelve months, and the last order showed quite an increase in amount over previous ones. There is a demand for reliable veterinary medicines, and you made no mistake when you entered the field to supply this demand. 1 shall continue to handle your preparations, knowing that your skill and integrity insure safe and reliable goods. Yours truly, K. E. LUHN, Druggist" Cameron, Texas, July 26, 1897. Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. This is to certify that I have been handling Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear's Veterinary Eemedies for ten months, during which time I have made seven orders. I find them to be good sellers and to satisfy those who use them. Eespectfully, GEO. A. THOMAS. Brownwood, Texas, July 5, 1897. Drs. L. D. & I^. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. Dear Sirs: It is with pleasure that we recommend to the trade and public your veterinary remedies. We have been handling them about one year, and have placed six orders with you. We 390 Dr. LeGear's Stock Book. find them good sellers and give entire satisfaction to the buyer. We can safely say that your Horse Colic Cure is a panacea for oolic. Have known of one or two doses instantly relieving some very severe cases. We consider all your remedies medicines of great merit. Yours truly, K. P. PAYNE DRUG CO. Georgetown, August 2, 1897. To whom it may concern: This is to certify that we have been selling Dr. LeGear's vet- erinary remedies for over six months and are yet to hear of a case where they have not given perfect satisfaction. Respectfully, FLEAGER & WHITTENBERG. New Braunfels, Texas, August 19, 1897. Drs. L. D. & N. G. LeGear, Austin, Texas. Gentlemen: Since you have introduced your celebrated veter- inary medicines here, the demand for them has steadily in- creased, and people who have used them are more than pleased with results. H. V. SCHUMANN, the Leading Druggist. INDEX. HORSE DEPARTMENT. Abortion 210 | Abscesses 172 After-birth, retention of 206 Age, how told 49 Albuminoids, poisoning by. . 94 Amurosis 143 Aplithae 58 Apoplexy 127 Asthma 38 Azotiiria 94 Barrenness 211 Big head 105 Bladder, inflammation of . . . 90 Bladder, paralysis of the neck of the 92 Bladder, spasm of the neck of the 91 Bleeding from the lungs .... 30 Bleeding from the nose 23 Blind staggers 128 Bloody flux 79 Bog spavin 180 Bones 149 Bots. larvae of the gadfly. . . 61 Brain, concussion of 123 Brain, inflammation of 124 Break-down 187 Breathing, organs of 19 Breeding 8 Broken wind 38 Bronchitis 28 Bruise of sensitive sole 234 Burns 173 Capped elbow 1 82 Capped hock 181 Canker 240 Care of the mare 12 Caries 156 Castration 214 Bleeding 218 Lockjaw 219^ Pain 218 Peritonitis 218 Ridglings 220 Seedy cord 220 Swelling 217 Cataract 141 Catarrh, simple 20^ Catarrh, chronic 24 Choking 59 Choking, results of 61 Chronic cough 24 Clipping horses 199^ Cocked ankles 1&3 Coflin-joint lameness 243 Cold in the head 20 Collar galls 194 Colic, flatulent 64 [p. 301 J 392 Index. Colic, spasmodic 69 Congestion of the lungs 31 Constipation 71 Contraction 230 Cornea, ulcers of 142 Corns 235 Cracked heels 100 Cribbing 267 Crooked tail 198 Curb ; J77 Cystitis