I pj».- r--, ■• ,• ■■rr^-.r'i.<:irw^,-~'. J,. . -r^i-Mt' -^ : ■...-.:*- JOHNA.SEAVERNS TUFTS UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES 3 9090 013 407 040 • I ^ Webster Family Library of Veterinary Medicine Cummings School bt Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University , 200 V^stboro Road Nortfi Grafton, MA 01536 J .* i f ■x 0 (jyt^,^^^.^-^ THE PRACTICAL FARRIEE, • FOE FAKMEES: ' , I I COMPRISING « A GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE MOBLE AND USEFUL ANIMAI., THE HORSE; WITH MODES OP MANAGEMENT IN ALL CASES, AND TREATMENT IN DISEASE. TO WHICH IS ADDED, A PRIZE ESSAY ON MULES; ' AN APPENDIX, CONTAINING RECIPES FOR DISEASES OF HORSES, OXEN^ COWS, CALVES, SHEEP, DOGS, SWINE, ETC. ETC. VY KICHARD MASON, M. D, fOBMERLY OF SURRY COUNTY, VIRGINIA. ^wx^i^^^t^^^r^^^k^^^^^ PHILADELPHIA: J. B. LIPPINCO,TT & CO 1860. Entered according to the act of Congress, in the Vf-ar 1848, by JOHN GRIGG, in the clerk's office of the district court of the United states, in and for the eastern district of Pennsylvania <^ PREFACE. Few subjects can more justly claim the attention of the public, than that noble and useful animai, the horse; and there are few indeed of any moment, that have met with more neglect from society. Not more than one or two authors in the United States have turned their attention to this interesting subject. This neglect, in which every individual is so deeply interested, must have proceeded from the low standing in society to which the horse has been sunk by men destitute oi veracity, too often having the opportunity of dealing in those invaluable animals, committing frauds, making false statements of age, gaits, condition, &c. to the injury of those v^rho are unfortunate enough to confide in their assertions, or to deal with them. In this little vv^ork, v^^hose size is calculated for the pocket, I shall endeavour to guard the unsuspecting against the arts of the jockey, and to point out so plainly the difference between an elegant and a common horse a good and bad horse, a sound and an unsound horse that any person may become a tolerable judge, by reading this Httle book with attention, however unfa- miliar the subject may have been heretofore. It is my object to be useful rather than offend, or appear learned. I shall avoid all hard names, technical terms. Sec. ; and w^ill offer to the public the information I 1* PREFAfJE possess, with candour and simplicity. In a work ol this nature, the claim to entire originality must be relinquished; so far from attempting it, I confess 1 have, in a few instances, made quotations from other authors, when I have found from experience they con- tained matter, useful, clear, plain, and familiar for my purpose. I hope this acknowledgment will bo received in place of marks of quotation. Amongst the great number of animals under the control of man, the excellent horse, unquestionably, is the most serviceable. How often do we see him the sole dependence of the poor farmer and his family, with whom he divides the morsel, shares in the toils, and by slowly turning up the soil, not only keeps them free from want, but fills the barn with plenty ! Trace him from the lowest to the highest situation, you will find him faithful, affectionate, and no less useful. Jn every species of farming, the horse bears the principal burden, and is the means of increasing wealth and happiness. In the transportation of foreign growth and manufactures to the interior of our country, and the exportation of the produce of the United States, the faithful horse affords a speedy conveyance to and from the water's edge. For the quick communications by posts and stages, even with the most remote parts of the union, we are indebted to the horse. Even our happy republican government has been established, protected, defended, and administered, by the means and aid of these noble animals. Men of every pro- fession, must all acknowledge the benefit derived from him; indeed he has been the very spring oi punctuality and attention to business of almost every description. The horse, in his mature, is mild, patient, forgiving, and affectionate. After being hard used, half starved, and unmerclfi' v beaten, who recoi- PREFACE. lects ever to iiave seen him appear to feel the injury, pout over his scanty allovi^ance, or discover hatred towards his cruel master? View his gentleness ana kindness to a sot, who has indulged too long over his glass, often bending, turning and yielding to his giddy head ; and finally, when he is prostrated in the dust, now often does the sagacious animal, when compelled to tread on him, bear lightly and tenderly ; and when loose, appear unwilling to leave the helpless drunkard ; how often on his back are we conveyed in safety at night amidst difficulties, dangers, and unfamiliar roads ? And where is the traveller that does not re- collect that when returning on his journey, and in search of his home, when a road before unnoticed, had bewildered and stopped his progress, how readily and how faithfully has the horse thrown his ears to- wards the right road, and with quickening steps dis covered his eagerness to reach his home ? See him in the race, resolute, eager, and delighted, swelling every vein, and exerting every muscle and fibre to win the prize. Behold him in the field of battle, furious, in • trepid, and full of fire, forgetful of danger, rushing on the point of the bayonet, delighting in the glittering of arms, and panting for victory. View him in the civil and more happy circles of domestic life, in the service of the rich, the liberal, and the happy, proudly arid smoothlv rollino^ behind him the rattlino: chariot •I CD I O wheels, with an aspect lively, gay, and cheerful. II to an animal like this, I can be the cause of adding to his comfort, improving his condition, making him fat, relieving his pain, removing disease, and sometimes save life, I shall feel as if I had rendered a service to ilie community at large, and performed a pari oi Hie task assigned me. 6 PREFACE. When the reader reflects that a Jarge volume has been written on the anatomy of the horse's foot alone, he will easily conceive my confined, embarrassed, and cramped situation; having to treat of so many differ- ent parts and subjects, within the scope of two hun- dred pages. In doing of this, it will be impossible for me to give more than the skeleton or bare outline orl' Lhe interesting theme, which I hope, at some future day, will be filled up and completed by some more fortunate genius. THE AUTHOR. TABLE OF CONTENTS, TO MASON S FARRIER. Appendix to Mason, Page 195 Addenda to Mason, 289 Age, 72 by feeling, 76 Breeding and raising, 29 do. do. by Broadnax 34 Blooded horse, to chooset 37 Blaze or star 79 Body 81 Broken wind 98 Bots or grubs 118 Bruises 132 Big head 140 Blisters 153 Bleeding 157 Carriage horses 19 Castrating colts 60 Crib biting 97 Chest founder 100 Colds 150 Colic or Gripes ' il3 Clyster or glyster 154 Docking 59 Diseases, infectious to prev. 126 Diarrhoea or purging 151 Diabetes 152 Driving 158 Excessive fatigue 65 Eyes, good and bad 86 ■ ■ moon 92 Foxing 58 Fattening 63 Founder, chest lOO Founder 110 Farcy 105 Fistula 145 Fomentations 155 Galls, wind 104 Gravel in the bladder 124 in the hoofs 128 Glyster or clyster 154 Head 80 Heels, narrow 101 Hoofs 85 gravel in 128 Hidebound 137 Hooks or Haws 121 Hinny and Mule ^ 159 Infe<3tiou8 diseases to prev't 126 Journey, treatment on Page 6is Keeping 23 Legs 82 Lampass 103 Lock Jaw 148 Lost appetite 149 Marks 78 Mane and tail 85 Moon Eyes 92 Mange 137 Mash 156 Mules . 159 Narrow heels 101 Neck and shoulders 82 Nicking ' 48 Ostler 45 Pricking 58 Poll evil 146 Purging or Diarrhoea 151 Race horse 22 rider 28 Horses, English mode of management, &-c. 39 Ring bone 110 Saddle horse 13 Stables 46 Star or Blaze 79 Shoeing 83 Starting 93 Stumbling 95 Spavin 96 String halt ' 99 Splint 102 Scratches 117 Strangles 123 Stone or gravel in bladder 124 Strains 133 Staggers 134 Surfeit 138 Sore tongue 140 Saddle galls 150 Sitfasts 151 Spot a white horse 157 Treatment on a jourqej 68 Wind broken 98 Wind galls 104 Wounds 123 Wall's receipt 158 Yellow water 125 CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. HCrThe following are Numbered instead of being Paged. Alterative medicine for live stock No. 129 Astringent medicines for live stock 131 Balls and drinks, mode ot giving to horses 111 Balls, cordial cough, &c. used in Veterinary practice 147 Belly, diseases of 39 Bladder, inflammation of 62 in cattle 193 Bloody urine in horses 63 Blistering • 118 ' Sweating of Liquid 120 Bleeding 126 Blisters used in Veterinary Pharmacopojia 138 Blood or bog spavin 89 Bloody ray (see dysentery) 196 Blown or hove in cattle 187 Blast or hove in sheep 220 Blood rot in do. 222 Bowels, inflammation of 45 Bone spavin and splints 87 Braxy or dysentery in cattle 196 in sheep 224 Broken wind 37 Bridle sores 26 Broken knees 85 Catarrhal fever in horses 13 Capulet of the hock in do. 81 Canker or quitter in do. 106 Castration, nicking, docking and cropping 125 Castrating lambs, &c. 241 • swine 243 Catarrh or influenza in cattle 177 Cattle surgery 201 obstetrics ^ 204 vermin on 209 Calves, diseases of 207 Calving 205 Chronic cough 36 and 218 Clysiers used in Veterinary Medicine 143 Claveau, or sheep pox • 214 Clystering 122 Condition of horses 2 Cou[rh, cluonic 36 — iw siieev; 2^8 Colic, red or enteritis No. 45 , fret or gullion 53 , in horn cattle 189 and 194 Corns in the feet of horses 101 Cracks 95 Cud, loss of 198 Cutting in feet of horses 108 Curb of the hock in horses 92 Cutting and spaying pigs 243 Daisy or turning in cattle 199 Diseases of horses, see horse Diseases in feet of horses 96 Founder 98 Contraction 99 Pumiced foot 100 Corns 101 Burning thrush 103 Sand Cracks 104 Pricks 105 Quittor and canker 106 Treads 107 Cutting 108 Diarrhoea or looseness 52 ■ in cattle 195 Diseases of sheep 210 swine 242 Diuretic used in Veterinary Medicine 151 Diseases of horn'd cattle 173, 183 Diabetes, profuse staling or pissing evil 64 Drinks and balls, mode of giving in Vet. Surgery 111 Drinks in Vet. medicine 149 Dysenteric inflammation 49 Dysentery or braxy in cattle 196 in sheep 224 Dogs, diseases of 244 Asthma Sore eyes Cb.ncer Colic Cough Distemper Fits Inflamed bowels Inflamed lungs Madness Wj^y-niing whelps Miinge 263- V^orms 245 248 249 250 251 252 2.54 255 256 257 262 264 CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. 9 Embrocations used in Ve- tcrin.ary practice No. 154 Epidemic fever or pest 15 Epilepsy 17 Ey»s, horses, diseases of 18 Farcy, 74 Feet, founder of 96 Fetlock, strains of the 83 Fever in horned cattle 174&183 Fever medicine, used in ve- terinary practice 157 Fistulous withers 28 Firing 121 Fret, colic gripes or gullion 54 Flux, slimy, see dysentery Frontal worms in sheep 236 Fomentations in veterinary surgery 113 Founder of the feet 96 Foot stoppings for horses 166 Foul in the foot in cattle 202 Foot rot in sheep 232 Fumigations used in veteri- nary practice 157 Gall in sheep 224 Gid in do. 233 Goggles in do. 233 Glanders 71 Glanderous rot in sheep 217 Grease 93 Gravel and stone in horses 65 Gripes, colic, fret or gullion 53 Gutta serena 20 Gullion, colic, gripes or fret 53 HoRSEiS, diseases of 1 In and out of con- dition, and when diseased. 2, 3, 4 Inflanmiatory diseases 5 Diseases of the head 1 7 Neck 28 Chest 31 Skin 66 Glandera and farcy 71 Diseases of the ex- tremi-irg 76 Diseaaes o'the Feet 96 Hepatitis or yellows 58 riide bound 70 Hoof Liquid for veterinary practice 162 H«>ve or blown 'p cattle 187 Q.orn distemper or horn ail 2U8 Hove blast or wind colic Ir sheep No. 220 Hogs, see swine Hydatids or staggers in she>3p 223 Inflammatory fever in horse diseases 5 General 6 Local 7 Inflammation of the brain or phrenitis 8 Inflammatory fever in horse diseases, general 33 local 7 Influenza or catarrh fever in horses 13 Inflammation of the lungs in horses 31 in cattle 184 Inflammation, of the bowels 45 of the liver 58 in sheep 222 Incontinence of urine 63 Influenza or catarrh 177 Inflammation of the stomach in cattle -185, 189 Inflammation of the kidneys or red water 191 Inflammation of the bladder 193 Jaundice in sheep 223 Knees broken, in horses 85 Lampass or mouth disease 25 Lambs, castration of 241 diseases of 238 Liver, chronic inflammation of 58 , diseases of in horses 58 Lockjaw, in horses 11 Looseness or diarrhoea 52 Lungs, inflammation of 31 Malignant fever in horses 15 Madness, canine 257 Mange 66 in Dogs 263 Mallenders and sallenders S4 Malignant epidemic or mur- rain in sheep 21b Megrims 17 Morfounder or cctairhal fe- ver in horses 13 Moon blindness or opthalmia 19 Mineral poison 40 Murrain or pest 1« in cattle 179 Murrain in sheep 21 f 10 CONTENTS OF APPENDIX- Neck, diseases of No, 28, 30 Opthalmia or blindness 19 Ointments used for horses, cattle, sheep, &,c. by Vete- * rinary practitioners 169 Obstetrics in cattle 204 Overreach or tread in the feet 107 Pest or murrain 15 Peripneumonia or inflamed lungs in sheep 217 Pendro, a disease in sheep 233 Pinning do. in do. 226 Pharmacopoeia in horses and cattle 128 Poll Evil 21 Poison, mineral 40 , vegetable 42 , in sheep 239 Poultices in Veter. surgery 115 Pneumonia or inflammation of the lungs 34 Physicking 123 Process 124 Pricks in the feet 105 Pumiced foot 100 Purging medicine in Veteri- nary practice 163 Puckeridge or wornals in cattle 203 Pigs, see swine Quitter and canker in the feet of horses 106 Salivation 41 Sand cracks 104 Sallenders and mallenders 84 Setons 116 Scalding mixture for poll evil 165 Scouring or diarrhoea in horn- ed cattle 195 Scour in sheep 224 Scab or shab in sheep 231 Sheep, diseases of 210 Sore throat 28 Staggers ia horses 9 and 43 in cattle 199 Staggers in sheep ^ 233 Sturdy * 17 in sheep 233 Strangles, vives or ives 22 Stranguary or suppression of urine 63 Stone or gravei in horses No. 66 Stomach staggers 43 , inflammation of in sheep 219 Strain in the shoulder 76 , in the whirl bone 78 , in the stifle 80 , in the back sinews 81 , of the leg 82 , of the fetlock and cof- fin joints 83 Shoulder strains in horses 76 Splints and bone spavins 8C Spavin, blood and bog 89 Skin, diseases of in horses 65 Surfeit 67 Surgery in cattle 199 Swelled neck 30 Swine, diseases of 242 , cutting and spaying 243 Tag-belt in sheep 226 Tetanus or locked jaw in horses in cattle Teeth Throat, diseases of Thick wind or pneumonia Thoroughpin or blood spavin Treads or overreach in the feet Ticks in sheep, to destroy Turnsick, in horses , in sheep Urinary organs of horses, diseases of Urine, suppression of bloody or stranguary incontinence of Veterinary operations 11 200 27 29 34 89 107 240 17 233 60 63 63 63 on horses 109 Veterinary Pharmacopoeia 127 Vives or ives 24 Vermin on cattle 209 Warbles 68 Warts 69 Wash medicines used by ve- terinary practitioners Wind broken or pneumonia Whirl bone strains Worms in horses in sheep 236 and 237 Wounds, treatment of 110 Wornals or puckeridge 205" 167 37 78 57 CONTEXTS OF APPENDIX. n Worm under the horn, a dis- ease in sheep, No. 233 Watery head in sheep 233 Wind colic in do. 221 Yellows or liver complaint No. 58 , hot, in cattle 190 and 19* in sheeo 22i<, ,v I'HE POCKET FARRIER. SADDLE HORSE. ' When a horse is purchased for the saddle aiono, a IS to be presumed he must be clear of all defects, strike the fancy, entirely please the eye, and, from nis happy symmetry and due proportion of form, stano the second beauty in the world. When this is the case, he is seldom disposed of at too high a price. — Amongst the great number of people in the Uniteo'' States, I am induced to believe, there are but few- good judges of a horse calculated for the saddle In- deed, they are better informed upon almost apy othei subject that can be mentioned. Yet the Virgmians have a large number of line horses, and are accused of devoting too much attention to that beautiful ani- mal. Among all the difficulties attending the affairs of common jfor there is not, perhaps, a greater than that of choosing a beautiful, an elegant, or good horse. Nor v^ill this appear strange, when we consider the number of circumstances that are to be taken mt(j consideration, with regard to shape, size, movements, limbs, marks, eyes, colour, age, &c. &c. — which are so various that it would fill a volume to describe; and indeed the best judges are often obliged to content themselves with guessing at some things, unless they have sufficient time to make a thorough trial. If J were asked, wnat were the two most beautiful objeofs 14 SADDLE HORSE. in nature, I would answer, that woman, loveiy woman, before whose charms the soul of man bows with re- verence and submission, stands unparalleled ; next to this matchless paragon, 9 beautiful horse displaj^s nature in her highest polisii and greatest perfection ; -his gay and cheerful appearance, proudly prancing and bounding, his elegance of shape, smoothness of limbs, polish of skin, due proportion of form, and gracefulness of action, united to a mild, soft, faithful, and patient disposition, raise him far above the rest of ihe brute creation. I shall now proceed to lay down some rules, and to give some hints, for the examina- tion of a horse previous to a purchase being made, to prevent the liberty of exaggeration, which is too fre- quently taken by dealers in those animals, and which too often terminates to the serious injury of the pur- chaser. It is to be much lamented, that men who entertain a proper idea of honour in all the common affairs of hfe, so soon as they become the owner of a horse, feel at liberty, without being sensible of doing violence to their morals, to knock off two or three years from his real age, and express themselves, with apparent delight, of services, gaits, and qualities, to which he never had any sort of claim or pretention ; carefully keeping a secret every vice and defect to which he is subject. I do not pretend to say this is the case with all who exchange or sell a horse, but that it has often o(*curred no person will deny. If a fraud can be prac- tised at all, it is sufficient reason for the inexperienced and unsuspecting to be placed on their guard. When a horse is offered for sale, I would advise the pur- chaser to ask one question, viz : Is he in all respects perfectly sound? Should a cheat be practised on you, under such circumstances, an action would lie again?l SADDLE HORSE. 15 the seller, and damages could be recoverable ; but be your own judge, not permitting any declaration tha't may be made by the seller, to alter your opinion ol form, age, condition, movements, action, &;c. As the eyes of a horse are the most important organ, first* let him undergo a strict examination; ascertain his age, examine his figure and action; guarding yourself against being too much pleased or fascinated with the appearance of a new object; view his feet and legs; large ridges on the hoofs, or very flat feet, discover a horse to be subject to founder : large gouty legs, with enlarged tendons indicate strains and other injuries, examine his hind legs, with great attention, just below the hock and inside the hind knee; if there is any unnatural prominence or knot, unlike the other knee, it wears the appearance of a spavin, which renders a horse of but little value. Splint, which appears on the inside of the fore legs, and wind-galls, upon the ancles, are unpleasant to the eye, but seldom produce serious lameness ; they furnish plain proof that a horse has been serviceable, and are very seldom productive of any other injury than stiffness, as he advances in years. Ride yourself, for the purpose of trying his gaits and qualities; as a rider accustomed to a horse, by private signs, such as manner of riding, bearing on the bit, leaning forward or backward, holding the heels close to his sides, &c. &;c. &c., can make a dull horse appear gay and spirited, a wild horse gentle, a stumbler clear footed, one that is blind appear to see, and a starting horse free from that great objection, &c. &c Before mounting him, examine his knees, to discover if they are skinned, the hair off, or scarred; those are strong symptoms of his politeness to a fault. Ride with your bridle loose over any uneven ground : if he is in the ' habil of stumbling, he will very readily inform you- 2* B 16 SADDLE HORSE. ihen ap^jroach some object offensive to the sight; if he appears much alarmed, stopping suddenly, and attempting to turn round, paying but little respect to the bearing of the bridle, you may judge he has been long in the habit of that bad practice. Ride him in all his different gaits, to ascertain if they are smooth, easy, and agreeable ; move him about a mile, out and back, in fully half speed; frequently stopping him suddenly to try his w^ind, also if he is spavined; if his wind has been injured, he will blow unnaturally; making a loud wheezing noise, with great difficulty of breathins:. While warm, ride him in cold water above the belly ; after which let him cool fifteen or twenty minutes, and if he is spavined, and has received temporary relief, by applications of any kind, the disease will make its appearance so plain, that you will discover evident marks of lameness. The spavin IS often relieved for a time; and in a few instances has been permanently cured, by blistering, bathing with double distilled spirits, &c. Tne brisk exercise, &c. is intended tq bring on a return of its eliec is, [:. case the animal should have had temporary relief from that distressing disease. Having given such hints as I am persuaded will lead to the discovery of any material defects in a horse about to be purchased, I shall now proceed to the description of a horse that I consider elegant and fil ^br the saddle. In order that he may have just claim to beauty and elegance, his head must be small, thin, bony, and tapering; his countenance lively and cheerful; his ears quick of action, high, erect, narrow, thin, and pomting togethei ; nis eyes kirge, round, full, and black- sparkling with cheerfulness, yet hushing his agitating passions into order and obedience; his nostrils large SADDLE HORSE. 11 nnd expanded, and when in motion, disclosing a deep red colour ; his brow and forehead smooth, and noi too flat ; his nose somewhat rising, of good turn, and a little inclined to the Roman shape ; his neck long, thin, delicate, and arched, forming a beautiful grada- tion from the breast and shoulders ; his mane half the width of his neck, thin and smooth ; his shoulders high tapering, and thrown well back ; his breast plump, full, and of moderate width ; his fore legs straight, flat, sinewy, and thin ; his arms large and muscular ; his back short, and not too much swayed for strength and durability, but pretty even and straight ; his body rather round and swelling than flat, and of propor- tionable size ; his flanks plump and full, and the last nh approaching near the hip bones ; his hips and but- tocks full, round, and well covered with muscles ; his chine broad ; his tail well placed, and naturally or artificially elegant, which adds much to his figure and gay appearance ; his thighs long, from the hip to the naunch bone large and bulging with muscles ; his hocks broad, sinewy, bony, and clear of pufls ; his hind legs from the hocks short, bending a little rather than straight, flat, and sinewy ; fiis pasterns *" moderate .ength, small and bony ; his hoofs cupped, small, rouna. 9.nd smooth ; his hind parts not tucked, but of easy turn and graceful slope ; when mounted his appearance should be bold, lofty, and majestic ; his eyes shinmg with intrepidity and fire ; his movements light and any as a phantom, with a fairy step, that would seal cely break a dew drop; his actions smooth and graceful ; his colour should suit the taste of the pu'- chaser, though a mahogany bay is certainly the besi •colour ; his marks large, of irregular white, to light up ^he countenance, and at least two white legs, which will add much to his beauty — though it must '*e sv J 8 SADDLE HORSE. knowledged, that all parts of a horse that are white, are much more tender than any other colour. When a horse is rode by any person for you to judge of his gaits, you should have him moved towards you, from you, and finally by you, as you may have the oppor- tunity of discovering, if there is any turning in and out about his knees and ancles, before or behind, which is very objectionable. A well shaped horse will track as true, or his legs will follow each other in as direct a line, as the wheels of a well constructed carriage. — For him to be considered a good riding horse, he should move with ease to himself, and pass over the ground with great rapidity. Hard steps, short going, and great apparent labour, is offensive to the sight, unpleasant to the rider, and fatiguing to the horse him- self. With respect to the colour of horses, people differ very widely ; a black horse, with white face and legs ; a grey, or a mahogany bay, with white marks, when w^ell kept, are all showy colours ; but for actual service, experience has proved, that dark colours, without any white feet, are far preferable ; for who ever recollects to have seen a black, sorrel, or bay horse, with a bald face and four white legs, distinguish himself on the turf, in four mile heats ? I am inclined to believe there is no first rate race horse, of that de- scription, w^ithin the United States. I have, perhaps, stated some facts relative to horse )0cke3^s, in a manner so plain and candid, as to draw from them their displeasure. My object is not to offend, but to instruct and be useful to those who want experience on the suDject, for which this little book is designed The annexea engraving (See Frontispiece) presents mv idea of an eJcgant saddle horse; by a refercrxe t« CARllIAGE HORSES. 10 which, the judgment of a purchaser will not oiiK oc benefited, but meet with considerable support. '-M*9^9««> CARRIAGE HORSES. Horses intended for a carriage or draft of any description, should be from five feet to five feet four inches high; though there are many excellent and truly valuable dr^ft horses of much smaller size. The greatest attention should be paid to their habits, temper, quality, and disposition. A horse that has been once frightened in harness, never again is safe for tha* employment. So retentive are their memories, that they do not forget an alarm of that kind during their whole lives. For the want of experience on this subject, horses that have been frightened in harness have been hitched to carriages, which too often has been the cause of the untimely death of many amiable females and helpless children. Indeed, a pair of good and well matched, gentle carriage horses, is rarely to be met with; as so many good qualities, together with a similarity of age, colour, size, and marks, is required to make them complete and valuable. Their eyes should be good, carriage lofty, bodies proportionaoly large, breasts full and wide, their whole bodies heavily muscled; their heads, necks, and ears delicate; their iCgs large, sinewy, and bony ; their pasterns short, and their hoofs moderately large, and not too flat. They should be fre** from starting, stumbling, and kicking? iO CARRIAGE HORSES. and meir dispositions patient, gentle, and obedient. [t very often happens tliat horses are kept together as ft match, on account of their colour and similarity of marks, when no respect is paid to their difference of form, spirit, and movements, which often differ as widely as the mettled racer from the dull cart horse When thus badly matched, they would very soon be separated by a good judge, and nothing short of necessity should ever permit them to draw together. Carriage horses should carry good tails, naturally or artificially, which adds much to their gay and elegant appearance ; presenting figures ready, apparently, to move upon the wind, whilst they are perfectly gentle and manageable. Horses of different colours, whose spirit, ifize, and movements are similar, are a much better match in harness than those of the same colour, with three or four inches difference in height; or one dull, and the other spirited; one young, the other old; one fat, the other poor; one with a bald face and white legs, the other with white legs; or one active, and the other clumsy. I have thus taken up the time of the reader, to make him the better judge, and give him a correct idea of a bad match of carriage horses, which will assist him much in selecting those that are good. After being thoroughly satisfied about the shape, age, condition, &c., of a pair of carriage horses you may be about to pui'chase, it will be necessary, in justice to yourself to try them in harness; though the seller will assure you they are as gentle as lambs, true as honour, and fmally, the best pair of horses in the world; although It is possible for such a statement to be a fact, I would ad\ise that a trial should be made, and the purchasei become nis own judge; for which purpose have them hitched m a carriage, and driven several times up and CARRIAGE HORSES. 21 down the steepest hill that the road may cross, which is most convenient: if they have any tricks, or are not true draft horses, it can be readily discovered: next, for the purpose of discovering if they have ever been alarmed in harness, frequently open and shut the car- riage door, also move and rattle the steps ; if they have ever been frightened in harness you will very soon be compelled to desist; then by coming to their front, and with attention observing their ears and eyes, you will be informed to your entire satisfaction, if they are safe Horses that have been once alarmed in harness, so soon as they hear any rattling noise behind them, begin to grow restless, sinking or squatting behind, holding the head high, snorting, fetching long breaths, moving the ears with great quickness, at the same time showing the whites of their eyes. Let me warn the reader against the purchase of such horses ; they are unfit and unsafe for the use of a family. Horses for harness, that are fiery and fretful, are very objec- tionable, and should always be avoided; but great care jhould be taken to distinguish between animals of this description, and those that are eager and spirited ; the former begin to prance and Iret the moment they are out of the stable, until they exhaust themselves with fatigue ; but the latter endeavour only to be first in the chase, or foremost in the field, and are truly valuable ; possessing those qualities that resemble prudence and courage; the others, intemperate heat and rashness. Whenever carriage horses are driven, they should be moved off fifteen or twenty steps in a slow walk^ without the cracking or flourishing of a whip, which IS so much the custom, and which is very frequently the cause of high tempered horses refusing to draw . after which their speed may be quickened to whatevej gait you may prefer, by the use of some kmd word. 3 ' 22 RACE HORSE. 1.0 which all horses should be accustomed. It is \erj much the practice with drivers to leave their horses standing in a carriage, without any person to hold them, for hours together. Having seen the worst ot consequences result from this practice, (and with horses under the character of being gentle,) I would recom mend that drivers should never give up their reins until they are prepared with some person sufficiently strong to hold them. By using such precaution, the overturning and breaking many fine carriages, and the ruioing for ever many valuable and elegant carriage horses, would be avoided. «9@9* RACE HORSE. It is a remarkable fact, that horses run in all shapes. But most generally, those excel upon the turf, that are of the following form : head and neck thin, small, and delicate; eyes large, plump, and full of expression; nostrils wide, red, and expanded; throttle large; shoulders high, thin, and running very far back ; breast plump, full, and wide; body long, round, and rather light than heavy; back short as possible; thighs long, large, full, and bulging; fore arm large and swelling towards his breast ; hocks broad, strong, and bony ; legs of moderate size, thin, flat, and sinewy; pasterns rather long and small, than otherwise; feet of propor- tionable size to the balance of his form ; though, of the two extremes, small is the best; he should be nervous, tractable, and of good spirit, and he should be from five feet to five feet four inches high. Such a horse, we.i managed, kept and placed in races, will seldom fail to distinguish himself on the turf. KEEPIIVO. 23 IvEEPlNG. The keeping a horse for a race is attended with much trouble, and requires great attention: but is more simple than is generally believed by persons wanting experience on that subject. A large majority of grooms, even to the present day are in the habit of giving to race horses large quanti- ties of physic, (though the number engaged in tnis practice has been diminished within the last ten years,) and for the sake of those very valuable animals, I hope ere long, such an injurious practice will be entirely abolished. All the medicine on earth will never give to a horse speed and bottom, that is naturally deficient in those respects ; and if he is affected at all by its use, it must operate to his disadvantage. The plainest and simplest mode of keeping horses, has proved much the best, to all who have ventured, in defiance of old opinions and customs, to use that course. When a horse is in health, the medicine ge- nerally given by grooms, has the effect of relaxing the muscles, enfeebling the system, and expanding the pores of the skin. I am clearly of opinion, that those large doses, which are so often given, never cause a horse, when running, to fetch a longer breath, braced his muscles, added to the elasticity of his tendons, in vigorated his system, or gave him, in any way, extra powers to perform the task assigned him ; but on the contrary, are frequently the means of throwing a horse out of order, that in all probability, under dif- ferent treatment, would have proved successful, if not master on the turf: indeed, this has sometimes been proved by the change of owners, and when a gooo •?4 KEEPING. fiorse has fallen into the hands of one that has observed, plain and simple treatment — the horse that previous to ihe change never was more than second or third best, has run with more than anticipated success. But many old and ignorant grooms who have never been benefited by experience, and all the knowledge they possess have been handed to them by persons equally ignorant with themselves, are under a belief, that unless a horse swallows a certain number of wind balls, that it is impossible he can win a race ; added to which, they are extremely superstitious, and some, even at the present day, confide in tricks and witch- craft. It is to be much regretted that a good horse snouid e "er fall into the hands of such blockheads. The first thing necessary in the keeping a race horse :s, a good log stable, about fifteen feet square : then provide a plenty of good and sweet old corn, fodder, and oats, and a sufiicient quantity of clean and dry straw, to change his bed every two or three days. Most horses, when first taken up for the purpose of being kept, require bleeding ; which a groom can always be a judge of from the appearance of the ani- mal. Good cloths, girts, &c. should be provided and kept on the horse, except at the hours for rubbing, which should be regularly three times a day ; in the morning, and evening after practice, and at twelve o'clock ; for which purpose a curry-comb, brush, straw and a large woollen cloth, must be provided and well used. Good rubbing assists in putting a horse in order, and places on his skin a beautiful gloss. His legs must be washed three times a day in clear cold water, ofter which they must be rubbed dry with straw, and the naked hand rubbed over the ancles and pasterns^ until a small degree of warmth is felt Th3 stablo should be kept perfectly clean. KEEPING. 25 A ho/se should be given such practice as he is well able to bear. As those animals frequently differ in every respect so widely from each other, it is impos- sible to lay down any rule that should govern, relative to the speed or quantity of practice necessary for horses in training. 1 will only remark, that a horse should be practised in a moderate gallop, the distance he is intended to be run, moving briskly every time he passes the stand, and for a short distance on the back of the ground: he then should be walked about a mile, and again ga Hopped in manner first directed. Some fleet and delicate horses require very little practice indeed; while other hardy and hard bottomed horses require and can bear verv hard practice. But the appetite of a horse is the best criterion, as relates to that subject. {{ a horse refuses to eat, it is an evidence that his practice is either too hard or too quick; when he eats heartily, it is a proof that he is able to bear what is given him. When a horse is first taken into keeping, his allowance for the first two or three davs, should be rather short; which should be offered four times a day. His exercise should be walking, for the first three or four days ; two or three times the distance, or round the course of his (contemplated race ; after whicn time, his food may be increased with his exercise, and he may be regularly fed with from two quarts at a feed to four quarts. His food should be often changed and prepared thus : his hommony (Indian corn ground coarse) should be first winded, then thrown into clean water, so as to separate the part that is nutritious from the husk and chaff; the oats should be lightly beaten m a common hommony mortar, to separate them from \he hull or chaff, which may be blown off; his fodaer should be stemmed whenever it is discovered he hus -O KEEPING. '00 much belly. A horse never should be drawn suddenly, as nothing is more weakening. The best medicine on earth, that can be employed in keeping of a horse, to give him wind and bottom, as the grooms term it, is good and sweet food. A greater proportion of old oats, hay, or hommony, opens the bowels; and a large proportion of fodder and oats, when prepared in the way directed, has the reverse effect; so that by using food that actually contains nourishment, and will certainly benefit your horse, you may place him in whatever kind of order you think proper, without using those medicines which have a certain tendency to weaken and relax him. About two mashes during the time of keeping, is very bene- ficial ; the first as soon as you commence ; the second, about eight days previous to his running; composed of one gallon of bran, one table spoonful of flour oi sulphur, and one tea spoonful of saltpetre. Most grooms are in the habit of giving one, two, or three sweats, during the time of keeping ; which method of hardening tlie flesh I am much opposed to. U a horse is too gross, gradually increase his exercise, which will have the desired effect. Whenever a horse has to undergo one of those swoats, he is so much weakened and relaxed, as to require at least one week to recovei his strength. Should a horse, in keeping, h^se his nppetite, it can readily be restored, by a single inno- cent drench, composed of a quarter of an ounce cl asafcetida, one table spoonful of salt, and one quart of sassafras tea. Good food, regular feeding, moderate exercise, and strict attention to rubbing, are of much more importance and benefit to a horse in keeping, than the aammistering of large doses of physic, which Ills nature does not require. When a horse is well kept, he will not appear very fat, but his flesh will be very firm and hard : his legs and ancles must be perfectly cool, and not puffed or swelled ; his eyes should be lively, and countenance cheerful : he should possess no bad habits, but bo tractable, gentle, and manageable ; his actions smooth and graceful ; he should be taught patience ; and often ))ractised in starting around the race course, never permitting him to go off, until the word GO is given. Many advantages result hi a race, to a horse, being Droperly broke in starting. After a horse has gone through his practice, and has been well rubbed, &:c. &c. his feet should be stuffed, (during the time of his standing in the stable) with fresh cow manure, or clay and salt, to prevent his ancles from swelling or being heated ; his legs should be bathed once a week, with equal parts of old peach brandy and fresh butter, or sweet oil and vinegar, slewed over the fire until well mixed, and applied warm as the hand can bear it. Whenever a horse commences his brisk exercise, the under part of his ancles should be occasionally greased, to prevent their cracking and the scratches being produced. The heels of most young horses crack, during their exercise, unless this precaution is used ; fresh butter, sweet oil, or hog's lard, answers well for that purpose. The subject of keeping horses is so extensive, thai to treat fully on it, would require a book at least the size of this ; the reader, therefore, must be conten with the few hints and few pages I have devotes to this subject. BKEEDI.N'G. 29 Strict and pointed attention should be paid to the orders given, and they rigidly adhered to. A rider should bear a little forward, steadily as possible, and without altering the attitude' of his body, when whipping, pushing, or running at his ease, taking great care to remain steady in his stirrups, holding his elbows close, and his hands low. A rider, after running his heat, should never dis- mount, or give up his horse to any other person, until it is his turn to prove his weight, and is directed to come to the stand. i THE BREEDING AND RAISING OF HORSES. The breeding and raising of horses, to most persons, is a very amusing and pleasing task; but it is attended with much trouble and expense, unless well managed, and then it becomes not only a subject of profit, but is well worth the attention of any person, whose situ- ation will admit of it, for the purpose of making a fortune. The raisinar of cold blooded or common horses, is generally a disadvantage to any person, being neithei interesting or profitable. A colt three years old, of the above description, seldom costs the owner less than one hundred and twenty dollars; and when he maKC? a sale, twice out of three times that sum cannot 6e obtained; consequently there is a loss, independent of trouble. But colts, three or four veais old, fronn, \he best stock in the United States, of large size and 4 BltEEDING. having distinguished themselves on the turf, have, jju^ inanded from one hundred to one thousand pounds;! By raising and running such horses, large sums ol money have been accumulated in the United States, and particularly in Virginia, where the blood, speed, and beauty of horses, are equal to any in the v^^orld. JMuch has been stated by English authors, on the subject of blood, form, and speed of the EngUsh horses ; particularly Dorimant, Bay Malton, Eclipse, High- flyer, Matchem, Shark, Childers, &c. &c. &c. But could the blood, form, speed, and bottom, of our Ame- rican horses, Brimmer, Chanticleer, Leviathan, Virago, Surprise, Florizel, Potomac, American Eclipse, &c. &c. &c. have been contrasted w^ith them, I am induced to believe they vi^ould have had the same claim to the page of record and superior performance. True it is, that of Flying Childers it is stated, that ne run a mile in a few seconds over a minute. My regard for the life of every human being, particularly a valuable race rider, induces me to wish our horses may never perform the mile in that time, though we have several amongst us whose speed is unknown, although they were on the turf several years, contending with very fine race horses. I must confess, that for a horse to run a mile in a minute, or eighty-two and a half feet in a second, (as stated) surpasses any idea that I have entertained of the velocity that a horse was capable of In order to raise a beautiful and good racer, a stud «hould be made choice of, that will be a good cross, and of the best blood; not less 'than five feet two, though five feet four inches high, is a preferable size. He should be well proportioned, elegantly formed, of maho- gany bay colour, and clear of all defects, pirticu BREEDING. 31 Lilly spavin and blindness : and should net only have pioved himself in possession of speed on the tuif, Dui bottom also ; and should be a sure foal getter. A mare should be made choice of, not less than five feet high, with a delicate head and neck, great lenfrth of body, large belly, and above all other things, one that has proved herself, by her colts, to be a good breeder. When you commence breeding with a mare of this kind, you are almost certain of raising a valuable colt. But when you commence with one untried, you run a great risk of losing time and raising a horse of the 120 dollar price, unless the mare, or stock from which she originated, was first rate and remarkable for their fine colts. Indeed there appears to be the same simi- larity in the blood of horses that exist in men, as respects their good and bad qualities, shape, &c. &c. We find vice common throughout some families, while we see virtue reigning in others. One breed of horses, under every care and attention, will only raise you a coarse horse or pony ; whilst good blooded horses, even half starved and under every disadvantage, will show strong marks of beauty, activity, and size ; and after winning from his master kind treatment, often becomes the champion of the turf. I have known several first rate race horses that were once plough and draft horses. A brood mare, that has produced one or two good racers, from a good cross, in all probability will, at any time produce one, when under similar advantages. When a colt is foaled early in the spring, he will be under every benefit that can be derived from size strength, and age ; consequently, it would be advisable to put a mare to horse at such time as would produce « colt about the fifteenth or twentieth of April. A I 32 BREEDING. mare generally goes with foal eleven months and as many days as she is years old. A colt foaled in April, when three years old would have to carry no more weight in a race field than one foaled in August ; which would give to the one first foaled a difference of three months of age, and of equal blood and under similar .advantages. The one first foaled ought very certainly to prove best on the turf, from three to seven years old After your mare has been put to the horse of youi choice, she should not be confined during her preg- nancy, but a house or shed about twelve feet square, should be built for the purpose of sheltering her from the rain or bad weather ; the south side of this house should be left entirely open, so that the mare might come in or go out at pleasure : and a manger and rack should be confined in it for the purpose of feeding. A good bed of straw, and that frequently changed, will add much to her comfort, and she will be induced to sleep under the shelter if the litter is kept clean. — Adjoining this house there should be a lot, enclosed with post and railing, containing from one to four acres of ground, clear of snags, grubs, and stumps ; in which the mare should be confined about two oi three weeks previous to her foaling : she will then be con- venient to assistaiK:e, should any be necessary. Mares frequently produce colts at fourteen or fifteen years of age, and sometimes twenty ; but from five to twelve years of age, from experiments made, appears to be the most valuable part of a mare's life for raising colts. Experience has also proved the great advan- tage resulting to the form and size of a colt, from letting him get thin upon grass alone, two or three time? previous to his being three years old; after which June he may be constantly pushed as much as possible. When the dam and sire of a colt are small, it is V: BJIEEDINO. 3*? be presumed a colt produced by them will make a small horse, although there may be no objection to the* blood; and if he makes a race horse, it will be of the unprofitable kind. He may be a winner at three years old; at four years old, second best; and being too small to carr}> weight, he never can win again. Such a horse will not '•:ommand a high price with a judge of horses, as it is evident tiiat a large horse, wdth the same weight, will beat a small one, when they are equal in all respects except size. Indeed, for the purpose of draft or riding, a large horse will command double the sum of a small one, which plainly proves the importsjice of breeding from a large stock. When a colt arrives at the age of two and a half years, it is time he should be handled, and taught the use of the bit. It is of great consequence he should be first gentled by a person who well understands the management of horses, to prevent bad habits; as first impressions are never entirely removed from maii or beast. 84 BREEDING. I Dip. following is the mode of raising Blooded Horses, as pursued by Wtn. E, Droadnax, of Brunswick County, Virginia.^ [from the AMERICAN FARMER.] MODE OF RAISING BLOODED HORSES. " In the first place, be particular in selecting a good stock to breed from. When the mare is near foaling, let her be to herself, and if early in the season, let her have a good roomy stable to foal in; and in good weather, let her and her colt be turned into a lot, (of wheat I prefer.) Wean the colt the first of October in a stable, until it is done snickering after its dam ; then turn it in a lot ; if you have more than one, they will do best together. " Stable them at night, and turn them out in the day except in very bad weather : force them all you can the first winter. To do this, their principal food should be cut oats moistened with a due proportion of corn meal sprinkled over and mixed with them. Most foals are apt to be too delicate ; forcing them, and keeping them warm at night, will increase the size of their limbs in proportion to the weight of their bodies. After they are one year old, they should not be kept so fat, nor yet permitted to get poor. A stud colt, which is intended to be kept as such, should be separated from other horses at a year old, and stabled of nights ; his rack and manger should be so high as to strain him a little to get food ; the windows of the stable should also be high, as he will be looking out at them : by these means his shoulders will be thrown back, and his withers raised. If it be wished to increase his quar- tois, enlarge his muscles, and other material parts, keep him in the stable frequently, for several days together, which will animate him ; then turn him out in BREEDING. 36 a lot, and encourage him to run and exert him sell all*, you can, as his parts will acquire size and strength in proportion to the use m^de of them. " I would recommend a mare of good form and thorough blood, though she cost the most, because her colts would cost '^.o more to raise them than those from an ordinary mare, and would probably sell for more than three or four times as much. The reason I would wean in a stable is, that in the usual way of weaning in cornfields, &:c. the colts run themselves poor before they are weaned. I prefer wheat lots for mares and colts, because they like it better than any thing else, and I think it agrees better with them. I find oats made use of as above stated, not only the most healthy and best, but also the cheapest food for mares and colts. In pursuing the course which has been laid down, I obtained the following results : " I selected a mare which I knew to be of good stock, but from improper raising was only four feet six inches high, and very delicate : The first remova! from her was four feet ten inches; the second remova five feet; the third was five feet, two inches; the fourth was five feet six inches." t6 RAISING OF COLTS. RAISING OF COLTS. 7V«€ following answers were returned by William R. Johnson, to questions propounded by J. Marshall, of Fauquier Co. Va.^ " Senate Chamber, February 4, 1829. 1. Keep the colts in pretty good order, not too fat, until they are too years old, then break them gently. 2. Keep them in lots, it does not matter as to size, taking care not to allow them to see other horses more than possible. 3 and 4. Grass lots are best,- and short grass. 5. Dry food mostly — when young, cut oats. 6. Give corn in the winter; oats in the summer; not more at a time than thev eat clean. When thev are once fat very light feeding is best. 7. It is not at all necessary to rub them until they are two vears cM. ml 8. Wean the colts at about six months old. Should the above answers to your questions not be sufficiently explicit, they will be with great pleasure added to. Respectfully, William R. Johnson RACK HOUSE. 87 [from the AMERICAN FARMER.] THE BLOODED HORSE. How to choose a race horse by his external appearauccy and to b: • judge of his symmetry by angular demonstration. RULES. 1st. Draw a base line from the stifle joint along the Dottom of the chest to the extreme point of the elbow, and to the shoulder-blade joint. 2dly. Draw a line from the curb or hock by the hip joint above the back, to an imaginary point. 3dly. Draw another line from the point of the shoul- der, ranging with the shoulder, and passing abo"?e the back, until it intersects the line at the imaginary point. 4thly. Draw a line from the intersecting poin. of the shoulders, giving the same declension until it in^srsects the base line. 5thly. From the stifle to the pomt of the \ -tutock ihence to the hip yAnt, thence declining to the stifle. 6thly. Draw a line from the hip to the b£ >e line right angular declension, then to the shoulder i p to the chest. 7thly. Then draw a straight line, regardless of the curve of the back, to a straight line intersecting at the shoulder at the beginning of the crest. 8thly. Then take a line from *he point of the shouc- ' der, and angular degree, ranging "vith the shouidei- blade to the top of the crest. Othly. Then, regardless of the risnig of the cresL V / 38 RACE HOUSE draw a straight line from the top of the shoulder-blade to inteisect with the point of the former line. ^ Thus the real symmetry of a grand and beautiful horse, possessed with muscular powers and strength, is formed by a right-angled triangle ; and the farther fiom it a race horse's form is, the less pretensions that nwse has to beauty, speed, bottom, or lastingness, ability lo carry weight, or activity. A thick, upright shoulder, is a very certain mark o\ a "stum bier," and is fit for no use whatever but the slow draft. A low coupling in the back, is a true mark of weak iiess; it denotes want of strength, lastingness, ability to carry weight, or speed. A low loin, is a certain mark of weakness, and a weakly and washy constitution. But a rising loin, of ability to carry weight, sjxied activity, and lastingness, and a good constitution, sym metry, beauty, and muscular strength. A race horse's legs cannot be too short. A great dechvity, and thin shoulders, denotes speed. A narrow breast, weakness A horse's breast bone, formed like that of the rabbit, denotes also speed, and it is the best form for a race horse. A short, broad hock, denotes strength: a broad stifle well let down to the curb or hock, denotes bottom or lastingness, strength, and activity. There are not two race horses in five hundred, pro- perly formed in the knees ; which should be small, divested of superfluous appendages, and strong ; ihcy aenote activitv and st^-ength. RACE HORSE. S9 A lax, bending pastern^ denotes also speed ; a long horse is preferable to a short one, because he can cover a great deal of ground, and can bear pressing better and longer. The race horse, upon the whole, whose form in general, is composed of the essential properties of the following animals, viz. the rabbit, grey hound, and ostrich — is the best. GoRWOOD» December 6, 1827. @e« The following is the English mode of vianngement and working ij Race Horses. hi the managing and wot king of race horses, three things are to be considered : the preparation of the horse, the conduct of the rider, and the after treatment of the horse. The preparation of a race horse for running a race is not the woj-k of a few days, if there be any great dependence on ihe success. A month at least, is required to harden his muscles in training, by proper food and exercise, and to retine his wmd, by clearing his body to diat degree of perfec- ,tion that is attainable by art. It is first necessary to ascertain correctly the present state of the horse, as whether he be low or high in flesh ; and in either case, a proper estimate should be formed of the time and means required to bring him into true runnrng condition. / / / 40 RACE HOR» [f a race horse he low in Jlesh, it is necessary to fudge ot the cause of such state, and to act accordingly. \{ is to be remarked, that spices are less to be depended on for this purpose than generous food, as malt mashes; and if any thing of the kind be used, let it be the simple cordial ball. Feed Irequently, and by little at a time: while he is thus low, let his exercise be walking only, and by no means spare his water, or he will become hide-bound : carefully watch him, that full feeding may not disagree by making his heels swell, or his coat unthrifty ; and if such appearances occur, mash him and begin his scourings, otherwise abstain from physic until he is in better health. As he improves in condition, increase his exercise, but not to such a degree as to make him sweat : his food must now be the be«t oats and beans, with wdieaien or barley bread ; the beans and oats are to be put into a bag and beaten until the hulls are all off, and then winnowed clean ; the bread instead of being chipped in the common way, is to have the crust clean off. If the horse be in good flesh and spirits when taken up for his juonth's preparation, cordials are altogether unnecessary ; and the chief business will be to give him good food, and so much exercise as will keep him tn wind, without over-sweating or tiring his spirits.— When he takes larger exercise ' afterwards, towards the end of the month, it will be proper to have some horses in the place to run against him. This will put him upon his mettle, and the beating them will give him spirits. This, how&ver, is to be cautiously observed, that ne has not a bloody heat given him for ten days or a fortnight before the plate is to be run for ; and that the last heat that is given him the day before the race, must be in his clothes : this will make him run with greatly xnore Vigour when stripped for the race, and feeling the RACE HORSE. 41 foldwind on every part. In tne second week, the horse should have the same food and more exercise ; and in the last fortnight he must have dried oats, that ha\e been hulled by beating; after this jockeys wet them with the whites of eggs beaten up, and then laid out in the sun to dry; and when dry as before, the horse is to have them : this sort of food being considered by them as very light of digestion, and very good for the creature's wind. The beans in this time should be given more sparingly, and the bread should be made of three parts wheat and one part beans, or of wheat and barley in equal parts. If he should become costive under this course, he must then have bran- water to drink, or some ale and whites of eggs beaten together ; and keep his body moist. In the last week all mashing is to be omitted, and barley-water given him in its place ; and every day, till the day before the race, he should have his fill of hay ; then he must have it given him more sparingly, that he may have time to digest it ; and in the morning of the race day, he must have a toast or tw^o of white bread soaked in ale, and the same 'ust before he is led out of the field. This is an excel- lent method, because the two extremes of fulness and fasting are at this time to be equally avoiaed ; the one lieatifig his wind, and the other occasioning a faintnoss that may make him loose. After he has had his food, the litter is to be shook up, and the stable kept quiet, that he may be disturbed by nothing till he is taken out to run. In the choice of a rider for winning a rac^e, it 13 n(;cessary, as far as possible, to select one that is noi only expert and able, but honest. He must have a verv close seat, his knees being turned close to the saddle skirts, and held firmly there; and the toes turnea inwards, so that the spurs may be turned outwards 10 5 D "^ / 42 RACE HORSE. ihe horse's belly ; his left hand governing the horse 9 mouth, and his right the whip. During the whole time of the race, he must take care to sit firm in the saddle, without waving or standing up in the stirrups. Some jockeys fancy the last a becoming seat ; but it is ; ertain that ail motions of this kind do really incommode the horse. In spurring the horse, it is not to be done by sticking the cah^es of the legs close to the horse's side, as if it were intended to press the wind out of his body ; but on the contrary, the toes are to be turned a little outwards, and the heels being brought in, the spurs may just be brought to touch the side. A sharp touch of this kind will be of more service toward the quicken- ing of a horse's pace, and will sooner draw blood than one of the common coarse kicks. The expert jockey will never spur his horse until there is great occasion, and then he will avoid striking him under the fore bowels, between the shoulders and the girt ; this is the tenderest part of a horse, and a touch there 's to be leserved for the greatest extremity. As to whipping the horse, it ought always to be done over the shoulder, on the near side, except in very hard running, and on the point of victory ; then the horse is to be struck on the flank with a strong jerk; for the skin is the most tender of all there, and most sensible of the lash. When a horse is whipped and spurred, and is at the top of his speed, if he clap his ears in his pole or whisk his tail, it is a proof that the jockey treats him hard, and then he ought to give him Hs much comfort as he can, by sawing the snafEe back wards and forwards in his mouth, and by that mean* forcing him to open his mouth, which will give him wind, and be of great service. If there be any high wind stirring m the time of riding, the artful jockey ■vii' let his adversary lead, holding hard behind him. RACE HORSE. 43 t'lJ he sees an opportunity of giving a loose ; yd m this case he must keep so close behind, that the other horse may keep the wind from him ; and that he, sil- ting low, may at once shelter himself under him, a'lu assist the strength of the horse. If the wind happen to be in their back, the expert jockey is to keep directly behind the adversary, that he mav have al'. the advantaofe of the wind to blow his hoj-se alon^, as it were, and at the same time intercept it in regard to Ills adversary. When running on level smooth groundy the jockey is to beat his horse as much as the adversary will give him leave, because the horse is naturally more in- clined to spend himself on this ground; on the con trary, on deep earths, he may have more liberty, as he will there spare himself / In riding wp hill the horse is always to be favoured, by bearing him hard, for fear of running him out of wind ; but in running down hill, if the horse's fee! and shoulders will bear it, and the rider dares venture his neck, he may have a full loose. If the horse have the heels of the rest, the jockey must always spare him a little, that he may have a reserve of strength to make a push at the last post. On the jockey's knowing the nature of the horsb that is to run against hi?n, a great deal depends ; for by managing accordin^i^ly, great advantages are to be obtained : thus, if the opposite horse is of a hot and iiery disposition, the jockey is either to run just behind him or cheek-by-jole with him, making a noise wnth the whip, and by that means forcin^: him on faster then his rider would have him, and consequently, spending him s(» much the sooner : or else keep him just before him ii» such a slow gallop that he may either overreach, oi b*' 44 RACE HORSE. treading on the heels of the fore horse, endangei tumbling over. Whatever be the ground that the ndversary's horse runs worst on, the cunning jockey is to ride the most violently over ; and by this means it will often happen, that in following he either stum- bles or claps on the back sinews. The several cor- rections of the hand, the whip and the spur, are also to be observed in the adversary, and in what manner he makes use oi them : and when it is perceived by any of the symptoms of holding down the ears, or whisking the tail, or stretching out the nose like a pig, that the horse is almost blown, the business is to keep nim on to his speed, and he will be soon thrown out or distanced. If the horse of the opponent looks dull, it is a sign his strength fails him ; and if his flanks beat much, it is a sign that his wind begins to fail him, and his strength will soon do so too. The after management of a horse that has ricn, in eludes the treatment between the heats, and the treat ment after the race is over. After every heat, there must be dry straw and dry cloths, both linen and woollen, ready to rub him down all over, after taking oil' the sweat with what is called a sweat-knife ; that is, a piece of an old sword blade or some such thing. Alter the horse has been well rubbed, he should be chafed all over with cloths wet in common water, till the time of starting again. When it is certainly known that the horse is good at the bottom, and will stick at the mark, he should be rode every heal to the best of his performance ; and the jockey is, as mnr\\ as possible, to avoid riding at any particular horse, or jiiavin* for any, but to ride out the whole heat with the best speed he can. If, on the contrary, he has a fiery horse to ride, and one that is hard to manage, nard rrr.uthed, and difficult to be held, he is to be started H(»STLFR. 45 behind the rest of the horses witli all imaginable cool- ness and gentleness ; and when he begins to ride at some command, then the jockey is to put up to the o^her horses ; and if they ride at their ease, and are hard held, they are to be drawn on faster ; and if it be perceived that their wind begins to rake hot, and they v\-ant a sob, the business is to keep them up to thai speed ; and when they are all come within three quar- ters of a mile of the post, then is the time to push for it, and use the utmost speed in the creature's power. When the race is over, the horse is immediately to be clothed up and rode home ; and immediately on his coming into the stable, the following drink is to be given him : Beat up the yelks of three eggs, and put them into a pint and a half of sound ale, made warm ; and let it be given. with a horn. After this, he is to be rubbed well down, and the saddle-place rubbed over with warm water and vinegar, and places where the spurs have touched, with the same ; after this he should have a feed of rye bread, then a good mash, and at some time after these as much hay and oats as he will eat. His legs, after this, should be bathed some time with a mixture of vnieq-ar and water HOSTLER. * No situation that a ser\ ant can be placed in, requires more activity, sobriety, strength, attention, and indus- try, than that of an hostler. And how often do we see weak, lazy, careless, crippled, and even extreme r>ld men, worn out with age and iufirmily, |)Iaced m Inat employment'? Indf^ed. those are Miton majf 5 * 40 STARLfJS. choice of that are unable to perform labour of "\n) description. Nothing can be more agreeable to a fatigued ti'aveller, than to place his norse in possession of every pleasure, ev^ery comfort possible, after his having faithfully performed a hard ride, or on a journey , which he cannot have the opportunity of doing, unless ■9 fit person is selected for an hostler. Many fine horses and stables have been destroyed by carelessness. Hostlers that smoke pipes or segars, are unfit for that employment. STABLES. Nothing conduces more to the health of a horse, than a good and v^^holesome stable. It should be built upon a high, airy, and firm situaiion, that the horse, in Dad weather, may come in and go out clean. ISsO animal dehghts more in cleanliness than the horse, or lo whom bad smells are more disagreeable and perni- cious. Great attention should be paid to the removal of all offensive and putrid matter, to prevent the farcy and other troublesome and distressing diseases, which frequently proceed from such neglect. A log stable is preferable to any other, on account of its admitting a free circulation of air in summer; and by the use ot slabs or stiaw in winter, can be made warm and com- fortable. Opposite to each stall there should be u lattice or window, with a shutter ; by which means you can, at pleasure, either welcome the cheering breeze, or bar out the threatening storm. The rack should be sTr:of>th, hi dinal direction, about two inches from the root, and ibout a quarter of an inch from the outer edge of the tail, next to the hair ; so soon as you get through \.\w skin, you will find exposed the two large tendons. 6 5y NICKING ii\h. Make a second pair of incisions, similar to the first, conimencinG: within about two inches of the •(.'imination of the first. 7th. Make one other pair of incisions, in length pro (M)rtioned to the length of the tail, taking care to leavf, about two inches at the end. 8th. With a crooked iron or horn, take up the ten dons at the first incision, as near the root of the tail as possible, and cut them smoothly in two. 9th. Take up the tendons at the second incision, and by using strength, draw those in the first incision out at the second. 10th. Draw those of the second out at the third mcision, and cut them off smoothlv. 11th. Wash the tail in strong salt and water, and take from the neck vein half a gallon of blood, three times within a week. 12th. The horse may be turned out or used mode- rately, and should be fed on green or light food; his tail should be washed clean, with soap and water, three or four times within a fortnight ; by which time, in all probability, he will be entirely well. A horse nicked in this way will require no pulleying, provided the tail is well strained up, with a strong arm, twice a day. The second mode of nicking is attended with more t rouble than the first : but with the greatest certainty of a horse carrying an elegant tail. Having confined the horse as first directed, and prepared yourself wiih a sharp knife — 1st. Make an incision entirely across the under uart of the horse's tail, deep enough on each side to cut in two the depressors or tendons, but shallow *'n the middle, and about two inches from the root oJ * NICKINC. 53 the tail. When the depressors are entirely cut in two, one end of them will suddenly draw towards the rump, and the other will slip or shoot out of the wound about half an inch, which must be cut otl smoothly and even with the wound. 2d. The second incisions must be made like the first, from which thev must be distant about three inches. 3d. The third incisions should be made like the second, except deeper. Tf any artery should be cut, it is no cause of alarm ; as a plentiful bleeding is ol infinite service in speedily curing the tail thus operated on, and the blood is easily stopped by wrapping the tail up with a small quantity of salt, added to a handful of flour, or by placing him in the pulleys ; though from a gallon to a gallon and a half of blood would not be too much to lose. 4th. After nicking, the tail should be washed in strong salt and water, and the horse may not be pul- leyed for three or four days, at which time all blood, dirt, (fee. should be carefully removed, not only from the under part of the tail, but from amongst the hair also, and should be kept clean until he iS cured, which will be about three weeks; by which time should he not be fat, his condition will be much improved. 5th. The tail should be taken out of the pulleys every three or four days, unplatted, and washed clean with strong soap-suds. 6th. Bleed every five or six days, takino^ from a half to a gallon of blood at each bleeding, and if the tail appears much inflamed, bleed oftener; it will 'emove fever and inflammation, and cause the wounda to heal very quick. 54 NICRINQ. 7th. His food should be easy of digestion, light and cool, such as bran, oats, or green food of any kind If the root of the tail should be inflamed, (which is very often the case after pulleying,) or should small biles appear, apply a little tincture of myrrh, copperas, or blue-stone water. It very often happens, that the hair in the tail of a nicked horse shows a disposition to drop, which should be prevented, by washing the tail in sharp vinegar, and keeping it nice and clean with soap-suds. The matter discharged from the wounds, if permitted to remain amongst the hair for twenty-four hours, will take it off as readily as a knife. It is of very great importance to prevent this, IS the best nicked horse in the world will look ugly, if he has little or no hair in his tail; besides, it generally takes twelve months to replace it. Horses are sometimes nicked, when their blood i? in a bad state, which is the cause of their tails swelling and showing marks of violent inflammation ; to remove which, it will be only necessary to bleed plentifully and apply a poultice made of a strong decoction of red oak bark and corn meal If this operation should be performed in a season of the year when flies are troublesome, the tail and buttocks of the horse should be anointed with stur-' geon's oil, which wnll effectually remove them. i shall now proceed to describe the thiid and hesl mode of nicking every description of horses; ami which, if well attended to, will seldom oi never fail to succeed. 1st. The stall, pulleys, halter, and manger, should all be prepared for the reception of a horse, previous to being nicked, ac directed in the engraving pre- fixeJ. The pulleys (figure 2) about six or eight feet NICKING 55 apjii't, and about the same distance from the stable floor, over each side of the stall, and firmly fastened to the wall ; a smooth and small cord is then to be passed through each of the pulleys, and to each end must be confined two equal weights, as figure 10 ; the halter should be constructed and fastened as figure 11; the trough should be securely fastened to the stall or wall, to prevent its being pulled down, (figure 8,) the stall should be three or three and an half feet wide, and not deep enough to allow a horse to rub and disfifjure his tail, as figure 9. 2d. The horse should be confined, as figures 5, 6, and 3, and the tail closely and neatly platted up and clubbed at the end, or turned over a small stick, and securely tied with a waxed string, as figures 7 and 4. 3d. Being provided with a sharp knife and a crook- ed piece of buck's horn, and the tail being turned up by a strong arm, in a direct line with the back bone, as before mentioned, commence the operation by mak- ing a transverse incision, immediately across the tail, one and a half inches from the root, and deep enough *o separate entirely the tendons on each side of the under part of the tail, which will be found about a quarter of an inch from the hair on the outer edge ; this incision in the middle may be shallow. The large arteries lie so immediately under the tendons, that they are often wounded or separated in performing this operation, which will be a great advantage in the healing of the wounds, instead of doing injury by the loss of blood. But whenever a horse may have bled from one to two gallons, the bleeding will readily stop by placing the tail in pulleys, or by applying a small quantity of flour and salt to the wound, and wrap the tail up moderately tight with a linen rao^, from. Mie root to the end. 6* K 56 NICKING. 4th Make two incisions lengthwise or longitudi- nally, (commencing about two or two and a half inches from the cross or transverse incision,) and about three inches in length, which will expose the large tendons on each side. 5th. Make two other incisions of the same kind, commencing about one inch from the second, and in length running within about two inches of the end of the tail. 6th. Make a transverse incision within half an inch of the termination of the longitudinal incisions, (or those made lengthwise,) pretty deep. 7th. With a buck's horn take up the large tendons in the second incisions, and draw the ends out of the first ; take up those in the third and draw the ends out of the second, and at the upper part of the wound cut off the tendons even and smooth. 8th. With a strong arm strain up the tail opposite the second incisions, until the bone slips or breaks ; treat the tail opposite the third incisions in the same manner — also the fourth and last, which should be made across. 9th. Wash the tail in strong salt water, and the horse may be placed in a stall, turned in a pasture, or elsew^here, for two or three days. 10th. Wash the wound and tail clean with strong soap suds, and place the horse in the pulle}^?, by pas- smg a small noose (Figure 1) over the stick confined in the hair, at the end of the tail — {Figure 4.) 1 1th. Take from the neck vein half a gallon of blood, each week, until he gets well ; or double the quantity should the tail be much inflamed. He should remain in the pullevs about three weeks, in order to give the new flesh tiine to got ilrm, and should be washed onco NICKING. f>7 a day wiV;i castile soap, so that it maybe kept entirely clean. The tail should be taken out of the pullc\ s twice a week, the hair unplatted, and permitted to remain down all night, and the horse changed to o clean and large stall, with a good bed of straw, for the purpose of sleeping and refreshing himself. Before he is again confined, he may be rode two or three hundred yards, slow, and without beinf]^ fretted. Whilst stand- ing in the pulleys, his legs should be frequently bathed with pot-liquor, in which bacon was boiled ; vinegai and sweet oil, or lard and spirits of any kind ; and a mash should be given him at least once a week, of one gallon of bran or oats, with a table spoonful of powdered brimstone, and one tea spoonful of salt- petre; not permitting him to drink for six hours after- wards. His halter should be made of substantia] materials, to prevent his breaking loose whilst confined in the pulleys, pulling the hair out of the end of the tail, and doing himself other injury. A bucket of salt and water maybe given twice a week during his con- finement, which will be very grateful to the taste and cooling to the system. 12th. Great pains should be taken to have the weights to the pulleys equal, in order to keep the tail in a per- pendicular direction, and prevent it from turning to either side during the time of healing; as a horse tha'. carries his tail round to one side, instead of beins elegantly nicked, is ruined. The wounds, occasionally should be washed in blue-stone or copperas water, which will cause them to heal rapidly; the horse should have as much green and light food as he can eat, such as bran, oats, &c. Some horses that are nicked in this way, and are pulleyed only four or five pays, carry very handsome tails; but I am of opmioi; 58 PRICKING. FOXING. to ensure success, it is necessary they should be kept in the pulleys until the wounds are perfectly well. @o« PRICKING. The pricking a horse has proved to be as useless an operation as it is simple, seldom or never having the desired effect; consequently the practice should be abolished. Many nicked horses fail t-o carry good tails ; and much less is it to be expected from a horse that is pricked. I would recommend that the operation should never be performed. —tH9@9*-— FOXING. To fox a horse is an operation so simple, that it can be performed by almost any person. The only skill is, to select such horses as will be improved by being foxed. There is an instrument generally used for this purpose • but the operation can be performed very correctly without it. The simplest and easiest mode is, to take a very small paint-brush, and with paint »hat will form a contrast to the colour of the horse, mark the ears of the shape and length you prefer ; Ihen place on his nose a twitch ; have one of his fore DOCKING. 59 legs held up ; and with a sharp Knife cut off the ears, carefully following the line which was previously made witli the brush ; the skin will immediately slip down and leave the gristly part a httle naked, which nuis», be washed in salt and water once a day for about a week, after which they should be greased with a little sweet oil, fresh butter, or hog's lard, and they will get entirely well in two or three weeks. A horse with a small, thin, delicate head, will always be much im- proved by being foxed. But a horse with a fleshy, heavy, thick, or long head, will show with less advan- tage after his ears are cut off, even if he carried thcni extremely bad previous to the operation. ®o* DOCKING. Docking a horse is an operation so simple, as to re quire but little skill or judgment in its performance. A twitch is to be placed upon the upper lip of thf> horse, but not so high as to prevent his breathing, (as in the engraving for nicking, figure 3,) — one of his fore legs must be held up to prevent his kicking or doing other injury, and a waxed string must be tiea very tight twice round the tail, just above the place where it is to be cut off; a large block of wood is to be placed upon his rump, and the tail turned up and laid smoothly on the block ; then, with a sharp ii:)stru ment, you may cut the tail the length you prefer, (though horses docked short generally carry the bes! Uiils.) or after the w^axed string is secureJy tied, take <>0 CASTRATING. I lie rail in one hand, and a large knife (sharpened on a f)ri(.k to give it a rough edge) in the other, and with oase, at one stroke, you may cut the tail in two: then take a piece of iron, moderately hot, place a little rosin in the wound, and sear it, recollecting to cut off the waxed siring two or three days afterwards, and grease, the tail with a little fresh butter or sweet oil, which will cause it to heal very quickly afterwards. When a horse is docked, the same tendons, arteries, and nerves are separated, that are divided in nicking ; and it is very rare that a horse's life is endangered or lost in consequence of performing either operation. [from Loudon's encyclopedia of agriculture.] CASTRATING COLTS The time for castrating or gelding of colts is usually when they are about a year old ; although ihis operation is frequently suspended till the second year, especially when it is intended to keep them on hand, and without employing them in labour till the following season. Parkinson disapproves of delaying this operation so long, and recommends twitching the colts, a practice well known to the ram breeders, any time after a week old, or as soon after as the testicles are come down ; and this method, he says, he has followed himself, with great success. Blaine's remarks on the subject of castration appear wor- iliv of notice : lie says, when the breed is particu* y CASTRATING. 01 larly good, and many considerable expectations are formed on the colt, it is always prudent to wait till twelve months: at this period, if his fore parts are correspondent with his hinder, proceed to castrate; but if he be not sufficiently well up before, or his neck be too long and thin, and his shoulders spare, he will assuredly improve by being allowed to remain whole six or eight months longer. Another writer suggests for experiment, the spaying of mares, thinking they would work better, and have more wind than geldings. But he does not appear to have been aware that this is by no means a new experiment ; for Tusser, who wrote in 1562, speaks oi gelding fillies as a common practice at that period. The main objection to this operation is not that brood mares would become scarce, as he supposes ; but that, by incapacitating them from breed - Ing, in case of accident, and in old age, the loss in this expensive species of live stock would be greatly enhanced. An old or lame ,mare would then be as worthless as an old or lame gelding is at present. [The following mode of castrating colts is taken from Mr. SJcinnet a American Turf Register and Sporting Magazine.] The operator must in the first place provide himself with a strong rope, a couple of clamps for each colt, (if he intends altering more than one,) a little paste, a ball of twine or good thread, and a phial of the following mixture : R. Two tea-spoonfuls of red precipitate. One do. of corrosive sublimatef to be well ground separately, and then intimately mixed. The clamp is made thus: Take a piece o^ 02 CASTRATING. elder six inches hng and from three quarters to one inch in diameter; bark it, and split it through the middle, and having taken out the pith, cut one adjoining end of each piece with a slope, from the inside out- wards, about an inch, and notch it on the outside, as also the other end that is not sloped, that they may be securely tied together. Fill the hollows nicely with the paste, and sprinkle over it some of the mixture in phial. Then place the sloped ends together in such a manner that the other ends will be separated about an inch, and tie them by several turns of the thread in that position, thus: Every preparation being made; the colt thrown and carefully tied ; the integuments of the testicles are to be laid open, the stone pulled out, and the epididy- mis separated from its adhesion to the lower end of the testicle as in the ordinary Vv^ay. The cord is then caught in one of the clamps, which is pressed hard upon it, and firmly tied at the open end. When this is accomplished, the cord must be cut directly off, close to the edge of the clamp, and a little more of the above mixture snould be sprinkled upon the ends exposed by the knife. After the operation is concluded, the clamps should be suffered to remain on eighteen or twenty-four hours. They may then be taken off by penning the colt in a confined place, and cutting the strings which tie their blunt ends. Neither swelling, nor stiffness, uor any other inconvenience follows this operation, and the animal appears, after he is reheved of the clamps, as well as ever he was. This method may, with equal efficacy, be applied to every other anmiai wnose age or size renders the old way precarious. FATTENING. G3 FATTENING. To fatten a horse in a short space of time, has generally been considered a very great art, and at- tended with much difficulty. Some authors are of opinion, it is necessary for a horse to swallow a certain quantity of medicine to produce the desired effect ; while others rely on an uncommon or peculiar kind of food ; but experience has proved that both opinions are erroneous, and that the few simples which I shall here recommend, together with good rubbing and a particular manner of feeding, will accompHsh the fat- tening of a horse that is not a garran or extremely poor, within three or four weeks. After your stable is prepared, (as directed in pages 46 and 47,) provide a plenty of good sweet corn, hom.mony, oats, bran, and fodder ; also a sufficient quantity of straw to keep him with a comfortable and clean bed ; then notice the condition of the animal, for the purpose of bleeding in the neck. Should he be very poor, take from him only one quart of blood ; if in tolerable plight, two quarts — repeating the bleeding at the expiration of every eight or ten days, until he is fat. Take of flaxseed one pint, boil it to a strong tea of one quart ; take ol powdered brimstone, one table spoonful ; salt-petre, one tea spoonful ; of bran, one and a half gallons ; mix them all together, scalding the bran with the tea. form- ing a mash; w^hich may be given every eight days: not permitting the horse to drink cold water for eight or ten hours afterwards. Take of asafoDtida (which can be procured from any apothecary's shop) half an ounce ; wTap it in a clean linen rag, and nail it in the bottom of the manger where the animal is fed; ai first the horse will eat unwillingly where it is placed, but in a few days he will grow remarkablv fonu of »a 7 64 FiVTTENiNG. Wljen you commence kind treatment towards a liorse that has been cruelly used, let it be with great caution, or you may produce a founder or some other injury ; those serviceable animals being too often hard ased and half starved. For three or four days, allow- ance a horse you contemplate fattening, to two and I half gallons a day, six or eight bundles of fodder, )r an equal quantity of hay ; after which you may icep your rack constantly full of long food, and never ;ermit the manger to be entirely empty: taking care :.) change the food every day, giving the largest pro- jortion of bran, viz. : — bran and hommony, bran and oats, bran and corn, bran alone, oats, corn, hommony, &c. &c. The food moistened occasionally with strong sassafras tea, produces an admirable effect ; it whets the appetite, enriches the blood, and opens the bowels. Whenever a horse is led, all dust, sour food, &c. should be removed from his manger, which should be washed twice a week with vinegar and salt ; this kind of attention will aid the appetite and keep the manger sweet and clean. If the season of the year you undertake to fatten in, affords green food of any kind, a little about twelve o'clock would assist you much in accomplishing your object. In the bucket in which you water, throw a handful of salt, two or three limes a week; it becomes very grateful to the taste, ifter a lew days' confinement, and will prevent his pawing and eating dirt. If the object is to fatten a lorse as speedily as possible, giving to him unusual t.fe and spirits, he should not be brought out of tho stable, nor even led to water. But if flesh is to be placed upon a horse to render hard service, I would recommend moderate exercise once every three days, f^arefully avoiding fretting or alarming him ; more in- jury may be done a horse by ifretting him one day EXCESSIVE Fatigue. 65 than you can remove in a week by the kindest treat- ment. The hoofs should be cleaned out every morn* ing and evening, stuffed vi^ith clay and salt, or fresh cow manure, to keep the feet cool and prevent a swel- ling in the legs. A plenty of good rubbing is abso- lutely necessary for the placing of flesh 'speedily on a horse ; and a blanket as a covering, at any time except the summer months, will place on his coat of hair a beautiful gloss, and add much to his comfort and ap- parent value. «e@e« EXCESSIVE FATIGUE. For a horse to undergo very great fatigue without injury, requires at least one week's preparation. Pre- vious to entering him on his journey, he should be fed plentifully on solid old food, such as corn, fodder, hay or oats, and smartly exercised from five to ten miles a day. He should be well rubbed two or three times every twenty-four hours, which will very readily have the effect of making his flesh not only firm, but hard. I have no doubt, from the experiments I have made, that any tolerable good and active horse may be rode one hundred miles, in a pleasant long day, with- Dut receiving any permanent injury, by observing the treatment I shall here recommend. Experience has proved that rainy or drizzly weather is more favoura- ble to the performance of an excessive hard ride, than a day that is fair or sultry, with sunshine ; rain has .he effect of keeping him cool, suppling his limbs, ol moisten'ng and refreshing him. On the night pie- % 66 EXCESSIVE FATIGUE. vious to his engaging in this laborious undertaking feed your horse with one and a half gallon of oats, oi one gallon of corn and six bundles of fodder ; in the morning feed with one quart of oats or corn only, and offer some salt and water, of which a horse is apt to drink but Httle early in the morning. You then set out on your journey, in such speed as is proportioneil to the distance you contemplate going in the day. A rider, who is compelled to perform a long journey in haste, and with certainty, in a given time, should be extremely particular in his manner of riding. He should bear lightly and steadily on his bridle and stir- rups, never jerking, checking, or stopping his horse suddenly, or change his gaits too frequently ; all these thinfTs have a tendency to weaken and fati":ue a horse extremely. A good rider will more resemble the light and airy movements of a feather, than the dull and leaden gravity of a bullet ; the same horse can convey a good rider twenty miles farther in a day than he can one unskilled in this necessary and elegant accomplish- ment. After progressing about fifteen or eighteen miles, refreshment will be necessary, not only for the horse, but the rider also. You will then give him a bucket of salt and water with two handfuls of corn meal thrown therein, and one quart of oats or corn ; at twelve o'clock and at dinner time, feed and water in the same manner. Great care should be taken to pre* vent your i«orse from drinking cold pond or well water or indulge in any inviting rivulet he may meet in his road, more than to moisten his mouth. It is a prac- tice among hostlers, when they have no" particulai directions, to plunge horses that are tired and heated at twelve o'clock, into cold pond water ; in preference 10 which I would advise that their legs should be well :ubbed with about half a pint of any ]i'\nd of spiiits EXCESSIVE FATIGUE. * 67 if our last feed being at two o'clock, or dinner time, your horse will require nothing more until night. The day's ride being performed, turn him into a lot to cool and wallow ; ^fter which let him be placed in a stall, on a good bed of straw. 1st. Offer him a bucket of water. 2d. Remove all dirt and dust from his legs and ancles with soap and warm water. 3d. JBathe him from his belly to his hoofs with equal parts of vinegar and spirits, to which add a little sweet oil, fresh butter, or hog's lard, stewing them all together, and make use of the mixture as warm as the hand can bear it. 4th. He must be well curried, brushed, and finally polished with a sheepskin or woollen cloth. 5th. His feet should be nicely cleaned out, and stuffed with clay and salt, or fresh cow manure. 6th. He should be fed with one gallon of old corn, or one and a half gallons of oats, and six bundles of old fodder. Your horse being now in possession of every attention and comfort you could offer him, will soon be refreshed, forget his hard service, and be again prepared, by the next morning, to obey you whither you may direct his footsteps. If you nave more than one day's journey to perform with great rapidity, observe the same rules of feeding, watering, and attention, as directed for the first day, except the feed at twelve o'clock, which quantity must be doubled. Many elegant and high spirited horses have been ruined and rendered useless by per- sons wanting experience on the above subject, who were disposed to treat those faithful animals with eveiy kindness in their power; yet being under the neces eity of performing a long journey in a limited time, and not knowing that the will of a heated and fatigued horse should be controlled, they have permitted him ^o eat |s much as he pleased, or when heated, to drink AS nmch cold pond or branch water as his great 'n)rsi 68 TREATMENT ON A JOURNEY. would induce him ; which have often been the means oi producing cholic, founder, and other diseases, that too frequently prove fatal in the hands of a common farrier, to which title every hostler, blacksmith, and- every blockhead of a servant, who does not even understand the currying of a horse, have pretensions. The loss of two or three quarts of blood, to a horse that has undergone excessive fatigue, will remove the soreness and stiffness of his limbs, the natural consequence ol violent exertions. —m9@9* TREATMENT ON A JOURNEY. To perform a long journey, with comfort and ease to a horse, and satisfaction to the rider, requires some attention to the feeding, for eight or ten days previous to the setting out. A horse uncommonly fat, running late at grass, fed with unsubstantial food, such as f)ran, &c. or unaccustomed to exercise and fatigue, is very unfit to perform a journey on, unless prepared by being fed on old and solid food, for eight or te« days, such as corn, fodder, oats, or hay, and given moderate exercise. A horse about half fat is in the best situa- tion to bear the fatigue and labour of a journey b\ following the mode of treatment I shall here reconv mend. If he is only a tolerably good one, by the time ne reaches his journey's end, should it last four or five weeks, his condition will be much improved, if he is r)Ot entirely fat. 1st. It is ne(iessary to hav^ your •lorse shod with a good and substantial set of shoes, TREATMENT ON A JOURNEY. ftJ) taking care that they fit easy, set well, and are not placed so near tlie inside of the foot as to cut the ankles in travelling, which often produces stiffness, considerable swelling of the legs, and sonnetimes lame- ness. 2d. Exannine your saddle, valise, portmanteau, (harness, &c. as the case may be, to discover if they fit with ease and comfort to your horse, taking care to let them undergo the same examination every two or three days. For a saddle to fit properly, it must be neither wide enough in the tree to slip upon the shoulders, or so narrow as to pinch or break the skin on the withers, the bolstering or stuffing in the pannels should be adapted to the hollow spaces on each side of the back bone or spine. When thus properly fitted, a crupper will be useless. 3d. Your valise should be fastened on by passing two straps underneath two pieces con- fined to the valise pad, and through two loops at the back of the saddle; by which means it will be kept steadily in its proper place, and the rider will not be perplexed by its swinging first on one side, and then on the other, and the danger of the hoi-se havins^ a sore back from friction wall be avoided. The only difference between the customary way of fastening a valise and the one I here recommend, is the passing straps through the loops to the back of the saddle. On the night previous to your commencing your journey, after your horse is placed on a good bed of straw, and is well rubbed, feed with two gallons of oats, or one and a half gallons a old corn and hommony, and eight or ten bundles of fodder, or a quantity of hay equal to it. In the mornnig feed with half a gallon of oats, after which oflfer a bucket of water. It is customary for horses to be watered before being fed ; but it is much better not to water them until afterwards; a large draught of water very often 70 TREATMENT ON A JOURNEY. destroys the appetite, and makes a horse dull and sluggish for a whole day afterwards. When he is watered in this way, he seldom drinks too much, and his mouth is washed clean and is moist when he commences his journey. It also measurably destroys his incclina- tion to drink out of every stream he may cross in the road, which is so tiresome and unpleasant to a rider. Being now completely prepared for the contem- plated journey, the following rules must be strictly observed. 1st. Never permit your horse, while tra- velling, to drink cold branch, well, or pond water, or more than is necessary to wet or moisten his mouth. •2d. Every time you stop to feed, (which will be morn- ing, breakfast, and dinner tmie,) give him a bucket of water, made a little salt, with about two handfuls of corn meal stirred in it ; he will very soon grow fond of it, and indeed prefer it to any other drink; it cools the system, relieves thirst, and contains considerable nutriment. 3d. Whenever you stop for the purpose of breakfasting, let your- horse cool about ten minutes; then feed with half a gallon of oats or corn, and two bundles of fodder, not forgetting to offer him again the water, meal, and salt. 4th. At dinner time observe the same treatment as directed at breakfast. 5th. At night (having arrived at the place you intend stopping at) have your horse turned into a lot, for the purpose of wallowing, cooling, (S;:c. 6th. With soap and water have all dirt removed from his 'legs. 7th. Have him placed on a good bed of straw, then take of spirits of any kind half a pint, of vinegar half a pint, niix them together, and let his legs be rubbed with the mixture until they are dry. 8th. Let him be welh curried, brushed, and rubbed with straw. 9th. Water turn plentifully. 10th. Feed him with two gallons of nuts, or one, and a half gallons of Curn or homrnony, TREATMENT ON A OURNEY. ^ k and eight or ten bundles of fodder. 11th. Let hjd hoofs be nicely cleaned out and stuffed with fresh cow manure ; this application keeps them tough, moist, and cool. 12th. Change your food as often as possible, care- fully avoiding using any that is new, or just gathered. ( )bserve the above rules to your journey's end, except your horse should prove a great feeder, and in tnal case you may indulge him a little ; but the quantity ] have here recommended, is enough for any common horse when travelling. It may not be amiss to remind the young traveller to inspect his horse's shoes once a day, and whatever appears amiss about them to have immediately rectified. It frequently happens that the skin of young horses, unaccustomed to travel, is chafed and scalded by the friction of the girth; the part, washed clean with a little soap and water, and then washed with a little salt and water, will immediately cure and toughen the skin. It often happens at little baiting places or country taverns, (met with on the road by trave^llers,) that towards the end of harvest, servants are apt to feed with green oats or wheat, in consequence of the scar- city of fodder, unless otherwise directed; food of this kind is poison to a travelling horse, and will produce a diarrhoea and extreme debility. It would be much better he should not have long food for two weeks, than to give it to him green from the field. When, persons travelling are not attentive to their horses, . they are frequently given mouldy oats and corn, which is productive of the worst effects ; there being but few kinds of food that can be given a horse, that will ter- minate his existence more speedily. Many of those valuable animals have been destroyed by such means, when the owners have been frequently at a loss to know with what disease or from what cause they had died F 7S i.QE AGE. To \ i able to ascertain the age of a horse, with tolerable certainty, from three to nine years old, is a subject of considerable importance to every person who may have occasion to purchase. Unless we pos- sess this information, we are subject to the imposition and to become the sport of every jockey, whose vice and depravity frequently surpass those of the most untractable horse. Some judges undertake to tell the age until a horse is fifteen or tw^enty years old, which in my opinion is impossible ; they merely make a guess, without any rule by which they are governed, and four times out of five they labour under a mistake. If I am enabled to describe such marks and appear- ances as will make any person a judge of a horse's age, from three to nine's years old, I shall conceive 1 have performed a useful task, and shall be the means of preventing many impositions. Horses that have not arrived at three years of age, are unfit for use, and those that are more than nine, decrease in value with great rapidity. All that are particularly fond of horses, will always be filled with regret on viewing an elegant horse worn out with old age, yet possessing strons: marks of beautv, and even former fine and irraceful actions. It is to be much lamented that so beautiful an animal should so soon feel decay and be no longer useful. I shall proceed to lay down such rules for ascertaining the age of a horse, as will enable any man to speak with tolerable certainty on that subject, livery horse has six teeth above and below ; before he *irrives at the age of three he sheds his two middle '-.eth by the young teeth rising and shoving tlie ola AGE. lis ones out of their place. When he arrive.: at the ago of three, he sheds one more on each side of tlie middies teeth; when /our years old, he sheds his two cornei and last of his fore teeth; between four ami five iio cuts his under tusks, and when five will cut hij* upper tusks, and have a mouth full and complete his teeth appearing to have their full growth, excepi the tusks, and will be even, regularly placed, ant^ pretty much grooved on the inside, with hollows Oi a very dark brown colo«ur. There is always a verv plain difference between colts' and horses' teeth; the colts' being without grooves and hollows, and nevei so large and strong. Some horses are without uppei tusks even to the end of their lives; but this is not^ common. The appearance of the lower tusks, and them fully grown, is the most certain proof that the horse is five years old, even if one of his colt's teeth remains unshed. At six years ol'd, the grooves and hol- lows in a horse's mouth begin to fill up a httle, and theii tusks have their full growth, with their points sharp, and a little concave or hollow on the inside. At seven years old, the grooves and hollows will be pretty weC filled below, except the corner teeth, leaving where the dark brown hollows formerly were, little brown spots At eight, the whole of the hollows and grooves are filled up, and you see the appearance of what is termed smooth below. At nine years old there very often appears a small bill to the outside corner teeth ; the pomt of the tusk is worn off", and the part that was concave begins to fill up and become rounding ; th(j squares of the middle teeth begin to disappear, and the gums leave them small and narrow at top. Dealer.^ 01 horses sometimes drill or hollow the teeth with a graver, and black the hollows by using a hot iron; for the purpose of passing an old horse for a young 74 AGE. one. upon those who heive but little or no experien'^e upon the subject. But a dis-cerning eye A^ill readily discover the cheat, by the unnatural shape and black- ness of the hollows, the dulness and roundness of the tusks, together with the want of squares to the front teeth, and by many other visible marks, which denotol the advanced age of a horse. Between nine and ten years of age, a horse generally loses the marks of the mouth, though there are a few exceptions ; as some horses retain good mouths until they are fourteen or fifteen years old, with their teeth white, even, and regular, and many other marks of freshness and vigour. But when a horse grows old, it may be discovered by these indications, which com- monly attend old age, viz. : The gums wear away and leave the roots of the teeth long and slender ; the roots grow yellow, and often brownish ; the bars of the mouth (which are always fleshy, plump, and dry, in a young horse, and form so many distinct, firm ridges,) in an old horse, are lean, smooth, and covered with saliva, with few or no ridges. The eyes of a young horse j^pear plump, full, and Hvely ; the lids with few vvrinkleb, the hollows above the ball small, and \o gray hairs upon the brow, unless they proceed from the colour or marks of the horse. The eyes of an old horse apperr sleepy, dim, and sunk, and the lids loose and very much shrivelled with large hollows and the brow grav. The countenance of a young horse is bold, gay, and lively ; while that of an old one is sad, dejected, and melancholy, unless mounted, and artificial means used to give him spirit. The chin of a horse, in my opinion, is by far the best mark to enable you to ascertain his age, inasmuch as it docH not admit of the practice of those ajts, bv ' AGE. 76 which the jockey so often passes off an old broken down horse for a young one. The appearance of the chin can be changed only by nature : and he who will become an attentive observer, will soon be convinced, that it is not more difficult to tell an old horse from n young one, by the appearance of their chins, than it is for a skilful physician to distinguish a cheek of health from one that is wasted, diseased, and superannuated. The chin of a young horse is round, full, plump, full of w^'inkles, and the pores close and small ; that of a horse advanced in years, flat, wrinkled, flabby, and the pores open and large. Indeed, after some experience, together with particular attention to this mark of age, there will be but little difficulty of ascertaining, with certainty, the age of a horse from three to nine years old. I have sometimes met with travellers on the road, whom I never before had seen, and in travelling along, have told the age of their horses by their chins. An examination of the lips and nostrils of a horse, may aid, corroborate, and strengthen the opinion of age, founded on the appearance of the chin. The lips and nostrils of a young horse are smooth and free from wrinkles, while those of an old one abound in them. Were I in pursuit of truth and honour, I nevei should seek them in the lower class of dealers in horses or horse jockeys. Whenever they have a horse to dispose of, they assure a purchaser he possesses every desirable quality, &c. and whenever they have effected a sale, they smile at their success, ana expose every vice to which the horse was addicted, to the next person they meet. The physiognomy of a horse will assist much m ascertaining his age ; but the chin is certainly the hafcst guide. ^6 iLCSH. [from the AMERICAN FARMER.] AGE BY FEELING A vwnderful discovery recently made in an old Horse^s age, " ' Tis to the pen and press we mortals owe, All we believe, and almost all we know.'* Since the age of that noble animal, the horse, aitei a certain period of life, (that is to say) after the marks in his incisors and cuspidati are entirely obliterated, to be able to ascertain his age, with any tolerable degree of certainty, appears to the generality of " horse age judges" to be a subject of very much uncertainty. 1 now take the liberty of laying before the public, through the medium of your paper, an infallible method, (subject to very few exceptions) o' ascertaining it in such a manner, after a horse loses his marks, or after he arrives to the age of nine years or over ; so that any person concerned in horses, even of the meanest capacity, may not be imposed upon in a horse's age, from nine years of age and over, more than three years at farthest, until the animal arrives at the age ol twenty years and upwards, hi/ just feeling the sub- maxiUari/ bone, or the bone of the lower jaw. This method I discovered, by making many ana- tomical observations on the skulls of dead horses and repeated dissections. In order, therefore, to elucidate the above, I must in the first place beg leave to remark ; iha the submaxillary bone, oi the lower jaw bone i«B. 77 of all vouno: horses, about four or five years of age. immediately above the hifurcation, is invariably tliick and very round at the bottom ; the cavity of saia bone being very small, contains a good deal of marrow, and generally continues in this state until the animal arrives at that period which is generally termed an "aged horse," or until the animal acquires his full size in height or thickness ; or according t(, "porting language^ is completely furnished, with very httle variation. But after this period, the cavity as aforesaid becomes larger, and more marrow is contained therein. Hence the submaxillary bone becomes thinner and sharper a little above the bifurcation. This indelible mark may always be observed in a small degree in horses above eight years of age ; but at nine years old it is still more perceptible. It continues growing a little thinner and sharper at the bottom until twelve years of age. From thence until fifteen, it is still thinner, and about as sharp as the back of a case knife near the handle. From this period until the ages 18, 19, 20, and upwards, it is exceedingly so ; and is as sharp, in many subjects, as the dull edge of that instrument. RULES. 1st. Put your three fingers about half an inch or an inch immediately above the bifurcation, and grasp the submaxillary bone, or the lower jaw bone. If it is thick at the sides, and very round indeed at the bottom, the animal is most certainly under nine years of age. 2d. If the bone is not very thick, and it is per ceivably not very round at the bottom, he is from nme to twelve years old, and so on. From twelve to fifteen, the bone is sharper at bottom, and thinner at ine 7ft MARKS. Sides, the bottom is generally as sharp as the back of a case knife; and from 15 to 18, 19, 20, and upwards, without many exceptions, the bone, when divested of its integuments, is as sharp as the dull edge of that mstrument. 3d. Allowances must always be made between heavy, large western cr wagon horses, or carriage horses, and fine blooded ones. By practising and strictly attending to the above rules, upon all descrip- tions of horses, the performer in a little time will become very accurate in the accomplishment of his desires, more especially if he attentively observes the lower iaw bone of dead horses " — >h9@0<' MARKS. Perhaps there is no subject to be found, that admits of a greater diversity of opinion, than the form and number of marks necessary to constitute the beauty of a horse. Many white marks, when of irregular shape, and handsomely placed, give to a handsome horse a gay and sprightly appearance, lightening up the coun- tenance, and forming a beautiful contrast to his colour. Indeed, marks are sometimes so irregularly and fanci- fully placed, as not only to please, but to delight most persons who are judges on this subject; while others of such regular, common, and unbecoming shape, and so unnaturally placed as to be unfavourable to beauty and have a tendency to disfigure the animal they are BLAZE OR STAR. ' 79 intended to beautify ; such as a face blazed large, high, and regular, like an ox ; the two fore legs white above the knees, and no white behind ; one white leg to the knee, behind on the right ; one fore leg white to the knee before on the left : a bald face and no white legs* a dim blaze, commencing with an awkward star, end- ing with a snip on the one side, &c. &c. A horse without marks, always has a deadness in his aspect — and one \ve\\ marked, always appears the more beautiful for it. Bat it must be acknowledged, by every person of experience, that a horse with white feet, is much more tender than one without them. Even in cases of lameness not proceeding from acci- dent, nine times out of ten, if a horse has a w^hite foot, that will be the one that will first fail him. White feet are also more subject to tlie scratches and other diseases, than those of different colours, and a very remarkable fact exists, that I never have seen or heard, in my life, of a first rate four mile heat racer, that had a bald face and white legs to the knees. White marks add to the beauty of a horse, but les sen his sei'vices. 49 @d* BLAZE OR STAR. When we have a pair of horses thai matcn well in every respect, except that one has a blaze or star in the face, it becomes very inteiesting and important to know how to make their faces match, and to t^vc 8* 80 HEAD. them blazes or stars precisely alike. This may be done in the following manner: — Number 1. — Take a razor and shave off the hair the form and size you wish the blaze or star to be made : then take a small quantity of oil of vitriol, and with a feather anoint the part once, which will be quite suffi- cient. After the application of the vitriol, the part will become a little sore and inflamed ; which may be readily removed and healed up, by washing the sore with copperas water. Great care should be used to prevent the vitriol from getting on clothes, as it will entirely destroy them. Number 2. — Take a piece of oznaburgs the size you want the blaze or star: spread it with warm pitch and appiy it to the horse's face : let it remain two or three days, by which time it vvill bring off the hair clean, and make the part a little tender ; then take of elixir vitriol a small quantity ; then anoint the part two or three times ; or,of avery common weed called as- mart, a small handful, bruise it and add to it about a gill of water, use it as a w^ash until the face gets well, when the hair will grow out entirely white. — M»e@9« HEAD. The head of a horse should be small, bony, thin, and delicate ; his jaws wide apart, yet thin ; his throttle large and arched; his ears long, thin, narrow, high and pointing together ; his eyes prominent large and BOD v. Ml full, of a dark cinnamon or bhck colour, bright, lively, and shining; his nostrils wide, red, and expanded; his moutU and lips thin, small, and plump; his chin full^ sharp, and delicate ; his face rather of fi Roman order than straight, with irregular white, either in a star or blaze, to give expression and light up the countenance ®6* BODY. The body of a horse should be large, in ^/roportion to the balance of his frame, compact, round, and swel- hng; his flanks plump and full ; and his last or small est rib, approaching near the hip bone, which is never placed too near the point of the shoulders ; the back should be very short, smooth, and nearly even, neither swayed nor humped ; the hips wide apart, full, round, and even with the body. A horse with a light flat body, open and gaunt about the flanks, with high spirit, long legs, &c. is unfit for any purpose, except for show ; and that not for more than two or three hours ; for his rider, after that time, as well as every spectator, will discover him sinking under fatigue, and cor/ipletely giving up. S'i ABCK AND SHOUIDERS. LEGS. NECK AND SHOULDERS. The neck of a horse should be long, thin, and deli- cate (indeed they are never too long or too delicate) growing deeper from the joining of the head to the shoulders ; the upper edge should form the half of an arch, gradually falling in height and shape from the head to the shoulders ; the mane should be thin, smooth, and in length half the width of the neck. — The shoulders of a horse should be thin, high, and thrown very far back ; for experience has proved, that those with low^ shoulders and high rumps, although they may have many good parts, can never show to ad van tage, and seldom make good saddle or race horses. ^9^9*^~ LEGS. Tilt: ^ore legs of a horse should bear a just propoi - lion to his size ; the arms large, long, and full ; the legs bony, fiat, and sinewy ; the pasterns rather long than otherwise, and tolerably straight. Small lean arms, a bending back or trembling of the knees, bow tegs, small and round legs, extremely delicate back sinews, or those unnaturally large, indicate weakness or some injury, and should be avoided. The hind pa^'ts of a ho'*se, from the iiip bone to the houk, should oe o^ great length ; the thighs and muscles should be full large, and bulging ; the hock broad, sinewv and SHOEING. - 83 strong; the hind legs flat, smooth, bony, and fuh oi sinew, clear of knots, and rather crooked in the hock than straight ; the pasterns of moderate length, small and rather straight than otherwise. The hor^ie should be neither knock-kneed or bow-lesrired, or his feel turned in or out; as a horse thus shaped, mcvtjs ugiy, and never can be sure felted. te@9* ^ SHOEING Diseases are sometimes produced in the feet, (inm which a horse is never ao^ain free durinsr his life ; it is therefore important that a valuable horse should not be placed in the hands of every blockhead who pleases to call himself a horse shoer, but entrusted only to persons of known skill. For a horse to be well shod, the hoof should be pared with a buttress, (instead of giving in to the cruel and injurious practice of burning the foot with a red hot shoe until it fits,) smooth and level, to a reasonable size; the frog should be nicely trimmed. in shape a little convex, rather lower than the foot : the shoes should be made of good and tough iron, and precisely the shape of the hoof after being trimmed, not so wide between the heels as to show on the out- side, or so narrow as to cramp the foot, and produce narrow heels, (which is a very troublesome disease ; The nails should be made of old horseshoes, or some other tough iron, with small heads, and drove regular, smooth, and even ; not high enough to / each the 84 SHOEING. quick, yet with hold sufficient to confine the shoe three or four months. The points of the nails should be formed into neat and small clinches, and should be well driven up Some taste may be displayed in the rasping and shaping the hoof, alter the shoe is confined. When it .s left more sharp than flat around at the toe, it adds muah to its beauty and neat appearance. When a horse is well shod, if water is poured upon the bottom of his foot, it will not pass between the hoof and the shoe. A smith, who resided in Williams- burg, in the year 1804, was in the habit of shoeing in this exact and elegant style. Shoes for draft horses, that have seldom occasion to go out of a walk, should be heavy, strong, and with high heels, and pointed at the 'toe with steel. Horse shoeing is what every worker of iron, who has acquired the name of a blacksmith, pretends to be well skilled in ; but there are few indeed in possession of sufficient, knowledge on that subject, to make it safe to place under their care a horse of value, for the purpose of being shod. To perform this operation correctly, and without present or future injury, requires not only good skill and judgment, but a thorough acquaintance with the anatomy of a horse's foot, which is a know ledge but few of our blacksmiths are in possession of, and is the cause of so many horses being rendered useless. Almost all the diseases in the feet, are, more or less, the result of bad shoeing, by wounding muscles, c'eins nerves, or arteries in this way. ;-^i*" HOOFS. MANE AND TAIL. 86 HOOFS. The hoofs of a horse should be proportioned to his size ; of a dark colour, smooth, tough, and nearly round ; not too flat nor too upright, and the bottom hollow. White hoofs are much more tender than any other colour, nor do they retain or bear a shoe so well. One that is flat, turning up at the toe or full of ridges, or flat and pumiced on the under side, strongly indicates founder or other injury. If the hair lie smooth at the top of the hoof, it is an evidence of its being good, should there be nothing unnatural in its shape ; but il the hair stands up and appears rough, and the flesh swelled a little beyond the circle of the hoof, it is a proof the foot is in some way diseased and a ring bone may be apprehended. ®e* MANE AND TAIL. The mane and tail of a horse, when th^ hair is even, smooth, long, and well proportioned, adds much to the beauty, boldness, and majesty of his figure. Great judgment and taste may be displayed in the trimming and proportioning those two ornaments. A very large horse, even if elegant, appears mean and trifling if you attach to him a little rat tail ^ one very small with a monstrous long^, bushy tail ; or a square, narrow hipped, lathy horse, with a small bob tail, onl / serves 86 EYES. to point out his imperfections, and attach to his ap- pearance an idea of insignificance and meanness. One with a remarkably long body, with a thin switch bob tail, bears no better proportion than the legs and thighs of a dwarf to the head and body. A large horse, reached and bobbed, never shows to advantage, as the appearance of the riding horse is given up, and the round and snug appearance of the nimble footed pony can never be attained. For a horse to look well with a bob tail, he should be plump, round, full, and com- pact ; but all tails that are full of hair, show to much more advantage than those that are thin and frizzled. Previous to a tail's being trimmed, great respect should be paid to the shape and proportion of the horse, and the tail should be made an equal propor- tionable part. The manes of all horses, except ponies, should be long, smooth, and reaching at least half way down the neek ; nothing can more disfigure him than a short frizzled mane : it even alters, apparently, the shape of the neck, and when once in this situation, it will take twelve months to grow of proper length. The mane of a horse may be combed two or three limes a day, as a thin mane looks well ; but his tail, if well proportioned and elegant, should not be combed oftener than twice a week. to^e* GOOD AND BAD EYES. ' The eye is an organ of more use and more value than any that belongs to the horse, and should always undergo an examination by a purciiaser with the EVES. 87 greatest attention and minuteness. Nothing can more afTect his value than the want of vision ; as any *)legant horse, that would readily command in cash two hundred dollars, if blind, in all probability, would be Will sold at fifty dollars, which plainly proves the necessity and importance of using on this subject the greatest caution. To give a full description of the anatomy of a horse's eye, would take up more room and time than can at present be devoted to this topic: the reader must be content with a description of those parts most familiar and most important. The eye is the organ of sight, whereby the ideas of all outward objects are represented to the comm.on sensory ; its form is a convex globular, covered by its proper hds, and enclosed within an orbit or socket: the eyelids preserve the eye from dust or external injury, and an expansion of the muscles and skin, the inner membrane being of an exquisite contexture, that it may in no manner hurt or impair the surface of the eye : their edges have a cartilaginous or gristly rim, by which they are so fitted as to meet close together at pressure ; the orbit or cavity in which the eye is situated, is lined with a very pliable, loose fat, which is not only easy to the eye in its various motions, but serves to keep it sufficiently moist, as the lachamaVml glands, seated in the outer corner of the eye, serve t') moisten its surface, or wash ofi' any dust or dirt that may happen to get into it: at the inner corner of tlie eye, next the nose, is a carbuncle, which some are oi opinion is placed to keep that corner of the eye front being entirely closed, that any tears or gummy matter may be discharged even in time of sleep, or into the punctua lackamalla, which are little holes for the 9 G 88 EYES. purpose of carrying off any superfluous moisture or tears into the nose: the eve has four coats or mem- branes, and three humours ; the first membrane is called tunika adnata, and covers all that part of the eye that in a man appears white, but in a horse is variegated with streaks and spots of broWn, and being reflected back, lines the inside of the eyelids, and by that inver- sion becomes the means to prevent motes, dust, small flies, or any extraneous matter getting behind the eye- ball into the orbit, which would be extremely danger- ous : this coat is full of blood vessels, which appear in little red streaks on the human eye when inflamed, and when there is but little white in the eyes of horses, they appear fiery, and the eyelids, when opened and turned back, look red : the second coat has its foiepart very strong and transparent, like horn, and is therefore called the cornea ; and the other pajt, which is opaque and dark, is called the schlerotis : under the cornea lies the iris, which in a horse inclines to cinnamon colour : the middle of this membrane, or coat, is perforated for the admission of the rays of light, and is called the pupil : under the iris lies the processes ciliares, which go ofl' in little ra3''s, and 'n a sound eye are plainly to be seen. As often as these processes contract, they dilate the pupil, which may always be observed in places where the ight is small ; but in a strong light, the circular fibres of the iris act as a sphincter muscle, and lessen the size of the pupil ; and therefore a dilated and wide pupil, in a strong light, is generally an evidence of a bad eye. Under the schlerotis lies the choroides, which is the third coat of the eye : in men it is of a dusky brown but in horses the greater part of this coat is white, which enables them to see bodies of all colours better liian men in the night, as white reflects all colours EYES. 89 But horses and other animals that feed on grass, have some parts of this membrane of a light green, which enables them to see with little light, and makes grass an object that they can discern with greatest strength, and therefore it is sometimes called tunicia uvea, from its resembling the colour of a grape. The inner- most or fourth coat is called the memhrana retina^ which is only an expansion of the optic nerve upon the choroides, and encompasseth the glossy humour like a net. By the continuation of the rays of light upon the fine filaments of this membrane, all the external images are conveyed by the optic nerves to the brain. Within the coats of the eye are seated the three humours that chiefly compose the eyeball ; the first is the aqueous or watery humour, which lies foremost and seems chiefly as a proper medium to preserve the crystalline humours from injuries in case of wounds, bruises, or any other external cause. Behind the aqueous humour lies the crystalline lens, in a very firm membrane called^ arena, being like a spider's web — its use is to refract the rays of light that pass through it, so that all the rays proceeding from the same point of any object, being first refracted on the cornea, may be united on the retina — the vitreous humour lies behind the crj^stalline, being con- cave on its foreside to make a convenient lodgement for the crystalline, and its hinder part convex agreeable to the globular form of the eye, upon which the tunica retina and choroides aie spiTad : this humour pos- sesses a space larger than the other two, and being ol a hue like a light coloured green glass, is a proper medium, not only to keep the crystalline humour and the retina at a proper distance from each other, but by Its colour to prevent the rays o^ light fallina; too tor 90 EVES. ribly uTvor. the latter, which might weaken or impair the sight. The eyes of horses differ so widely in their appear- ance, that the best judges will be sometimes mistaken as to their power of vision ; but I shall here recom- mend such modes of examination as will rarelv de- reive, having already described that organ fully, when in its most perfect state. For the purpose of making a fair trial of a horse's eyes, that you suspect to be bad, and to ascertain their quahty, 1st. Have him confined in a dark stable about fif- teen minutes, then led hastily out into a strong light: if he wunks fast, wrinkles his brows, throwing liis head up as if desirous of receiving more light, and moves his ears backwards and forwards slowly, in an unmeaning manner, his eyes are not good. 2d. If his eyes appear sunk, with the lids shrivelled or very much swelled, it is a proof they have received an injury. 3d. It the bnll of the eye appears covered with a film, or the remains of one about the corners, with the pupil large and light coloured, without occasionally contracting with a look wild and vacant, his eyes are diseased. 4th. If he can be rode against a tree or any other object which he should avoid, and which should alarm him, his eyes are bad. 5th. If when moved he lifts his feet high and awk- wardly, and appears not to know where he is abput to place them, you may immediately conclude he is blind. Gth. If when rode over small gullies or old coin Ciound, he blunders much, and requires the constant attention of the rider to guide him, his eyes are not good. EYES. 91 7lh. If you shake your hand near his eyes in such a manner that he cannot feel the wind from it, and he pays no attention to it, by winkmg quick, and moving his ears, his eyes are such as should not be made choice of. 8th, If at night, when you approach him with a candle, and the pupil of his eye looks large, of a light blue colour, without having near its middle, and on the upper part, little rough spots, of a dark brown colour, resembling moss, or ii the pupil contains large white opaque lumps, the horse is either blind or occasionally subject to bhndness, and shoula be avoided by a purchaser. The eyes of some horses are very subject to films, vhich have been sometimes removed by large bleed- ngs, or the use of double refined loaf sugar, or glass Dottle, powdered. Eyes thus affected are much to be dreaded, as it is verv difficult to discover them. One hard ride will make a horse blind; and one large bleedino^ will remove the film. To detect such eyes, examine minutely the corners, as the film leaves those parts of the eye last, and will appear there, when ii has been removed from the middle of the eve foi several days. The eyes of a horse arc never too large, but very frequently too small ; and when shaped like a pig's, are neither durable nor handsome, and form a serious objection. The wall or white eyes are truly valuable, being much hardier and less subject to disease thar eyes of any other description ; for who ever recollects io have seen a horse blind, or even with diseased eyes. that had wall eyes ? and unquestionably they can see betier in the night than a horse without them. 9* '^2 EYES. The ejes of a horse should be large, round, full; lively, dark coloured, clear, and shining, that you maj^ see far into them ; and when moving, but little of the white should appear. Dealers in those animals are very apt to endeavour to lead a purchaser from any defect he by chance may discover about a horse, to some part without fault, or some of his best parts ; and as to eyes, speak of them as if they were of little or no consequence. Purchasers should always be on their guard when dealing with men that possess so much artifice and cunning. ie^e« MOON EYES. We sometimes observe the eves of a horse to change colour, and to vary in appearance monthly. Eyes thus affected, are called moon eyes, from the prevailing opinion that the affection incieases or decreases with the course of the moon ; insomucli that in the full moon the eyes are muddy, discharging a thin ichorous water so sharp as sometimes to excoriate the skin, and at new moon clear up again. At first appearante of this disease, the eyes are much swelled, and very often shut, and the whole eveball of a muddv brown; the veins of the temple, and near the eyes, appear remark- ably full of blood, and both eyes are seldom afiected at the same time. Larf^e bleedincrs, and the eyes washed frequently in cold water, give temporary relief; but this disease is the forerunner of a cataract, which seldom admits of a cure ; the cases generally end in txmdness of one, if not both eves. STARTING 03 The e}es of horses are very frequently wounded and injured by blows, flies, accidents, &c. which can always be distino^uished from diseased eves by a proper examination. To perform a cure, when thus injured, wash them three or four times a day in clean, cold spring water, after which repeat the washing, adding a small quantity of sugar of lead to the water. when the eye gets strong enough to open of its own accord, in the light. Should a film appear on the surface, (which is absolutely necessary, if the eye has received a wound, before it can heal,) take of double refined loaf sugar, or glass bottle powdered to a fine dust, a small quantity in the end of a quill ; blow it m the eye affected, every third morning for a week : bleed at least three times within the w^eek, takinc! about half a gallon of blood at each bleeding ; if the horse is not disposed to go blind, the cure will in a shor* time be completed. ®9* STARTING. Horses, as Wdl as men, sometimes acquiie ban habits, of which they can but seldom divest themselves. Starting is one among the worst habits a horse can possess, and has a tendency to reduce his value at least one fourth, in consequence of endangering the life oi any person who may back him. A good rider haa sometimes been thrown by his horse in starting, that would have defied his agility in any other way. A rider never can guard against a starting horse, as he gives no^notice of his intentions, by the moving ol 94 STARTING. his ears, eyes, manner of going, &:c. as they generally do in rearing, jumping, kicking, sullenness, and such vices. Some few horses are broke of starting by mild means, others by cruel treatment ; but whoever engages in it, at least runs the risk of breaking his own neck before his object is accomplished. A horse subject to starting, labours under an ocular deception, or rather an optic defect, seeing nothing' perfectly, or in proper shape or colour ; and can as easily make a scare-crow of a little bush or chunk, that may happen to lay in his road, as the most frightful object that could meet his sight. To ascertain that a horse starts, is very easy indeed. Mount him yourself, ride first slow, and then fast, towards and by such objects as are offensive to the eye, and you will readily discover if he possesses that bad habit. Some horses that are free from this objection, will notice particularly all objects they meet, and may sidle a little ; but a starting horse, on approaching any objec that may displease him, whether frightful or not, will either suddenly spring from one side of the road to the other, jump back, or when going in a full gallop, stop suddenly, turn round, and run in an opposite direction from the one he was going. Such horses are neithei agreeable or .^afe for any kind of service. STUMBLING. 1 5 STUMBLING. The stumbling of a horse may be either natural or produced by accidents, such as sphnt, wind galls,, sinew strains, shoulder sprains, withers injured, &c. dzc. but whether produced by accident or natural defect, cannot be remedied. All horses, and particu- larly those that go well, stumble more or less ; but there is a very wide distinction between a light tip or touch on the foot, and a stumble that will bring a horse and sometimes his rider fiat in the dirt. Horses given to this practice, are very much lessened in value, and can never be rode by any person aware of his bad quality, without being in pain, dreading every tirriC ne lifts his ieet, that all will be prostrated la tne dust. To ascertiilii it a horse stumbles, 1st. Examine well his knees, to discover if they are scarred, or the hair knocked off. 2d. Take him amongst uneven ground, small gullies, or old corn ground, and let him be rode w^ith the bridle hanging slack upon his neck, in all the different gaits he has been accustomed to, and if he is in the habit of stumbling, he will very soon make a sufficient number of low bows to convince you of the fact. 3d. When a horse stumbles and immediately springs off*, appearing alarmed, it is a proof that he is an old offender, and is under the apprehension of having one other ffogging added to the great number he nad, no doubt, received for the same fault. Such a horse J consider unsafe, and therefore cannot recommend him to purchasers ; he being not so good, even for a slow dralt, as one possessing more activity. '•n SPAVIN. SPAVIN. A spAviiVED horse may be considered as one com- . pletely ruined, for a permanent cure can rarely be effected, if attempted, even on its first appearance. The spavin is a lump, knot, or swelling, on the inside of the hock, below^ the joint, that benumbs the limbs, und destroys the free use of the hind legs. It causes a horse to be extremely lame, and to experience, apparently, very excruciating pain. In the purchase of a horse, great respect should be paid to his bringing up his hind parts well, as a spavined horse never makes a full step with the leg affected ; also to the shape of his hocks, in order to discover if there is any knot or unnatural prominence about the joint, which is an evidence of the spavin. When a horse is thus diseased, he is unfit for any kind of service, even the meanest drudgery, being in constant pain, and unable to perform. Horses sometimes have the spavin, when there is no lump apparent near the joint, the disease being seated in the joint. To detect such spavin, and to prevent a cunning fellow (who may have given the animal rest, blistered and bathed the part with double distilled spirits, and formed a temporary relief,) from imposing on a purchaser, have the horse rode m three quarters speed, about one mile out and back, occasionally fretting, cracking, and drawing nini up suddenly and short ; after which let him be rode in c^old water up to the belly ; then pJace him in a stall without interruption, for about half an hour, by which lime h^ will be perfectly cool ; then have him led out, and moved gently: if he has received a temporary CPLTX BITING. Q7 cure of the spavin, he will show lameness. A blistc of Spanish flies applied to the part affo'^.ted (aftei shaving off the hair) with a bath of strong spirits oi vinegar, and a week's rest, will frequently suspend the lameness produced by the spavin for a time, but a radical cure may not be exoected. "•S^Q* CJllB BITING. Crib Biting is one amonc^st the number of bad habits to which some horses are addicted. It consists in his catching hold of the manger, grunting and sucking in wind, until he is almost ready to burst. To discover this vice, it is only necessary to have a horse fed: whenever they eat, at least one half of his victuals is wasted, by tjeir catching hold of the manger, grunting, straining, and swallowing large quantities oi wind every two or three mouthfuls, which produces the cholic and other distressina: diseases. Whenever this very bad habit is acquired, it is practised as long as the animal lives. Many experi- ments and fruitless attempts have been made to remedy it, but without success. An elegant horse, when once he becomes a crib biter, is reduced in value to little or nothing. He always looks hollow, jaded, and delicate, and is incapable of rendering sei'vice in any situatior W BROKEA W1.VU BROKEN WIND Broken Wind is one amonfi:st the number ot mcLirable diseases to which the horse is subject. When affected with this disease, he is disagreeable to his rider, and is of but httle vahie, however beautiful or elegant he may be in his appearance. All the boasted pretensions of farriers to cure, are vain and frivolous, since their utmost skill, now and then, can only palliate the symptoms, and mitigate their violence. It is easy to discover a broken winded horse. By giving him a little brisk exercise, he will draw up his rianks and drop them suddenly, breathe with great difficulty, and make a disagreeable wheezing noise. The seat of the disease appears, from dissection, to be in the lungs; the heart and lungs being found of twice their natural size, wdiich prevents their performing their office with ease, in the action of respiration. Broken wind is sometimes produced in a horse by excessive fatigue, heavy drafts, sudden changes from heat to cold, and other cruel treatment. It would be advisable to dispose of such horses at any price, as they are not worth their feeding. This complaint, I believe, does not admit of perfect cure: but by much care may be greatly relieved. The food should be compact4inyi,..nutritious, such as corn and old hay. Carrots are excellent in this case, as are paisnips and beet roots, probably on account of ilio saccharine matter they contain. I have heard that molasses has been given in the water (which should be in very small quantities) wfth very great w"ipf>pss. Some have used tar water ; others praise STRING HALT. &9 the effects of lime water; but the greatest dependence should be in very sparing supplies of substantial food. The exercise ought to be regular, but never beyond a walking pace. If the symptomatic cough should be troublesome, take away about three quarts of blocd every other day. — wt9@9^ STRING HALT. The string halt affects horses in their hind legs, and consists in a false action or involuntary use of a muscle, which twitches one of the legs almost up to the belly, and sometimes both. The string halt is produced by a muscle being over strained, or a violent blow on the hind parts. Good rubbing, and baths ot warm vinegar and sweet oil, afford momentary relief, but a permanent cure may not be expected. A horse thus injured, is incapable of faithfully performing a journey, although he may be rode four or five miles without appearing to sink with fatigue. Such a horse IS very objectionable, being uneasy to the rider, and must give pain to every peison who is in the habit of .seeing him rode. 10 iO(» CHEST FOUNDER, CHEST FOUNDER. The chest founder appears to be a disease but lil Uq unilerstood by farriers in general ; they are, however, not backward in otfering many remedies, and speak of some with much confidence, when they propose performing a cure. But experience has proved, beyond the possibiHty of a doubt, that the chest founder is one of those dreadful diseases to which the horse is subject, that admits of no cure. I can here be of more use, by speaking of its seat, and describing its symptoms to a purchaser, than by pretending there exists, for that disease, a specific medicine, or propose its use to the owner of such an unfortunate animal. The chest founder is sometimes produced by violent exerc"s,e on a full stomach, and drinking large quan- tities of cold branch water ; by the use of mouldy bran, corn, or oats, or by eating large quantities oi green food, such as oats, wheat, peas, &c. while per- formino: hard labour. From dissection, it appears that the seat of the disease is in the lungs ; the heart and liver are also considerably enlarged, insomuch that there is not room for them to perform their office with ease. The liver, lungs, diaphragm, and surrounding parts, are all covered with large brown spots, and are much inflamed. A horse that is chest foundered, will straddle oi stake with his fore legs, showing an unwillingness tc bring his feet together; and if they are placed near each other, he will not permit them to remain so for a minute. Indeed they are frequentJy twelve oi NARROW HEELS. 101 eighteen inches apart, which is caused by a fulness, and continual uneasiness about the chest : the cavity being too small to contain the lungs, &c. in then enlarged situation with ease. The hind legs are free from the palsied appearance of those before, and it is not difficult to Histinguisn it from a common founder, as it is wanting in all its symptoms, except the stiff and numbed appearance ol the legs ' Large bleedings and half an ounce of aloes, given internally in a ball, have sometimes afforded momen- tary relief No effectual remedy has yet been dis- covered. A horse labouring under this disease, is worth but little more than his board, as he is unable to bear fatigue, or undergo severe service. '•e@A« NARROW HEELS, is a disease that often produces lameness without the master of the horse knowing from what cause it proceeds ; often examinmg his legs, cleaning his hoofs, paring the frogs of his feet, &c. &c. without paying any respect to the shape of the horse's heels, which are always close together and unaturally shaped. A' horse with narrow heels is unfit to travel, as he is tender footed, and goes cramped,' short, and is al- ways subject to lameness, more o/ less. Narrow heels is the effect of shoes being permitted to remain on a horse that is not used, ^ov tliree or loin 102 SPLINT. monll IS, which cause the heels to grow togethei , pincp ing and confining the coronet. The cure is simple, though tedious. Have his shoes taken off and his feet cut down as small as possible, without injuring the quick ; then turn him out upon a marsh or low ground, where his hoofs may be con- stantly moist for three or four months, and his heels will expand, his hoofs again assume their natural shape, and the horse will be fit for any kind of service. _^e@d««~- SPLINT. The splint is a hard lump or excrescence that grows upon the fore legs of a horse between the fetlock and the knee. It is unpleasant to the eye, but seldom does injury, unless situated on the back of the leg and im- mediately under the large tendons, in which case lameness Is always produced, and the cure rendered difficult. When the splint is situated in the usual place, and grows so, large as to be unfavourable to beauty — to remove it, bathe the part with hot vinegar twice a day, and have the knot or splint rubbed with a smooth round stick, after bathing for ten or fifteen minutes ; by the expiration of a week the knot will perceptibly decrease in size, and finally, in a short time will disappear. — Bat should such means not have the desired effect, shave off the hair over the lump, and apply a blister oi Spanish flies, which in a short time will effectually remove it. LA^MPASS. 103 The splint, when first making its appearance, will cause a horse to Hmp a Httle: and, as he advances in years, may stiffen him, and cause him to stumble. But I have never known any serious injury to resuk from such an excrescence, unless placed beneath the large tendons. ®o« LAMPASS. All young horses are subject to the lampass, and some suffer extremely before it is discovered. It is a swelling or enlarging of the gums on the mside of the upper jaw : the growth is sometimes so luxuriant as to prevent a horse from eating with any comfort. The cure is simple; and after being per- formed, a horse will improve in his condition with great rapidity. Take a hot iron, flat, sharp, and a little crooked at the end, burn the lampass out just below the level of the teeth, using great care to prevent the hot iron from bearing or resting upon the teeth. After the operation is performed, the horse should be given a little bran or meal, with a small quantity of salt in it. Some farriers have recommended cutting for the lampass, which only gives momentary relief, and would require the same operation to be performed every three or foftr months ; but when it is once burnt out, it never again makes its appearance. 10* H 104 WIND GALLS. WIND GALLS. \V'iND Galls are spongy and flatulent humours, that make their appearance on both sides of the legs, just above the pastern joint or fetlock. It is seldom that a horse is found entirely clear of them, particularly about the hind legs, if he be much used. They are produced by hard usage, strains, bruises, &c. &c. of the back sinews or the sheath that covers them, which by being over-stretched, have some of their fibres ruptured ; whence probably may ooze out the fluid which is commonly found with the included air. When wind galls make their first appearance, they are easily cured by a bath and bandage. Boil red oak bark to a strong decoction, add some sharp vinegar and a little alum, let the parts be fomented twice a day, warm as the hand can be held in it ; then take a woollen cloth, dip it in the bath, and bind the ancle up, tight as possible, without giving pain to the horse. Should this method not succeed, after a thorough trial, the swelled or pufTed parts may be opened with a sharp knife ; but blistering with flies is less dangerous, and generally attended with equal success. Wind galls give to a horse a gouty and clumsy appearance ; but I have never known lameness pro- duced by them, or any other injury, except that ol stiffening his legs as he advances in years. They furnish strong proof that the animal has rendered much service FARCY. 1 n.*^ FARCY. The farcy is a contagious disease among horses, find is more to be dreaded than any malady to winch they are subject. It sometimes makes its appearance on a particular part, while at other times it spreads its horrid ravages through the whole system. It may be found in the neighbourhood of each blood vessel, following the track of the veins, and when inveterate, appears to thicken their coats and integuments. Its characteristics are a fulness and hardness of the veins, a number of small lumps or buds on the limbs or lower parts of the body, which at first appearance are hard, but soon turn into soft blisters, and which (when broken) discharge an oily or bloody ichor, and turn into foul, spreading ulcers. In some horses it appears in the head only, in others near the external jugular or plate veins, inside the fore arms, on the hind parts, near the large veins inside the thighs, about the pasterns, and parti- cularly about the knees of the horse, which are fre- quently swelled until they appear deformed. The poison of the farcy appears to be slow in its operation, as a horse will frequently linger and dwindle away for six or nine months, and the ulcers increase in number and size, until the flesh appears almost dis- posed to fall from the bones, before life is destroyed. The appetite of a horse thus diseased is generally good 10 the last, but his hair looks dead, and his eyes sad and desponding'. The farcy, in its first stage, readily admits of a v'-.ure • but after running on a horse for a length oi tima KiO FARCY. and the absorbents or lymphatics about the ulcers become inflamed from an absorption of poisonous mat- ter, the cure is rendered extremely difficult. Whenever the farcy rises on the spine, it shows great malignancy, and is considered dangerous, parti- cularly to horses that are fat, and full of blood. When it is general in the system, as is sometimes the case, it rises on several parts of the body at once, forming many large and foul ulcers, causing a profuse running of greenish corrupted matter from both nostrils, and soon terminates the existence of the animal by general mortification. In the lower limbs the farcy sometimes remams concealed for a g-eat length of time, and makes so slow a progress thai, it is often mistaken for a wound, or some other disease. A single bud will sometimes appear opposite the pastern joint, and run upwards in an uneven and knotty form ; and unless some steps are taken to check its progress, it will slowly steal upon the animal until it becomes general in the sys- tem, and finally centres in the lungs ; shortly after which a gangrene ensues, and the horse is unburdened of a life that is not only painful to himself, but to all diat behold him. To efiect a cure in this distressing disease, in jis first stage bleed three times the first week, taking half a gallon of blood at each bleeding, feed principally on bran, oats, or any food easily digested, and the long food green, (if to be liad ;) remove all filth from or about the staole, taking care to keep it neat and clean afterwards ; give three mashes a week, of bran, scalded with sassafras tea, one table spoonful of powdered orimstone, and one tea spoonful of salti>etrc. (not pep FARCY. 107 mittino: the horse to drink for six hours afterwards,) take half an ounce of asafoetida, which can be pro- cured in any apothecary's shop; wrap it in a clean linen rag, and nail it in the bottom of the manger in which he is fed : all his drmk must be equal quantities of sassafras boiled in water to a strong decoction, and half an ounce of asafoetida should be placed in his watering bucket in the same manner as directed for the manger; the buds or ulcers should be washed once a day with blue-stone or copperas water, and if the knees or ancles are swelled, spread on a piece of buck- skin mercurial ointment, and bind them up as tight as possible without giving pain. The second week bleed twice, taking half a gallon of olood each bleeding, if the horse i^ in tolerable order ; or if poor, only half the quantity; give the same number of mashes as directed for the first week, also the same drink, taking care to renew the asafoetida in the man- ger and bucket, should it be sufficiently exhausted to require it. i The third week bleed but once, taking one quart of blood ; in other respects observe the same treatment as directed for the first and second weeks. The horse should be moderately exercised about a mile, twice a day, and occasionally should be offered a little hom- mony, as a change of food, to keep up his appetite. By the time your attentions for the third week expire, if the disease is only local, it will not only be removed, but the plight of the horse will be nuicn improved. When the farcy make its appearance epidemically., the cure is rendered difficult, and w-ill require the aid of more active medicine. Prepare and give to a horse 1 08 FARCY. ft ihus diseased, a ball, every night for a week, com- posed of twenty-five grains of calomel, a quarter of an ounce of powdered fennel seed, a small quantity of syrup of any kind, and as much crumb of loaf bread as will make a ball about the size of an Enfrlish walnut; all buds or ulcers should be washed clean in blue-stone water, after which they shonld be well rubbed around with mercurial ointment once a day ; a narrow pitch plaster should be laid on at the joining of the head and neck, in the direction of the throat latch, for the purpose of taking off the hair, which will happen in two or three days; after which, a lump of mercu- rial ointment, about the size of a hickory nut, must be rubbed on the naked part, amongst the large glands of the throat, until it is entirely absorbed, every night and morning, until the expiration of the week ; added to which, the treatment generally may be the same as before recommended in the more simple stage of the farcy, with these exceptions; — the drink should never bri cold, but the air taken off, or milk warm ; the mashes without sulphur, during the week the balls are given, as the sulphur counteracts the effects of the calomel and ointment ; he should not be bled, and great care should be used to prevent his getting wet, and catching cold in any way while under the course of physic. At the expiration of the first w^eek, stop with the balls anu ointment for a week, adding sulphur to the mashes, as directed in the first stage of farcy. At the expiration of the second week, stop with the sulphui, and again commence with the balls and ointment. Go on in this mannej, continuing to change the medicine each week; until the cure is performed. FARCY. JOO « It may sometimes happen that a horse's mouth will become sore before the expiration of a week, when taking the balls and using the ointment. Whenever this is discovered, stop with the balls, and add sulphur to the mashes, which will readily remove the soreness about the mouth. The farcy is so contagious that it often destroys horses of every description upon a plantation, and leaves the plough of industry standing still in the far- mer's field. Not long since, a gentlemen in the county of Sussex, lost upwards of forty horses by this fatal disease, without being able to save one. For the oenefit of those who have more than one horse, I would recommend the use of asafoetida in the manger, watering bucket, and to the bridle bit, to prevent the farcy from dealing out destruction to their whole stock. I have made a fair experiment with this simple preventive, by placing a horse violently affected with it, and which fell a victim to it, in the same stable with one in health, without any ill consequences resulting from their contiguous situation. The farcy has visited several farms W'ithin the United States, with effects so dreadful, as not onlv te desti'oy every one of the species, without respect tc age, but even occupied in triumph the walks and resting places of its prey. Nor could the disease be diverted from its stand, or completely eradicated, until stables, shelters, pens, Htter, straw, &c. &c w^re entirelv consumed and reduced to ashes. i »0 RING BONE. FOUNDER. RING BONE. The ring bone partakes of the nature of the spavin, and frequently proceeds from the same cause. It makes its appearance on the lower part of the pastern, and sometimes immediately opposite the coffin joint. It is ahardfrnd bony substance, and generally reaches half way round the ancle, which gives to the ancle an unnatural appearance, and causes the horse to go stiff and lame. Its name has proceeded from its resem- blance to a ring. It seldom admits of a cure, conse- luently a horse diseased with it is worth but httle. When the ring bone first makes its appearance, blisters of flies have sometimes been employed with success. But after growing to full size, and remaining some length of time, to offer a remedy would be de- ceitful and presumptuous. Remedy. — A strong preparation of corrosive subli- mate added to Spanish flies and Venice turpentine, and mixed with hog's lard, will often dissolve a ring boiie, 'Sz:c. -»»»eQe* FOUNDER. The injury sustained by horses, called founder, is sometimes the effect of the cruelty of his master, and a: other times brought on by injudicious treatment ; but it mos. frequently produced by carelessness, or FOUNDER. Ill a want of knowledge of the treatment necessary to those excellent animals on a jom'ney. Althous^h the horse is endowed with the streno^th and powers of the lion, yet he seldom exerts either to the prejudice of his master. On the contrary, he shares with him in his labom's, and seems to participate with him in his pleasures. Generous and persevering, he gives up his whole powers to the service of his master; and though bold and intrepid, he represses the natural fire and vivacity of his temper, and not only yields to the hand, but seems to consult the inclination of his rider. But it must continue to be a matter of regret to every feeling mind, that these excellent qualities should be so often shamefully abused in the most unnecessary exertions ; and the honest labours of this noble animal thrown away in the ungrateful task of accomplishinnr the purposes of an unfeeling folly, or lavished in grati- fying the expectations of an intemperate moment. A horse may be foundered by excessive hard rides, permitting him to plunge deep into cold water, while hot and sweating, and drinking his fill of cold pond water, eating large quantities of new corn and fodder, and then briskly exercised ; over feeding with bran alone whilst performing hard labour, drinking plenti- fully at every branch in travelling, feeding with more than a horse can eat after being half starved, violent exercise on a full belly, or not permitting a horse who has travelled in a hot sun all day, to cool thoroughly, before he is given as much as he can eat, drink, &c. Symptoms of a Founder. — The symptoms that indi- cate an approaching founder, are so few and «:u (common, that the most ignorant persons will rarely be 11 112 FOUNDER. mistaken. Great heat about the legs, pasterns, and cars, a soreness in the feet, together with a stiffness so great in all his limbs that the animal frequently refuses to move, unless force is used ; his flanks and lower part of his belly draws up, his hide becomes bound or tight, his legs thrown a little more forwaid than in his usual or natural position ; a constant thirst, and very often a considerable sweHing of the ancles, 6zc. &c. Remedy for a Founder. — 80 soon as you are con- vmced that your horse is foundered, take from his neck vein at least one gallon of blood ; give a drench of one quart strong sassafras tea, one table spoonful of saltpetre, and a quarter of an ounce of asafoetida, and do not permit him to drink for five or six hours ; at the expiration of which time, should he not be evidently better, repeat the bleeding, taking half a gallon of blood, and give another drench: at night offer him some bran or oats, scalded with sassafras tea, and if it can be procured, let him have green food, fresh from the field, for it has the happy eflect of opening the bowels, and cooling the system : his feet should be nicely cleaned out, and stuffed with fresh cow manure : his drink should be at least one half sassafras tea, with a small handful of salt thrown therein. By the morning, should the horse be better, nothing further is necessary, only being careful not to over feed him. But should there be no change for the Detter, tie a small cord .just above his knees, and with a ancet or fleam bleed in a vein that runs around the <'-oronet, just above the hoof; take from each leg a jjint of blood: give a pound of salts dissolved in three half pints of water, in form of a drench ; keep his feet stufled with fresh cow manure, and bathe his leffs with COLIC OR GRIPES. 1J3 equal parts of sharp vinegar, spirits and sweet oil or lard. By attention to these directions, in two or three days the horse will again be fit for service. A horse in this unpleasant situation requires great attention. Whenever they are foundered, they search for a bank of manure to stand on, which should al- ways be prevented, as its heat increases the fever. Horses slightly foundered, have sonaetimes been cured in a few hours, by standing thena in pond water or mud, or by bleeding in the mouth, but those reme- dies are uncertain, and are not so much to be relied on as those first recommended. A foundered horse is generally very much reduced in flesh, before a cure is effected ; and is always more subject to founder afterwards. Large ridges on the hoofs, or a turning up of the feet, are strong indications of old founders or other injuries. @9* , COIJC OR GRIPES. The colic is a disease to which the horse is very subject ; and as often proves fatal, in consequence oi improper treatment, as any disease attendant on that animal. It may be produced by improper feeding, w^atering, or riding, and sometimes by a want of energy in the stomach and bowels, occasioning a spasmodic con- striction of the intestines, and a confinement of air Some horses are naturally disposed to coUc, while % ! H COLIC OR GRIPES. Others, even with improper treatment, are seldom or never attacked with that dangerous disease. The pangs of the cohc appear so excruciating, and all the symptoms so violent, as to alarm, generally, those unaccustomed to it, and cause them to be appre- hensive of dangerous consequences ; but by using ihe remedies I shall here offer, the cure will be made easy, and the animal speedily relieved from this painful situation. Symptoms. — The symptoms of the colic commence with great restlessness and uneasiness in the horse's manner of standing, frequently pawing, voids small quantities of excrement, and makes many fruitless attempts to stale : kicks his belly with his hind legs : often looks round to his flanks, groaning, expressive of the pain he feels : lies down, rolls, gets up again, and sometimes for a moment, appears to find relief. But the pain soon returns with double violence : his ears are generally cold, and he often sweats about the flanks and shoulders : his body swelled, and he fre- quently shows a disposition to lay down in great haste. A Table for distinguishing hctween the Colic or Gripes, and in. flavimation of the Boivels of Horses, by the symptoms that mark the character of each. Spasmodic or Flatulent Colic. Injlammation of the Bowels. 1. Pulse natural, though some- 1. Pulse very quick and small limes a little lower. (1) (2) 2. The horse lies down and 2. He lies down and suddenly rolls upon his back. rises up again, seldom rolling upon his back. 3. The legs and ear are gene- 3. Legs and cars generally rally warm. cold. 4. Attacks suddenly, is never 4. In general, attacks gradual, preceded, and seldom accoinpa- ly, is commonly preceded, and iuei by any symptoms of fever, always accompanied by symp- toms of fever. 5. There are frequently short 5. No intermissions can !>e ib« mtcrmissivins served. COLIC OR GRIPES. 115 (1) Pulse Natural. — When in health, the pulsa- tions or strokes are from thirty-six to forty in a minute ; those of large, heavy horses being slower than those of the smaller ; and those of old ones, slower than those of young animals. When either are just off a quick pace, the strokes increase in number; as they do if he be alarmed or animated, by the familiar cry of the hounds. (2) Pulse very quick and small. — Fever, if the simple or common kind, usually increases the pulsations to double the healthy number. As the fever increases in violence, and particularly in cases of inflammation of the bowels, the pulse beats still higher, and reaches to a hundred in a minute, or more. To ascertain either state, the attendant should apply the points of his fingers gently to the artery which lies nearest the surface. Some prefer consulting the temporal artery, which is situated about an inch and a half backward from the corner of the eye. Others again, and they are the greater number, think it best to feel it underneath the edge of the jaw bone, where the facial artery passes on under the skin only to the side of the face. In either case, too great pressure would stop the pulsation altogether ; though by so trying the artery against the iaw bone, will prove whether it be in such a rigid state of excitement as attends high fever; or elastic and springy, slipping readily from under the finger, as it does when health prevails, and the strokes follow each other regularly. The presence of high /euer is further inai cated by a kind of twang, or vibration, given by the pulse against the finger points, resembling much such as would be felt were we to take hold of a distendeo whip cord or wire between the fingers and cause il lO vibrate like a ficidlestring, sharply Wheieas, jd 11 * 116 COLIC OR GRIPES. health, a sii-ell is felt in the vibration, as if the string were made of soft materials, and less straitened. Languid? or slow pulse, and scarcely perceptible in some of the beats or strokes, indicates lowness of spirits, debility, or being used up : if this languor be felt at intervals only, a few strokes being very quick, and then again a few very slow, this indicates low fever, m which bleeding would do no harm, &c. — \_A. Turf. R. <^ S. Mag.'] Remedies. — Number 1. Take from the neck vein half a gallon of blood ; take of laudanum one ounce, oi mint tea ono quart, milk warm ; mix them well in a bottle, and give the contents as a diench; let the horse be well rubbed under the belly, and prepare and give an injection of meal, water, molasses, salt, and hog's lard, milk warm. Number 2. Take of mint tea one and a hadf pints ; gin, or any spirituous liquor, half a pint ; mix them well in a bottle, and give them as a drench, taking care to rub him well. Should it not have the desired effecl in fifteen minutes, repeat the dose. Number 3. Take of camphor a quarter of an ounce oil of turpentine half an ounce, mint tea one pint; mi> tliem in a bottle, and give them as a drench. Confine the horse in a close stable, cover him with three or four blankets, and under his belly place a large tub oi boiling water, which will readily throw him into a yrofuse sweat, and relieve him from pain. Number 4. In addition to the above, clysters oughi .o be administered, by injecting the following ingre- dients, viz. : water half a gallon, salt one handful, oil of any kind one pint, molasses one pint ; mix the whole, and inject it; and repeat it every half hour, until tlie bowels are well opened. PCRATCHES. SCRATCHES. The scratches is a disease which soon places a horse in such a situation as to render him unfit for any kind of service. When it is permitted to run upon a horse for a length of time, without any remedy bemg applied, the ankles and legs swell very much, and lameness is produced in so great a degree, that he is scarcely able to move. The scratches are produced from many different causes, as hard riding, dirty stables, legs left wet at night without being rubbed, standing in his own ma- nure or mud, in the stall where he is confined, &;c. &c. Although much inflammation may appear, ami the disease discover much inveteracy, the cure is not difficult. Remedies. — Number 1. — Remove the horse to n clean stall : with strong soap suds wash his legs and ankles nicely; clean out his feet; then wash every part, inflamed ,or sore, in strong copperas water, twice a day, until the cure is performed : take half a gallon of blood from the neck vein, and give a mash twice a week, of one gallon of bran, one tea spoonful of salt- petre, and one table spoonful of powdered brimstone. Great attention should be paid to the cleanliness of the stable. Number 2. After the horse is placed in a clean stall and his legs and ankles nicely washed with warm soap suds, take of blue-stone, one ounce ; of alum, four ounces, to which add half a gallon of strong de- coction of red oak bark, stir them together until the alum and blue-stone are dissolved ; then wash the cracks, sores, or inflamed parts, twice a day, and the IIS BOTS OR GRUBS. cure will be effected in a very short time. Light or green food would be preferable to any other, for a horse thus diseased, until the cure is performed. Number 3. After washing the legs and ankles clean with soap suds, take of flower of sulphur or powdered brimstone, one table spoonful ; hog's lard, one table spoonful; mix them well together, and anoint the sores and parts inflamed twice a day. A horse will get well much sooner confined in a clean stall, than by running at large. Niimher 4. Boil poke-root to a strong decoction, and bathe the ankles twice a day. ' In all cases a clean stable will aid you much in making a quick cure of the scratches. @e. BOTS OR GRUBS. The bots or grubs are small worms that are found m the stomach ; their colour is brown or reddish, and ihey seldom exceed three quarters of an inch in length. At one extremity they have two small hooks, by which they attach themselves, and the belly appears to be covered with very small feet. They are most fre- quently found adhering to the insensible coat of the stomach, and then they do not appear to cause any considerable uneasin'ess or inconvenience. Sometimes riowever, they attach themselves to the sensible part, and do great injury to that important organ, producing irritation, emaciation, a rough coat of hair, hide bound \ma cough. It is astonishing with what force these worms adliere, and how ten*3.cious they are of life. BOTS OR GKUBS. 110 It is proved beyond doubt, by experiments made, that this worm, like the caterpillar, undergoes several changes. It is originally a fly, which deposits its eggs in the horse's coat, causes an itching, and induces him to bite the part. In this way he swallows the eggs, which by the heat of the stomach are brought into life, and are sometimes so numerous as to eat their way entirely through the stomach and destroy the animal. Indeed they seldom fail to attack a horse with great violence, whenever his stomach is empty, and endanger his life. Numberless experiments have been made upon the grubs, after they have been taken from a horse that had died, to discover what medicine would soonest destroy their lives, that could be safely given. But all endeavours as yet upon that subject, have been fruit- less. It appears that they will Hve in any medicine that can be given to a horse, nearly as long as they can live without eating. All the benefit that results from experience on this subject, to me, merely serves to break the hold and expel those dangerous worms, when they are so mischievously engaged. After describing the symptoms attending the grubs I shall offer some remedies which have saved the lives of many horses. Symptoms. — A horse attacked by the grubs, fre quently lies down and looks round to his shoulders, groans, whips his tail between his hind legs, frequently turns up his upper lip, and has a very hot fever, which may be discovered by feeling his ears. Remedies. — No. 1. Take of copperas two table spoonfuls ; water milk warm, one pint; dissolve rnn I 120 BOTS OR GRUBS. copperas, and give it as a drench. If the horse is not relieved in fifteen minutes, repeat the dose. No. 2. Take of Unseed or sturgeon's oil, one pint, and give it as a drench. If the horse is not reheved in fifteen minutes, repeat the dose. No. 3. Take of molasses, one pint; milk, one pint : give it as a drench, and repeat the dose. No. 4. Take of fresh meat of any kind (raw) half a pound, cut it into four or five pieces, and force it down the horse's throat; it will immediately induce the grubs to break their hold. No. 5. Take two ounces of iEthiop's mineral and give it to your horse in his feed, and in a day or two afterwards give him a purge ; then you may give him a decoction of bitter herbs, to prevent their return. No. 6. Give your horse (after taking molasses and milk) a quart or two of fish or beef brine, as a drench. From recent experiments, salt appears to have the property of killing worms : these insects placed in a solution of this substance die immediately. No. 7. Drench the horse with half an ounce of salt- petre dissolved in common water, and in about fifteen minutes drench with half an ounce of a^um dissolved in like manner. Let the horse have no water for iwenty-four hours after. An active purge will be absolutely necessary imme diately after the use of either of the above remedies One pint of soft soap added to a pint of molasses, with d handful of salt, will answer very well. Re- peat the dose, should it not operat<; in four or five ■lOUi'a OR HAWS. 121 HOOKS OR HAWS. The hooks or haws in a horse, is the growing of a horny substance upon the inner edge of the washer oi caruncle of the eye, which may be found in the innei corner next to the nose. When this disease makes its appearance, the washer or caruncle is enlarged with great rapidity, and tlie hgament that runs along the edge of this membrane, becomes extremely hard, or like a cartilage, and whenever it arises to this state, it draws, compresses, and causes great pain to the eyes, produces a tightness of the skin, a stiffness of the hind legs, and finally a general spasmodic affection through- out the whole system. As the eyes of a horse are often inflamed, and some- times diseased, without their having the hooks, for the })urpose of ascertaining the fact, take hold of the bridle, and raise the horse's head as high as you can with convenience reach: if he is diseased with the hooks, the washer or caruncles (>1 the eye, while his head is raised up, will cover at lea^t one half the surf ICO of the eye ball. When this ts the case, take a common sized needle with a strong thread, place on the horse's nose a twitch, to prevent his moving; then take in your thumb and finger the washer or caruncle of the eye, and pass the needle through it about a t{uarter of an inch from the outer edge, and inside tho horny substance; draw it gently with the needle ana thread, until you have a fair chance of performing the operation; then with a sharp knife cut the piece out, taken up with the needle, which must not be larger than one fourth the size of a four pence half penny : t22 HOOKS OR HAWS. wash the eyes for two or three mornings with salt aiid water, bathe his legs up to his belly in equal parts ol warm vinegar, spirit and oil, or fresh butter, and give a mash of one and a half gallons of bran or oats, one table spoonful flour of sulphur, one tea spoonful salt- petre, and the cure will be performed in all probability in four or five days. Great care should be taken not to cut too large a piece from the caruncle, as it disfigures the eyes, and sometimes produces blindness. ON CUTTING OUT HOOKS OR HAWS. "Before I was acquainted with this subject, two years ago, I had two fine young horses sacrificed to this mistaken and ruinous operation. Ignorant quacks do not know that the horse has a membrane peculiar to the animal, which is at pleasure drawn over the eye. The enlargement of this, by a fever, produces the appearance, which, in jockey slang, is called the nooks. Reduce the fever by depletion, such as bleed- ing plentifully, purging, &c. and have the horse well rubbed, and the hooks will disappear ; that is, the membrane is restored to its natural size and office, which is to clear the eye from dust, &c. accidentally entering it. I need not mention the cutting out of this useful membrane unnecessary, as I have proved the uselessness of this operation, by restoring a horse without it a few days ago. W. V, MUKTJAY" STRANGLES. !2S STRANGLES. The strano^les is a disease to which horses are vcrv subject, particularly those that are young. It consists m a running at the nose, and an inflammation and swelling of the glands, about the under jaw and throat. It is sometimes attended with high fevers, destroys the appetite, causes a horse to look sad and dejected, and dwindle away in an astonishing manner. Sometimes the inflammation extends to the muscles of the tongue, and is attended with so much heat and pain, that until matter is found, the horse swallows with the utmost difficulty, unless his drink is held up to him. The strangles proceed from many causes, violent colds, sudden changes of air or climate, extreme hard labour after habits of idleness, shedding teeth, or what- ever may produce pain, or bring on a flux of humours at any critical time upon the throat and jaws, and like most other diseases, requires strict attention, for the cure to be performed in a short time. Symptoms of the Strangles. — The approach of the strangles may be known by a dulness of the counte- nance, watery eyes, a distressing cough, running at the nose, glands enlarged beyond the jawc, loss of appetite, and a constant thirst, without boir/g able to drink, unless the water is placed ac !j'gh as his head, in its natural position. Remedy. — Bleed four times within a week, taking Irom the neck vein half a gallon of blood at each bleed- nig; give a mash twice a week, of one gallon of bran or oats, scalded with one quart of sassafras tea, with the addition of one table spoonful of powdered brim 12 J 24 STONE OR GRAVEL. Stone, and one tea spoonful of saltpetre. Take of asafoetida half an ounce, divide it, placing one half in his mangei, the other in his watering bucket. Feed [)rincipally with green food, if to be had, if not, such as is light, co.jling, and easily digested. ^o« STONE OR GRAVEL IN THE BLADDER. Fortunately the stone is a disease not very com- mon amongst horses ; but whenever it makes its appear- dnce, unless some remedy is immediately employed, its consequences are to be much dreaded. It consists in small gravel or stones being lodged in the bladder, which prevents a free discharge of urine, and produces the most excruciating pain. The horse will linger and pine away, until he can scarcely su])port the burden of life. As the stone is a disease which has but seldom, if ever, struck the attention of farriers, I consider myself fortunate in being able to offer to the public a simple remedy, which has been employed with astonishing success by a gentleman in a neighbouring county. In one case, when the following remedy was used, three itones and a quantity of grit was discharged from the bladder. Symptoms.^ — Frequent stretching, groaning, and many fruitless attempts to pass water, which will finally be discharged by a few drops at a time, with great apparent pain, a shrinking of the flesh, although the appetite is good, no fever, but a dull, sluggish, and sleepy apoearance, wanting much in his usual spirits YELLOW WATER. 125 Remedy, — Take of marsh-mallows, water melon seed, and asparagus, of each two large handfals, boil then} in three quarts of water to one quart, and add one tea spoonful of saltpetre, and give the whole as a drench, after being nicely strained. ■ Take of sweet oil or fresh butter one -table spoonful, grease his sheath, and draw out gently and grease his penis, also grease the large seam from the penis up near the anus ; and with the hand, bearing a little, stroke the seam downwards to the end of the penis, for ten minutes every hour, until the horse has a urinary discharge ; which, in all probability, will take place in one or two hours after taking the drench Should some blood be passed, it may be no cause of alarm, and will clearly prove there is gravel in the urinary passages. Repeat the drench in three hours, should the desired effect not be produced. ^9* YELLOW WATER. The yellow water is very common in the w^estern country among horses ; and being infectious, is some- times brought into this state by drove horses. It is extremely fatal in its consequences, unless some remedy is employed shortly after it makes- its appearance. For the benefit of the public, I consider myself fortunate to be able to recommend such medicines for its euro as have been fairly tried, by a gentleman of Brunswick, and Droved effectual. 126 INFECTIOUS DISEASES. Symptoms of Yellow Water. — The cliaracteristics of this disease, are a dusky yellowness of the eyes, lips, and bars of the mouth; a dull, sluggish, appear- ance ; a loss of appetite ; the excrement hard, dry, yellow, and sometimes of a pale or light green ; tho urine uncommonly dark, of a dirty brown colour, and when discharged a length of time, has the appearance of blood. Remedy. — Take of asafoetida. one ounce; campho- rated spirits, four table spoonfuls ; warm water one pint; mix and give them as a drench, for three or four mornings successively. Take of bran one and a hall gallons, flour of sulphur one table spoonful, antimony twenty grains, saltpetre twenty grains ; mix them well together, and, with a strong decoction of sassafras, scald the bran, forming a mash, which must be given three nights in a week, not permitting the horse to get wet, or drink water, except it is milk warm. His stable should be a comfortable one, and he should have a clean bed of straw placed under him. Bleed twice in the neck vein, taking half a gallon of blood at each bleeding, within the week ; let his exercise be regular and moderate, and by the expiration of nine or ten days, .he cure, in all probability, will be performed. -^>9@9* TO PREVENT INFECTIOUS* DISEASES. As most diseases that are infectious endanger the )/% of a horse, I consider it important to every owner of those useful animals, to be able to use a medicine ihaiwnll act against or prevent those diseases that are INFECTIOUS DISEASES. 127 contagious. 1 have been in the habit of owning from one to eight horses at a tinne, for fifteen years, and in all that time never lost a horse. I cannot help believ- ing my success, in this respect, has been much in- debted to the constant use of the asafcetida, which 1 consider one of the most valuable and innocent medi- cines ever used amongst horses. It not only drives off diseases of almost every kind, but it keeps up the appetite, produces a remarkable fineness in the coat ol hair, and gives such life and spirits as to induce even an old horse to attempt the attitudes and movements of the gay and mettled racer. The value of the asafcetida is at present but little known for the use of horses; but whenever it shall have been used or brought into notice, its remarkable effects, no doubt, will prove what I now say. Its virtues are acknowledged and remembered with pleasure, by all those who have used it in their stables. The asafcetida is produced from a plant called perennial, and is a native of Persia: it has, however, borne fertile seeds, in the open air, in the botanical garden of Edinburgh. The gum resin is produced from the roots of plants which are at least four years old. When the leaves begin to decay, the stalk i ; twisted off and the earth removed from about thei^ large tapering roots. The top of the root is some time afterwards cut off transversely, and forty-eight hours afterwards the juice which has exuded, is scraped ofi', and a second transverse incision is made : this opera- tion is repeated until the root is entirely exhausted o )uice: after being scraped off, the juice is exposed to the sun to harden. It is brought to us in large irregular masses, composed of various little shining 'umps oi grains, which are pnrtly of a whitish colour, partly led- 12* l!28 INFECTIOUS DISEASES. Hisli, an'l partly of a violet hue; those masses hi accounted best which are clear, or a pale reddish co- lour, and variegated v^ith a number of elegant vi^hite tears. This drug has a strong fetid smell, somewhat like that of the garlic, and a bitter acid, biting taste. The smell resides entirely in the essential oil, which arises in distillation. It is tne most powerful of all the fetid gums, and is a most valuable medicine. It acts as a stimulant, anti-spasmodic, expectorant, emmenagogue, and anthelmintic, and its action is quick and pene- trating. When a small piece of the asafcetida has been placed in the manger of a horse in health, I have known him to stand for months in a stall next to one violently diseased without taking the infection, or any ill con sequence resulting from their contiguous situation. Preventive. — Take of asafoetida, one ounce, divide it and wrap each piece in a clean linen rag ; nail one in the bottom of the manger the horse is fed in, the othei in the bottom of the bucket in which he is watered. The above quantity will last about three months ; al the expiration of which time it must be replenished. . A small piece confined to the bridle bit, will have the same effect when a horse goes from home, or enters on a journey. GRAVEL IN THE HOOFS. The gravel in the hoof is an incident that happens 10 horses in travelling, and is brought on by small stones or grit getting between the hoof and shoe, set- tling to the quick, and then inflame and fester ; it pro- WOUNDS. 129 duces lameness and causes a horse to undergo very excruciating pain. The first step necessary lor a horse's rehef is, to have his shoes taken off and get the stone out. You may readily ascertain where they lie, by pressing the edge of the hoof with a pair of pincers. After all the gravel is removed, which may be known by a discontinuation of the blackness of the place, the wound caused by cutting for the gravel may be easily healed by melting together equal parts of bees- wax, rosin, fresh butter or sweet oil, and pouring the mixture on the wound, warm as the animal can bear it, without giving pain. Then warm a little tar or pitch, and pour a small quantity over the wound and its neighbouring parts, to keep out the dust and defend the foot from any hard substance for a few days, by which time it will get well. — Me^O'M— WOUNDS. A WOUND is generally defined a separation of the parts in any member of the animal body by some instrument. In all fresh w^ounds made by cutting instruments, there is nothing more required than bring- ing the lips of the wound into contact, by sewing a bandage, provided the part will allow of it. For wounds of the hips, or other prominent parts, and across some of the large muscles, the stitches are apt to burst by the horse's lying down and getting up in the stall. In such cases the lips of the wound snould not be brought close together — one stitch is enough i 30 WOUNDS. for a wound two inches long, but in large wounds ihey should be an inch or more apart. Should the wound bleed nriuch fronn an artery's Deing divided, it will be necessary to secure it by pas- sing a crooked needle underneath, and tying it with a waxed thread ; but if the artery cannot be got at in this way, apply a small quantity of flour and salt to the mouth of the bleeding vessel, which will very soon have the desired effect. Care should be taken to keep it there, by proper compress or bandage, until a scar, scab, or crust is formed, otherwise it will elude your expectations, and frequently alarm you with fresh bleedings. After the lips of the wound are brought together, by this needle or bandage, it needs only to be covered with rags, dipped in spirits of any kind, or spirits of turpentine, and a little lint placed lightly within the edges of the wound, taking great care to keep it entirely clean, with strong soap suds, and as free from motion as possible. Whenever a wound be- comes much swelled or inflamed, or discovers marks of mortification, frequent bleedings and the apphca- tion of a red oak poultice or mush, will have a won Jerful effect. Should the wound be disposed to heal very rapidly, and turn out what is termed proud flesh, by washing it with a little blue-stone water, it will, in a very short time, shut in, and the wound entirely heal. The cure of most wounds is effected by the simplest tnethods, and it is often of much more cousequence :o know how to dress a wound, than what to dress it witn, and in this consists the chief art of this branch of surgery ; for the most eminent in that profession have long discovered that a variety of ointments, waives, and grease, are unnecessary in the cures of (iiost wounds and sores, and they have accordingly wouisDs. 13! discarded the greatest part formerly in repute for that purpose ; repeated observations having taught them, that after digestion, or after healthy matter is formed, nature is disposed to heal up the wound fast enough herself. Some respect should be paid to the diet of a horse, as bran, oats, and green food keep the bowels open, and are free from that heat which the use of corn and fodder will produce in the system. ] will here offer a few more simples that have proved beneficial in the cure of wounds, sores, &c. The first operation necessary in all sores, wotmds, &;c. about a horse is, to remove all dirt, matter or extraneous bodies, with strong soap suds, after which, No. 1. Take of spirits, half a pint; alum, one ounce ; honey, one gill ; mix them well together, and wash the wound night and morning. No. 2. Take of copperas, two ounces ; clean water, one quart ; wash the wound or sore twice a day. No. 3. Take of sugar of lead, a quarter of an ounce ; fair water, one quart ; use it twice a day. No. 4. Take spirits of turpentine and wet the wound once a dav. No. 5. Take of blue-stone, a quarter of an ounce ; fair water, one quart ; wash the wound every morning. Punctured wounds, from thorns or other accidents, are generally of the most painful kind, and require great attention ; a bread and milk poultice, or a mush made by boiling red oak bark to a strong decoction, beating the bark very fine and throwing in as much corn meal as will make it of proper consistency should be applied until healthy matter appears, to gether with fomentations : after which, to effect a speedy cure, use any of the above remedies recom- mended. / f32 BRUISES Wounds in the feet, from shoeing, nails, thorns, or f>t}ier accidents, are generally attended with much frodble, and are often productive of very fatal conse- f{ nonces when neglected. Such wounds should have old dirt, grit, &c. carefully removed with warm greasy water ; after which, take of bees-wax, tar, and sweet oil, equal parts ; stew them well together, and fill tne wound, hot as the horse can bear it without expe- riencing pain ; then pour on a little warm pitch, to prevent grit and dirt getting to the wound, and to pro- tect the foot, while sore and tender, from the hard ground. ®e« BRUISES. Bruises proceed from external injury, and when cio remedy iS employed, are sometimes attended with violent inflammation, and after bursting and*discharg \n^ large quantities of matter, of a dark red colour and extremely offensive smell, often terminate in a mortification, which soon puts a period to the life oi the animal. Take of vinegar, one quart; laudanum, half an ounce ; sugar of lead, quarter of an ounce ; mix them well together, and apply it to the bruise three or four times a day ; if the part bruised will admit of it, apply a flannel doubled and wet with the mixture, which will be the means of keeping the bruise continually moist 'nf by this method the swelling ^oes not subside, applv STRAINS. 133 a poultice made of a strong decoction of rod oak bark and meal, once a day, until the swelling abates ; but in bruises that cannot, by these means, be dispersed, and by pressing with the finger you discover that mat- ter is formed, then the shortest way is, to open the skin and allow the bruise to discharge its contents : after which it will heal in a very short time, by keepmg it entirely clean with soap suds alone. But after dis- charging the matter, if the wound should appear rotten and of dark colour, indicating mortification, togethe . with any very considerable inflammation, bleed plen- tifully ; feed on bran, oats, long green food, or light food of any kind, and again apply the red oak poul- tice, which will very soon cure the inflammation, cleanse and alter the appearance of the wound. After which, any of the simples recommended for wounds, may be employed in speedily healing. '-w*tfr^^^4M« STRAINS. Strains, in whatever part of the horse, either pio- duced from running, slips, blows, or hard riding, are the relaxing, over-stretching or breaking ihe muscles or tendinous fibres. A strain, unless uncommonly bad, may be cured in a short tirAe, by applying the following remedies : Number 1. Take of sharp vinegar, one pint; spirit. oi any kind, half a pint; camphor, one ounce: mix them well together and bathe the part injured twice a 134 STAGGERS. day; a piece of flannel wet with the mixture and wrap ped around the part, will he very beneficial ; take from ihe neck vein half a gallon of blood. No. 2. Take of opodeldoc (which can be procured from any apothecary's shop) a piece the size of a mar- ble, and rub it on the strained part with the naked hand until the hand becomes dry, twice a day : should the injured part resist both these remedies, you may conclude the injury is a very serious one, which nothing but time can relieve, and the horse must be turned out upon grass a sufficient length of time for nature herself to perform the great operation. — M*ee STAGGERS. The staggers is a very common as well as a very fatal disease among horses of all ages: though young horses are more subject to it than those advanced in years. Many various opinions have been offered to the public, and some with much confidence, relative to the origin and seat of this disease. But few, if any, as vet, have investigated the subject with correctness. The staggers, in my opinion, are produced by per- mitting a horse to fged on grass in the spring and fall, late at night and early in the morning; for early In the morning and late in the evening, the fields and pastures are covered with a poisonous web, which is «;pun and spread upon the grass by a small spider. So rapidly, so indusiriouslv dies this little insect work, STAGGERS. 135 that in the space of one night, not a blade or spire of grass^has been left untouched. This web, catching the dew-drops on its bosom, causes the fields in the morn ing to glisten and sparkle as if covered with a thin sheet of ice. A horse that feeds upon a pasture in this situation must, of course, collect large quantities of this web and dew, and very often the spider itself. They act upon the horse, producing delirium, giddi-' ness, apoplexy, and sometimes death. The lungs appear to be the principal seat of this disease ; for in cases of dissection they have been found much en- larged, and covered with large brown spots ; smell very offensively, and have some appearance of moi tification. The large quantity of poison ttslcen into the stomach acts upon its nerves, and the sympathy that exists be- tween that organ and the large nerves of the head, accounts for the dull, giddy, and dejected countenance of the animal, and has induced many to believe the staggers was confined to that part alone. The poison is then removed from the stomach by the activity of the lymphatic and absorbent vessels, thrown into the circulation of the blood, diffused over every part of the system, and finally carried by the arteries into the lungs, through which all the blood in the body of a horse passes many times m an hour, and undergoes a change. Sometimes a determination of blood to the head takes place, which generally ends fatally, pro- ducing a furious delirium, the horse throwing himself about with great violence, making it dangerous for any person to venture near him. Symptoms. — The symptoms of the staggers are a drowsiness, eyes inflamed, half shut, and full of tears, the appetite bad, the disposition to sleep gradually mcreased, feebleness, a continual hanging of the head 13 K 1 3G STAGGERS. or resting it on the manger, rearing, falling, and lying in a state of insensibility, walking a small circle for a considerable length of time, the ears hot, with a burn- ing fever, &c. &c. &:c. Remedy. — Take from the neck vein half a gallon of blood, three times in a week ; take of sassafras tea, three half pints ; plantain juice, half a pint ; asafoeti- da, half an ounce ; saltpetre, one tea spoonful ; mix and give them as a drench three mornings in a week ; give an injection composed of one pint of meal, two quarts of water, one quart of molasses and one spoon- ful of hog's lard ; let the horse be moderately exer- cised, and whenever he is standing should be well rubbed ; give a mash iwice a week, composed of one gallon of bran, one table spoonful of sulphur, one tea spoonful of saltpetre, one quart of boiling sassafras tea, and a eighth of an ounce of asafcetida, not per- miting the horse to drink cold water for six hours afterwards. Should he be much mended by this treat- ment, nothing more will be necessary, except feeding him on bran, or light food of any kind ; but should he appear to receive no benefit from these attentions, in four or five days, take of calomel, twenty-five grains ; of opium, two drachms; camphor, two drachms; powdered fennel-seed, one drachm ; of syrup, of any kind, a sufficient quantity to make the ingredients into a ball, which may be given every morning for four or five days, by which time the horse will get well il his disease will admit of a cure. Horses that are confined in a stable never have the staggers ; consequently it would be advisable foi every person, whose situation will admit of it, to con fine their horses, particularly at night, during the sspring and fall months MANGE HIDE BOUND. 1 37 MANGE. The manege in horses is a disease of the skin, whicK u generally rough, thick, and full of wrinkles, espe- cially about the mane, tail, and thighs, and the little hair that remains on these parts stands up very niuch like bristles. The ears and eye-brows are sometimes attacked, and in a short time are left quite naked. The mange is an infectious disease : indeed so much so, that if a horse is carried into a stable where one that is mangy has been in the habit of standing, he will be almost certain to take the infection, unless the litter has been removed and the stable properly cleansed and aired. Proper attention will make the cure easy. Remedy. — Take of powdered brimstone and hogs /ard an equal quantity, mix them well together and anoint the pai't affected twice a day, bleed plentifully and give two or three mashes (composed of bran, sul- phor, saltpetre, and sassafras) within a week, by whicii time a cure will be performed. A clean stable and nice bed of straw will aid much in accomplishing the object in view. HIDE BOUND. A HORSE is said to be hide bound when his skin will not slip under the pressure of the hand, but stick* as fast to the ribs as if it was glued. 136 SURFEIT. Hoises are sometimes hide bound in consequence ol feeling the effects of some violent disease, and it is often a bad symptom ; but generally, this tightness of the skin proceeds from poverty, cruel usage, and sometimes from worms. The first thing necessary for performmg a cure is, to offer better treatment to the animal, giving him plenty of light food, such as bran, oats, &c. and a clean stable v^^ith fresh litter. Then take from the neck vein half a gallon of blood; at night give a mash com- posed of one gallon of bran, scalded Virith sassafras tea; one table spoonful flour of sulphur or powdered brim- stone, and one tea spoonful of saltpetre ; not permitting him to drink for six hours afterwards. On the second day, at twelve o'clock, take of cop- peras, two table spoonfuls ; of warm sassafras tea, one quart ; saltpetre, one tea spoonful , mix and give them as a drench. Have the horse well rubbed, and in a few days he will be entirely relieved. _Mt9^9«< SURFEIT. The surfeit is a common disease among horses tha. have been cruelly or injudiciously treated. Sudden changes from heat to cold, plunging deep into cold water and drinking plentifully after being excessively hard rode, unsound food, being turned from a warm and comfortable stable out into the cold air, night de.ws, &c. 6lc often produce surfeit. SURFEIT. 139 Symptoms. — The surfeit first makes its appearance With many fine and small lumps under the skin, a partial falling off of the hair, and a constant itching : at length a great number of scabs are formed, and some small ulcers, and unless some remedy is em- ployed, the whole coat of hair falls off and the norse becomes covered with scabs: tlie hair in the mane and tail will be nearly rubbed off, and the little remain- mg will stand erect. Remedy, — Take from the neck vein on the first and fourth days of the week, half a gallon of blood ; give a mash of one gallon of bran, one table spoonful of sulphur, one tea spoonful of saltpetre, and a quart of hot sassafras tea, well mixed togethei-, three times within a week, not permitting him to drink for six hours whenever a mash is taken. Give three drenches within the week, composed of one quart of sassafras tea, and one tea spoonful of salt- petre, each. Change the horse's litter frequently ; keep his stable clean, and do not permit him to gel wet. Take of hog's lard and sulphur, equal parts, mix them and anoint the horse where the surfeit appears worse, once a day ; and by the expiration of a week, if the horse is not entirely well, he will be much bene- fited, and nothing more will be necessary, except giv- mg him food that is light and easily digested, and observe towards liim kind treatment. 13* 140 SORE TONGUE. BIG HEAD. * SORE TONGUE. Take four ounces sugar of lead, four do. bole am- moniac, eight do. alum, burned. The whole to be put in three quarts of good vinegar, and the horse's mouth washed or swabbed two or three times a day, keeping the bit out of the mouth. The above is enough for six horses. V [fTIOM the AMERICAN FARMER.] BIG HEAD. I HAVE noticed several essays in your valuable paper, the " American Farmer," on the subject of " big head in norses^^ and as I have never seen any description of this disease, or any cure recommended, I will endeavour to communicate what my limited experience on that subject has taught me : About twelve years ago the disease made its ap- pearance in this neighbourhood, and before a remedy was found out, many losses were sustained, by the deatli of the horses which were diseased. One of my neighbours lost horses to the value of six or seven thousand dollars, among them some of the best blood- ed mares and colts. I lost one onlv, and the first and only one, a brood mare, which had it about that time. Various appHcations were made to cure it, such as driving in spirits of turpentine by rubbing the parts aiTected, and holding a red hot iron near the place ; BIG HEAD. 141 burning, bruising, and cutting, were also resorted to, but in every case that I saw or heard of, the disease tsrminated in the death of the animal. At length white arsenic was recommended, but by whom it was first discovered, I am ignorant. I had occasion, about four years ago, to try it on a fine Archy mare, then in foal by Archy ; she was aflfected on both sides of the face, and I succeeded in curing her : she produced a horse colt, whilst she was under the operation of the arsenic. At about two years old the colt was affected on one side of the face. . I had recourse to the arsenic and completely eradicated the disorder, leaving only a slight scar, though the mucus membrane of the nostril was so much injured as to cause a difficulty of breath- ing through it. The mare was still more affected, as both nostrils were nearly closed, and her head con- tinued to be much larger than before she was taken with the disease, though generally in good order, and occasionally worked. She has, however, produced three fine colts since, none of which has as yet been affected with the big head. I designed to have trained her first colt, but in consequence of the affection of his nostril, I dechned the idea. He is now four years old, enjoying fine health, and possessing great vigour as a stallion. I am thus particular in detailing the cha- racter of the animals who have been cured, that it may be seen how little horses are affected by the dis- ease after it has been cured. I have known the arsenic exhibited in at least twenty cases, in all of which it effected a cure, and I think I can say, that it is an infallible remedy. I will now endeavour to describe the disease, and the recipe; Symptoms— hoss of appetite, a drooping of the head and a disinclination to move about — a 5lia;ht 1 42 BIG HEA.D. weeping from the eye on the side affected — -in a short time a local swelling appears on the side of the face in a direct line between the eye and nostril, which on being pressed hard with the finger causes the animal to wince, and by rubbing it gently with the hand, appears to give ease to him — an enlargement of the jaw bone, and a considerable decline in flesh. I have not discovered that the disease is attended with fever ; if it is suffered to run long, it causes an affection of the joints — they become pufl^ed, as if inflated with wind, and in a short time those swellins^s become filled with pus, and ultimately break, and a discharge of purulent matter issues from the joints, and the animal falls, to rise no more without help. It is supposed to be infec- tious only in this last state of the disease. Cure, — As soon as the swelling on the side of the face appears, take a piece of white arsenic about the size of a common field pea, (or about six or eight grains pulverized and wrapped in fine paper, of a size only sufficient to contain it,) make an incision in the skin, immediately over the hard tumour, insert the arsenic (or the paper containing it,) and with a needle and thread make one suture or stitch, tie the ends of the thread in a hard knot, bleed the horse, and turn him out alone in a good pasture, or if it is cold weather, put him in a stable, removed from other horses, and feed him on light food — in a few days the effects of the arsenic will be discoverable by a considerable swelling of the head^ nose, and face, which will increase until the power of the arsenic is exhausted — if both sides of the face are operated on at the same time, ihe head will swell to an enormous size — in about a month, or six weeks, the arsenic will have developed »ls efficacy by the appearance of a circular piece ol BIG HEAD. Il3 skin, and the porous bone of the face which extends as far as the seat of the disease, or the influence of the arsenic on the affected part ; this circular develop- ment extends as far as the affected part only, and is quite callous and nearly detached from the sound skin, leaving the wholesome flesh in its natural state. In a month or six weeks longer, this circular part becomes entirely detached on its periphery from the sound skin, and adheres to the side of the face by a few slight integuments about its centre, which soon decays, (or it may be cut off,) and the diseased parts drop out in a mass, leaving a hideous wound ; then may be seen the porous bone of the face, resembling honey- comb, which soon becomes covered with sound flesh and skin : the w^ound may be soon healed by using common applications, though I have made use of what we farmers in the country call pot liquor, as a wash, and anointing the place with an ointment made by bruising the leaves of the common poke-weed, {Phy- tolacca decaiidra) and extracting the juice by pressure, and stewing it in hog's lard, or of the Jamestown weed, or thorn apple, (datura stramonium^ prepared in the same way. These applications may be made use of with advantage as soon as it is discovered thai the parts begin to separate. If the weather be warm it may be necessary to anoint the parts with a mixture of common tar and hog's lard, or the juice of eldei stewed in hog's lard, in order to keep away the blow fly, which will be attracted to the parts by the offen- siveness of the scent emitted. It cannot be expected that a horse which has thus been operated upon, will regain the beauty of his head, particularly if he be an old horse, or has been affected on both sides of the 'ace, or the disease has been suffered to run too lon^ 144 BIG HEAD. before applying the remedy : this is evidenced by the appearance of my mare. 1 suffered the disease to run too long, because I was fearful that the arsenic might mjure the foal, but was induced to risk it rather than lose the mare : the stallion on the contrary, exhibits the effects of it in but a slight degree. It may be proper to remark, that a less quantity of arsenic will answer for a colt than for an old horse ; and that it ought to be inserted as high up on the face as the seat of the disease will admit of; perhaps on the upper edge of the swelled part will answer the same end. Another remedy has been communicated to me, which is much more simple ; and if it be a remedy, certainly possesses great advantages over the one on which I have been treating. I have never known it tried, but I am induced to believe that it is a remedy, both from its analogy to the arsenic, and from the authority from which I derived my information. It is this : Instead of the arsenic, take half a pint of strong ashes, (hickory I suppose,) put them into a tin cup, (of about a pint measure,) smaller at the mouth than at the bottom, say about one and a half inches at the mouth in diameter ; fill the cup or pot with water, and let it boil for half an hour, or until the water has been evaporated, or absorbed by the ashes, cord the horse's nose in the usual way, or otherwise confine him, in order that he may be still, and apply the mouth of the cup to the part affected, with the ashes quite hot and nearly dry, having previously covered it with a thin cloth to prevent the ashes from coming in contact with the skin of the horse, and hold it in that position until the heat has subsided, when it may be removed : in a day 01 two the parts will exhibit a gluey exudation, which will disappear in the course of a week, leaving FISTULA. 145 an inconsiderable sore like a burn, which may be soon cured by treating it as such. It may be necessary in some cases to make the second application. The horse may be used as usual at the time, and when the wound heals up, scarcely any scar will remain. OVf Take blood from the neck vein and bathe the swell-ed parts with spirits of turpentine once or twice a week, rubbing it in with a hard brush until you dis- cover the swelling is stopped : the lumps always remain, but as they cease to grow the horse gets better. Or, Give stramonium (Jamestown or Jfmeson weed) in doses of one drachm, mixed with his feed for several days, then turning him out for two or three months. -.►^©e*"- FISTULA. The fistula in the withers, generally proceeds from some blow or bruise, and is the most disagreeable disease t( which a horse is subject. 1 would recom- mend it to every person, whose situation will admit of the sacrifice, to dispose of a horse thus unfortunately affected, for whatever sum he would bring, or even give him away, sooner than be at the expense and trouble, and run the risk of performing a cure wdiich, if completed, would be tedious, and the horse be much lessened in value in consequence of being disfigured by the scar which unavoidably will be left. The remedy here recommended is severe, but it will have the desired effect more speedily than any other. 1 46 POLL-EVIL. So soon as the fistula assumes a formidable appear- ance, fomentations of bitter herbs should be employed, such as wormwood, camomile, bay leaves, mullen, life-everlasting, &c. boiled in water to a strong decoc- tion, and after being strained, should be applied hot as the horse can bear it without giving pain, by means of large woollen cloths. This application promotes suppuration, and when matter is formed let the tumour be opened, so that its contents may be completely evacuated ; after which let the sore be nicely washed with strong soap suds, and apply the following oint- ment once a day: — Take of verdigris, half an ounce* copperas, half an ounce ; oil turpentine, one ounce ; ointment of yellow rosin, four ounces ; to be well mixed together. As* soon as healthy matter is discharged from the fistula the ointment may be discontinued, and nothing more will be necessary, except keeping it perfectly clean with strong soap suds. When the fistula first makes its appearance, it may be removed or prevented by placing a rowel or seton ip each shoulder, just below the swelled or inflamed parJ which should be kept running two or three weeks. -*f«@©«— POLL-EVIL. The poll-evil, like the fistula, proceeds from some blow, bruise, or external injury, and its consequences lire much to be areaded. A horse thus diseased would be well sold almost at any price, though the cure is tolerably ^.ertain, yet extremely slow. The poll-evil POLL-EVIL. 147 IS an abscess or swelling found in the sinews, between the noil bone and the uppermost vertebra of the nock, immediately on the poll or nap of the neck. When this swelhng first makes it appearance, bathe it fre- quently with hot vinegar ; and if the hair be fretted off, with an oozing through the skin, make use of equal parts of vinegar and spirits of wine ; but if there be an itching, with heat and inflammation, the safest way will be to bleed plentifully, and apply a red oak poul> tice, which will sometimes disperse the swelhng and put an end to the disease. But whenever the tumour is critical, having all the signs of matter, and appears not benefited by the applications already recommend- ed, it wdll be advisable to bring it to a head as speedily as possible, with the following poultice : Corn meal, marsh mallc^ws, oil turpentine, and hog's lard. When the tumour bfecomes ripe or full of matter, it may be either opened or permitted to break of itself ; if opened with a knife, great care should be used to prevent wounding the tendinous ligument that runs along the neck under the mane. When the matter appears to be on both sides, the tumours must be opened on both sides, and the ligament between remain undivided ; il the matter flows in great quantities, resembling melted glue, and is of an oily consistence, it will require a second incision, especially if any cavities are dis- covered by the fingers or probe ; these should be opened by the knife, and the wound should be dressed with spirits of turpentine, honey, and tincture of myrrh, until light and thick coloured matter is found. Cleanse the sore well with strong soap suds and a sponge ; 2hen take of verdigris, half an ounce ; oil of tui - pentme, four ounces ; of blue-ston^, two ounces ; of green copperas, half an ounce ; mix them well to- gether, and hold them over a fire until thev are as no! 148 LOCK-JAW. as the horse can bear them : then pour them into the ibscess and close the hps by one or two stitches ; this IS to remain for several days without any other dres- sing, except bathing with spirits of wine. Should matter flow in great abundance, and of thin consisten- cy, the above application must be again repeated unti. the matter decreases in quantity, and becomes of a whitish colour and healthy appearance. -NHe@e< LOCK-JAW. The lock-jaw is so fatal in its consequences, that ii IS a fortunate circumstance it occurs so seldom amongst horses. It commences with a difficulty in mastication, and shoj'tly after the jaws are so completely and immove- ably closed, that it is with much difficulty that medi- cines can be administered. The muscles of the neck appear much contracted, and the animal appears to suffer great pain. The lock-jaw is frequently brought on by trifling causes, such as cuts, wounding of nerves, tendons, &lc. Generally speaking, the cure is very uncertain ; but it will chiefly depend on opium, the warm bath, and fjther antispasmodics. Sometimes the sudden appli- cation of cold w^ater, in great quantities, has been serviceable ; friction of turpentine oil or spirits, gene- ''ally proves useful, as does a clyster made with two LOST APPETITE. 149 ounces of spirits of hartshorn, four ounces of oil of turpentine, and the yelks of three or four eggs, mixed with a quart of strong ale and gin or whiskey. It is a great object to promote urine, sweat, &c. Opium, camphor, and copious bleedings, have been found, in gome cases, very beneficial ; and when they have failed, hartshorn, ether, opium, and brandy, have been employed with some success ; though the lock- 'aw is often a symptom of approaching dissolution, and frequently defies the power of any kind of medi- cine that can be employed. ®e« LOST APPETITE. Horses lose their appetites from various causes, viz: — Excessive fatigue, want of a change in food, dirty fodder, mouldy corn, or a dirty manger, &c. &c. but most frequently by the approach of some disease. So soon as you discover a horse has lost his appetite, observe the following treatment, viz : — Take from the neck vein half a gallon of blood ; take of asafoetida, a quarter of an ounce ; salt, one table spoonful ; sassafras tea, one quart ; mix and give them as a drench. On the second day, take of glauber salts, one pound ; warm water, one quart ; after dissolving the salts give it as a drench, and in two or three days the appetite will be restored, unless the animal is labouring under some disease, which may be ascertained by the symp- toms. 150 JOLDS. SADDLE GALLS. COLDS. Nothing is more common than colds among horses, of all ages. They are frequently produced by a want of good rubbing after violent exercise, which strikes a chilliness and dampness over the whole body ; being changed from a warm and comfortable stable to one cold and open; standing out late in dew at night plunging deep in cold water while heated in a profuse perspiration ; all of which have a tendency to check the perspirable matter and contract the pores of the skin. Cold^ sometimes produce a slight running at the nose :. the remedy is simple and almost certain — bleed plentifully. SADDLE GALLS. Saddle Galls are generally occasioned by an un- equal pressure of the saddle, or by a saddle being badly fitted to a horse's back, and if neglected they grow into very ugly and troublesome sores. When these inflamed tumours are first discovered, cold water alone is frequently sufficient to disperse and drive then: away, if applied as soon as the saddle is pulled off but when that will not have the desired eflTect, by washing them twice a day in the mixture I shall here recommend, the cure will be readily performed. — Take of sharp vinegar, one gill; spirits, of any kind, one gill ; sweet oil or fresh butter, one table spoonful ; \o he well mixed before used. SITFASTS. DIARRIKEA. 151 SITFASTS. SiTFASTs proceed from the part being frequently orji?ed with a saddle, until it becomes extremely hard, and after remaining some length of time it is not unlike a horny substance. The cure cannot be per- formed unless the knife is used for the purpose of cutting it entirely out. After which the fresh wound can be healed with the greatest ease, in a very short time, by using either of the following mixtures : No. 1. Take of brandy, half a pmt ; honey, half a pint ; alum, two ounces. No. 2. Take of blue-stone, a quarter of an ounce ; spirits of turpentine, two table spoonfuls ; spring water, one pint. No. 3. Take sugar of lead half an ounce ; aium, one ounce ; copperas, half an ounce ; let them be well mixed, and the sitfast washed twice a day, after tne wound is washed clean with soap and water. DIARRHCEA OR PURGING. A DIARRHCEA amougst horses seldom occurs and is ea^y of cure. It may be produced by a suppression of perspiration or by an increased secretion of bile. The following ball (No. 1.) generally gives relief, hut should it not have the desired effect, No. 2 may be employed. No 1. Take of sue. aloes, six arachms; Castile soap, four drachms; and syrup enough +0 form tiie ball 14* L \%2 DIABETES. No 2. Take of opium, one drachm , antimony, ihree drachms ; powdered ginger, two drachms ; and sVrup enough, of any kind, to form a ball. It will benefit a horse very much by keeping mm warmh^ clothed while labouring under this disease. .«^e* DIABETES. A Diabetes is a profuse staling or a constant dis- charge of water ; it is attended with great weakness, loss of flesh and appetite, with every appe"«-rance o\ decay and approaching dissolution. It is frequently the result of old disorders, surfeits, excessive hard rides, (fee. &c. A horse of a delicate and weak constitution is extremely difficult to cure, as he soon loses flesh and appetite, his hair becomes rough, his eyes weak, sad, and dejected, and in a very short time he is unfit for any kind of labour. But if the following remedies are employed, when the disease first makes its appearance, if the horse possesses a tolerable good constitution, the cure, by proper atten- tion, can be rendered almost certain. Remedy. — No. 1. Take of opium, one drachm ; asafcetida, two drachms ; powdered ginger, two ditto ; red oak bark, powdered, one ounce ; syrup of an)' kind^ a sufficient quantity to make two balls for one dose, which must be repeated three times within a week, and the horse must not be permitted to drink an inusual quantity of water. A little salt thrown mto iiat h^ is permitted to use, will be found very beneficial BLISTERS. 153 No. 2. Take of red wine, one pint ; water, one pint ; gum Arabic, one ounce ; mix and though I trust in this age of improvement, not insur- mountable impediments ; for we have to combat not only hereditary prejudices, or to speak more correctly such as have proceeded from a deficiency of means and want of knowledge, to develope the valuable pro- perties and to subdue propensities of a contrary cha- racter in this hybrid race, but we are met at the threshold by the same species of pride which the Spaniards manifested in regard to their costume, founded on the enthusiastic, I may almost say super- stitious, attachment to the horse. It is believed that a vast portion of our fellow citizens, and I may with propriety add the people oi Great Britain, from whom we have derived some inveterate prejudices as well as those illustrious exam- ples that have had such a powerful influence in leading our country to the high destinies that await her, do noi 15* l^>4 . MULES. f.onsider that u mule, especially a well bred one, would be in himself and in their view, one of the best formed and most distinguished of animals, if they had ii(n-er seen a horse ; they must admit, however, tiiat he holds the second rank instead of the firs.t, and it is principally from this circumstance that so little atten- tion has been paid to him in both countries. Com- parison is the chief cause of his degradation — they look at and give their opinions not of himself, but comparatively with the horse. They seem not aware that he is a mule — that he has all the qualities of his nature, all the gifts attached to the connecting and final link of two distinct species, and think only of the figure and qualities of the horse which are wanting in him, and that he ought not to have ; for he possesses those of more intrinsic value, which the supreme Author of nature has denied to both of his parents. There are few subjects of animated nature that have enCTaD:ed the attention of the most eminent naturalists, more than the genus Equus, to which the horse and ass, with their hybrid offspring, are assigned. Lin- ncBus, w^ith a view to establish, by new arguments, his loctrine, or theory of the sexual system of plants, which Spallanzani had attempted to overturn, illus- trated their generation by pursuing the chain of nature from the animal to the vegetable kingdom ; and has taken prominent examples from the two different pro- ductions of mules. He says, " from the mare and male ass proceeds the mule, properly so called, which in its nature, that is, in its medullary substance, nervous system, and what Malpighi calls the keel, (carina,) hotiom in sportsmen's language, is latent in, and Jerived from the mare. But in its cortical substance and outward form, in its mane and tail, resembles c MULES. 105 the ass. Between the f??ina]e ass and the horse, the other kind of mule is engendered, whose nature or medullarv substance, resembles that of the ass : but its outward form and cortical structure, or vascular system that of the horse."* The latter kind was called Hinnus by the ancients, hence the modern name Hinnij. They were not held in much estimation by the Romans, according to Pliny, who describes them as difficult to manage, and so slow that little service' could be derived from them. Buffon has noticed this animal, which he says " is smaller than the mule, as it preserves the diminutive stature of the ass." Hinnys were seldom propagated ; but it is said that a number have lately been bred in Spain, probably in consequence of the destruction of mares in the peninsular war, and are represented of good size, and more beautiful than the mule ; that is, they resemble the horse much more. I understand a few have been bred upon the Spanish Main, no doubt from a similar cause that led to the system in Spain ; and if my information is correct, some have been recently shipped to the West India Islands, but are by no means esteemed so hardy, or valuable for service, as mules. Notwithstanding mules have a disposition to propa gate, there have been but two or three well authenti- cated instances recorded of their having bred; ana those productions were considered monsters. Buffon was indefatigable in his researches on the subject : and although he admits that it is possible for both males * See " A Dissertation on the Sexes of Plants/' by Sii Charlei Linnaeus — read before the Imperial Academy of Sciences at St. Petersburgh, Sept. 6, 1760, and which obtained the premium of one bundled ducats. ^l 166 MULES. and females to propagate, he is confident that their parents are of a species distinct from each other. He says " the ass is not a horse degenerated," as some had supposed, " he is neither a stranger, an intruder, nor a bastard ; he has, like other animals, his family, his species, and his rank ; his blood is pure and untainted, and although his race is less noble, yet it is equally good, equally ancient as that of the horse." This pro- found naturalist continues a very minute and eloquent comparison between the horse and ass ; some of his expressions I have taken the liberty to apply to the mule and the horse in a preceding paragraph. It may promote the object in view to enter exten- sively upon the history of the ass ; and we commence with the supposition, that when men became so far civilized as to have burdens to carry, or required to be carried themselves, this animal was the first domesti- cated for that purpose — and it is reasonable to infer that those of the least spirit and most tractable, were put in requisition in the first instance ; when by breed- ing in and in, without any care in the selection of sire or dam, became in process of time degenerated to a very inferior grade. Be this as it may, it is an unques- tionable fact that different races of the ass now exist, possessmg properties as distinct as are found in the species of camel. For instance, the Baclrian or single hunched camel, called the dromedary, by far the most numeious race, being lightly formed, exhibits great activity, and is able to traverse vast tracts with the speed of a high mettled race horse. The Arabian camel, with two protuberances on his back, is con- siderably larger, of much stronger form, travels at a pace seldom exceeding three miles an hour, and is tiapable of conveying such burdens, that the A-rabs MULES. 1 r»7 styie him, emphatically, the ship of the desert; yet they are of the same species — a cross . between them breed and constitute another variety, which multiply and according to Buffon, have the most vigour, and are preferred to all others. Ancient writers recognise three or four distinc! varieties of the ass. According to the learned Dr Harris, four different races are indicated in the origi- nal Hebrew scriptures, viz : Para, Chamor, Aton, and Orud.* The wild ass (Para.) was a native of Arabia, De- serta, and those countries v/hich formed the great Babylonian empire. They are now found in Southern Tartary, in the mountainous districts and saline plains of Persia — are migratory in large herds, visiting in winter the Northern parts of India, and said to be so fleet that no horse can overtake them in the chase. — This race is frequently alluded to by the inspired poets and prophets ; and afford similies diametrically opposite to those drawn from the domestic race. The sublime description of the former in the book of Job, exhibits such a contrast, that I trust its insertion io this place will not be deemed improper. " Who from the forest ass his collar broke, And manumized his shoulders from the yoke ? Wild tenant of the waste, I sent him 'fhere Among the shrubs, to breathe in freedom's air. * See the " Natural History of the Bible, by Thaddeus Mason Harris, D. D. 1 vol. 8vo. Wells «& Lilly, Boston." A work woulc earnestly recommend to those readers of the sacred volume whc are desirous to be better acquainted with many allusions to sub jeets of natural history, founded on their nature, habits, and cha lacteristic qualities, developing beautiful similies, which would otherwise lie concealed — and enabling them to judge more ctw rectly of the propriety of such allusions. M ^ w J a* It is 1 jvv well known tliat the ztbva is of a species entirely MUI.es. I (3tf cures, may, I believe, be ranked as another distinct race. Adanson, a Frencli naturalist, who visited the river Senegal, more than half a century ago, describes those brought from the interior by the Moors, as so essentially diiTerent from any he had seen in Europe, (probably those of Spain, Savoy, or parts of Franco adjoining,} it was with difficulty he could recognise them to be the same species — neither do they answer the description of the wild ass of Asia, of which we have been speaking. But his account of them corres- ponds with the diminutive domestic race introduced from Africa, parti»"ularly those from Senegal and the Cape de Verd Islands ; and from which the small race now in Europe and in this country, may with great probability claim their origin. The Arabian ass, hke the horse of that country, is considered as the most estimable of his species — and there are strong reasons for conciuding that he is descended from the Hebrew Aton, so highly valued by Abraham and by the patriai'chs, judges, and kings, at subsequent periods of sacred history ; and that the same race has been preserved in the ancient land of Uz, in some degree of purity to the present time Indeed, there can be but little doubt on the subject, if we admit the fact, that the habits, manners, and pur suits of the descendants of Ishmael have continued, with scarcely an iota of variation, from the day they took rank among the nations of the earth. The position is greatly strengthened by the information J distinct from the ass; and BafFon asserts that none were ever dis covered out of Africa, and there only in the southern hemisphere It is therefore highly probable, that those alluded to were the heinu onus, which aire dcL/cribed as much larger than tlie wild ass, and nearer the size and form of the zebra. See Beloe'b Ilerodolue, l^olymnia, chap. 86. 170 MULES received some years since from an intelligent traveller of undoubted veracity, who had vis.ited Arabia on the south-v^^estern side of the peninsula to Mocha ; and on the eastern, as far as the mouth of the Tigris. He represented the superior race of asses of that country as most beautiful — of perfect symmetry, great spirit, activity, and vigour. He had seen those that could not be purchased for less than four or jive thousand dollars — an enormous price, considering the value of money among those people.* I understand from him, that the Arabs were as tenacious of preserving the pedigrees of their horses, as the most careful breeder for the turf in England — and not less so of their asses. The descent of some of them they trace to those in the train of the queen of Sheba, when she visited Solomon — as thev also do that of their horses to the numerous stud of that wise and gallant king. Dr. Harris supposes the wild ass (Parri) to be the Onager of the ancients ; and that the Aton was of a ditlerent kind. My impressions coincide with the opinion of the learned divine — but may not writers of different periods have confounded the wild ass with the Aton in their representations of the Onager? for it is not improbable, but that the Aton was of the most improved breed known, produced from crosses of a choice selection of the domestic, the wild ass, and the Htemionus, or wild mule — which last Professor Pallas recommends to complete the perfection of the species. This supposition is supported by Buffon, who infers *Neibuhr remarks, " there are two sorts of asses in Arabia; the bmaller or lazy ass, as little valued there as in Euorpe ; and a large and high spirited brred, which are greatly valued, and sell at a very higJi price ; I preferred them to horses.' See iS^eibuhr's travels in Arahifv, MULES. 1 7 T as a certain fact, that bv a cross of the remotest ol different races of the ass, the most beautiful produc- tions are obtained. Mules were in use and highly esteemed at a remote period of antiquity ; and are mentioned in scripture as of importance in the equipage of princes. Hero- dotus, who is styled the father of profane history, fre- quently speaks of them ; and it is known that they were introduced in the chariot races at tlie Olympic games in the seventieth Olympiad, about five hun- dred years before Christ. The Romans well knew their value. Pliny informs us, from Yarro, that Q. Axius, a Roman senator, paid four hundred thousand sersterces, upwards of thirteen thousand dollars, for a male ass, for the propagation of mules. And he says further, that the profit of a female ass in breeding stock for the same purpose, was estimated in Celte- beria, now the kingdom of Valencia in Spain, at a like sum. We may infer from a passage in Tacitus, and in Plutarch's life of Marius, that mules were ge- nerally employed to transport the ba>ggage of the Ro- man armies ; and that it is not improbable the superior officers rode those of a high grade, having their horses led except when they engaged an enemy. It seems that the dilletanti of Rome held them in great estima- tion, as we are informed that the mules of Nero and Poppea were shod with gold and silver — not plates, as iron shoes are now formed, but the whole hoof en- closed. Columella, who in tlie reign of the Emperer Clauams, oublished the most valuable treatise on the husbandry' •ind economv of the Romans that nas been handed crown to us, has given v^^ry particular directions for oreeding asses and mules. He was a native of Cadiz. 16 fJti MULES. fiiid owned estates in Spain, where it appears that th*? ilnest mules were then bred. As it is not requisite to pursue our history of the mule any farther among the ancients, we shall drop their appellation of »2«/e and female ass, and adopt the modern one of Jack and Jennet. Spain has continued to support the reputation for a superior race of mules to the present period : and it is probable, that the Arabian breed of Jacks were intro- duced by the Moors, when tiiey held possession ol that fine country, which, bv crosses and the effects ol climate and soil, have formed two valuable races, which w^e shall notice in the sequel. The Portuguese race have been generally considered as differing but httle from the Spanish ; those, however, that have come within my view appear evidently inferior. It was not until near the close of the sixteenth century, that coaches were used in France ; before which, it is said, the nobles rode to court, parliament, &:c. on mules, that were brought from the vicinity of the Alps and Pyrenees. They were usually black, of large size, well made, and mostly bred from fine Spanish mares. Savoy has long been looted for an excellent breed of mules. None very extraordinary are found in Italy : those used by the Velterino, are strong and of a respectable size, but of a slufrcfish and debased spirit. Very little can be said of those animals in Great Britain. The Catholic prelates brought ovei a number of superb mules, prior to the Reformation, but in the reign of Elizabeth so little was known of them, tnat a writer of that period says, " in Devon- ui 1809 Q>' 1^03. His mules were all active, spirited, Mild 301 viewable; and from stout mares- attained con bi-derab^e size. " General Washington bred a favourite Jack callet Compound, from the cross of Spanish and Maltese The Knight upon the imported Spanish Jennet. Tliis Jack was a very superior animal ; very long bodied, well set, with all the qualities of the Knight, and the weight of the Spanish. He was sire of some of the finest mules at Mount Vernon, and died from accident. The General bred mules from his best coach mares, •and found the value of the mtile to bear a just propor- tion to the value of the dam. Four mules sold at the sale of his effects, for upwards of $800 : and two moie pairs at upwards of $400 each pair ; one pair of these mules were nearly sixteen hands high. The only Jacks I know of at present, of the genuine Mount Vernon stock, are, one sold by me to Judge Johnson, of South Carolina, for five hundred dollars, at two years old; one given by me to Wilham Fitzhugh, Esq. of Ravensworth, and one which I believe is pos- sessed by my uncle, Geore Calvert, Esq. of Rivers- dale. "The Jack purchased by Judge Johnson, I have understood, has a very high reputation in the South. " Upon losing my groom (Peter) who was the first and last groom to the Mount Vernon Jacks, I parted 'vith my stock. " I'here are many Jacks that have come into th) country of late years, but of their value and proper- ties I am unable to speak, though I rather presume they are generally small, and only fitted to get mules for the cotton cultivation in the light lands of the South. Some very fine mules are raised about Hagerstown, Maryland, fi'om Jacks of the old breed ; they are bred from stout wagon mares. MULES. ITi " As to my opinion of the value of mules, I shall always appear extravagant. I have scarce a horse on my estates for agricultural purposes, nor would I ac cept of one as a gift, (except for road wagons,) of which I have no need, as my property lies on navigable water. Nothing ever was so good as mules for the uses of this, our southern country ; they live longer, eat less, and above all, are better suited to our slaves, than any other animal could possibly be: their strength, patient endurance of privation and hardships, slender pasturage, exposure — and in short, all those ills to which animals are subject where slaves are their masters, give to mules a decided preference in all the agricultural States of the South. " I do not know of any being trained to the pur- poses of pleasure carriages. They are often ridden, and go pleasantly, with great surety of foot. 1 have no doubt but that in time, they will generally be used for carriaf^es, and would particularlv suit mail coaches; they are very swift, and have great durability in travelling." The Knight of Malta, mentioned by Mr. Custis, was unquestionably the first Maltese Jack ever brought to the United States. The second came in the frigate Constitution, on her return I think, from her first cruise in the Mediterranean ; and I have understood was sold in the district of Columbia, or one of the adjoining States. Since that time a number have been intro- duced by officers of the navy from Malta, and the large Spanish breed from Minorca and Majorca. From the Mount Vernon and those stocks, some fine mules have been bred in the middle States, and probably farther South. A few valuable Maltese Jacis nave neeri «n ported in merchant ships. 1 7.S MULES. The impressions received, when on a visit to the West Indies in my youth, by observing, on the sugar plantations, the severe labour performed by mules in cane mills, induced me when I commenced farminor, to purchase the first well broke mule I could light on ; and notwithstanding he was so small as to require a vehicle and harness constructed purposely for him, his services w^ere found so valuable, and the economy of using those animals so evident, that I was stimulated to great exertions for procuring several others of larger size; in this I succeeded, after great difficulty, to such an extent, as to have had more labour per- formed by them on farm and road, for thirty years past, than any pesron I presume, in New England ; "and every day's experience has served to fortify my conviction of the superior utility of the mule over the horse, for all the purposes for which I have proposed him as a candidate. And it should be considered, that those I have used w^ere of an ordinary breed, vastly inferior to such as may be easily produced in our country, by attention to the introduction of a suitable race of Jacks, and a proper system of breeding and management. The question occurs, how is this to be effected ? I will premise, that there exists a strong analogy between three varieties of the horse, and those of the domestic ass, considered the most valuable. We have the Arabian, the hunter, and the stout cart-horse. . There is the heavy Spanish Jack, with long slouching ears, which Mr. Custis has described, that answers to the cart-horse ; another Spanish breed called the Anda- 'usian, with ears shorter and erect, of tolerable size, plenty of bone, active, more spirited, and answering to the huntej. Then comes the Arabian Jack, with ears always erect, of a delicate form, fine hmbs, and hill of fii-e and spirit. Judicious crosses from ^hese MULES. 1 79 varieties, will be required to produce such kind of mules as may be wanted for general purposes. Fron. the small Jack of African origin, with a list down his back and shoulders, are bred a small race of mules, by far the most hardy of any. With attention to selection in breeding the Jacks, with, perhaps, a dash of some cross of the foregoing description, a stock ol mules may be produced, preferable to all others foi the light lands and cotton culture of the middle and Southern States. To procure any number of Arabian Jacks from their native country, is hardly practicable at the pre- sent time. Egypt has been celebrated by Sonnini and other travellers, for superb Jacks of the Arabian breed, which probably has been often improved by those introduced by the pilgrims from Mecca. I ap- prehend no great difficulty in obtaining them from that country. There is, however, no question but the Maltese Jacks are of the Arabian race, more or less degenerated. The most of those brought to this country that I have seen, were selected on account oi their size, and had been used to the draught. I should recommend the selection of those that are esteemed most suitable for the saddle, as likely to possess greatei purity of blood. A Jack of this kind, was a number of years since imported from Gibraltar, that had been selected by a British officer at Malta ; and very much resembled the Knight of Malta described by Mr. Custis. I found upon a careful examination, that he differed but little from the description I had heard and read of the true Arabian race ; indeed I could dis cover some prominent points and marks, that agreea with those found by professor Pallas to belong to the Hemionus or wild mule of Mongalia. From this Jack have bred a stock, out of a large Spanish Jenne* o' 1 80 MULES. ihe Andalusian breed, that correspond very minutely with Mr. Custis's description of Compound bred by General Washington, and also a mule, that now, not three years old, stands fifteen hands, and has other points of great promise. Such have been the ravages of war and anarchy in Spain for a long time past, that the fine race of Jacks that country once possessed have become almost ex- tinct. In Majorca, and probably some part of the coast of Spain opposite, the large breed may be ob- tained ; and there formerly was a superior race in Andalusia, which it is hoped have been preserved. — Crosses on one of these breeds bv the Arabian or Mai- tese, I consider indispensable to furnish a race of Jacks for the production of the most desirable mules, uniting the weight and bone of one, with the spirit and vigour of the other, although their height will in a great mea- sure depend on the mares, yet if sired by full blooded Maltese Jacks, their limbs are too slender and their pasterns too long for heavy draught; but for the saddle, especially from blood mares, they are admira- ble, and out of stout mares suitable for light carriages. My attention has been but lately directed to breed- ing mules ; and those intended only for my own use. The system adopted is to halter them at four months, and have '.iie males emasculated before six months old, Wiiich has munities of that respectable and industrious portion o\ our population have been located. In Great Britain, to the causes which have produced the effects described on the continent, may be added the insular position of the United Kingdoms, vulnerable from numberless and distant points, the horse has been considered, in connexion with the unconquerable spirit of the nation, as one of the most efficient means of repelling inva- sion: a circumstance that would of itself be sufficient to account for the over-weaning attachment to this animal. But identified as his services have been for a long period, with the convenience, sports, and recrea- tions, of all ranks and classes, and the science of breeding and training, forming a characteristic feature, it could not excite surprise, if the approach of that terrible spectre famine, should produce little or no effect in the reduction of the number. And although somg of the most distinguished characters in the nation eminent for their practical knowledge in rural econ omy, have been for half a' century advocating thr substitution of the ox for the purposes of agriculture, and demonstrating the feasibility, economy, and vast saving of food, yet it is said the number of labouring oxen have lately diminished and horses increased. Five millions of the latter are now supposed to subsist m the United Kingdom, and two-thirds employed in husbandry — consuming, at a moderate estimate, the MULES. 185 p-roduct of twenty millions of highly cultivated acres !* And what is the consequence ? consumption follows so close upon supply, that at every season of harvest, let the preceding one be never so abundant, fast sailing vessels are found in the various ports, with their anchors atrip, to convey intelligence of the result, to all parts of the world v/here a surplus of bread corn is grown — exciting such an interest in our own country, that the farmer on the shores of Erie and Ontario, and on the banks of the Ohio, may be seen reading bulletins of British weather — the rain and sunshine of every day in August and the two following months — often within thirty days after the time of their publication in Londor; or Liverpool. Can it be supposed that in a country where an attachment to the horse borders so nearly upon infatuation, that the question of the utility of the mule as a substitute, w^ould be ' seriously agitated, or encra2:e scarce a momentarv investi^-ation ? In no country is the mule better adapted to all the purposes of husbandry, for which the horse is used, than in every section of our own. And it would be hio^hlv desirable to be able to exhibit a calculation ol the actual saving, in dollars and cents, by his employ- ment— but unfortunatelv no correct data can be had. And as I consider such calculations, unless founded upon experimental facts, and those multiplied, to be as " tinkling cymbals," I shall merely submit a desultory * Mr. Pitt, in an al)le " Essay on the consumption of corn," published by the Board of Agriculture, in 1806, estimates that each draught horse, employed on roads, canals, and mines, in pleasure carriages of all descriptions, and carts in cities, consume the average product of four acres for oats and beans, and three acres for hay. It is stated in the same essay, that "the aggregate ©f oats imjiorted into England {only) for twenty years, ending in 1707, amounted to the enormous quantity of 8,655, 04G quarters^^—' apwards of sixty-nine millions of bushels .' 186 MULES. fomparison between the mule and the horse, derived from such facts as my own experience, and informatics from authentic sources, will justify the assumption of. From what has been stated respecting the longevity of the mule, I think it may be fairly assumed, that he does not deteriorate more rapidly after twenty year? of age, than the horse after ten, allowing the same extent of work and similar treatment to each. The contrast in the mule's freedom from malady or disease, compared with the horse, is not less striking. ' Arthur Young, during his tour in Ireland, was informed that a gentleman had lost several fine mules by feeding them oil wheat straw cut — and 1 have been informed that a mule dealer, in the western part of New York, attributed the loss of a number of young mules, in a severe winter, when his hay was exhausted, to feeding them exclusively on cut straw and Indian corn meal. in no other instance have 1 ever heard or known of a mule being attacked with any- disorder or complaint, except two or three cases of inflammation of the intes- tines, caused by gross neglect in permitting them to remain exposed to cold and wet, when in a high state of perspiration after severe labour, and drinking to excess of cold water. Fi'om his light frame and more cautious movements, the mule is less subject to casualties than the horse. Indeed, it is not improbable, but a farmer may work the same team of mules above twenty years and never be presented with a farrier's bill, or find ii necessary to exercise the art himself. Sir John Sinclair, in his " Reports on the Agricul- ture of Scotland," remarks that " if the whole period of a horse s laoour be fifteen years, the first six may ?)e equal in value to that of the remaining nine : there- fore, a horse of ten years old after working six years MULES. 187 may be worth half his original value." He estimates the annual decline of a horse to be equal to fifty per cent, on his price every six years, and supposes one out of twenty-five that are regularly employed in agricul- ture, to die every year : constituting a charge of four per cent, per annum for insurance against diseases and accidents. He considers five acres of land, of medium quality, necessary for the maintenance of each horse, and the annual expense, including harness, shoeing, farriery, insurance, and decline in value, allowing him to cost two hundred dollars, to exceed that sum about five per cent, which is the only diflference between the estimate of this illustrious and accurate agriculturist, and that of a respectable committee of the Farmers* Society of Barnwell district. South Carolina, who, in a report published in the Charleston Courier, of 23d of February last, state, that " the annual expense ol keeping a horse is equal to his value 1" The same committee also state, that " at four vears old a horse will seldom sell for more than the expense of rearing him." That "the superiority of the mule over tne horse, had long been appreciated by some of their most judicious planters — that two mules could be raised at less expense than one horse — that a mule is fit for service at an earlier period, if of sufficient size — will perform as much labour, and if attended to when first put to work, his gait and habits may be formed to suit the taste of the owner." This report may be con- sidered a most valuable document, emanating as it does, from enlightened 'practical farmers and planters, ui a section of country where we may suppose a horse f^an be maintained cheaper than in Marvdand or any S^ate farther North. J am convinced that the small breed of mules will nonsume less in proportion to the labour thev are 17* i88 MULES. capable of performing, than the large race, biK I shall confine the comparison to the latter — those that stand from fourteen and a half to rising of fifteen hands, and equal to any labour that a horse is usually put to. From repeated experiments in the course of two win- ters, I found that three mules of this description, that were constantly at work, consumed about the same quantity of hay, and only one fourth the provender that was given to two middling sized coach horses moderately worked. And from many years' attentive observation, I am led to believe that a large sized mule will not require more than three-fifths to two-thirds the food to keep him in good order, that will be necessary for a horse performing the same extent of labour. Althou0€5S, See, &c. SEIECTKD FROM VARIOUS AUTHOR? \H AFFEN1>IX ^^ » -M»@»* OF THE DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 1. The diseases of the horse are as numerous and as important as his complicated structure and the artifi cial state of his present mode of life would lead one to expect. Until of late the treatment of these diseases was confined to the hands of ignorant farriers presumptuous grooms, or shoeing smiths ; and the fate of the animals was commensurate with the wretched Ireatment they were subjected to The estaDHshmeni 198 DISEASES OF HORSES. of a school for the veterinary art, has disseminated ar improve i practice, and spread improved practitioners throughout the country ; and we would earnestly re- commend an application to one of established reputa- tion in all cases of difficulty and danger. But as it is not always that such a one is within reach, to enable the agriculturalist to have in his own hands the means of informing himself, or to being a check to others, we submit a concise view of the diseases of the head, neck, trunk, and extremities, preceded by some general observations. GENERAL REMARKS ^ On the Ht'ulihy and Diseased State of the Horse. 2. Condition of Horses. — Being in condition, in stable language, signifies not only perfect health internally, but such an appear- ance externally, as the philosopher would call unnatural, or at least artificial : while the amateur considers it as an essential requi. site to the other qualities of the horse. This external condition is denoted by a sleek, short, shining coat, with a degree of flesh neither bordering on fatness nor emaciation. Even in this sense of tne -term, condition must be varied according to the uses of the aiimal. In the cart horse, provided there be a sleekness of coat, looseness of hide, sound wind, freedom from grease or swelled legs with good digestion ; a fulness and rotundity of bulk, instead of detracting from his beauty or impeding his exertions, will add to the one and assist the other. In the coach horse, the hackney, the hunter, and the racer, a different condition is expected, varying in different degrees from that of the cart horse. In both cart horse and racer, it is equally necessary -that the various internal organs sliouid be in a state to act uninterruptedly for the ben-sfit of the whole ; but in addition to this, it is necessary to the racer, 'Jiat the greatest possible quantity of animal fibres should be condensed into the smallest possible bulk, and that the absorption of all tiseless fat and other interstitial matter should be promoted by every possible means, as essentially necessary to unite lightness of body «vith full strength and elasticity. It is in the attempts to produce Buch a state in its full perfection, that all the secrets of training eoii-^i'^t' "nut. whether a total departure from natural rules, by DISEASES OF HORSES. • ] 99 dnnalural heat, deprivation of light, stimulating food, restraint from water, and excessive clothing, are best calculated to promote it, admits of much doubt ; and it is to be observed that the dawn of reason and science appears to be shining through the crevices of these darkened casements; for even at Newmarket the, sj^^stem has lately much relaxed from its ortificial rigor. 3. To bring a horse into condition, not only should the purposes e is intended for be taken into account', but also his previous state. If he be taken up from prass with much flesh on him, it i? evident that what is required is to remove the soft instertitial mat- ter it may be supposed he has gained by green food, and to replace it by hard flesh ; and also to produce a sleekness of coat and beauty of appearance. To accomplish these ends, the horse should be accustomed to clothing and the full heat of the stable by degrees only ; and also by degrees only to the meditated change of food ; which is best done by mashes. In two or three days a mild dose of physic may be given, during all which moderate exercise only should be allowed, as walking, but which may be continued two hours at a time. After the physic has set, begin to dress his coat, increase his exercise and his food, and accustom him to an increase of warmth. In four or five days time again mash him for two days and give a second dose of pliysic, a little stronger than the first. (123) After this still further increase his warmth, his exercise, and his food, by which his belly will be taken up, liis flesh will harden and his coat begin to fall. A third dose of physic or urme balls, &c. are only necessary in tlie training of hunters, &lc. and even in these, a gradual increase of exercise, rather long continued ttian violent, with proper food, will efi'ect the end, if not so quickly, more beneficially to the animal. To bring a lean liorse into condi. lion, a somewhat different plan should be pursued. If from jjrass, still mash him for a day or two, by no means stint him in his water, and with his mash let oats be also soaked. If oats be speared or malted, it will produce flesh sooner. But even here, give the horse moderate walking exercise, and if he be not too much reduced, add a mild dose of physic to prevent his heels flying, or his getting hide-bound by the increased food ; but if great emaciation forbid the physic, give him nightly an alterative. (Vet. Pharni. 129, No. \.\ As his appearance improves, gradually harden his food and increase his exercise. 4. Diseased condition of horses. What has been already said ^•"lat«'i to that alteration from one state to another, neither being an IS* 200 DISEASES OF HORSES. unhealiby one, which custom has rendered necessary; thus a man in training for running or fighting, and a man out of training, are both considered equally healthy. Buttherifare circumstances that vroduce a morbid state of condition different from all these. It is common to hear persons say " my horse is sadly out of condition, and I cannot tell either what is the matter with him, or how to get him into better case." Various are the causes that may produce this : a sudden alteration of the food, or temperature, or of habits altogether, may become a cause. Removing a horse from grass to a heated stable, full feeding, and hard exercise, will often do it: therefore these changes should always be gradual. Bad food, as mow-burnt hay, musty oats, beans, &c., likewise mineral waters, foul air, &lc., are frequent causes. Diabetes, or profuse staling, is often brought on by these means, and the condition of the horse becomes greatly reduced. It is requisite, therefore, to enquire whether any of these errors are in existence, and to immediately remove, them : but it often happens that the stomach has become relaxed and the hide become bound ; neither of which readily remove, even though the original evil may be amended. When the relaxed stomach has produced lampas, treat the mouth as described under that disease (25,) but the stomach itself must be principally attended to. — First mash and give a dose of physic ; after it has sot, commence the treatment, if the horse be of a full habit, by moderate bleeding and a nightly alterative. (Vet. Pharm. 129, No, 1 or 2.) Buf if he be not in full, but in low flesh, commence by a daily tonic, (Vet. Pharm. 130, No. 1 or 2,) which will gradu ally remove the swelling within the mouth, and loosen the hide A sudden cold applied to the skm often brings on a want of con dition with surfeit. In which case, bleeding, with nightly altera, tive, (Vet. Pharm. 129, No. 1 or 2,) with or without an assistant dose of physic, as the habits of the horse may require, constitute the proper treatment. Worms form another cause of morbid con- dition which are to be removed as described (57.) Excessive fatigue is also productive of a bad state of condition, which often proves very obstinate. Turning out to *very good grass is the quickest cure, and when that is impracticable, soiling in the stable, or feeding with carrots, parsnips, beet root, &c. will be food restora lives ; as medicines give tonics daily. (Vet. Pharm. 130, No. 1 or 2.) It will be only necessary to add, that in considering the state of a horse's condition, the effect is apt to be mistaken for the cause, ana the symptoms for the disease. Hide-bound and lampas are not in ihemselfes any thing more than effects, or symptoms; tlie formei l»eiiig commonly, and the latter always dependent on a derangetJ DISEASES OF HORSES. 2^)1 state of tlie stomach : both are therefore to be treated accoraingly. Exactly the same will apply to all the other symptoms of morbid condition. Injiarmnatory Diseases of the Horse. 5. TJie inflammatory diseases of the horse are nu- merous, but his fevers are few : a febrile state being generally brought on by the inflammation of some irnpqrtant organ. Inflammation may be considered as general or difl'used, and local or confined, and both seem to arise from an affection of the blood vessels, and perhaps from a peculiar state of the blood itself. 6. General or diffused inflammation constitutes fe\'er or extensive inflammatory affection, and appears to consist in an increased action of the heart and arte- ries, accompanied w^ith an increase of heat. In some instances where the fever is purely symptomatic, and dependent on the inflammation of some important organ, as the lungs, or the intestines, the circulation appears retarded rather than increased, from interrup- tion arising to its passage through the heart. 7. Local or confined inflammation is also dependent on an affection of the blood vessels, but confined prin- cipally to the blood vessels of the part affected. It is betokened by redness in the skin, tumour or swelling, heat and tenderness, with pain. Inflammations, both diffused and local, are brought on by excitements, such as over feeding, excessive heat, reaction produced aftei cold, and the reaction produced by inordinate exertion. Those more exterior, arise from injuries, the apph- cation of improper substances, &c. Inflammations terminate in various ways ; but it is to be remarked that in consequence of the veiy large circulatory^ system of the horse, liis febrile affections rage higlier o 802 DISEASES OF HORSES. and terminate sooner tnan m man. The usual tei mination of inflammatory affections in the horse, are by resolution, effusion, suppuration, and gangrene. Scirrhus is not at all a common termination of inflam- mation in the horse. 8. Inflammation of the brain, (phrentis) brain fever, phrcnfty fever, staggers, mad and sleepy. There are few diseases more likely to be mistaken by inexperienced farriers than this ; it is not to be wondered at, therefore, if indifferent persons should be led into error by it. It appears in two forms, a violent frantic one, and a sleepy lethargic one ; and the latter appearance is also common to a disease, not dependent as this is, on idiopathic inflammation of the biain ; but on a paralytic affection of the stomach, and thence it is called stomach staggers. This latter affection, however, "may be distinguished from the former by attending to the colour of the eye- lids, nose linings, mouth, &.c. which in stomach staggers are usually more yellow than red ; whereas in sleepy staggers, tliey are more red than yellow. Infiamination of the brain shews itself in general cases by disinclination to food and motion, drowsiness, accompanied by a heaviness and closing of tiie eyelids, with moisture and red- ness of them ; and also of tlie linings of the mouth and nose. Sometimes these symptoms increase, until the horse becomes comatose, and after a few frightful struggles, sinks to rise no more, fa these cases the pulse is apt to be oppressed instead of in- creased. But most frequently after the first stages he becomes furious, plunges about, and is vicious to himself and others, ap proaching to a state of madness, in which state lie continues till he sinks from his own exertions, when he rises again to renew his violence. 9. The cause of staggers may be various: the immediate are either an original accumulation of blood within the brain, or the translation of the inflammation of some organ to the brain: as a remote cause is often brought on by too full feeding, without suf ticient exercise, and particularly in horses at one time working very hard, and at another suffered to remain inactive; but which horses, whether used or not, are equally fed. Sudden cold, vio- icace, &-C. may bring it on. 10 7'he treatment cf staggers should be begun by abstracting • »crv laige Quantity of blood promptly, by opening botI» jugulars, DISEASES OF HORSES. 203 md letting the horse bleed to the amount of ten or cvci*. twelve quarts; repeating the same until the delirium ceuses. Aher the first bleeding, back rake, throw up a laxative clyster, {Vet Pharm. 143.) blister the head, promote a current oi free air in tlie stable, and treat altogether as directed under other febrile m- fections. 11. Locked jaw, stag-evil, or tetamia, arises from coid, excessiv> fjitigue, sometimes perhaps from worms, but more often fr<»m a wound of some part, as pricks in slioeing, &c. Such wound is seldom in a recent state ; but after two or three weeks continuance, sometimes after it has healed even : it follows docking, gelding and nicking frequently; and is preceded by a flabby unhealthy state of the wound. It appears as an affection of the brain, which transmits its morbid irritation, particularly to tlie nerve5> attached to muscles, by which they become cramped, or may be considered as in a high state of action, giving the horse a peculiar look of energy, as though immediately stopped from f\iil speed ; with his nostrils extended, his head raised, and his no&o carried forward ; his legs straddle wide, and his tail is cocked and quivers, as after violent exercise. The jaws will now be found, if not closed, yet nearly so, when he is called jaw set. 12. The treatment is not often successful, ^ut. however, it is sufficiently frequent that it is so, to deserve the utmost attention Blaine informs us that enormous bleedings have succeeded ; but he places his principal dependence on the application of cold by means of ice, or of constant dashing with cold water, with an active blister applied the whole length of the spine. Balls of camphor and opium, to the amount of two drachms each, may be givew every three hours. If any room remain in the mouth, the ball may be passed up by means of a stick, or it may be given as a drink by means of a syringe, and even when the mouth is entirely closed, he informs us we may give a drink by the nostrils. Moor- croft used cold also. Fearon, on the contrary, has experienced benefit from a bath, heated to ninety degrees, and kept at that temperature for three hours. White recommends camphor and opium ; Wilkinson of Newcastle, has been very successful by keeping up heat and stimulus over the skin in general, by mean.-* of newly stripped sheep skins put on hot. Perhaps if the body were previously rubbed with oil of turi)entine one part, and common oil two parts, it might assist Wilkinson's plan. When locked aw arises from nickiusf, it might be priidetit for a veterinarw 204: mSEASES OF HORSES. eufT^on to dissect down on the nerves of the tail, and divide them; and when from nicking, it would be advisable to cut otf anotlier portion of the tail, which practices in both instances would afford a moderate chance of saving the animal. It is necessary further to remark, that it is of great consequence that the bowels be kept free from faeces, by raking and clysters. With regard te the latter they are very im})ortant in this disease, as a medium, f.onnnonly Uie only one, of giving support. A horse has been kept alive on nourishing clysters alone, for seven or eight days. {Vet. Pkarin. 145.) 13. Catarrhal fever, epidemic catarrh., influenza, distemper, cold morfonvdering. c^c. These names apply to one common disease which often in rainy, variable seasons appears as an epidemic, and affects thousands of horses at once. It is observed to be par ticularly prevalent in this form in the spring of some years, more than of others. It is not contagious like the more malignant form, but is brought on as an epidemic by the same causes being applied to nearly all subjects alike ; whicli are alterations of heat with cold, moisture, and dryness, &c. In crowded cities and large towns, it is more prevalent than in more open situations, and it i'S more frequently found^in the young than in aged horses. Wnero ct does not exist as an epidemic, it is brought on by an accidental cold taken. It is of great consequence to distinguish it from pure Inflammation of the lungs, with wJiich it is very apt to be con- founded ; and which mistake is often a fatal one, from the treat- ment being in some essential particulars different. Inflammation of the lungs commences by a short cough, without much other disturbance to the health, than the pain it gives the horse to cough, but which is often so considerable as to make him stamp his feeit while coughing. If a horse in the distemper coughs early, it is not a hollow, harsh sounding, and distressing cough of this kind — il he expresses uneasiness, it is principally from a sore throat, which is very common in distemper, but by no means common in pneumonia. The sore throat in distemper gives the horse a dis position to refuse his food, or he chews it and lets the quid fall witnout swallowing it. He refuses water, particularly if it be placed on the ground ; his cough is quick, short, and usually sounds more moist than harsh and dry ; but though common, this is not invariably the caee ; his eyes are heavy and moist, his breathing IS quickened, and his ears and legs are alternately hot and cold JIjs nose on looking into it is redder tJian usual, and sometime. t/io gland* as well submaxillary or jaw glands, as his prrotid o DISEASES or HOUSES. Si05 rives aro lumciied. On the second or third day, excessive weaknesa comes on ; the coui^li becomes more painful, the ])ulse is quick, sned, and the nose begins to run. Ai"ter wiiich the liorse cithei runs off the disease by this suppuration, or it goes on to destroy him by the height of tiie fever, and degree of weakness produced or by suftbcation from water in the chest. Now and then, altliougb •ocovery takes place, an obstinate cough is left ; and m a few cases he disease terminates in ffliiuders. 14. The treatment may in some cases be cut very short, foi as in almost every instance a shivering fit begins the disease, so when mail}' horses are in a stable, and the disease is very prevalent, Hiose wiio have not been attacked should be watched, and the mon)ent such an attack does take place, give of svieet spirit oj nitre, or when not at hand of spirit of hartshorn, an ounce, in a pint of sound ale. Exercise the horse briskly, then well hand rub him, clothe him warmly; and it is more than probable that the disease will be cut short. But should it proceed, or should the disease have gone on unobserved to the appearance of the symp- tom detailed, begin by bleeding moderately, if the horse be not already weak; or if there have not appeared the running of matter from the nose. If there have, the bleeding had better be dispensed with, unless the fever appeir, from the quick full pulse and red- ness of the inner surface of the nostrils and eyelids, to be still so considerable as to require it ; in which case we must not be / deterred from one moderate bleeding ; and which, if the febrile symptoms do not abate, may be even repeated. It will, however, in general cases, be advisable to avoid bleeding after the second day of the attack, or after the running has appeared from the nose, or after considerable weakness has come on. In all cases a very cool temperature is essentially requisite ; hot stables, or hot clothing are very pernicious, but particularly the former. A hood is not improper over the head, because it encourages the running to make an early aj)pearance ; and for this reason a warm mash may advantageously be hung roujid tlie neck three or four times a day. Before the running conunences, give night and morning, ♦he fever powder (Vet. Pharin. 157, No. 1 or 2.) in a mash oj drink; after the running has come on, or as soon as the weakness has become considerable, give night and morning either of the fever drinks {Vet. Pharm. 158, No. 3 or 4.) Malt mashes, when the weakness is great, are proper; at other times, bran mashes with plenty of chilled water are best. To relieve the throat, ruti ♦he outside with mild liquid plaster, {Vet. Pharm. i42,) and -f the aeather be warm enough to nllow it, two or three hours taininf 20G DISEASES OF HORSES, oat in a field each day is proper. Green meat in the stable, wtien it can be procured, should likewise be given. 15. Malignant epidemic, murrain, or pest. Now and then the dis- temper or influenza assumes a character of uncommon malignance, which is happily not frequent here, but not unfrequent in couti. nental countries, sweeping off a third of the horses and kine, without any means being found sufficient to arrest its progress. In these cases it is found highly contagious, attacking almost all the horses as well as cattle within its sphere of action, or which communicate with each other. Dr. Layard, and Osmer, English writers of established reputation, noticed the appearances of this disease long ago ; and their descriptions are not different from the milder kind noticed (13) but in degree. The throat is intpnsely sore, and the moutli ulcerated ; the glands of the head swell, and sometimes these and other parts suppurate and burst. The jnatter from the nose is bloody, and the stench intolerable ; the weakness IS also peculiarly great, and shows itself early. 16. The treatment recommended by Blaine is tlie early use of malt mashes ; even ale is indispensable. Green meat should be allowed, and a very cool stall is necessary, having a free comma- nication with the open air. As medicine, three doses are necessary, every day, of the malignant epidemic fever drink, (Vet. Ph. 16U.J half a pint of yeast with a phit of ale has been given, witii good effect, three times a day ; also, to prevent the infection from spread, ing, fumigate tlie stables and all the outhouses with the preventive fumigation. {Vet. Ph. 161.) Diseases of the Head. 17. Epilepsy, megrims, sturdy, or turnsick, are epileptic attacks of greater or less violence, and which are apt to be confounded with the accidental strangulation that sometimes takes place from It collar too tight, or from driving a horse hard up hill, &-c. The L-pileptic fit makes its appearance by a sudden stop ; if the horsjs be in acuon he shakes his head, looks wild and irresolute, but after jorne time proceeds; when more violent, he suddenly falls down, is convulsed, dungs and stales insensibly, and remains some time before he recovers. This disease, like staggers, is generally the consequence of two full a habit; and is, therefore, best relieved by bleeding, and a more moderate diet; and, where it is convenient, « run at grass should be allowed to alter the habit. 18 The diseases of the horse^s eyes are not numerous, but they arc very destructive. The principal are opthalmia and ^utta »erenh DISEASES OF HORSES. 207 19. The opthalmia, lunatic, or woon-hlindness, is a very peculiar disease among horses, affecting their eyes generally about thf^ir full growth, but sometimes later, and seldom earlier. It is but .ittle known among mules and asses, and unknown in oxen and sheep. It does not, however, appear to be a disease natural to the horse, as wild, or even horses subjected to artificial restraints are not observed subject to it. But among others, it is become sc common as to have the tendency handed down in the breed; tho progeny of some stallions being more prone to it than others. — It i<6 often very sudden in its attack, the eyelids being found swelled and almost closed to avoid the light ; they are also very red within, and the haw is half drawn over the surface ; the tears (low down the face perpetually, and the whole head is hot ; now and then these appearances come on gradually. The suddenness of the attack makes the complaint to be attributed to accident, as blows, nay seeds within the eye, &c. and it is frequently difficult to get che owner of such a horse to believe that a constitutional attack, as it usually is, can come on so suddenly. Sometimes as itcomes on, so it goes off as quickly, the eye from being opaque and milky, m twenty four hours becoming clear and almost well. When such m attack has taken place, even if nothing be done, the horse ■sooner or later amends, and the eye or eyes, for it is sometimes one and sometimes both that are so attacked, become again clear j,nd well, and remain so an indefinite period, from five or six weeks io as many months. Another attack, however, sooner or later follows, to which others succeed, each leaving increased milkiness on the outer coats, and some dimness within the pupil, either speck- like or diffused ; and finally the horse becomes blind from cataract. When one eye goes blind totally before the other, it is often a means of preventing the future attack on the remaining one ; which has given rise to a custom of putting out one eye to save the other, and which has succeeded. As this is a constitutional disease, brought on by artificial habits, as over exertion, close unhealthy confinement, and heating food ; so it is clear the abstrac- tion of all these are necessary to remove the complaint, aud to prevent a recurrence ; but particularly the close, dark, and unven tilated state of the stable should be attended to, as well as tRo removal of the litter, which retains the volatile alkali of the urine, and irritates the eyes most injuriously. The food should be mild and cooling, and the exercise moderate but long continued. Under the height of the attack, however, rest is advisable, with moderate light, wbL-'h may be still further moderated by keeping over the eye or eyes a thick cloth, wet with goulard water. (Vet. Ph. 154.) Sometimes one quarter of vinegar to three quarters of water ha» 19 SOS DISEASES OF HORSES. been found a useful application, and which ever is used, the eyes and eyebrows should be kept continually wet with it, which i»y exciting evaporation will keep the part cool. A seton may he introduced under the eye or jaw. In some cases, blistering the forehead or cheek is found useful; but in every instance bleeding \h proper, which should be repealed until the disease lessens When the horse is very full and gross,^ physic and alteratives assist the cure. When blistering is used in any part near tlie eye, the jDireatest care is requisite to prevent the blistering matter from being rubbed into it. 20. Gutta Serena or glass eyes, so called from the peculiar glassy appearance of the eye, arise from a paralysis of tlie optic nerve. As the eye is not materially altered in appearance, a horse often becomes blind without its being noticed, until his cautious stepping, quick motion of his ears, &-c. give notice of the case. — On examination it will be found that the pupil remains dilated, however great the light, and the eye is irrecoverably lost. In tha very early stages, blisters to the forehead and stimulants to the eyes, (as white vitriol a drachm, water four ounces,) may be tried, but with faint hopes of success. 21. Poll-evil. This complaint commonly requires the attend- ance of an experienced practitioner — but the prevention is often in /-he power of owners and others about horses, and to this point we shall particularly direct their attention. Poll-evil is commonly the effect of accident. Repeated small blows of the titanger, or continued pressure from hanging back on the halter, & c. will, if not remedied, produce swelling at the nape of the neck, with some tenderness. In this early state, if the collar be removed and the part be kept continually wet with vinegar and water, the swelling will often disperse — but if, in spite of this, it proceeds to suppuration, let a vent be made for the matter by a seton [11 61 so that it rnay readily flow out. Introduce nothing healing, but Rncuuragt a free discharge, and it may heal at once. When such IS not the issue, the disease attacks the ligaments ; sinuses form and the matter burrows under the skin and muscles, whei? » »eton must be introduced from the opening above and should bo oronght out at the bottom ; the seton should be then daily wetted with the liquid blister. {Vet. Pharm. 141.) Shculd this plan fail, escharotics will be required in the form of scalding mixture. (Vet Pharm. 165.) 22. Sti angles, vives or hies. Tbis disease has been likened to '(ic human measles, because it usually attacks every horse, antj DISEASES OF HORSES. 209 most of them at a young period, between three and five years ; it IS fortunate when it attacks colts at grass, as it seldom occasions inconvenience, and v;hich has led some persons into error by turning their iiorses out as soon as attacked ; but it is not found that stabled horses, thus turned out, pass through the disease mort; mildly, but the contrary, except the disease exists under its mildest form. White has conjectured that colts breeding the strangles vhile at grass, are afterwards exempt from glanders, but this wants confirmation. Prosser has also affirmed, that inoculation by the matter of ^^trangles, is good, because it mitigates the complaint, and renders the horse not liable to any future attack ; but the practice has never gained ground : when strangles occurs in the stable, and now and then in the field, it proves a severe disease, and shows itself under the appearance of a cold, with cough, sore throat, and swelling of the glands under the jaw, or behind and under the ears. Seme times there_ is not much external swelling, and the tumours oreak inwardly, and nature effects a cure ; at others they break outwardly, and the disease runs ofi' that way, and some times the swellings disperse either by nature or art, which breeders think unfavourable, as they suppose it renders the animal liable to a future attack ; but many so treated, pass the remainder of their lives tvithout more affection. 23. The treatment of Strangles. When the swelling lingers, and neither comes forward or recedes, poultices are prelerable to fomentations, which, by leaving the horse wet, promote evapora tion and produce cold. Peal recommends blistering the part, as t\:o best means of promoting suppuration. The horse should be kept very cool, and bran mashes with warm water should be his principal support, unless the complaint lasts long, and produces much weakness, when malt mashes should be substituted ; bleeding is only advisable when the early symptoms are violent, as heaving at the flanks, extreme soreness of throat, with nmch swelling around it, and considerable cough, in which case bleeding, and fever medi cines are proper. 24. Vives, or ivcs, is supposed to be a relic of the latter com plaint, dnd it does appear now and then that after tue strangles, tho parotid or vive glands do remain enlarged [24,] which occasions tho disease in question, resolution may be attempted by mercurial fiic- tions, suppuration should be avoided, otherwise the gland may be destroyed 25. Diseases of the mouth, la7npass. All horses, but particularly ermanent or adult set, in which wise orovision, man and most DISEASES OF HORSES. 211 Di ites participate.. The miik set are some of them, as the molars, a|>j»arent at birth ; there being usually six grinders in each jaw, thi e on each side in the new born foal, and which number of thijj set II, never increased. The nippers begin to appear soon after birtk, and follow a regular order of succession, until the animal is three -or four months old ; at which time he begins to require suppot-t from herbage as well as milk. The temporaneous set re- tiove g.ddually one after another ; had they all been displaced at •lie sam*. time, or even had several of them fallen out together, the mimai rririst have suffered great inconvenience, and perhaps have jeen starv«»d. This removal, which commences at the age of two /ears and « half, and is completed between the fourth and fifth /ear, is effected by the action of the absorbents on their fangs, and Appears to W occasioned by the. stimulus of the pressure received from the growing teeth under them. For although these two sets appear with an interval of some years between them ; yet the rudi- ments of both -«re formed at nearly the same period, and both seta may be thus st.*n in a dissected jaw. Regulated by the stimiilus of necessity, a^ soon as the temporaneous set falls out, the perma- nent appears : und that such appearance follows the necessity, is evident ; for a preinature or accidental removal of the colts' teeth is soon followed by the appearance of the others. Dealers and breeders aware of this, draw the milk teeth to make their colts appear as horses. It was necessary there should be two sets of teeth, for as they grow slowly in proportion to the jaws, so haa there been but one only, the disproportion of growth between tho teeth and jaws must have separated thein. The forvis of the teeth vary more than their structure. The inci sive or nippers- are round, which is favourable for the pressure they undergo ; the upper more so than the lower. On the upper surface a hollow is seen in the young tooth, which, not extending through the whole substance, naturally wears out with the wear of the tooth ; md as a considerable degree of regularity occurs in this wearing 4 ivay in all horses, it has gradually settled into the general criterion >f age. The nippers are not all of them exactly similar ; the corner eeth differ most in being exactly triangular, and in having an nterval wall or side, which does not become level with the rest uniil .ong after the others. The cuspidate tusks or tushes are permanent, appearing at about five years, or rather earlier ; those in the front faw are usually nearer the nippers than those below. Each pre- sents a slight curve, which follows the direction of all the canine or pugnatory teeth of other mammalia. The pointed extremit;y wears away by age, leaving merely a buttoned piocess, which ma> 19* 'irf winch ou'- daily experience convmces us ; farcy, or farci?i attack* DISEASES OF HORSES. 229 «in«ler flistinct forms, one of which affects the lymphatics of the skin and is called the hud or button jarcy ; tlie other is principally con- ftned to the hind legs, which it affects by large indurations, attended with heat and tenderness. A mere dropsical accumulation of water jn the legs sometimes receives the name of water farcy ; but this has no connexion whatever with the true disease in question : farcy is very contagious, and is gained from either the matter of farcy or from that of glanders. ^ 75. Treatment of farcy. The distended lymphatics or buds may often be traced to one sore, which was the originally inoculated part, and in these cases the destruction of this sore, and that of all the farcied buds, will frequently at once cure the disease, which is here purely local. But when the disease has proceeded further, tlie virus must be destroyed through the medium of the stomach ; although even in these cases, the cure is rendered more speedy and certain, destroying all the diseased buds, by caustic or by cautery Perhaps no mode is better than the dividing them with a sharp firing iron ; or if deeper seated, by opening each with a lancet, and touching the inner surface with lapis infernalis. The various mineral acids may any of them be tried as internal remedies with confidence ; even losing sight of the necessity of watching their effects narrowly, and as soon as any derangement of the health appeai-s, to desist from their use ; oxmuriate of quicksilver (corrosive sublimate) may be given in daily doses of fifteen grains ; oxide of arsenic may also be given in similar doses. The subacetate of copper (verdigris) may also be tried, often with great advantage, in doses of a drachrr: daily. Blaine joins these preparations, and strongly recommends the following : oxmuriate of quicksilver, oxide of arsenic, subacetate of copper, of each eight grains ; sublimate of copper, one scruple ; make into a ball and give every morning, carefully watching the effects, and if it be found to occasion distress, divide, and give half, night and morning. The same author professes to have received great benefit from the use of the following: expressed juice oj elevers, or goose-grass, a strong decoction of hempsecd and sassafrss, of each six ounces; to be given after the ball. It remains to say, that whatever treatment is pursued will be rendered doubly effica- cious if green meat be procured, and the horse be fed wholly on it, provided the bowels will bear such food ; but if the medicines gripe, by being joined with green food, add to the diet bean-meal. When green meat cannot be procured, carrots usually can; and when tliey cannot, still potatoes may be boiled, or the oats may be speared oi malted. As a proof of the beneficial effects of green meat, a horse, so bad with farcy as to be entirely despaired of, was drawn '^30 DISEASES OF HORSES. iiito a field of tares, and nothing morf5 was done to him, nor further notice taken of him, although so ill as to be unable to rise from the ground when drawn there. By the time he had eaten all the tares within his reach, he was enabled to struggle for more; and finally he rose to extend his reach, and perfectly recovered. Diseases of me Extremities. 76. Shoulder strains, are very rare ; most of the lameness attributed to the shoulder belong to other parts, and particularly to the feet. Out of one hundred and twenty cases of lameness before, Blaine found that three only arose from ligamentary or muscular exten- sion of the shoulder, or rather of the abductor and sustaining muscles: when shoulder strain does happen, it is commonly the consequence of some slip, by which the arm is forced violently forwards. It is less to be wondered at than at first seems probable, that farriers mistake foot lameness for shoulder strains, when we reflect that a contracted foot occasions inaction, and favouring of the limb; which thus wastes the muscles of the shoulder. Seeing that one shoulder is smaller than the other, the evil is attributed to that, and it is pegged, blistered, swam, and fired, to the torture of the animal and the increase of the foot's contraction by the confinement. In real shoulder strains, the toe is dragged along the ground while in motion ; at rest it is planted forward, but resting on the point of the toe. When the lameness is in the foot, the horse points his foot forward also, but he does so with the whole limb unbent, and the foot flat. These diflerences ai;e highly necessary to be attended to, as well as the peculiar dif- ficulty there is in moving down hill, which he does with reluctance, and bv swinfrini^ his leer round to •' CD CD O avoid flexing it. This lameness may be further brought !•> the test by lifting up the fore leg (considerably, which DISEASES OF HORSES. 231 if the evil be in the shoulder, will give evident pain. Tlie muscles between the fore legs are likewise tumi- fied and tender in these cases. 77. The treatment consists, when it is recent, in bleedinor m the plate vein, rowelling in the chest, and fomenting with hot water two or three times a day. When the heat and tenderness have subsided, first bathe daily with the astringent wash for strains (Vet. Pha. 134, No. 1) for a week; and afterwards, if necessary, proceed to blister in the usual manner. 78. Strain in the whirl hone. This important joint is sometimes strained, or its ligaments and muscles vinnaturally extended, frora a greater force being applied to them than their structure is able to bear, or their power to resist ; a Isesion takes place of some of their fibrillsB, or in lesser injuries their elasticity is injured by being put on the stretch beyond their power of returning. In all such cases, the parts react, and inflammation follovv's ; by Tvhich heat, t<^nder noss, and swelling ensue. 79. Treatment. The first indication is the same in this as in all .igamentary strains, which is to moderate the inflammation by fomentations, &c. «Stc., and when that has subsided, to endeavour by astringents and bracers to restore the tone of the parts ; atter which, if any swelling remains, from the extravasated blood be- coming organised, to promote its absorptions by mercurial frictions, and blistering. This applies to all strains, and will direct tlie treatment therefore of that of strain in the articulation of the tlugb with the body also. 80. Strain in the stifle, is treated in the same manner. 81. Strain or clap in the back sinews. This is generally an injury done to the sheaths of the tendons, or of the ligaments which oind them down. In very aggravated cases, it sometimes occurs that even the tendons themselves are extended beyond their capacity. The heat, swelling, and tenderness, are first to be combatted by fomentations, and if this be extreme, bleed also, and give a dose of jfihysic. Next proceed to poultice with saturnine applications, until the heat and swelling are reduced : then use tonics, astringent wash, (Vet. Pha. 134, No. 1 or 2,) bandage and exercise very carefully. If swelling remain after heat, pain, and lameness are past ; or when lameness only remains, after all heat is gone, pro i^ad to blister mildly twice In all eases of r^amentp.ry extension 21 232 DISEASES OF HORSES. when i\\r heat has subsided, the part may be considered as in a state of atony; and bandages judiciously applied are then proper, par ticularly during the day. 82. Rupture of the tendons and ligaments of the leg. It is ver\ seldom that the tendons themselves are ruptured, but the suspensory ligaments are more often so, and the evil is called breaking down. It is usually very sudden, and the fetlock is brought almost to the ground. A perfect cure is seldom obtained ; but the inflammation should be moderated by the means already described, and the heels should be, raised. A laced stocking or firm bandage, when the infiamination has subsided, is necessary; and firing is often prudent as a permanent bandage. 83. Strains of the ligaments of the fetlock and coffin joints often occur, and may always be distinguished by the heat, tenderness, and swelling. Treat as already described. In all strains of the leg, attended with inflammation, a goulard poultice is a convenient and useful application. The goulard water should be mixed with bran, and a worsted stocking being drawn over the foot, and up the leg, it is first tied around the foot ; the poultice is then put in, and the stocking fastened around the leg above the injury (115.) 84. Mallenders and sallenders are scurfy, scabby eruptions, af- fecting the back of the knee, and ply to the hock ; common only in coarse, low bred, and in cart horses. Wash with soft soap every day, after which anoint with an unguent formed of equal parts of mercurial ointment, tar, and Turner's cerate. 85. Broken Knees. The usual cases oi broken knees are referable to wounds in general ; and the treatment of them in no wise differs therefrom, with this caution, that here it is more immediately necessary, both for appearance and sa:fety, that if any flap of skiti hang apart, to cut it off", or the wound will heal with rugosed edges, but when the joint of the knee is broken into by the violence ol the injury, it becomes of a very different nature, and is known first hj the extreme lameness and swelling that occur ; and next by the escape of a slippery mucus not unlike the white of an egg. If thia continue to escape, violent inflammation follows, and either the horse or the joint are lost by it. Farriers are apt to attempt to stop the flow of the joint nil. as it is called, by oil of vitriol, or otlier Bscharotics, which treatment is usually followed by t)ie most disas- trous consequences. It is however, necessary to stop the immediate «ow, by other means • tiie best of which ip by a fine budding-iron illSEASES OF IIORSI5. 233 heated. Should the laceration be considerable, this cannot be done ; but the treatment must then consist of saturnine poultices, bleeding low diet, and the other anti-febrile remedies, until the swelling has subsided, when apply tne astringent paste recommended by Clarke, made of pipe clay and alum, every day, but by no means introduce any escharotics. On the subject of broken knees, a prejudice prevails, that a horse that has once broken his knees, is more liable to fall dgain than a horse that has not before fallen down ; but unless the knee be injured so as to become stiff by such accident, the supposi- tion is wholly erroneous. Horses fall as often by treading on sharp stones when they have corns, as they do by stumbling ; and as corns sometimes come on rapidly by pressure, so such a horse becomes afterwards liable to trip, and this gives rise to the opinion formed, hat when once he has been down he will ever after be liable to it. 86. Splints and hone spavin. The former are usually situated on the inner side of the canon or shank before — and as they are situated, so they are more or less injurious. When buried, as it were, within the tendons or back sinews, they are very apt to lame the horse seriou&ly ; but when situated on the plain bone, unless they are very large, they seldom do much injury. If a splint be early attended to, it is seldom difficult to remove. Blaine recom- mends the swelling to be rubbed night and morning for five or six days, with a drachm of mercurial ointment, rubbing it well in ; after which to apply a b.ister, and at the end of a fortnight or three weeks to apply anotl er. In very bad cases he recommends firing in the lozenge form. 87. Bone spavin is ar exostosis of the hock bones, the treatment of which in no wise diiVers from that of splint; except that as a spavin in general is mere injurious than a splint, so it is more necessary to commence the treatment early, and to continue it energetically. It also unfortunately nappens, that from the ccm- plexity of structure on the hock, spavin is not so easily removed as splint, and more usually rev uires the application of firing. 88. Ring bone is of the sa «e nature, being an exostosis or bony iircle, formed around the ci Tonet, the treatment of which is th» us straw or grasf^ ij- from these to a hot stable ; which Ly tiie heal DISEASES OF HORSES. 235 and moisture of the litter, occasions a determination of blood, and humours to the legs, and they break out into cracks or scabs, frorr. which issue a bloody ichor, or a more thick matter. Between thi* sores the hair stares and gets pen feathered, and the horse f nd» difficulty and puin in moving. 94. The treatment roust depend on the state in which the aniniai IS at the present. If there be reason to suspect the horse to be full and foul, bleed, lower his food, soil him in the stable ; or mash and give him a mild dose of physic. But wJien some mismanagement is the sole cause, remove that, and if the case be a severe one, by means of an old stocking drawn over the foot, bury the whole heel in a poultice, made of scraped carrots or turnips ; which will subdue the irritation and bring the parts into a state to bear the application of the astringent paste, (Vet. Pha, 136, No. 2,) or if more con- fenient, of the astringent wash, (Vet. Pha. 134, No. 1 or 2.) Mode- rate exercise should be continued, and the heels carefully cleaned from dirt by soft soap and water on each return therefrom ; after which, always again apply the astringent. 95. Grease is nothing more than an aggravated state of the same efFection, and is more common to the hind than the fore legs. Coarse fleshy legged horses are peculiarly prcne to the affection from the great accumulation that takes place in their legs; and from the difficulty that the capillaries find in carrying the increased quantity of lymph upwards. In these, long stable confinement should be avoided, and when that is impossible, it should be coun- teracted by exercise frequently and judiciously administered. Many cart horses never go out but to work ; they often work three days incessantly, or nearly so ; and they perhaps rest two days entirelv Can it be wondered at, that the change occasions swelling, acting on the weakness and exhaustion of previous fatigue, and could not this be avoided by turning out for an hour, or walking for half an hour night and morning ? stable soiling should be used ; bleedina and physicking also in very bad cases ; and when the inflammation and iiritation or soreness are great, the poultices recommended for cracks, should be applied until these circumstances are removed ; when commence the use of some of the astringents recommended (Vei. Pharm. 134.) White has stated two remarkable cases of grease cured by the application of corrosive sublimate in the form of a wash, as of two drachms of sublimate to ten ounces of water ; increasing it to three drachms if the pain occasioned by the first bo not too considerable. Blaine says that the clivers or goose gras* \x(x& been known to be of great service in bad cases of grease —hall 21* 236 DISEASES OF HORSES. a pint of the 3xprfc«sed juice to be given daily as a drink , ^nd a poultice of the herb to be applied to the heels. In some cases of 'ong standing when the running has ceased, a thickened state of the limb remains ; which is best removed by firing, and which like- wise is a preventive to a return. Diseases of the Feet. 96. Founder of the feet is of two Jcinds, an acute and a chronic Actite founder is a disease that, until lately, was less understood than almost any other. After a very severe day's work, or when very much heated, if a horse get a sudden chill by sta^nding in snow or cold water, it is not uncommon for him to be seized with universal stiffness, and every symptom of great fever. Such a horse is said to be body foundered. By degrees, however, it is observed that the animal has an extreme disinclination to remain on his feet ; from whence it will appear that the whole of them are affected, when the norse draws his hind feet under him, his fore only are affected, and when he draws his fore feet under him his hinder feet are the seat of the complaint; but which is seldom the case. On feeling the feet they will be foand intensely hot, and the pastern arteries beat with great violence. After a few days, unless the disease abate, a separation of the hoofs from the coronet takes place, and at last they fall entirely off. 97. The treatment. At the commencement of the diseas-e bleed largely, as well by the neck as from the toe of each affected foot, by paring, until the blood flows freely. After which immerse each foot in a goulara poultice (il5,) give the fever powder or drink, {Vet. Pha. 157 «& 158,) litter up to the belly; and if amendment do not take place, renew the bleedings, and blister round tho pasterns. 98. Chronic founder, contraction or fever in the feet. The arti- ficial life that horses lead, subjects them to many diseases ; one of the principal of which is that of contracted feet. Blaine considers a neglect of sufficient paring of the hoof, the application of artificial heat from hot stables, and hot litter, the deprivation of natural moisture, constitutional liability, and the existence of thrushes, as among the principal causes of this evil. It is more common among blood horses, than to others, and he observes, that dark chesnuts are of all others most prone to it. 99 The treatment of contraction in the feet. It is better to pre- rnni; than to oe under the necessity of attempting to euro tho «-?iU DISEASES OF HORSES. ^ 237 Prevention may be practised by avoiding the acting causes. As soon as at all suspected to be likely to occur ; keep the hoofs pared low; never suffer the horse to stand on litter, nor allow the stable to be too hot; feed moderately, and never allow tlie horse to ^o without daily exercise ; whatever increases the general fulness of habit flies to the feet. Above all, keep the feet moist by means o. wet cloths tied closely around the coronet, falling over the whole hoof, but not extending beyond the edge. Then moisten repeatedly, and stop the feet (166) every night. When contraction has alread}' taken place, many plans have been recommended ; as jointed shoes, by Coleman, Clark, and others, but it is not found that mechanical expansion in this way produces permanent benefit. The most effectual mode is to obviate all previous causes of contraction ; and then to thin the hoofs around the heels from each quarter so thin as to be able to produce an impression by means of the thumb ; in fact, to remove so much of the horn as is consistent with safety, from the coronet downwards. It is also prudent to put in a score or two from above downwards, drawn a quarter of an inch deep on each side towards the front of the hoof; but whether this be done or not, the front of the hoof should be rasped thin about an iuch in vadth ; by which means a hinge is formed, which operaceu most advanta- geously in opening the heels. After this is done, lips should be put on, and the horse should he turned out *o grass, where he should remain three months, by which time the new formed heels will have reached the ground, and will bear a shoe. 100. The pumiced foot is a very common consequence of acute founder, in which the elasticity of the laminae becoming destroyed the support of the coffin bone is removed, and it rests wholly on ths sole, which it gradually sinks from a concave to a convex surfiice, drawing with it the front of the hoof inwards. In weak, broad heavy feet, this evil comes on sometimes without founder , the treatment can only be palliative, a wide webbed shoe exactly fitted lo the foot, without at all pressing on it, prevents the lamenesa consequent to the disease, a shoe exactly the contrary to this has been tried in some cases with benefit, the form of which lias been one with a web so narrow as only to cover the crust, but so thirt as to remove the feet from accidental pressure. In other cases, no shoe answers so well as a strong bar shoe. . 101. Corns are most troublesome aliments, to which ho/?fls arc ery liable, and which injure and ruin thousands ; they are wholly accidental ; no horse having any peculiar tendency to them, bm bfting always brought on them by some improper pressure, usuaiif 238 DISEASES OF HORSES. of the shoe or from something getting between the shoe and tne borny heel. A shoe toe /bng worn is a very common cause, and a still more frequent one if tha clubbing the heels of the shoe ; neithei 4S it necessary to the production of corns that the shoe itself should press :n the sole ; but they are equally produced when the outer horn of the heels or of the bars, is the immediate offending part- rendered so by two luxuriant growth, by unequnl wear, or by secondary pressure from the shoe, or by gravel working in. It is the fleshy sole itself that is bruised, from which a speck of extra- vasated blood follows, and if not immediately relieved it gathers, or the part becomes habitually defective, and instead of forming healthy horn, it always afterwards forms a spongy substance of extreme sensibility, and thus always is liable to produce pain and lameness when exposed to pressure. 102, The treatment of corns is seldom difficult or uns^jiccessful at their first appearance, but afterwards it can be only palliative. Blaine directs that by means of a fine drawing knife every portion of diseased horn should be pared away, and the extravasation under- neath likewise. Having done this, he advises to introduce some butter of antimony into the opening, to place over this some tow, which should be kept in its place by means of a splint. If any contraction of the heels l« present it will materially assist the cure to lower them, and .o iiin the hoof a little around the quarters, and afterwards to put on a shoe without heels opposed to the corn, or a shoe chambered opposite the weak part: or a bar shoe may bo applied so framed as completely to leave tlie heel untouched. Intro- duce the butter of antimony once or twice more, with the interval of two days between, and then turn the horse out to grass ; in about six weeks time the foot will be sound. The treatment of corns, when of long standing, does not,, materially differ : for although they are never wholly eradicated, they may be rendered but little troublesoL^e. The diseased part must be carefully pared out at each shoeing, anc «uch a shoe put on as will completely free the heel from pressurb 103. Running thrush is always a dangerous disease, and few errors m horse management are more glaring than the common one of supposing they are necessary to carry off humours. If less food, more exercise, cool stables, and dry standings, were substituted to correct the fulness, instead of thrushes, which invariably contract the feet whenever they continue any length of time, it would save many valuable horses. To the cure, begin by cleaning out all the hssu"e$i of the frog from loose ragged hern, and thun introduce to DISEASES OF HORSES. 23H the bottom of the sinuses, by neans of a thin piece ^i wood, some of the thrush paste {Vet. Fharm. 133,) smeared on tow, which w'i enable it to be held within the cleft, especially if it be guarded by splints of wood passed under the shoe ; renew the dressing daily ; turning out to grass may be practised to great advantage for thrushes by this mode of dressing. 104. Sand cracks are fissures in the hoofs, commonly of mose before, and usually towards the inner, but now and tlien toWards the outer quarter also, from above downwards : from the crack, a little oozing of blood or moisture is seen ; and the sensible parts underneath getting between the edges of horn,, being pressed on, lame the horse. White recommends to fire the fissure crossways, so as to destroy the connection between the divided and undivided parts of the hoof. 105. Pricks or punctures of the feet are often very serious evils, either when received by nails in shoeing, or by one picked up in the road, &c. The danger arises from inflammation, which is always great from any injury done to the sensible and viscular parts within the foot. This inflammation quickly proceeds to suppuration ; and the matter is apt to make its way upwards, unless it find a ready vent below. When it does not break out at the coronet, it will often penetrate under the sole, and finally disease the bones, liga. ments, or cartilages, and produce quitter. It is very seldom that a horse is pricked in shoeing, but that the smith is aware of it by the peculiarity of the feel on the hammer, and by the flinching of the animal. At such times were he to immediately draw the nail a little, enlarge the opening, and introduce some spirit within the puncture, nothing would occur ; but on the contrary, he sends the horse home to avoid trouble, who, the next, or following day, is found lame, with his foot hot, if the nail be not driven too near the sensible laminae, it will only require to be removed to free the horse from his evil ; but if it have been driven through, and have wounded them, then suppuration ensues, and on examining the foot by the pincers when the shoe is removed, he will flinch at the pressure on the diseasea part. \ It is probable, on the removal of the shoe that matter will at once flow out at the immediate nail hole, if not, the drawing knife will soon detect the injury. If the heat be great, and instead of matter, bloody dark ichor flows out, wrap the foot up in a poul lice ; but if healthy matter flows out this will not be necessary , Rometimes it is requisite to detach all the horn that is underrun b^ ihe matter. But when the injury has not proceeded to tnis extent, apply over the part a pledget of tow steeped in friar's balsam; tack 210 DISEASES OF HORSES. on the shoe lightly, and retain the dressing by means of splints, which are thin pieces of wood passed under the shoe ; repeat the dressing daily, and avoid moisture, which would encourage quittor A nail picked up on the road, and which passes through the sole below or through the frog, is to be treated in the same manner, and also when the matter breaks out at the coronet ; but when a nail is picked up and penetrates the coffin joint, which is known by the synovia or joint oil appearing, such opening should be immediately "stopped by paring towards the wounded joint, and then applying a heated budding-iron, not to the capsular ligament itself, 'but to the skin immediately near, it ; if tliis be inconvenient, put a pledget dipped in a little butter of antimony, just within the opening, but do not press it into the cavity of the joint: if this be insufficient to stop the flow, but more particularly if the original wound be pene- trated to the bone, it is probable that the bone itself will become in Bome measure diseased, which is known by the rough grating felt at the point of the probe when passed. In this case, enlarge the opening so as to be able to scrape the diseased bone away. Bruises of the sole, from whatever cause, will all fall under some of these points of view, according as tiie case may be. lOG. Quittor and canker are the consequences of these injurifs, when neglected, or originally extensive. In these cases either the bones, ligaments, or cartilages, or all, become diseased ; and a cure can only be obtained by removing the diseased parts by the knife or by caustic. 107. Treads, over-reach, i^-c. A wound on the coronet is not uncommon from one foot being placed on the other ; or the hinder foot may strike it, &c. First wipe away the dirt, and remove any loose edges that cannot unite ; avoid washing, unless stones and dirt are suspected to be within, and bind up, having first placed over the wound a pledget of lint or tow moistened with balsamic tincture, or tincture of myrrh, or of aloes 6lc. Over. reaching, or over-stepping, is often an injury done to tne fetlock joint before, by the hinder foot, or to the back sinew higher up. Sometimes it is pimply a violent bruise, at others the laceration is extensive, in which case treat as a tread ; and when no laceration has taken place treat as a bruise or strain 108. Cutting is a defect to which some horses are liable from their form, as when they turn their toes out, or have bent legs. Others cut only when they are lean, which brings their legs nearer together. Weak horses cut because thev cross tlieii legs wben VETERINARY OPERATIONS. 21 J 'atigtied, and young tinfurnislied horses cut at youthful periods and irrow out of it afterwards. The part in which a foot interferes with tlie opposed limb is very different. When it strikes the shank hig^h up it is called speedy-cut, and is best remedied by wearing knei> boots or rollers. When it is at the fetlock the cutting is at the side, or rather backward, according to circumstances. Some horses cut by the side of the shoe, others by the hoof at the quarters ; and some by the point of the heels. It is to be remarked, that it is better to [)ut up with the evil of cutting, than to do as is too frequently done, wliich is, to pare away the hoof until it excites contraction. The siioe nip.y be feather edged, or may be set a little within the cutting quarter ; but by no means alter the size or form of the hoofs them, selves, and particularly avoid taking liberties of this kind with the fore feet. Boots or rollers, are but little trouble to put on, and wlien not buckled too tight never injure : whereas to allow a horse to continue to cut produces a callus, and often throws the animal down. -**hQ^9*^~ VETERINARY OPERATIONS. 109. The general practises to be here enumerated are chiefly the treatment of wounds, the application of fomentations, setons, blisters, clysters, and physicking, and the operation of castrating, nicking, bleeding, &c Treatment of JVounds. 110. A wound must be treated in some measure according to the part of the horse's body in which it happens : but there are some principles to be observed alike in all horse surgery. There are likewise a few, \vhich, as they differ from the principles of humar Kurgery, should be first noticed, and which should guide the p!ac tice of those who might be misled by analogy. The wounds- o< horses, however carefully brought together and confined in their Bituation, as well as shut out from the stimulus of the externa, air are seldom disposed to unite at once, or as it is called in surgica? language, by the first intention. It is always, therefore, neces^arv lo expect the supnurative process ; but as the adhesive inflammaiion 2V2 VETERINARY OPERATIONS. does now and then occur, we should never wash with water ^r other liquids a mere laceration, if no foreign matter, as dirt, &o. oe suspected to be lodged within it, still less should we stuff it with candle or tents of any kind. On the contrary, it should be care- fully and smoothly brought together, and simply bound up in ita own blood ; and if it do not wholly unite at once, and by the first intention, perhaps some portion of it may ; and at all events, its future progress will be more natural, and the disfiguration less than when stuffed with tents, tow, &c. or irritated with heating oils or spirits. When an extensively lacerated wound takes place it is common, and it is often necessary to insert sutures, or stitches, into the lips of the wound : and here we have to notice another cons'iderable variation from the principles of human inflammation, which is, that these stitches in the horse, ox, and dog, soon ulcerate out, seldom remaining longer than the third or fourth day at far- thest. It therefore is the more necessary to be careful, that by perfect rest, and the appropriation of good bandages we secure the wound from distortion. In this we may be assisted by strips of sticking plaster, made with diachylon and pitch ; but these strips should be guarded from touching the wound itself by means of lint or tow first put over it. When in addition to laceration in a wound, there is a destruction of substance, then the caution of washing will not apply, as it will be necessary to bathe with some warming spirit, as, tincture of myrrh, tincture of aloes, or friar's balsam, to assist in restoring the life of the part, and in preventing mortification. Bleeding must be stopped by pressure and astringents, as powdered alum; when it is very considerable the vessel from whence the blood comes must be taken up. When great inflammation follows wounds or bruises, counteract it by bleeding, a cooling temperature, pening medicines, and continual fomentations to the part itself Balls and Dinnks. 111. Mode of giving a hall. BaciC the horse in his stall, and heing elevated on a stool, (not a bucket turned upside down,) gently draw the tongue out of the mouth, so as to prevent its rising to resist the passage of the hand : the tongue should however not be laid hold of alone, but it should be held firmly by the fingers of the »eft hand against the jaw. The ball previously oiled should be •aken into the right hand, which should be squeezed into as narrow •a shape as possible, must be passed up close to the roof of the mouth. »ind the ball placed on the root of the tongue, when botn hands being withdrawn, it will readily pass down. This mode is much ^referable, when a person is at all handy, to using a bailing iron. VETERIISAKY OPERATIONS. *24t> 112. Mode of giving a drink. Exactly the same process is pui sued, except tfiat a horn holding the liquid matter is forced up the mouth ; the passage being raised beyond the level line, the liquid is poured out from the larger end of the horn, and when the tongue i& loosened it is swallowed. Clark, however, ingeniously proposes to eubstitute the smaller end of the horn, the larger being closed, by which, he says, the horn can be forced up the mouth between the teeth, and poured farther back so as to ensure its not returning. Fomentations and Poultices. 113. Fomentations are very commonly recommended of varioua herbs, as rhue, chamomile, St. John's wort, wormwood, bay leaves, &c. but the principal virtue is tu be found in warmth and moisture, which unload the vessels ; but this warmth ought not to be too con- siderable, except when the inflammation is within, as in inflamed bowels. Here we foment to stimulate the skin, and cannot foment too hot ; but when we do it at once to an inflamed part, it ought not to be more than of blood heat ; and it should be continued long, ana when removed the part should be dried or covered, or cold may be taken, and the inflammation increased instead of diminished. Ano dyne fomentations are made of poppy heads and of tobacco, and ara frer'iently of great use. 114. The method of applying fomentations is conveniently done by means of two large woollen cloths wrung out of the heated liquors . as one is cooling the other should be ready to be applied. 115. Poultices act in the same way as fomentations in allaying irritation and inflammation ; but are in other respects more conve nient because they act continually. It is an error to suppose that Doultices, to be beneficial, should be very hot; however hot they -xidi^ be applied, they soon become of the temperature of the sur- rounding parts. When poultices are applied to the extremities, a stocking, as has been before stated, is a convenient method of appli- cation. When it is drawn over the leg and bound around the lower part of the hoof, or of the pastern, or otherwise, the mattei of the poultice may be put within, and it may be then kept in its situation, if high up on the extremity, by means of tape fastened to one part of it, and passed over the withers or back to the other side, ami again fastened to the stocking. In this way, also, loose oanuagea may be retained from slipping. Cold poultices are often useful in the inflammations arising from strains, &.c. In these cases bran a-.cd goulard water fonn a convenient medium ; but when the poiii 22 244 VETERINARY OPERATIONS. lice is necessarily hot, a'Jttle linseed meU added to the bran wil render it adhesive, and give it consistence. It is a very necessary caution in this, as in every instance where bandages are wanted around the extremities, to have them broad, and only so tight as to iSiicure the matters contained, as in a poultice, or as in common bandaging. It is often supposed that " as strong as a horse," de- notes that nothing can be too strong for him, nor any means too violent to hurt him. The horse, on the contrary, is one or the most tender animals alive : and a string tied very tight round the leg would occasion first a falling off of the hoc f, next a mortification of the rest of the limb, and lastly the death of the animal; and all this as certainly as though he were shot with a bullet through kXie head. Setons and Rowels. 116. Scions are often useful in keeping up a drain to draw what are termed humours from parts ; or by their irritations on one part, they lessen the inflammation in another part not very remote, as when applied to the cheek for ophthalmia or inflamed eyes. They also in the same way lessen old swellings by exciting absorption. Another useful action they have is to make a dependent or conve- nient orifice for the escape of lodged matter; thus a seton passed fiom the upper pai cf the opening of pole evil, through the upper pai t ot the integuments of the neck, as low as the sinuses run, will oilen ettect a cure without further application. The same with fistu- lous withers, wnich sometimes run under the shoulder blade, and appear at the arm point ; in which case a blunt seton needle, of suhicient length to be passed down to that point, and to be then cut down upon, will form the only efficient mode of treatment. Seton? may be passed in domestic farriery, with a common packing needlo and a skein of thread, or piece of tape : but in professional farriery they are made by a proper needle armed with tap ^ or lamp cotton, or skeins of thread or silk smeared over with d.gestive ointment Wlien the seton needle is removed, the ends of the tape should be joined together, or otherwise netted, to prevent them from coining out 11 "7. Rowels in their intention act as setons, and as initating a .arger surface, so when a general drain is required they act better , as in case of grease, &c. but when their action is confined to a part only, setons are more convenient. Any person may apply a rowel by making an incision in tlie loose skin about an inch separating -vitb tlie finger its adherence around, and then inseiUng in the VETERINARY OPERATIONS. 245 oppning a piece of round leather, with a hole in the middle, sn^icare:? with a blistering ointment. Then plug the opening with tow, and in three days, when the suppuration has begun, remove it. Th« rowel leather is afterwards to be daily removed and cjeaned. Blistering and Firing. ■r 118. Blistering answers the same purposes as setons, and is prac- tised by first cutting or shaving the hair from the part, when the blistering ointment (Vet. Pha. 138.) should be well rubbed in for ten minutes, or a quarter of an hour. Some of the ointment after the rubbing may be smeared over the part The head of the horse should now be tied up to prevent his gnawing or licking. If a neck cradle be at hand, it may also for safety be put on ; in which the head may be let down the third day. 119. A neck cradle for blistered horses is very convenient for other occasions also, when the mouth is to be kept from licking or biting other parts ; or to keep other parts from being rubbed agains* the head. It is of very simple construction, and may be made by a dozen pieces of wood of about an inch and half diameter, as old broom handles, &c. These bored at each end admit a rope to pass through ; and as each is passed on, a knot may be tied to the upper part of the pieces of the cradle, two inches apart ; and those which form the lower part, four inches ; by which means the neck will bo fitted by the cradle when it is put on ; and the horse will be pre. vented from bending his head to lick or gnaw parts to be protected. When the lower parts of the legs, particularly the hinder, required blistering, it is necessary to bear in mind that in gross full horses, particularly in autumn, grease is very apt to follow blistering; and almost certainly if the back of the heels below the fetlock be blis- tered. First, therefore, smear this part over with lard or suet, and afterwards avoid touching it with the ointment. After blistering in summer, the horse is often turned out before the blistered parts aiu quite sound ; in this case guard them from flies by some kind o* covering, or they may become fly-blown : and likewise on the fourth or fifth day rub into the blistered part some oil or lard to prevent the skin from cracking. 120. Sweating or liquid blisters^ (Vet. Pha. 142,) are only more gontle stimulants, which are daily applied to produce the same effects on a diseased part without removing the hair. Of course less activity is expected ; yet as the action is repeated, they are often more beneficial even than blistering itself; as in old strains an-d Mtiffnesses. '-24(» VETERINARY OrERATIONS. 121. Firing, as requiring the assistance of an experienced prac- litioner, we shall not describe; it will be prudent only to point cut that it is a more active mode of blistering'; and that it acts very powerfully as a stimula,nt, not only while its effects last as blisters do, !)ut also after its escharotic effect is over, by its pressure ; and ill this way it is that it operates so favourably in bony exostosis, ay splints and spavins ; and in this way it is so useful in old ligamentary weaknesses ; because by lessening the dilatability of the slyn it becomes a continual bandage to the part. Chjstering and Physlcldng. 122. Clystering should always be preceded by back-raking, whicL consists in oiling one hand and arm, and passing them up the fun- dament, and by that means to remove all the dung balls that can be reached. The large pewter syringe for clystering, is neither a useful or safe machine. A much better consists in a turned box pipe, to which may be attached a large pig or ox bladder, by which four or five quarts of liquid can be administered at one time. (Vet. Pharm. 134, to 146.) The pipe should be previously oiled, by which mean? it passes more easily : the liquor should then be steadily pressed up ; and when the pipe is removed, the tail should be held down over the fundament a little to prevent the return of the clyster. In some cases of a spasmodic nature, as gripes and locked jaw, great force is made by the bowels to return the clyster, and nothing but con- tinued pressure over the fundament can enable it to be retained. Clysters not only act in relaxing the bowels, but they may be used as means of nutriment when it cannot be taken by the mouth ; as in locked jaw, wounds of the mouth, throat, &c. «fec. In locked jaw, it was observed by Gibson, that he kept a horse alive many days by clysters alone ; and by clysters also, many medicines may be given more conveniently than by the mouth. 123. Physicking of horses. It is equally an error to refrain altogether from giving horses physic, as it is to give it on every occasion, as some do. Neither is it necessary for horses to be bled and physicked every spring and autumn, if they be in perfect health, and the less so, as at this time they are generally weak and *'aint from the change going on in their coats — nor is it always necessary to give to horses physic when they come from grass or a utraw yard ; provided the ch mge from the one state to tlie other be very moiierately brought about. But on such a removal, it certamly pxpedites all the phenomena of condition, (2) and such horses are •ess likely to fall to pieces, as it is termed afterwards. (3.) In various ajorbid states puysL is oarticularly useful, as in worms, hide bound. VETERINARY OPERATIONS 247 ttom too full a habit, &c. «fcc. It is not advisable to physic horses in either very cold or very warm weather. Strong physic is aiways hurtful ; all that physic can do is as well operated by a mild as by a strong dose, with iniinitely less hazard. No horse should be physicked whose bowels have not been previously prepared by mashing for two days at least before. By these means the physic will work kindly, and a moderate quantity only is requisite. Most f the articles put into the purging balls for horses, to assist the aloes, are useless. Jalap will not purge a horse, nor rhubarb either. Aloes are the only proper drug to be depended on for this purpose, ' and of all the varieties of aloes the socotorine and Cape are the best. (Vet. Pha. 1Q3.) ^ Barbadoes aloes are also not improper, but are thought more rough than the socotorine. For formulae of purging balls, see Vet. Pha. (163.) Blaine gives the following as the process: 124. Physicking process. The horse having fasted an hour or two in the morning from food, but having had his water as usual, give him his purge, and two hours after offer him a little chilled, but not warm water, as is often done, by which horses are disgusted from taking any ; it may be here remarked that in this particular much error is frequently committed. Many horses will drink water with the chill taken off, provided it be perfectly clean, and do not smell of smoke from the fire, kettle or sauce-pan ; but few, very few, will drink warm or hot water ; and still fewer, if it be in the least degree greasy or smoky. After the ball has been given two hours, a warm bran mash may be offered, and a very little hay. He should have walking exercise as usual moderately clothed ; and altogether he should be kept rather warmer than usual. At noon mash again, and give a little hay, which should be repeated at night, giving hira at intervals chilled water. On the following morning the physic may be expected to work ; which if it do briskly, keep the horse quiet ; but should it not move his bowels, or only relax them, walk him quietly half an hour, which will probably have the desired effect. Continue to give mashes and warm water, repeating them every two or three hours to support him. When physic gripes a horse, give a clyster of warm water, and hand rub the belly, as well as walk him out. If the griping prove severe, give him four ounces of gin in half a pint of strong ale, which will soon relieve him. On the next day the physic will probably set, but should it continue to w ork him severely, pour down some boiled starch ; and if this fail, turn to the directions under diarrhcea. (52.) The horse should returu to his asual habits of feeding and full exercise by degrees; and i* more than one dose is to be given, a week should intervene. It ia often lequisite to make the second and third doses rather strongo' 22* 248 VETERINARY OPERATIONS. tnan tlie Ilrst. A very mild dose of physic is likewise often o-iyen to liorses while at grass in very warm weather, and without any injury. When worms, or skin foulness are present, and mercuna. physic is deemed necessary, it is better to give two drachms o. calomel in a mash the previous night, than to put it into the pur ging ball. Castration, Nicking, Docking, SfC. 125. The operations of castration, docking, nicking, and that eg cropping, (which is seldom practised,) all require the assistance o\ a veterinary surgeon ; and it is only necessary to remark of them, that the after treatment must be the same as in all other wounds To avoid irritation, to preserve a cool temperature and a moderate diet ; and if active febrile symptoms make their appearance, to obviate them by bleeding, &-c. «&c. It likewise is proper to direct the attention of the aafriculturist who attends to these matters him- self, that the moment the wound following any of these operations looks otherwise than healthy, locked jaw is to be feared, and no time should be lost in seeking the best assistance that can be obtained, (11.) See Mason, p. 148. Bheding. 126. Bleeding is a very common, and to the horse a very impor- tant operation, because his inflammatory diseases, on account of the great strength of his arterial system, run to a fatal termination very soon and can only be checked in the rapidity of their progress by abstracting blood, which diminishes the momentum of circulation. Bleeding is more particularly important in the inflammatory dis- eases of the horse ; because we cannot, as in the human, lower the circulation by readily nauseating the stomach. Bleeding also lessens irritation, particularly in the young and plethoric, or those of full habit: hence we bleed in spasms of the bowels, in locked jaw, &-c. with good effect. Bleeding is general or topical. General as from the neck, when we mean to lessen the general momentum. Topical when we bleed from a particular part, as the eye, the plate vein, the toe, &c. Most expert practitioners use a large lancet to bleed with ; and when the habit of using it is acquired, it is by far *,he best itistrument, particularly for superficial veins v/here a blo"v might •arry the fleam through the vessel. In common hands the fleam as the more general instrument is best adapted to the usoil cases lequiring the agriculturists notice. Care should, however, be taken Motto strike it with vehemence, and the hair being first wotted and wnoctlied dowfi, it should be pressed close betweni; the hairs, so niE VETERINARY PHARMACOPOEIA. 24ft that its progress may not be impeded by tliem. A ligatuie shoulrf jt^ be first passed round the neck, and a hand held over the eye, unless the operator be very expert, when the use of the fingers will dispense with the ligature. The quantity of blood taken is usually too small. In inflammatory diseases, a large horse, particularly in the early stage of a complaint, will bear to lose eight or ten quarts : and half the quantity may be taken away two or three times afterwards, :*rf the v^iolence of the symptoms seem to require it; and the blood should be drawn in a large stream to do all the good it is capable of. After the bleeding is finished introduce a sharp pin, and avoid drawing the skin away from the vein while pinning, which lets the blood escape between the vein and skin ; wrap round a piece of tow or hemp, and next day remove the pin, which might otherwise inflame the neck. In drawing blood let it always be measured ; letting it fall on the ground prevents the ascertaining the quantity ; it also prevents any observation on the state of the blood ; which if it form itself into a cup-like cavity on its surface, and exhibit a tough yellow crust over this cavity it betokens an inflammatory state of blood that will require further bleedings, unless the weak- ness forbid. After the bleeding, it now and then happens from rusty lancets, too violent a stroke with the blood stick, or from drawing away the skin too much while pinning up, that the orifice inflames and hardens, and ichor is seen to ooze out between its edges. Immediately after this is discovered, recourse must be had to an able veterinary surgeon, or the horse will lose the vein, and perhaps his life. THE VETERINARY PHARMACOPCEIA. 127. The following formulce for veterinary practice have been compiled from the works of the mostemineni veterinary w^riters of the present day, as Blaine, Clark, Laurence, Peel, White, &c.; and v^e can from our ov^^n experience also, confidently recommend the selec- tion to the notice of agriculturists, and the owners of horses in general. It would be prudent for such as have many horses, and particularly for such as live at a distance from the assistance of an able vetermariaM, to keep the more necessary articles by them in case \>f emergence : some venders of horse drugs ^eep R 250 THE VETERINARY PHARMACOPCEIA. veterinary medicine chests : and where the compo- sitions can be depended on, and the uncompounded drugs are genuine and good, one of these is a most convenient appendage to every stable. 128. The veterinary pharmacopcBia for oxen, calves and sheep has been included in the arrangement. Where any speciality occurs, or where distinct recipes are requisite, they have been carefully noticed ; it will therefore only be necessary to be kept in mind, that with the exception of acrid substances, as mineral acids, &c. which no cattle can bear with equal impu- nity with the horse ; the remedies prescribed require about the following proportions : A large ox will bear the proportions of a moderate sized horse ; a moderate sized cow something less ; a calf about a third of the quantity ; and a sheep about a quarter, or at most a third of the proportions directed for the cov/. It is also to be remarked, that the degrees in strength in the different recipes, are usually regulated by their numbers, the mildest standing first. 129. Alteratives. 1. Levigated antimony, 2 drachms. Cream of tartar, Flour of sulphur, each half an ounce. 2. Cream of tartar, Nitre, of each half an ounce. 3. iEthiop's mineral, Levigated antimony, ■ Powdered resin, each three drachms. Give in a mash, or in oats and t^-an, a little wetted, every night, or make into a ball with honey. 130. Tonic Alteratives. 1 t^ntian Aloes, Ginger, Blue vitriol, in powder, of each 1 drachm, Oak bark in powder, 6 drachms. 2. Winter's bark in powder, three drachms. Green vitriol, do. one and a half drachms. Gentian, do. three drachms. Make either of these into a ball with honey, and give every morning. 3. White vitriol, 1 drachm. Ginger or pimento, ground^ two drachms. Powdered quassia half an ounce. Ale 8 ounces. Mix and give as a drink. THE VETERINRY PHARMACOPGEIA. 251 Arsenic, 10 grains, Off.tmoal, 1 ounce. Mix and give in a mash, or tnoi&iened oats nightly. - ' :>L^^U^ . 131. Astringent Mixtures for Diarrhuea, Lax or Scouring. 1. Powdered ipecacuanha, one drachm, Do. opium, half a drachm. Prepared chalk, 2 ounces, Boiled starch, 1 pint. ■ 2. ^ Suet 4 ounces, boiled in Milk, 8 ounces, Boiled starch, 6 ounces. Powdered alum, 1 drachm. The following has been very Btrongly recommended in some cases, for the lax of horses and cattle. 3. Glauber's salts 2 ounces, Epsom do. 1 ounce, Green vitriol 4 grains, Gruel, half a pint. When the lax or scourmg at all approaches to dysentery or molten grease, the following druik should be first given. 4. Castor oil, 4 ounces, Glauber's salts, dissolved, two ounces, Powdered rhubarb, half a drachm, Powdered opium, 4 grains, Gruel, i pint. 132. Astringent balls foi Dia- betes or pissing evil. Catechu, [Japan earth] half an ounce, Alum powdered, half a drachm, Sugar of lead, 10 grains. Conserve of roses, to m.iie a ball. 133. Astringent paste for thrush, foot-rat, foul in the ^'oot, ^c. Prepared calamine. Verdigris, of each half an ounce, White vitriol. Alum, of each half a drachm. Tar, 3 ounces . mix 134. Astringent washes for crackt in the heels, wounds, 6fC, 1. Sugar of lead, 2 drachms, White vitriol, 1 drachm. Strong infusion of oak, or elm bark, 1 pint: mix. 2. Green vitriol, 1 drachm, Infusion of galls, half a pint, Mix and wash the parts three times a day. • 135. Powder for Cracks, ^c. 3. • Prepared calamine, 1 ounce, Fuller's earth, powdered, Pipe clay, do. of each 2 ounces, Mix and put within gauze, and dab the moist surfaces of tiie sores frequently. 136. Astringent Paste for Grease 1. Prepared calamine, i Tutty, powdered, Charcoal, do. of each 2 ounces. Yeast enough to make a paste. 2. To the above, if more strength be required, add of alum and ver- digris each a drachm. z \ 137. Astringent Wt the above receipt is preferable. 209. Vermin on cattle. It is found that a strong decoction o tobacco washed over a beast infected with vermin will generally drive them away. It sometimes will make the beast very sick for a short time. But a better remedy is to mix a plenty of strong Scotch snuff in train oil, and rub the back and neck of the creature with it ; which will effectually kill or drive away all vermin from a quadruped. Salt — Let it be remembered, when given to animals, enables the farmer to increase his live stock and keep them in health ; hence it ought freely to be given to sheep and cattle of every description * but, to imitate nature, it should be previously dissolved and then mixed with pure fine clay in a mass, which is to be plj«,*d under a shelter so that the animals may lap it at pl«s>8ure. •24 268 DISEASES OF SHEEP* THE DISEASES OF SHEEP. *210. The diseases of sheep are numerous ; for these animals are now so highly cultivated that they may be Vegarded in some respects as artificial machines : and thus, as a natural consequence, they are subject to a variety of artificial defects and maladies. 211. The rot is a popula?^ term Rmong shepherds, and includes within its range diseases widely different. We shall not therefore follow the custom of treating }he different rots of sheep together ; but we shall allow them to fall m the natural order, according to the plan pursued with "the diseases of oxen. 212. The inflammatory and putrid fever, popularly known by the names higham striking or blood striking, does not differ materially from the same disease in oxen and cows : and is in slieep also some- times epidemic , appearing by panting, dullness, watery mucus from the nose and eyes, and great redness of all such parts as are usually white. 2T3. The red water. The inflammatory fever sometimes resolves itself into an universal secretion of serum throughout all the cavi lies ; in which case after a few days, the lymph tinged with bloi)d vill come away from the nose and mouth in large quantities. Some- times after death the bloody serum is found suffused throu^hoir the fekin as in th.e blood striking of skins. DISEASES OF SHEEP. 269 214. The claveau or sheep pox is also another variety of this dis- ease, in which it takes on a pustular form. About the third day small variolae appear : sometimes they are rather blotches than pus. tules. The weakness is usually extreme, and the putridity great. This form of the disease is seldom seen with us ; but it ir stii known on the continent, where the pastures are very poor and iO w, and the general keeping meagre. 215. The treatment of all these in no wise differs from that di- rected under the inflammatory putrid fever of the ox. The dosea of medicines being about a third of what is directed for them. 216. Malignant epidemic or murrain. Sometimes an epidemic prevails which greatly resembles the murrain of oxen ; in appear- ances, termination, and treatment it resembles malignant epidemic of oxen. (178.) 217. Peripneumonia or inflamed lungs, rising of the lights, glan- derous rot, hose, ^c. These terms are all modifications of an in- flamed state of the viscera of the chest, caught by undue exposure, bad pasturage, and often from over driving. The cough, trem- blinsfs, the redness of the eyes and nostrils, and the distillation of a fl^td from them, with the heavings and hot breath, are all simi- lar to those which characterize pneumonia or rising of the lights in oxen. We remember to have seen the disease strongly marked in the February of 1808, on a farm in the neighbourhood of Streat ham ; where eleven sheep were attacked almost together, after a very stormy night. They were first affected by a loss 'of appetite, next with a fixed steadfast look, which was common to every one After this, they reeled about, fell backwards and became convulsed. When seen, five were almost dead, whose internal appearances fully confirmed the nature of the disease. The rest recovered by bleeding and drenching, with drenches composed of nitre and tar- lar emetic. Sometimes the symptoms of pneumonia do not kill immediately, but degenerate into an ulceration of the lungs ; which IS then called the glanderous rot. This stage is always fate : the others may, by early attention, be combatted by judicious treat- luent, as detailed under the same disease in oxen. 218. A chronic cough in sheep, when not symptomatic of rot, is always cured by a change of pasturage, particularly into a sa't mash. 219 Inflammation of the stomach occurs from various causes. A /O DISEASES OF SHEEP. common on*^ arises from eating noxious veg\.tables, and producet the affections termed tremblings. It also produces the grass ill in lambs, which latter is always accompanied with black foetid faeces, and is> readily removed by an ounce of castor oil ; while the for- mer usually yields to half an ounce of oil of turpentine, beaten up with the yelk of an egg. Some herbs (as Atropa belladonna) when eaten produce spasmodic affections, which are called by shepherds leaping ill : in such cases the water solution of aloes {Vet. Pha 164,) in doses of two or three ounces is useful. Daffy's elixir we have also known to be given with good effect. 220. The hove, blast, or wind colic. Sheep are as liable to be distended with an enormous collection within the m'aw, as oxen. An instrument similar to that invented by Dr. Monro is also made for them ; and when not relieved by these means, the same reme dies are applicable, as are directed for oxen. (188.) 221. A wind colic will also sometimes affect sheep more from the quality than the quantity of what they eat ; it is best relieved by an ounce of castor or salad oil with an ounce of gin. 222. Inflamed liver, blood rot, or hot yellows, are liver affections arising from fever settling in that organ ; or from obstructed bile irritating it. Sometimes there are great marks of fever, and at others more of putridity ; according to which, treat as may be gathered from ox pathology 223. Jaundice also now and then occurs, when refer to that dis- ease in oxen. (197.) 224. Dysentary, gall scour, braxy, arc all affections brought on oy sudden changes of temperature, or of undue moisture acting with cold pasturage. It is often seen in sultry autumns : — Treat as under ox braxy. (196.) 225. Scouring is the diarrhcEa of sheep, and in very hot weather 80on carries them off. It should be early attended to, by abstract- ing the affected and housing them. Tlie treatment is seen under diarrfioea of oxen, ''195,) which it closely resembles. 226. Pinning, tag.helt, break-share. The two former are only ihe adhesion of the tail to the wool, and the excoriation brought on by diarrhoea ; the latter is the diarrhoea itself, known to some oy this term. jec» where this remedy appears equally efficacious, we have neve'" wiu uessed any unpleasaiit or artive effects, neither are suoh ob.<^TTveii 286 DISEASES OF DOGS. in cattle of any kind. About forty human persons have taken this remedy, and in every instance it has succeeded equally as with ani- mals : but candor obliges us to notice that in a considerable pro- portion of these, other means were used, as the actual or potential cautery : but in all the animals other means were purposely omit ted. That this remedy therefore has a preventive quality, is un- questionable, an'^ now perfectly established ; for there was not the smallest doubt of the animals mentioned either havinsr been bitten, or of the dog being mad who bit them, as great pains were in every instance taken to ascertain these points. 261. To prevent canine madness. Pliny recommends worming of dogs ; and from his time to the present it has had, most de- eervedly says Daniel its advocates. He tells us, that he had various opportunities of proving the usefulness of this practice, and re- commends its general introduction. The fact, however, is, that taking out the worm has nothing to do with annihilating the dis- order, although it will most certainly hinder the dog seized with it from doing any hurt to man or beast. A late author asserts, he had three dogs that were wormed, bit by mad dogs at three se- veral periods, yet notwithstanding they all died mad — they did not bite, nor do any mischief, that being determined to make a full experiment, he shut one of the mad dogs up in a kennel, and put to him a dog he did not value — the mad dog often run at the other to bite him, but his tongud was so swelled that he could not make his teeth meet ; the dog was kept in the kennel until the mad one died, and was purposely preserved for two years af- terwards, to note the effect, but he never ailed any thing, although no remedies were applied to check any infection that might have been received from the contact of the dog. The writer has had various opportunities of proving the usefulness of worming, and inserts three of the most striking instances, under the hope of in- ducing its general practice. A terrier-bitch went mad, that was kept in a kennel with forty couple of hounds ; not a single hound was bitten, nor was she seen to offer to bite. The bitch being of a peculiar sort, every attention was paid to the gradations of the disease (which were extremely rapid) minutely noted ; the hy- drophobia was fast approaching before she v/as separated from the hounds, and she died the second day after ; at first warm milk was placed before her, which she attempted to lap, but the throat 'efused its functions ; from this period she never tried to eat or drink, seldom rose up, or even moved, the tongue swelled very much, and long before her death the jaws were distended by it. A span'if^l was observed to be seized by a strange dog, and waf nit in the lip ; the servant who ran up to part them narrowly e» DISEASES OF DOGS. 287 capcd, as Iho dog twice flew at him ; a few minutes after tl«3 dog had quitted the yard, the people who had pursued, gave no- tice of the dog's madness, who had made terrible havoc in a course of ten miles from whence he had set off. The spaniel was a great favourite, had medicine applied, and every precaution ta- ken ; upon the fourteenth day he appeared to loathe his food, and his eyes looked unusually heavy : the day following he endeavored to lap milk, but could swallow none ; from that time the tongue began to swell : he moved but seldom and on the third day he died ; for many hours previous to his death, the tongue was so enlarged, that the fangs or canine teeth could not meet each other by up- wards of an inch. The hounds were some years after parted with, and were sold in lots : a madness broke out in the kennel of the gentleman who purchased many of them, and although several of these hounds were bitten and went mad, only one of them ever attempted to bite, and that was a hound from the Duke of Port- land's, who in the operation of worming had the worm broke by his sti'uggling, and was so troublesome that one half of it was suf- fered ton*emain ; the others all died with symptoms similar to the terrier and spaniel, viz : a violent swelling of the tongue, and a stupor rendering them nearly motionless, and both which symp. toms seemed to increase with the disease. Tlie idea that worming prevents a dog from receiving the infection when bitten should be exploded; but the foregoing show how far it maybe recommended for the restriction of a malady horrid in its effects, where a human Deing is concerned, and which to the sportsman and farmer are at- tended with such dangerous and expensive consequences. Blaine on the contrary, asserts, that the practice of worming is whol/v useless and founded in error ; and that the existence of any thing like a worm under the tongue is incontestibly proved to be false , and that what has been taken for it, is merely a deep ligature ot the skm, placed there to restrain the tongue in its motions. He also observes, that the pendulous state of the tongue in what i^ called dumb madness, with the existence of a partial paralysis ol the under jaw, which they could not bite, having happened to dogs previously wormed, has made the inability to be attributed to this source, but which is wholly an accidental circumstance ; and hap. pens equally to the wormed and unwormed dog. 262. The worming of whelps is performed with a lancet, to siil the thin skin which immediately covers the worm ; a small av/1 is then to be introduced under the centre of the worm to raise it up, the farther end of the worm will with very little force make its appearance, and with a cloth taking hold of that end, the other *-iH be drawn o>it easily ; care should be taken that the whole o) 288 DISEASES OF DOGS. the worm comes away without breaking, and it rarely breaks un less cut into by the lancet, or wounded by the awl. 263. Mange. This is a very frequent disease in dogs, and is an affection of the skin, either caught by contagion, or generated by the animal. The scabby mange breaks out in blotches along the back and neck and is common to Newfoundland dogs, terriers, pointers, and spaniels, and is the most contagious. The euro sliould be begun by removing the first exciting cause, if rem ova. ble, such as filth or poverty ; or, as more general the contrary (for both will equally produce it,) too full living. Then an ap- plication should be made to tlie parts, consisting of sulphur and sal ammoniac : tar lime water will also assist. When there is much heat and itching, bleed and purge. Mercurials sometimes assist, but they should be used with caution ; dogs do not bear them well. Or, fresh butter, free from salt," quarter of a pound ; red precipitate, one ounce ; Venice turpentine, one ounce : mix the whole well to- gether, and put it into a pot for use, rub it on the parts affected morning and evening, keep your dog tied up, and keep him warn and dry for some days. 264. Wonns. Dogs suffer very much from worms, which as in most animals, so in them are of several kinds : but the effects pro- duced are nearly similar. In dogs having the worms the coat gen- erally stares ; the appetite is ravenous though the animal frequently does not thrive ; the breath smells, and the stools are singular, sometimes loose and slimy, and at others hard and dry ; but the most evil they produce is occasional fits, or sometimes a continued state of convulsion, in which the animal lingers sometime and then dies ; the fits they produce are sometimes of the violent kind ; at otners they exhibit a more stupid character, the dog being senseless and going round continually. The cure consists while in this state, in active purgatives joined with opium, and the warm bath ; any rough substance given internally, acts as a vermifuge to prevent Ihe recurrence. Webster Family Library Of Veterinary Medicine Commings School of Veterinary i^^ledicine at Tufts University 200 Westboro Road North Grafton, MA 01536