THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA PRESENTED BY PROF. CHARLES A. KOFOID AND MRS. PRUDENCE W. KOFOID M A G N E R ' S ART OF * and * Educating * Hsrses. THJE ART OF TAMING AND EDUCATING THE HORSE: A SrSTEM THAT MAKES EASY AND PRACTICAL THE SUBJECTION OF WILD AND VICIOUS HORSES, HERETOFORE PRACTICED AND TAUGHT BY THE AUTHOR AS A SECRET, AND NEVER BEFORE PUBLISHED ; INDORSED BY LEADING CITIZENS AND COMMITTEES OF EXPERTS IN THE PRINCIPAL CITIES AND TOWNS OF THE UNITED STATES AS UNQUALIFIEDLY THE SIMPLEST, MOST HUMANS AND EFFECTIVE IN THE WORLD; Details of Management in the Subjection of over FORTY REPRESENTATIVE VICIOUS HORSES, AND The Story of the Aut icr'o Personal Experience ; TOGETHER WITH CHAPTERS ON- FEEDING, STABLING, SHOEING, AND THE PRACTICAL TREATMENT FOR SICKNESS, LAMENESS, etc., WITH A LARGE NUMBER OF RECIPES HERE- TOFORE SOLD AS GREAT SECRETS. 9OO ILLUSTRATIONS. BY D. MAGNER, Assisted in the Medical Department byJAMES HAMILL, D. V. S., formerly Lecturer on Shoeing and D of the Foot, in Columbia Veterinary College, N. Y.; CHAS. A. MEYER, D. V S., New York; JOHN McLAUGHLIN, D. V.S ., State (New Jersey) Veterinary Inspector for the Board of Health; B.C. McBETH.Vet. Surgeon, Battle Creek, Mich. BATTLE CREEK, MICH.: REVIEW & HERALD PUBLISHING HOUSE. 1886. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the Year 1883, BY D. MAGNER, In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. RESERVED. Notice* Friends 'who may ^vish to com- municate with me directly in relation to this look* or other busi- ness, please address JJ. MAGNER, Battle Creek, Mich. (See also page 1081.) PREFACE.*' THERE are eleven million horses in the United States, and not one man in a million who knows how to educate them to the highest degree of usefulness. We say educate; for the horse is an animal of high and spirited organization, endowed by his Creator with capabilities and faculties which sufficiently resemble man's to come under the same general law of education and government. Prima- rily, the word educate means to lead out or lead up; and it is by this process of leading out and leading up a child's faculties that the child becomes a useful man, and it is by a like process that a colt becomes a useful horse. Now teachers, like poets, are born, not made. Only a few are gifted to see into and see through any form of highly organized life, discern its capacities, note the interior tendencies which produce habits, and discover the method of developing the innate forces until they reach their noblest expres- sion, and then apply the true and sufficient guidance and govern- ment. The few who have this gift are teachers indeed, and, next to the mothers of the world, deserve the world's applause as foremost among its benefactors. Next to child training and government comes horse training and government ; and which is the least understood, it were hard to say. Boys and colts, so much alike in friskiness and stubbornness, both are misunderstood and abused in equal ratio. The boys are shaken and whipped, and colts are yanked, kicked, and pounded. That high-spirited or slow-witted boys become good men, and high- * This preface was written by a gentleman well known in the world of letters, and especially famous, not only as a lover of fine horses, but as a high authority on all matters concerning them. Learning that I had in preparation a new work, he volunteered to write the preface, which is here given as a concise introduction to the author's own labors, with a high appreciation of the compliment paid him by the distinguished writer, in the personal allusion, the publication of which demands no apology when its high source is considered. (Tii) M365479 viii PREFACE. spirited or dull colts make serviceable horses, I conceive is due to the grace of God more than to man's agency, that fine grace, I mean, spread abroad through and existing in all His creatures, which operates in regenerating continually, making the good better, preventing those whose circumstances forbid their becoming good from becoming absolutely bad. The author of this book is known to me as one of the gifted ones of the earth, because he is gifted to discern the nature of animals, and educate them for man's service. The possession of this gift suggested his mission, and well has he followed it, and by it been educated himself to a degree rarely, if ever, attained by man before. I doubt if there be on the globe his equal in knowledge as to the best method of training horses. Through this volume he seeks to give the public the benefit of his experience. I bespeak for it the careful perusal of the curious, and of those especially whose judgment and heart alike prompt them to seek for and promulgate knowledge, which, being popularized, would make the people more humane and horses more serviceable W. H. H. M. OF COPYRIGHTS, The exclusive benefits of copyrights extend to twenty-eight year?, then renewable for fourteen years; if the author is dead, to the heirs, by re-recording, and advertising the re-record for four weeks in any newspaper in the United States. The forfeiture of all the books, and a penalty of fifty cents on each sheet (sixteen pages) of the work, half to the United States, and half to the author, is the penalty for publishing or importing any work without the written consent of the author ; and the printer is equally liable with the publisher. Entries must be sent to the Librarian of Congress at Washing- ton, D. 0. The laws are found in Vol. IV. of the United States Statutes, pages 436-439. j^JTThis Work is protected by three separate Copyrights, cover- ing, first, its Title ; second, its Literary Composition ; and third. its Engraving r s. c lB3J There are also three patents covering important methods of subjection and treatment given in this book. First, a simple means of subjection by which any horse, however vicious, balky, or unman- ageable, can be put in harness, subdued, and driven gently without danger of accident. Second, a method by which headstrong, lung- ing, runaway horses can be controlled directly, and so subdued by the pressure of the reins upon the nerve centers, that he will soon submit to the ordinary restraint of the bit. TJiird, a method of preventing and curing contraction and quarter-crack an absolute cure for quarter-crack, with freedom to drive on any road as desired, without causing the hoof to split back as it grows guaranteed a means of perfect cure. Fourth, (patent pending?) a method by which most pulling, lugging horses on the bit will drive safely and easily to a pleasant and easy restraint of the reins. f^" 'Purchasers of this work from the author or his agents will be given a special certificate entitling them to the use of cither or all these patents (for personal use only), ivithout extra charge ; all others using them will be subject to legal proceedings.' GENERAL SUNDRY OF TljIS WORK, TITLE PAGES, PREFACE, LAW OF COPYRIGHT, AND GEN- ERAL SUMMARY, 8 pages. CONTENTS, 12 " THE WORK PROPER AND INDEX, . 1082 " Total, 1102 pages. PAGE. INTRODUCTION 20 CHAPTER I. METHODS OF SUBJECTION 20 Principles of Taming and Teaching Horses 20 First Method of Subjection 30 Second Method of Subjection 38 Third Method of Subjection 48 Control by Whipping 60 The War Bridle First Form 61 Double Draw Hitch Form 62 Second Form 63 W. or Breaking Bit 70 Four-Ring or Upper Jaw Bit 72 Half -Moon Bit 75 Spoon Bit 76 Patent Bridle 76 Foot Strap 79 Breaking Rig 83 CHAPTER II. COLT TRAINING 91 Haltering a Wild Colt m 92 Taming or Making the Colt Gentle 94 Teaching to Follow How to Make the Colt Follow Instantly . 96 Training to Follow with the Whip Two Ways '. 96 Training to Follow with Halter and War Bridle 96 Driving to Harness 103 Bitting 107 Hitching to Wagon 110 Sullen, Lunging Colts 113 Colts that Throw themselves over Backwards 114' Driving Double 116 Hitching the Colt by the Halter 116 (xi) xii CONTENTS. ' CHAPTER III. EXCESSIVE FEAR. ITS EFFECTS 118 Fear of Rattle of Wagon 125 Jumping out of Shafts 126 Fear of Top Wagon 126 Objects Exciting Fear while Riding or Driving 127 Fear of a Robe 129 Fear of an Umbrella or Parasol 130 Fear of Sound of a Gun 131 Fear of Hogs and Dogs 132 Fear of Railroad Cars 132 Insanity 135 Illustrative Cases. Case 1. Press Horse, Gowanta, N. Y. 136 Case 2. Brookville Horse, Pa 136 Case 3. Gates Horse, Garrettsville, 140 Case 4. Dr. Keegan's Horse, Cleveland, 141 Case 5. Greencastle Horse, Pa 142 C ase 6. Collins Horse, Toledo, O. 144 Case 7. Rochester Horse, N. Y 145 Case 8. Wild Pete, Petroleum Centre, Pa. 147 CHAPTER IV. KICKING 152 Runaway Kickers 170 Confirmed Kickers 171 Sulky Kickers 173 Switching Kickers 179 Kicking Straps 179 Foot Straps 182 Over-draw Check 183 Hip Strap 186 Four-ring Bit 187 Kicking when Struck with the Whip in Driving 188 Kickers in Stall 190 Kicking while Harnessing 193 Kicking and Biting while Grooming 196 Bad to Bridle 196 Illustrative Cases. Case 1. Putney Horse; Vt 197 Case 2. Malone Horse, Cleveland, 198 Case 3. Watson Horse, Memphis, Tenn 201 Case 4. Hettrick Horse, New York City 203 Case 5. Hankey Mare, Gettysburg, Pa 206 Case 6. Goodman Horse, Mississippi 207 Case 7. Me Vay Horse, Mansfield, 212 Case 8. General Knox Stallion, Lancaster, N. H. . .215 CONTENTS. xiii Case 9. Wild Ravenna Colt, 218 Case 10. Lima Stallion 220 CHAPTER V. BAD TO SHOE 222 Palliative Treatment 222 Confirmed in the Habit 229 Regular Subjective Treatment 237 Leaning Over 239 CHAPTER VI. BALKING 240 Palliative Treatment 243 A Maine Man's Method 246 Regular Treatment 248 Restless Balkers 250 Balking Double 252 Best Treatment 253 Overloading 255 Illustrative Cases. Case NO. 1 257 Case No. 2 257 Case No. 3 257 Case No. 4 258 CHAPTER VII. RUNNING AWAY 261 Case No. 1. Dover Plains Horse 267 Case No. 2. West Falls, NY. 267 Half-moon Bit 268 Spoon Bit 269 Four-ring Bit 271 Patent Bridle 272 Lugging, or Pulling upon One Rein 273 Will not Back 274 Will not Wait or Stand when getting into or out of Wagon. 276 CHAPTER VIII. HALTER PULLING 279 Running Back in the Stall when Unhitched 289 Making a Horse Stand without Hitching 290 How to Hitch to a Smooth Tree or Post so that the Strap will not Slip ". ... 291 xiv CONTENTS. CHAPTER IX. STALLIONS 292 Treatment for Headstrong Stallions 296 Treatment for very Vicious Stallions 299 Godolphin Arabian 308 CHAPTER X. MISCELLANEOUS HABITS 316 To Catch a Horse ; 316 Cribbing 319 Wind-sucking 323 Putting the Tongue out of the Mouth 323 Pawing in Stall 325 Kicking in Stall 326 Getting Cast in Stall 326 Jumping over Fences 32T Tender Bitted 328 Kicking Cows 328 To Lead a Cow Easily 330 To Force a Horse on a Trot 330 CHAPTER XI. TEACHING TRICKS 334 Teaching to Follow with Whip 334 Teaching to Nod his Head, or Say " Yes" 334 Teaching to Shake his Head, or Say " No " 334 Teaching to Tell his Age 334 Teaching to Kick Up 335 Teaching to Kiss 337 Teaching to Lie Down and Sit Up 337 Teaching to Sit Up 339 Teaching to Throw Boys 340 Teaching to Walk upon his Hind Feet 345 Teaching to Walk upon the Knees Teaching to Chase a Man out of Ring 346 Teaching to Drive without Reins 347 CHAPTER XII. HORSE-BACK RIDING 350 How to Sit upon a Horse 351 Secure and Insecure Positions 352 Mounting 355 Holding the Reins 357 CONTENTS. xr Ladies Learning to Ride 858 The Value of Horseback Riding for Cure of Dyspepsia, etc 360 CHAPTER XIII. SUBJECTION , 365 Historical Facts 365 Dick Christian 365 Bull 365 Jumper. 366 The Irish Whisperer 366 Offutt 368 O. H. P. Fancher 368 John S- Rarey How he Attained his Success, etc. 368 The Effects of Treatment 384 Review of System 397 Medicines or Drugs 403 Control by the Eye or Will 408 Illustrative Cases. Case 1. Mt. Vernon Horse 412 Case 2. Gallopsville Horse 414 Case 3. Buffalo Omnibus Co/s Horse 415 Case 4. Oxford Horse 418 Case 5. Hermon Horse 420 Case 6. Wilkins Horse. 421 Case 7. Hillman Horse, Jet 425 Case 8. Norwalk Horse 434 Case 9. Allegan Man-Eater 435 Case 10. Roberts Horse 440 Case 11. Mustang Pony 443 CHAPTER DENTON OFFUTT, Rarey's Instructor, 449 Extracts from Offutt's Book. Taming with Medicines 456 Great Secret for Taming 456 CHAPTER XV. FAMILIAR TALK WITH THE READER 457 CHAPTER XYI. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE 473 Almost a Failure 479 Meeting Difficulties 481 Experiments 483 Driving without Reins 485 First Publication . . 487 xvi CONTENTS. Visit to Maine 488 Exciting Curiosity 491 Success in Maine 493 Special Experiments 495 Difficulties 497 Opposition 499 Success in Cleveland 501 Success in Michigan 503 Publications Revised 507 In New York 509 Test Experiments 523 Keeping Engagements 533 CHAPTER XVII. BREEDING 537 Selection of Stallion 539 Care of the Mare , 540 CHAPTER XVIII STABLING 543 Serious Objections 545 Ventilation 547 Proper Style of Rack, etc 549 CHAPTER XIX. FEEDING AND WATERING 550 Cooking the Food 554 Watering 557 CHAPTER XX. HOW TO TELL THE AGE 559 Diseases of the Teeth 56? CHAPTER XXI. SHOEING. Part First 580 Outline of the Structure of the Foot 581-592 General Remarks 627 Trimming 646 Excessive Paring. Remarks from Gamgee 653 Adjustment of the Shoe .... 657 Nailing the Shoe 661 Clinching Down the Nail. 665 Shoeing tho Hind Feet 666 Contraction . 668 CONTENTS. xvii The Spreaders 681 Curling under of Heel 685 Quarter Crack 691 Corns 695 Weak Heels 700 Clicking, or Overreaching 707 Stumbling 708 Shoeing Sore or Tender Feet 708 Shoeing Foundered Horses 711 Extracts from Gamgee on Coleman, Youatt, Miles, Flemming's Comments, Osmer, Sollesev, Lafosse, Freeman, M. Char- lier " 712-725 CHAPTER XXII. CIRCULATION 732 General Plan of Circulation 732 Ventilation 743 CHAPTER XXIII. DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT 746 Inflammation 746 Antiphlogistics 749 Osteosarcoma 751 Enchondrona 751 Diseases of the Bones 751 Anchylosis of Bone 752 Caries of Bone 752 Necrosis of Bone 753 Exostosis, or Bony Enlargement 754 Splint, or Splent 754 CHAPTER XXIV. DISEASES OF THE JOINTS 756 Spavin 756 Ring-bone 770 Side Bone, or False Ring-bone 772 Curb 772 Bog Spavin, or Thorough-pins 774 Capped Hock 776 Wind-Galls 776 CHAPTER XXY. NAVICULAR-JOINT LAMENESS 778-798 Neurotomy 799 Condition of the Feet in Chronic Lameness 803 1* xviii CONTENTS. Hypertrophy 80S Atrophy 803 Corns 805, 813 Laminitis, or Founder 828 Chronic Founder 838 Peditis, or Inflammation of the Os Pedis CHAPTER XXVI. CATARRH 841 Laryngitis, or Sore Throat 843 Strangles, or Horse Distemper 845 Glanders and Farcy 848, 854 CHAPTER XXVII. CHRONIC COUGH 854 Heaves, or Broken Wind 856 Roaring 859 Bronchocele 861 Nasal Gleet 862 Influenza Epizootic Catarrhal Fever 864 Pink Eye 866 CHAPTER XXVIII. DISEASES OF THE CHEST 868 Congestion of the Lungs 873 Pneumonia Inflammation of the Lungs 875 Pleurisy. 878, 882 Hydrothorax, or Water on the Chest 883 Typhoid Pneumonia 884 Bronchitis 885 CHAPTER XXIX. COLIC 886 Tympanites, or Flatulent Colic 894 Inflammation of the Bowels 898 Superpurgation, Diarrhea, etc 902 Constipation 905 Worms 906 Bots 912 Inflammation of the Kidneys 915 Profuse Staling, (Diuresis) 916 Retention of Urine 918 Bloody Urine 918 CONTENTS. xix CHAPTER XXX. DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM 918 Inflammation of the Brain Phrenitis 919 Megrims, or Vertigo 921 Sun Stroke 922 Paralysis 927 Azoturia Partial Paralysis Spinal Meningitis 923 Rabies, or Madness 931 Tetanus, or Lockjaw 928 Stringhalt 935 Thumps, or Spasmodic Action of the Diaphragm 935 Lymphangitis Weed Monday Morning Leg 937 The Peritoneum 938 Peritonitis 938 The Stomach 939 Indigestion 939 Acidity of the Stomach 939> Acute Indigestion 940 CHAPTER XXXI. THE FOOT INJURIES OF, AND CAUSE OF LAMENESS 941 Pricking in Shoeing, Stepping on Glass, etc 941 Foot Lameness 945 Seedy Toe 946 Gravelling 947 Bruise of the Sole 947 Treads or Calks 948 Overreach 951 Quittor : . 951 Thrush 954 Canker 955 CHAPTER XXXII. SPRAINS, BRUISES, ETC 956 Sprain of the Back Tendons 957 Breaking Down 962 Sprain of the Fetlock 963 Sprain of the Perforans Tendons 964 Joint Lameness 964 Shoulder Lameness 664 Sweeney 966 Hip Lameness 968 Knuckling Over 970 Broken Knees, or Open Joint 971 Fractures . . . 974 xx CONTENTS. Dislocation of the Patella, or Stifled 976 Stifle-joint Lameness 977 CHAPTER XXXIII. OUTS AND WOUNDS 977 Injuries of the Tongue 983 Sore Mouth 984 Fistula of the Withers and Poll Evil 985, 987 CHAPTER XXXIV. DISEASES OF THE EYE 990-998 Simple Ophthalmia, or Inflammation of the Eye 991 Specific or Periodic Ophthalmia 994 Amaurosis, or Glass Eye 997 Cataract 998 Dropsy of the Belly Ascites 999 Anasarca, or Swelled Legs 1000 Inflammation of the Veins Phlebitis 1001 Thrombus 1002 Lampas 1003 CHAPTER XXXV. DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE SKIN 1003 Surfeit 1003 Urticaria, Nettle Rash, Hives, etc. 1004 Mange 1005 Hen Lice 1007 Ring- Worm 1007 Scratches, Mud Fever, and Cracked Heels 1008 Grease 1012 Tumor on the Shoulder 1014 Tumor on Point of the Elbow 1016 Sallenders 1017 Mallenders 1017 Saddle or Collar Galls 1017 CHAPTER XXXVI. TENOTOMY 1018 Division of the Tendons 1019 Castration 1022 Injuries and Diseases of the Penis 1024 Foulness of the Sheath and Yard 1025 Parturition, or Foaling 1025 Abnormal Presentations 1026 Blisters.. . 1027 CONTENTS. xxi Counter Irritants 1028 Hot Fomentations 1032 Poultices 1034 The Pulse 1035 Giving Balls 1038 Physicking 1040 Bleeding, or Phlebotomy 1042 Setons 1044 The Rowel 1044 Tracheotomy 1045 Embrocations 1047 Caustics 1049 CHAPTER XXXVII. MISCELLANEOUS RECIPES 1050-1061 Recipes from the Author's old book 1062-1072 Human Remedies 1073-1081 General Index.. . 1082-1088 INTftOD UCTIOX. THE horse is the most indispensable and valuable of all the animals used by man. Nearly all the avocations and many of the recreations of every-day life, are largely dependent on the use of horses. When treated intelligently and properly, the horse is the most tractable and serviceable of all the domestic animals ; but if treated ignorantly or badly, he is liable to become so vicious and unmanageable as to be comparatively if not wholly worthless. While there is no lack of information and accepted authority on breeding, stabling, shoeing, driving, color, etc., etc., as pertaining to horses, there is a singular lack of authority, or even intelligent understanding, on the art of arts, namely, that of teaching, subduing, and changing the character of wild or vicious horses, as desired. In fact, there is no book or other authority on the subject, it being practically a new science, the principles of which have but recently become understood, as developed by the author of this work. There is no subject more of a mystery, even to the most intelligent, or about the successful performance of which there is more incredulity or misconception. It is supposed that if a horse is courageous and strong, and becomes vicious or resists control, the fault must be wholly in an incorrigibly bad temper, that makes his successful management impossible ; whereas a proper understanding of the subject shows that the animal's condition is the result of ignorant, bad treatment, and which kind, intelligent treatment would entirely prevent or overcome ; and that in consequence, a large proportion of the best horses by (7) 8 INTRODUCTION. nature have fastened upon them hahits that make them practically unsafe and worthless for use. Then by the present system, proved to be so defective and injurious, it is the work not unfrequently of months and years to break colts to drive; and even after this great expenditure of time and effort, many of the best horses are ruined ; so that the loss to the people of the country both from the depreciation of value, accidents, and loss of time, is in the aggregate enormous. One horse kicks ; a second balks ; a third pulls against the bit and runs away despite the efforts of several men to hold him ; a fourth will not stand while persons are getting into or out of a carriage; another is liable to kick the blacksmith over when he tries to take up or hold his foot for shoeing, compelling, in many cases, the necessity of roping the horse down on his side to be shod ; another is liable to kick any person coming within reach of his heels ; the next is perhaps all right until he catches the rein under his tail which he is sure to do when he is liable to kick or run away ; while, perhaps, the next will try to pull loose or break his neck when hitched by a halter or bridle; another fears a baby-wagon, stone, stump, dog, white cow, umbrella, robe, train of cars, or something else. One horse will not stand ; another will not back ; another will pull away when led by the halter; another lugs on the bit, or pulls on one rein. One horse will not work double, another will not work single ; and so on to the end of the catalogue of vices to which horses are subject. These, with many other vices or habits that could be mentioned, are the cause not only of great pecuniary loss, but of personal injury, if not destruction of life, throughout the country, which, when fully realized, is fearful to con- template. What city, village, or neighborhood is there that has not almost daily disastrous accidents resulting INTRODUCTION. 9 from the use of horses ? And how many horses of spirit do we find that do not have some one or more of these habits that have been mentioned ? Now if we can prevent or overcome all this without abuse or accident, saving at least nineteen twentieths of the time employed in breaking them, and give assurance of their entire subjection and safety, it is certainly deserving of being ranked among the most important features of benevolence and economy to the people of the country. There have not been wanting at different times many who have pretended to be able to tame and control horses of the most vicious character, but upon investigation it has proved that their success was based upon a very slender knowledge of the art. Whatever has been my own success, it is a slow growth, the result of long-continued observation and experimenting, following up every apparent or real clue that promised success, until I learned how to act directly upon the horse's brain, and to influence it as desired. My progress at first was very slow and uncertain, and I was exposed almost constantly to failures. This, though annoying and frequently discouraging, was the only means of instruction by which I was finally able to grasp the subject with sufficient clearness to reduce the knowledge to a practical basis. During the early part of my experience I was greatly misled, and consequently lost much valuable time in experimenting on wrong principles and methods of treat- ment, and was compelled to abandon such methods by reason of failures. In this way I was led to study out new principles and methods of treatment adapted to the various peculiarities of disposition and character in horses, until I was able to discern with great certainty the exact treatment for each case. The prevailing lack of confidence in my principles and 10 INTRODUCTION. methods of management was also a serious cause of embarrassment to me, since it continually forced me, at great expense and loss of time, to make experiments upon the most vicious horses that could be found, in order to prove the value of my treatment. The experiments in New York City, and other places, referred to in Personal Experience, will in part illustrate this. In the winter of 78 my health had become so seriously impaired that I was compelled to give up traveling. I now concluded to carry out at my leisure the purpose which had for some time been developing in my mind, that of writing out the full details of my system, including such knowledge as I believed most valuable to horse-owners for reference. I at first intended to make a work of only about three hundred pages, which would embody merely the simple outlines I gave to classes, with some additions to the treatment for sickness and lameness which I had already given in my old book. But after writing it up and preparing the illustrations I supposed necessary, I could see so much that should be added, that I .was induced to rewrite the whole matter, bringing it up to about six hundred pages with about three hundred and fifty illustra- tions. When this was completed, I again found it necessary to make still more additions, until it grew upon my hands to its present size and number of illustrations. The great point in teaching classes was measured by the success I had in the control of such especially vicious horses as might be presented for experiment, often requir- ing nearly the whole time at my disposal. As a general thing, even the best class of people cared but little for principles, which were really the most important and necessary to a true understanding of the subject. They simply wanted the proofs of what the treatment would do. Consequently, if I could only be successful in hitching up, INTRODUCTION. n driving, or controlling, as advertised, such horses as they might produce (and the more quickly and sensationally this could be done, the stronger the proof of my skill) , no matter how loosely or imperfectly the explanation of principles was given, they were sure to he satisfied. But it in all cases limited me to such a mere outline in the explanation of principles as well as details of treatment, that though I was in nearly all cases successful in giving the most perfect satisfaction to all who attended my lectures, it was no less true that but very few received more than the most limited idea of my methods of treat- ment. It was rarely that even the most attentive members of the class could explain more than the simplest form of war bridle, or put on the rig for the first method of subjec- tion, even after being fitted. Possibly they might put on the cord in a rough way for the third method, but they received nothing like the clear, comprehensive knowledge of the subject which can be obtained from this work. The value of this book depending mainly upon its authenticity, I deemed it necessary to include a chapter explaining how I came to engage in the business, with an outline of my progress, under the head of Personal Experience. I have included many indorsements, some of which are so strongly personal, that delicacy would forbid their presentation, but I felt compelled to do so to give greater authenticity to my statements. With the enlargement of the work, grew also the necessity for making the department for the treatment of sickness and lameness equally complete. With this object in view, I made considerable effort to secure the aid of the best veterinary skill I could find. I first called upon Dr. Bates, the Dean of the Columbia Veterinary College, N. Y. ; also upon Dr. Walton, the House Surgeon of the same institution, to whom I gave my plans. They treated 12 INTRODUCTION. me cordially, and promised me all the aid in their power, Dr. Walton afterward giving me much aid on several important points. By his advice, I called upon Dr. Hamill (416 East 14th Street), formerly Professor of Pathological Shoeing in the college, for the purpose of getting his assist- ance in the writing of the chapter on Shoeing. This gen- tleman, upon introducing myself, recognized me as an old acquaintance, having attended my lectures while in the city in 1872. He expressed himself especially interested in my efforts, and volunteered all the aid in his power to give. I took notes from him on all the necessary points on Shoeing, and he promised to read over anything I should write on the subject, and make such additions or alterations as he might find advisable. I found it more difficult to secure the necessary assistance in the other departments. I stated the difficulty to Dr. Hamill, and expressed the fear that I would be likely to fail, when he came nobly to my aid, with his personal services and fine library, which were constantly at my disposal. He also secured for me the help of two of his colleagues, Dr. Meyer (409 East 84th Street), New York City, and Dr. John McLaughlin of Jersey City, now of Providence, R. I., both of whom a few years previous had graduated with high honors at the Columbia Veterinary College. To facilitate my work, I had these gentlemen dictate to me the outlines of treatment in the simplest language possible, with permission to make any changes I desired. The dictations in all cases were made without premedita- tion or study, the point in view being to give me facts in the fewest words. This was the more difficult for them from the fact that in all cases they were limited to my ability to take notes, as on account of the peculiarly sensitive condition of my health I could endure but very brief conversation, and but thirty or forty minutes' writing INTRODUCTION. ]3 at one time. But, notwithstanding the generous aid given me by the gentlemen named, especially Drs. Hamill and Meyer, there was still much important matter needed, which I was finally so fortunate as to secure, prepared by no less an authority than that of a gentleman, who is at the head of one of the most popular and successful veterinary colleges in America, but whose name I am not at liberty to publish. To this authority I am indebted for the matter comprised in articles on Inflammation (page 746), Catarrh, Bronchitis. Chronic Cough, Inflammation of the Bladder, Indigestion, Diseases of the Eye, etc., etc., together with other matter referred to. I made such changes in, or additions to, this mat- ter, as well as added new treatment, as would make it most desirable for popular reference. I may mention also that I have been specially fortunate in securing many favorite prescriptions of great value from leading practitioners, for which I would gladly give credit if not debarred by special request. I especially desired to have the explanations of treatment free from technical terms, and so clear and plain that any one could understand without difficulty. I have made a special effort for this in the management of such diseases as are most dangerous and common. This will explain the reason for giving so much space, and the large number of illustrations to shoeing, spavins, navicular joint lameness, etc. As explained in the note to the chapter on shoeing, it will be found that Prof. E. A. McLellan of Bridgeport, Conn., at present Lecturer on Shoeing and Diseases of the Foot in the Columbia Veterinary College, gave me valuable aid in that department, for which I would make him due acknowledgment. The extreme pressure of his professional demands only, prevented his giving me more especial assistance at the time, but which he kindly promised to 14. INTRODUCTION. give me, if necessary, at some future time. Dr. McBeth of Battle Creek, Mich., has also rendered me much valua- ble assistance. The difficulties I encountered in making this work will be better understood by giving the simple facts, which it is hoped will be accepted as sufficient to excuse for whatever is faulty in its writing or arrangment : First, I am not a practical writer, and owing to serious cerebral inflammation I have not been able to write a single page of this book with my own hand, nor read any part of it for revision or correction. It has been dictated, by me to a copyist, then read for revision, making the work extremely laborious and difficult. It will, however, be found to give in the most faithful manner, without any RESERVE WHATEVER, all the points of my work more carefully and thoroughly than I could possibly do before a class. I desire emphatically to state that I do not keep back any secret whatever, and would further state that if I did not wish to make my system of treatment entirely accessible to the public, there are many single points herein published which I would not give for one hundred dollars ; but which, as any one must see by the remarkable results of my experiments, are invaluable to practical horsemen upon all classes of vicious horses ; so that by its instruction their subjection and management should be accomplished without difficulty. This work is not only the first of the kind published explaining the art of taming and educating horses, but it is the practical outgrowth of my own experience. In its writing I have not only aimed to give the FULLEST EXPLANA- TION OF MY PRINCIPLES AND METHODS of management, with al] the details carefully classified, but as an additional aid I have included the details of treatment of nearly fifty of the most INTERESTING AND DIFFICULT cases treated by me, giving age, color, cause of viciousness, etc. INTRODUCTION. 15 It has been well known wherever I have traveled that I taught my system as a secret which I never gave in print ; and on account of the great expense in traveling, requiring not only the aid of skilled men, but from five to ten horses, to give me a reasonable compensation, I was compelled to charge five, -and in some sections of country ten dollars for such instructions, thus putting them within the reach of but comparatively few. The importance, then, of making this knowledge available to all at a moderate cost, can be seen. After writing this introduction, I incidentally find in a work called " The First Century, or One Hundred Memorable Events in the History of Our Country/' by R. N. Devens, Esq., a chapter on John S. Rarey's achievements, which is so remarkable in the extravagance of its statements that I consider it necessary to refer here to the facts in the case. After the lapse of twenty years, when the method of treatment used by Rarey is not only known by every school-boy, but has practically gone into disuse, such statements from a man of Mr. Devens' reputation for historical accuracy as a writer, a brother of a former Postmaster General, a member of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, and author of Appleton's Commercial and Business Encyclopedia, Lives of Washington, Napoleon, Wellington, etc., in a work of so impor- tant a character, by such an author as the one mentioned, it carries with it such unusual weight that it would naturally, if un- challenged, be accepted as indisputable authority. For the benefit of my readers, I will copy a few paragraphs in relation to Cruiser, 'to show the extreme perversion of facts when compared with the statements given under that head in another chapter of this book: " Cruiser's habit, it appears, was to scream and yell when any one approached him, to smash up his stall into lucifer matches, and to attempt to bite and destroy every living thing in his neighbor- hood. Noblemen used to go and throw articles into his brick box, in order to see him fight. When he was to be fed or watered, the first proceeding with his groom was to ascertain, by thrusting a long pole in at the stable door, where the enemy stood, and then 16 INTRODUCTION. to deposit the food, shut the door, and vanish as soon as possible. Mr. Rarey changed all this in a moment as it were. He ordered the stable door to be thrown open, introduced himself according to his system, "without delay, and in half an hour the indomitable Cruiser might be ridden by a child, could listen tranquilly to the beating of a drum, and stand serene even if an umbrella were flourished in his face. Gentle as a lamb, he followed his teacher about the arena like a dog, stopping when he pointed his finger, lying down when he was told, rising again when he obtained permission, and doing all this in a mild, good-humored sort of way, as if the wish to oblige was the sole ruling motive, and that the now docile Cruiser was totally unaware of that terrible array of whips and spurs, bits and muzzles, with which his first teachers had sought to check his ferocity and bring him to reason. The speedy, easy, and complete success of Mr. Rarey, in this remarka- ble case, gave him, at once, the most flattering and exalted repu- tation from one end of Europe to the other. "On Mr. Rarey 's appearance at Niblo's in New York, he exhibited this renowned specimen of the equine race an animal over sixteen hands high, and of immense bone and muscle and said : ' When I went to England and exhibited there, the papers all said, "This is very well, but try Cruiser!" I immediately wrote to Lord Dorchester about the horse, and he replied that the horse could not be brought to me, but that I must come to him. I did go to him. The horse had not been out of his box for three years ; a brick stable had to be built for him, and he would have been shot, but he was the last of a race of splendid blood-horses, and his owner was anxious to preserve him if possible. I found that by his biting and kicking he had so injured himself that he could not be taken out of his box, and so I had to wait for his recovery. I went down to see him, quietly and unknown, but somehow the papers got hold of it, and everybody said I dared not go near Cruiser. ' Under these circumstances, Mr. Rarey was detained some three weeks, when he went to London accompanied by the now subdued steed. "The collar and muzzle which Cruiser used to wear were exhibited by Mr. Rarey. His owner could place them upon him only by letting a rope down through the roof of his stall, fastening it under his neck, and raising him off his fore feet. The exhibition at Niblo's was the first time Cruiser had been on the stage in America. 'We have/ said Mr. Rarey, 'had no rehearsal ; but instead of kicking, as he used, he will now (as you see) give me his foot like a gentleman.' Two straps were now shown, being all that had been used in taming this horse. Mr. Rarey, on being asked to explain more particularly how he approached Cruiser, said : ' I think horses have a reason for everything they do. I INTRODUCTION. 17 knew if I approached Cruiser with a stick, he would fight me, as he had fought others who came to whip him. In the box was a double door, so that I could open the upper half. I went quietly, opened the door noiselessly. Cruiser turned round, saw me, started back frightfully, but did not attempt to come at me. He came slowly up to smell of me after a while, and in spite of Lord Dorchester's entreaties, I stood still. Presently, when I saw that he stood naturally, I began to fondle him. Lord Dorchester begged me to tie his head, and I did so, but you never saw such fighting. Finding that he would either kill himself or tear down the box, I released him and began all over again. After he allowed me to fondle him, I took him into the straw-yard, and proceeded as with any other horse, until at last he would let me take any liberty with him, and Lord Dorchester mounted him with impunity.' Mr. Rarey declared that Cruiser was about as celebrated for his viciousness as he himself was for taming him. " Appealing to the intellect and affections of the horse, as the basis of his system of treatment, Mr. Rarey was enabled to say to his vast audience at Niblo's Garden, New York : ' I never had an accident since I became perfect in my system, and I don't fear any. I have been among horses since I was twelve years old, and at first had a great many accidents. Every limb has been broken but my right arm ; but being young when these accidents happened, the bones naturally healed strongly. Now I know horses' every thought, and can break any animal of whatever age and habits in the world. I can make any animal sensible of my power make him gentle and even affectionate.' " According to these statements, Rarey was able to exhibit a de- gree of power over vicious horses that had never before or since been attained or even approached, making himself a landmark of genius and skill that could not be equalled, and that all this was accomplished by the use of two ordinary straps. The boldness of his claims, as thus set forth, deepens into audacity when they are examined in the light of the facts which I have been enabled to demonstrate, the full particulars of which will be found on pages 368-384 of this work. Much as I dislike to mar the posthumous reputation of any man, and especially one whose fame has been won in a field similar to that occupied by myself, I deem it an act of simple justice not only to myself and my many thousands of pupils in fifteen different States, but to my system of treatment, to expose the fallacy of Rarey 's pretensions, especially in reference to Cruiser, on whoso subjection more than anv or all other of his feats his reputation was made. In the first * i 18 INTRODUCTION. place, it is not true that Cruiser was not taken from his stable for three years, and that he would have been shot, etc., which is proved by the fact that he was let for breeding purposes at a rental of $500 per season, and was taken out almost daily, and controlled with but little real difficulty. He never was pulled up from the ground to have a collar put on him, nor did he ever wear an iron muzzle. Also, instead of going into his stable as stated, and controlling him so easily and successfully, the experiment was a failure. His control was owing entirely to Mr. Goodenough's management, and by a method of treatment which, had it been known at the time, would have utterly destroyed Rarey's reputa- tion or claims to success; hence the claim set up for his unusual inherent power, and for the system as being a perfect and com- plete method of subjection, falls to the ground. The additional fact that Cruiser and the other cases, when out of Rarey's hands, returned to their former vicious practices, and again became unmanageable, also demonstrates the fallacy of these claims, and proves conclusively that the horses were not subdued, except to a condition of temporary obedience, the ruling principle of which was fear. It is also apparent that the assump- tion of knowing a horse's every thought, and being able to subdue any horse or animal in the world, amounts to nothing, because, like the other pretensions, it was all assumed for effect. What he practiced, he learned of Denton Offutt, from whose book an inter- esting chapter will be found on pages 449 to 456. The writer vis- ited professionally every town in the vicinity of Groveport, Rar- ey's old home, and although he made the most diligent inquiry of old settlers, he found no one who claimed for Mr. Rarey any no- ticeable success in the control of horses, before going to Europe. The true key, which has been overlooked by Mr. Devens, and in fact all other writers on the subject, was the consummate good management exhibited by Mr. Goodenough, by which, as the first movement on reaching England, permission was secured to exhibit before the queen and the royal family, even before they had dem- onstrated a right to such distinction. Their continued success in maintaining their hold upon the public opinion, was also due to the adroitness of Mr. G. in surmounting the difficulties which arose, and which so firmly established their claims in the public mind as to require, even at the present day, the most positive proofs to show their unreliability. INTRODUCTION. 19 Nearly all my scholars of late years understood and practiced this method of treatment, and I was compelled, as a condition of satisfying them, to prove the superiority of my treatment. Then nearly every vicious horse brought forward to be experimented upon had been subjected in the most thorough manner to the method of treatment used by Rarey. The Wilkins horse of New York, case G, Subjection; the Malone horse, case 2, Kicking; the stallion Jet, case 7, Subjection; with many others, though com- prising but few of the large number treated, were good illustra- tions. The Wilkins horse was treated for a week on this principle without doing any good whatever. He had been treated so much that the moment his foot was taken up he would lie down appar- ently gentle, but when again upon his feet, would become thor- oughly wicked again. The Malone horse had been subjected to it in the most thorough manner without avail. In the case of Jet, which was a particularly bad one, the treatment was equally inert, and had no effect at all upon him. The same might be said of hundreds of others treated by me before my classes, or as special tests in the presence of experts, The quickness and complete success of the experiments, in these and other noted cases, are results which are conceded to have been shown by no one else in so short a time in the control of vicious horses, either in ancient or modern times. A feat that I performed almost daily, and which would have been utterly impossible to accomplish by the Rarey treatment, was the subjection of headstrong, unmanageable stallions, so that they would not only follow any one without restraint but, at a distance of ten feet, could be called away from a horse or mare. This appar- ently impossible feat I guaranteed to perform within ten minutes, with a forfeiture of one hundred dollars to the owner in case of failure. It is proper to add here that during the last few years, most of the experiments made before my classes were in part or wholly performed by my assistant. Not only this, but my scholars could readily do the same, and very many of the cases were fully as difficult to manage as those referred to. CHAPTER I. METHODS OF SUBJECTION. IN the subjection and education of horses we have three natural difficulties to overcome. First : The horse is much stronger than man, and just so far as he learns in any way that he can resist his control, to that degree FIG. 1. An intelligent, courageous, yet extremely sensitive nature. A sketch from life of a noted Arabian Horse. will he be encouraged to become unmanageable and vi- cious. Second : His methods of reasoning being limited to seeing, hearing, and feeling, to prevent his becoming ex- cited or frightened at objects and sounds with which he is (20) GENERAL PRINCIPLES. 21 FIG. 2. Ideal of an intelligent, docile character. brought in contact, he must be convinced of their innocent character by his own way of reasoning. Third : He cannot understand the meaning of language or words of command, ex- cepting so far as he is taught by associating them with actions ; con- sequently he cannot know what he is required to do unless shown and taught in a way he can compre- hend. Taking these condi- tions in order, we see, for example,' that if a horse learns to pull away, break his halter, resist the blacksmith in shoeing, or run away, etc., he will be en- couraged to do so afterward, until the habit becomes fixed. On the con- trary, we see that when a colt is first hal- tered, no mat- ter how hard he may resist, when once forced to sub- mit he will not only follow" readily without restraint, FIG. 3. Ideal of a sensitive, nervous character. 22 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. but will continue to do so afterward ; also when the feet are taken up and handled until the operation is submitted to, or such restraint brought upon the mouth as to overcome the power of resist- ance, there will not only be submission for the time, but, if done properly, all in- clination to resist af- terward will be over- come. The principle is FIG. 4.-suiien treachery. the same in relation to other habits, or in overcoming viciousness. No matter how wild or vicious the horse may be, if so controlled that resistance becomes impossible, and his fear is overcome by kind treatment, there will not only be entire submis- sion without the use of power or re- straint, but he will remain so afterward if not abused or ex- cited. Second. We See Flo> 5. sketch from life of the most vicious that When an Ob- Mustang Pony the writer ever saw. ject or cause of unusual sound is brought suddenly or un- GENEKAL PBINCIPLES. 23 expectedly to his notice or in contact with his body, it is liable to excite the most intense fear or resistance, and of which he will ever afterward be afraid ; whereas if brought slowly and gently to his notice, letting him smell and feel of it, it can soon be brought over or around him without causing the least fear, or attracting his attention. It does not matter whether it is in driving to carriage, letting the crosspiece come across the quarters, raising an umbrella behind, or the noise of a steam-engine, etc., the effect is the same. FIG. 6. Sketch from life. Good illustration of a vicious, treacherous nature. FIG. 7. The Hilman Horse, "Jet." A noted vicious Stallion. Third. In relation to teaching the meaning of sounds or words of command. It is evident that if a man were to sit on a block and simply repeat the word " whoa " to a horse, he might do it indefinitely without teaching him its 24 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. meaning. But if the horse were moved moderately, and immediately after the command he were pulled upon suffi- ciently hard to make him stop, he will, after a few repetitions, learn to stop at command, to avoid being pulled upon. Or in teaching to back, if, after the command is given, the reins are pulled upon FIG. 8.-Naturally docile and intelligent. sufficiently to force him back, he will, after a few repetitions, soon learn to back freely when the word is given, to avoid the hurt of being pulled upon. To explain this principle more fully I will give the details of teach- ing a few tricks : If it is desired to teach a horse to make a bow, first prick him lightly on the back with a pin, and repeat until in his effort to avoid the annoy- FIG. 9.-- Wild Pete." A very peculiar and he drops his interesting case. GENERAL PRINCIPLES. 25 head ; then instantly stop the pricking and caress him. Repeat the pricking until the head is again dropped ; then caress him, and give him some- thing of which he is fond. Continue to al- ternate in this way with the pricking and caressing until at tne instant ^ 'T 7 /^' x /x^/, i ;i // .'/ / ^ w ''vf^^ a motion is Fio. m-The Allegan Man-eater. made toward the back he will drop his head. To teach to kick up, simply prick him on the rump until there is an inclination to kick up, when, as before, stop and caress him. So repeat until the least motion toward the rump will induce him to kick up. In teaching any kind or number of tricks the principle is precisely the FIG. 11. Sketch of a noted vicious Stallion. ,1 -,? same, the differ- ence being that instead of a pin, other means suitable to the requirements of the case must be used. Now, to teach these tricks by word, it will be neces- sary to repeat the command and associate the act with it ; 26 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. that is, " make a bow," " kick," etc., in connection with the signal of whatever trick is being taught, until there is obedience. An im- portant point in teach- ing tricks is to guard against confusing or exciting the horse ; therefore but one trick must be taught at a time, and that sloAvly and carefully repeated until thoroughly un- derstood. Then an- FIG. 12. Strong willed, intelligent character. other trick is to be taken up, and so on. At each progressive step review the previous tricks until any trick demanded will be promptly performed. The duller the horse the less can be attempted, and the more time must be given, while the more intel- ligent the horse, the more can be done and taught. To have prompt obedience at the command, the exact sig- nal and word given in teach- ing the trick must be re- peated, even the tone or pitch of the voice, otherwise the horse will not know what is Wanted of him, and he FlG> 13> Barnyard Lunkhead. will become confused, and consequently unable to obey. The principle is the same in teaching a horse to do anything in or out of harness, the difference being that GENEEAL PEINCIPLES. such means as will give more power of control must be used. Now the point of real interest, and the one to which I wish to call special attention in this connection, is that the prin- ciple is precisely the same in ei- ther overcoming or preventing vi- ciousness or bad habits of any character. The only difference is that instead of teaching a trick we now combat the habit or vi- ciousness already formed, simply repeating until there is entire do- cility. FIG. 14. Docile, intelligent. If a man we re strong enough to take a fighting "bully" by the shoulder and shake him so thoroughly as to show him he had power to control him as he pleased, and then treat him kindly, it would have a better effect in convincing him of his mastery and make him less inclined to resist, than if he had controlled him after a desperate struggle of half an hour or more, that would necessarily greatly strain or in- jure him physic- ally. Or if the con- test were carried on in the presence of others, where his pride would be greatly stimulated, or under circumstances that would arouse his bad nature, he would allow himself to be punished most severely before he would submit. FIG. 15. A noted vicious Horse. METHODS OF SUBJECTION. FIG. 16. Sketch of a noted vicious Horse. On the same principle, if a man could catch and hold a horse, or control him as he wished, so as to completely prevent his struggling and becoming excited and heated, until the muscles are entirely relaxed and he becomes submissive, and then win his confi- dence by kind treatment, scratching the mane, giv- ing apples, etc., it would be the most efficient kind of subjection. But as there is not power to do this, we must resort to such means or methods of management as will come as near it in principle as we can. In doing this, if the horse were given such freedom as to encourage his confi- dence to resist, or his bad nature were called out by ignorant, abusive treatment, in like man- ner he would, in the fury of his madness, resist with the greatest per- severance, regardless of even the most severe punishment. Then FlG ' 17 - E *P ression of vicious, bad nature. again, the resistance, whatever it may be, is only a symp- tom of the real cause to be overcome, which proceeds from a condition of the brain, or the impression made upon it. GENERAL PRINCIPLES. 29 On this account, controlling physical resistance becomes but a temporary bridge across a gulf to enable building the real structure. So subjection is but a means for reaching the brain to remove the exciting cause of the resistance. If stimulated by fear, then to show there is no cause for fear ; if through real viciousness, then to remove the resentment by kind treatment ; when the horse's reason can be molded and instructed in any channel desired. The next difficulty is the different degrees of resist- FIG. 18. Vicious. FIG. 19. Treacherous. ance to be met with in different horses. A dozen horses may break the halter or kick. One may be broken of the habit quite easily, another may resist ten times as long, while the third may even require hours of treatment, the differ- ence being in the pecularity of character and temperament. The better to aid in explaining these conditions, I present a large number of representative heads, with some refer-j ences to aid in determining the treatment to be employed, and which should be studied carefully. An important con- dition also is to guard against possible accidents, because this would defeat the very end for which the treatment is, intended. For more particular reference, see part follow- ing "Medicine" in chapter on "Subjection." 30 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. I give three direct methods of subjection, followed by several indirect methods. The first is based upon the principle of disabling and throwing. So far as we disable any part of the horse's body, we produce to that degree a sense of helplessness in him. So when we disable the whole body, or overmatch the power of the horse wholly, we create in him a powerful impression of our mastery and a corresponding sense of his own helplessness. The method given of throwing a horse, called the FIRST METHOD OF SUBJECTION, Is the simplest and most effective form based upon this FIG. 20. Leather Throwing Rig. principle, and is the outgrowth of a great deal of practical experimenting. There are two rigs here given ; one of leather, and one of rope. The Leather Rig works well, is not difficult to fit, but is troublesome to make, and expensive, costing from eight to fifteen dollars. The Rope Rig works equally well, and can be made of any old rope in a few minutes, at a merely nominal cost. For the first, or Leather Rig, the sur- FIRST METHOD OF SUBJECTION. 31 cingle should be made of two thicknesses of good harness leather, about three inches wide, and about eight or ten inches longer than the circumference of the body. The buckle should have two tongues, and be made of good wrought iron. When this rig is on and drawn tightly from the part over the back bone, a double strap, the length of the back, with a strong crupper, should be attached. Four or five inches on the off side, should be fastened at the front edge of this surcingle a strong two-inch ring. On the opposite edge should be attached another strap extend- ing to a ring upon the back strap at the hip. A little pad should be fixed to the part coming across the back, to pre- vent bruising or chafing it. FIG. 21. Simple Rope Rig. To make the Rope Rig, procure a three-fourths-inch rope, eighteen or twenty feet in length. One that has been used enough to render it pliable is best. Make a simple loop about three inches long at one end, and double the rope about four feet from the loop. Pass over this doubled part a three-inch ring made of three-eighths rod. Measure the distance from the tail to where the saddle of the har- ness comes, to which bring the ring and make a sim- ple knot of both ropes around it, regulating it to 32 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. length of the back as it is tightened. Next, put the double part under the tail, twist two or three times, and bring the part with the ring to its place about eight inches to the right of the back, with the loop FIG. 22. Foot tied up. FIG. 23. Foot Strap. toward the near side. While holding it in position, reach under the body, catch the opposite end of the rope, bring FIG. 24. The Rig as arranged for throwing. it through the loop, and draw down to the size of the body. Make a simple knot in the rope, which forms a button and keeps it from slipping out. It is also necessary to protect the back and tail by winding the paxt of the FIEST METHOD. 33 rope coming under the tail, and putting two or three thicknesses of cloth or blanket between it and the back. Next, put on a strong strap halter with the nose part coming well down, and draw it up rather close back of the jaw ; then take a piece of strong cord, from five-sixteenths to three-eighths of an inch in diameter and about twenty feet in length, tie a hard knot in each end, and fasten one end FIG. 25. Turning a stubborn Horse around before throwing. around the rope or surcingle just above the ring. Pass the other end, from above, down over the strap of the hal- ter back of the jaw, thence back and down through the ring referred to, until the slack is taken up. Now tie up the near forefoot. The best way to do this is to pass an ordinary hame strap around the foot, thence to the belly- band, and buckle short. Though this method, when properly used, enables throw- 3 34 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. ing a horse on even very hard ground without bruising the knees or other parts, still it is very important, and adds greatly to the ease of throwing to have good soft ground. The best is that which is free from stone, with thick, soft sod, as an orchard or meadow, a ploughed field, or a place liberally covered with straw or manure. Presuming that such a place has been selected, stand almost in front of the "** N*X-^ ^^=^-^r-^ <: ^ _e?^r- _ J^^feCCCZr^ v- FIG. 26. Usual position of a Horse that resists strongly before being thrown. horse at the right, have a firm hold of the cord about seven or eight feet from the shoulder, and pull gently, but firmly. This will draw the head back to the side, and the body being thereby thrown out of balance, the horse is forced to fall over with a rolling motion on his side. If during the first trial he resists, let him have his own way a little while, and when in a good position, pull quickly, and he can be easily forced off his balance and made to fall over. If a strong- FIEST METHOD. 35 willed, headstrong fellow, disposed to resist hard, perhaps lunging forward, etc., as some horses are liable to do, take a firm hold of the cord and run around in a circle until he is made to follow, hopping steadily (as shown by cut 25), then stop, pull quickly, and he will be easily thrown over upon his side. (See cuts 27 and 29.) As soon as the cord is slacked he will jump up, but by repeating as before he will again be thrown. Simply repeat the throwing as long FIG. 27. As the Horse will usually fall. as the horse will get up. If he does not attempt to rise after being once thrown, stand behind him, keeping firm hold of the cord, and strike the belly with the hand or touch him with the whip, to incite him to jump up ; and on the instant of his doing so, pull quickly upon the cord, which will again roll him back helplessly upon his side. If the horse is sensitive upon the belly, quarters, or the feet, while down and forced to yield, first touch the parts with a pole until he will submit to it, then with the 36 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. hand until there is no incentive to resistance shown by the muscles becoming relaxed ; after which he should be al- FIG. 28. Type of sullen character upon which this method will fail. lowed to get up, and the handling or touching repeated until submitted to on his feet. Sometimes it is necessary to reverse the treatment, and throw the horse on the op- FIG. 29. Position of the Horse when down. posite side, before he will be entirely submissive ; but af- ter being thrown to the extent of making him lie down submissively, it will do no good to repeat the treatment. FIEST METHOD. 37 If the impression produced is not sufficient to break up the horse's confidence and prevent a repetition of the habit, whatever it is, the treatment is a failure in his case. For example, if the horse is a kicker, and persists in kicking after the full extent of the treatment, it should be aban- doned ; but if the habit is given up after several times throwing, and he sbbmits unconditionally, it is the right treatment for him, and all, in a general way, that is needed. FIG. 30. Rolling the Horse back when struggling to rise. On the other hand, if the horse drops or lies down submis- sively, refusing to get up when touched or handled, it will fail. It should not be used upon nervous, irritable, un- broken colts, especially those showing a wild, sulky, or mustang nature, as they are liable, as soon as the leg is tied up, to lunge, or when pulled upon to throw themselves recklessly or sullenly down. For the subjection of such cases, and all colts, balkers, and horses bad to shoe, har- ness, clean, or ride, it is not so good as the Second Method. It is most valuable when used in connection with the other methods. In some cases of nervous character, if the horse 38 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. can be safely thrown once, rolling him back, as shown above, until there is submission, will have a good effect. FIG. 31. The Horse subdued. SECOND METHOD OF SUBJECTION. If one were to turn around rapidly a few times, he would become dizzy. Were he to suddenly reverse the motion, the effect would be so intensified as to cause fall- ing. The effect is the same upon the horse, and gives al- most unlimited power in the control of wild, nervous, vi- cious, kicking, runaway horses. I once had such a horse brought to me to experiment upon before a class. He was a nervous, kicking, runaway horse of the worst character. When hitched to a buggy, he became frightened, kicked, and ran away, tearing the buggy to pieces. He was so desperately afraid of a wagon that he could not be put in shafts or even brought near SECOND METHOD. 39 them. After working upon him for two hours, aided by members of the class, and resorting to every device in my power for his control, I completely failed. I was nettled, yet bound to succeed, but "How?" was the question. At this juncture I happened to think that turning around quickly several times in succession caused extreme dizzi- ness and helplessness. The question followed, " If I could make the horse turn FIG. 32. Method of tying halter to the tail. around rapidly, why could I not neutralize and overcome his resistance in this way?" I remembered having once seen a dog in play catch his tail in his mouth and run around, and it occurred to me that by tying the horse's head to his tail he would possibly turn himself around. I did so, as shown in cut 32, and to my surprise and satis- faction he went around rapidly, and in a short time fell over, dazed and helpless. Soon recovering, he jumped up, turned rapidly as before, and again fell over. In course 40 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. of a few moments he fell over three times. (See cut 34) As before explained, he was extremely nervous and afraid FIG. 33. Powerful effect of the treatment shown by the Horse staggering to the point of falling when quickly untied. of being touched ; so as he went around, I brought the pole against his quarters until he was submissive to it. FIG. 34. Position in which the Horse falls confused and helpless when turned too quickly. SECOND METHOD. 41 The experiment proved a most wonderful success, as it en- abled me to do in about ten minutes what was utterly im- possible for me to do before in two hours, and with the aid of several men. I had, in fact, by the mere circum- stance of failure made one of the most important discover- ies that had yet been made in the art of taming horses. This method is wonderfully effective in the subjection of colts and vicious horses, especially those of a certain FIG. 35. Method of holding the strap while going around with a doubtful case. class of temperament, and in breaking single balkers. When combined with the other treatment, it makes easy and simple the control of horses it would be both difficult and dangerous to subdue without. For example, a wild, dangerous colt, mustang, or vicious mule, which it would be perilous to try to confine with straps or other rigging, with the aid of a simple halter, can be brought under con- trol in a few minutes. Or if in any case this is not suffi- cient to compel entire submission, it will always give suffi- 42 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. cient advantage to subject safely to the other methods of treatment. I will name this the SECOND METHOD OF SUBJECTION. The conditions to be observed in its application are as follows : First : Select a soddy place in a field or yard free from stones, stumps, or sharp fence corners. The place should not be too soft, such as a deeply ploughed field, barn-yard manure, or deep straw. Heavy sod with considerable grass is the best. Second : If there are sharp shoes on the feet, FIG. 36. The sullen colt as he will usually stand refusing to turn when tied. they should be removed before subjecting to this treatment; to neglect this would endanger calking or cutting the feet badly. Third : A strap halter should always be used. After catching the tail, take the strap of the halter between the teeth to enable the use of both hands, and tie the hair of the tail into a knot. Divide the hair above the knot, pass the strap through, and tie into a half-hitch knot. The strap should be drawn just short enough to compel the horse to turn fast enough to divert his attention (something as in cut 32) and make him helpless, but not so short as to SECOND METHOD. 43 cause him to fall. The more nervous and excitable the subject, the longer the strap must be left at first ; and the colder-blooded, ' the shorter must it be drawn. If at all doubtful as to the length, when the strap is run through the tail hold it in the hand and go around with him a few times (as in cut 35) so that the necessary length can be exactly ascertained, then quickly tie into a half-hitch knot and let go. If tied the right length, the horse will keep FIG. 37. A vicious colt as he will usually strike when the pole is brought near his nose while turning. moving in a circle as described ; but if tied too short, or forced up to the point of falling, the moment he staggers pull quickly upon the end of the strap which will pull it loose, and tie again the required length. Sulky or cold-blooded colts, if tied very short at first, are liable to throw the head against the nose-piece of the halter, and if pushed are likely to rear up and fall over backward. This can be easily prevented by holding the 44 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. . strap as before up near the tail with one hand and the part near the head with the other, and going around with him a few times until he is dizzy ; then tie quickly and let go. Motion toward the head while passing, and so continue un- til he moves steadily. Now take a pole or rake handle about eight or ten feet long, and bring it gently against the legs or parts of the horse most sensitive, until there is complete submission to FIG. 38. A vicious Horse as he will usually kick when touched with pole while turning. it. This he will usually resent by kicking violently. Sim- ply continue until all inclination to resist is overcome, so that after being untied the muscles are so relaxed that the feet can be taken up and handled without his showing the least resistance. Sometimes a young horse or colt will start all right, but when tested will not go sufficiently fast to enable his control. Under such circumstances, while mov- ing touch sharply with a whip across the nose, and repeat until he is forced up to the point desired to compel submis- SECOND METHOD. 45 sion. The point is to bring the brain to a certain point of inactivity and hold it there until he is helpless and sub- missive. I soon learned by experience that by turning one way only, the impression upon the brain after a certain point diminished with the continuance of the turning ; and that to maintain the effect it was necessary to turn the horse much faster, and even then, after a time, it would become FIG. 39. The first indication of submission submitting "to be poled. inert. To remedy this, I reversed the action by tying in the opposite direction, which not only greatly increased the effect but enabled me to repeat the treatment with suc- cess to any extent. In many bad cases the horse should be turned one way up to the verge of falling, then quickly reversed, at the same time poling as before explained. It is necessary under such circumstances to watch carefully so as to be able at the instant there is any indication of falling, to prevent it by pulling the strap loose. The more 46 METHODS OP SUBJECTION. frequent and quickly the reversing and turning, the better the effect. In some cases it must be repeated rapidly three, four, five, and even six times before it will be suc- cessful. To do this successfully requires care and quick- ness, and the horse should not be given freedom to run against anything. After the horse has submitted, he should be thoroughly poled all over, the feet handled, etc., until there is entire indifference to it, then untied, and the same FIG. 40. Taking up the colt's foot while tied one of the tests in determining his submission. handling repeated. If the treatment has been properly carried out, there should be no difficulty at this point in the handling, poling, mounting, etc. This method of subjection is the simplest, the most hu- mane and effective, all things considered, that has yet been discovered. It not only diverts the horse's brain from act- ing, but matches his strength so perfectly against itself, that he can be made entirely helpless without producing any pain or injury. It will effect the entire subjection SECOND METHOD. 47 and docility of the average of the worst of wild, unbroken colts in from five to fifteen minutes, so that they can be ridden, have the feet handled, or allow anything to come against the quarters. (See cut 41). It gives, in connection with the War Bridle, the true key for breaking single balk- ers. It is singularly well adapted for supplementing the other methods, and effecting the control of extremely vicious horses that have partially or wholly resisted the other meth- ods. It is also the safest and best method of treatment for FIG. 41. Method of testing after being untied. the subjugation of extreme cases bad to ride, bridle, have the head handled ; also those which have the habit of striking. It will not work well upon kicking, switching mares / and colts of a slow, cold-blooded, sulky nature. There may also occasionally be found horses of quick, nervous, but de- cidedly determined character, that will at first seem to re- sist it, or fall down too quickly. The Third Method should be used for a short time upon such, to tone down their im- petuousness, after which they will usually submit to this method without difficulty. Though compelled almost daily to subject all kinds of 48 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. horses to this treatment in small barns and other unsuita- ble places, and surrounded by a crowd of men, by being careful I never had a serious accident occur. Of course, in a field or open yard the danger would be immeasurably diminished. Still I think it my duty to advise the greatest FIG. 42. One of the tests frequently given by the writer in proving tne effect of the treatment upon a notably vicious case, when mak'ag experiments before his class. care to prevent accident. By going slowly at first, and fol- lowing up cautiously, there can seldom be an accident. THIRD METHOD OF SUBJECTION. It is well known that by hitting a horse at a certain point back of the ear, it is easy to knock him down ; also if a horse were to throw himself over backward and hit this part on a hub or stone, he would be liable to be killed. At the front part of the atlas bone, or the first of the cervical vertebra, where it articulates into the occipital bone, or back part of the head, about an inch of the spinal THIRD METHOD. 49 /)rd is not covered with bone. If a knife or other sharp instrument were driven down at this point sufficiently to penetrate it, it would any more during the afternoon. I have broken several horses of the habit by this means, and think if the adjustment is made right, and continued long enough, it will be found to be the best means yet discovered of breaking up this habit. The point of success will depend upon the care with FIG. 220. Throat-strap with tacks. , . , ., . . , , which this is kept ad- justed. If there is large muscular development of the neck, the strap must be buckled shorter than when the neck is well cut out, as it is termed. Make the reproof severe at first ; then keep the tacks so adjusted as to touch sharply when the habit is repeated. If the throat-latch is not on 21 322 MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. a line with the top of the head, the tacks cut the jaw a little below the junction of the head with the neck. If this is kept on a few days or weeks, and then taken off and again adjusted carelessly, there is likely to be a failure ; for if the horse finds he can crib once with this on without hurting himself, he will be encouraged to repeat the effort, and will punish himself severely to do so. But if punished at first, and this is kept where it will hurt keenly at the least attempt to crib, and is left on a few weeks, it ought to be successful. It will not do to buckle a strap around the neck. The adjustment must be made to the strap of the halter, and the halter must fit nicely to the head. It must be made like a bridle, with brow-piece, so that it will not shift or move on the head. A boy broke five horses of this habit a few years ago; but he became careless, and failed on the sixth. There is, once in a while, an old horse of determined character that will crib in defiance of this or any other means. Such cases are, however, rare. A young, nervous-tempered horse will yield readily to the treatment, and but few horses will attempt to crib while wearing a muzzle. If a strap be buckled rather tightly around the neck, a horse will not crib while it is on. This is, however, but a simple preventive. There is also the objection that grad- ually the horse may learn to resist, to overcome which, the strap has to be buckled tighter, which of course obstructs the circulation, and causes inflammation, thus producing se- rious and permanent injury. If a strap is used for this purpose it should be fully three inches wide, and buckled just tight enough to prevent the inclination to crib. A wide strap works a great deal better than a narrow one, and is less liable to do harm. PUTTING THE TONGUE OUT. 323 WIND-SUCKING. Sometimes a horse sucks wind without the habit of cribbing. I include a cut of a form of bit to prevent this, for which much is claimed. A practical horseman of ex- perience gave me the point. He claimed that it would work perfectly in preventing the inclination to crib and suck wind. I include it on the strength of his statement. Procure a piece of gas-pipe about seven inches long. Drill a h o 1 e across each end, through which put in rings, as seen in cut; next, drill four or five holes, as shown in cut. The theory is that the gas FlG - 231 Bit made of gas-Pipe for preventing cribbing and wind-sucking. in the stomach can not escape through the mouth on account of its being closed, and that instinctively the horse will bite on something to open the mouth and throw off the gas. With this bit in the mouth, the air passes through the small holes in the cen- ter, and out through the ends. I would be glad if those interested would give it a trial, and report to me. It is safe and inexpensive. The gen- tleman referred to positively assured me that in several cases known to him it worked with perfect success. PUTTING THE TONGUE OUT OF THE MOUTH. If the tongue is put over the bit, have a piece of thin sheet-iron, about two and a half inches wide and five inches long, with the ends rounding, and the edges filed smooth. Drill two small holes (see cut) near each edge, at the cen- ter, and fasten to the bit. Shorten the cheek-pieces of the bridle, so that the bit is drawn well up in the mouth. This 324 MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. FIG. 222. Manner of putting the tongue out. piece of iron renders it impossible for the horse to get the tongue over the bit. The simplest and best way of prevent- ing this is to have the smith make a mouth-piece, as repre- sented in the cut below, which is seen to be bent up, and comes so high in the mouth that the horse cannot get the tongue over ; this works perfectly, and is not inconvenient to drive with. It should be bent up at least 21 to 3 inches, come well out to the cheek-pieces, and be filed smooth to pre- vent cutting or chafing the mouth. The tongue is some- times, but not often, put out under the bit. For such cases the following treatment will work well : Get three medium-sized bullets, and hammer them out to about an inch and a half in length. Drill a small hole through the end of each. Tie one to the center of the bit by a little piece of wire through the joint. Attach the others to the bit about an inch from the center (one on each side), so as to play loosely. (See cuts.) When this bit is in the mouth, these extra arrange- ments will so disconcert the horse that in his struggles to get them out of the way, he will forget to put the tongue out. FIG. 223. PAWING IN STALL. 325 The next best way is to buckle a strap around the nose so that the mouth cannot be opened. This, of course, pre- vents the tongue being put out, and in a short time the habit will be broken up. PAWING IN STALL. A horse will not paw much unless he can hear the noise ; so a good method of prevent- ing this habit is to muffle the foot by tying apiece of blanket around it. Next, by attaching a piece of chain or clog to the foot, as follows: Get a piece of chain about ten inches in length, run a short strap through one of the end links, and buckle it around the foot above the fetlock ; or a piece of light chain can be fastened to a small block, and attached to the foot in the same manner. When the horse at- tempts to paw, the FIG. 225. . F clog or chain rattling against the foot so disconcerts or hurts him that he will re- peat the movement but a few times. FIG. 224. 326 MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. KICKING IN STALL. Kicking with one foot against the side of the stall is a habit which many horses are liable to learn, and, like paw- ing, it is sometimes exceedingly annoying; therefore it is important to be able to prevent or overcome it. In the first place, it is rare that a horse will learn to kick against the side of the stall if it be large and roomy. Large stalls are, in all cases, very important for the health and comfort of the horse, as well as for convenience in going around him. The simplest and best way of preventing this habit is to pad the side of the stall, which will prevent the sound of the striking, when the inclination to kick will soon be overcome. Or, attach a clog or piece of chain to the foot, as explained for pawing. Another method is to tie some thorny bushes together, and suspend them over the place kicked, so as to swing freely when struck. When the horse kicks, the rebound will bring the bushes against the legs, so frightening and hurting him that the attempt to kick will be repeated but a few times. A clog may also be hung over the place struck or kicked, which, when struck, would react in the same way, and thus prevent a repetition of the habit. Making the stall wide, and padding the sides as explained, are the most simple and practical methods for preventing this habit. GETTING CAST IN THE STALL. This is also caused by being confined in a stall that is too small. When the horse rolls and turns upon his back, he is so cramped and restrained by the narrow walls that he is unable to roll himself back to regain his feet. Some- times the division of the stall is so short that in the effort to roll, his body comes across, and in contact with, the JUMPING OVEK FENCES. 327 ends, and, the head being held fast by the halter, it is im- possible for him to get up; so a large, roomy stall would of itself be almost a complete remedy. The simplest way to prevent it is to tie one end of a piece of rope or cord to the beam or flooring directly overhead, and the opposite end to the head-piece of the halter back of the ears, leav- ing it just long enough to allow the horse to reach his nose to the ground. As he lies down and tries to roll, being unable to bring the top of his head to the ground, he is disabled from rolling. A small ring should be stitched to the top of the halter, to which the strap or cord can be eas- ily and securely fastened when necessary. Some horses are liable, by pawing, to get the fore foot, and in some cases even the hind foot by scratching the head with the leg, over the halter-strap, thereby becoming tan- gled and helpless in the stall. The halter should be hitched higher than common, though long enough to permit the horse to lie down easily. JUMPING OVER FENCES. Every dairyman knows that a cow or ox will not at- tempt to jump a fence, pull it down, or run, while a board is over the forehead, attached to the horns in front of the eyes ; this simple means will usually work well upon cattle, but will not do upon a horse, because it gives too much freedom to see over the nose. If a horse or mule, put on a halter that fits well to the head a five-ring halter is best. Next find a piece of thin leather (an old boot-leg will do), about as long as the head, and from four to five inches wider than the head is at the eyes. Form it same as in cut, with a string attached at each corner. Attach the upper corners by the strings to the halter, where the brow-piece is attached to the cheek-piece. Tie the cords attached to the lower corners 328 MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. back of the jaw (being careful to leave freedom enough for the jaws to act when eating). Let the ends now pass over the throat-latch, and make fast. The horse is simply disabled from looking ahead or over the nose, which will disconcert him sufficiently to prevent jumping or throwing the fence down. If an ox or cow, attach the upper corners to the horns, and pass the strings around the neck instead of over the throat-latch. TENDER BITTED. Use a large, smooth mouth-piece, with leather cheek- pieces, so as to let the bit rest about an inch lower than usual in the mouth. Next try winding the bit with a piece of chamois-skin which has been saturated with tannin or alum, to harden the mouth. KICKING Cows. Many years ago a man who attended my class in Her- kimer Co., N. Y., reported to me that he had a very bad kicking heifer, and as a matter of experiment he put the War Bridle on her and gave her a sharp lesson with it, as directed for breaking a colt to lead and drive. After a few minutes' treatment, he found that she stood perfectly gentle to be milked, and he had no more trouble with her. Some time afterward, while in the dairy counties, I gave this point to my classes, and I have since had a good many especially bad, kicking cows brought forward to be exper- imented upon, the treatment in all cases proving successful in a few minutes. One of the most amusing incidents that occurred in making these experiments was at a little town near James- town, N. Y. At the time I carried canvas, and after get- ting through the regular experiments, a notoriously bad KICKING COWS. 329 kicking cow was brought in for treatment. As usual, a few pulls of the War Bridle made her stand to be milked as gentle as could be desired. While the class were amus- ing themselves over the ease with which the cow was controlled, and somewhat at the expense of the owner, with the cord still on, she suddenly, and without warning, rushed through the wall of the canvas, almost tearing down the whole tent, and ran through the main street of the town to- ward home. Every dog in the street took after her, making a most ludi- crous scene, no one ap- pearing more amused than the owner. He came into the class on condition that I would make the cow gentle to be milked at home. He never came back to report upon the success of the exper- iment. The course of treatment is about as follows : Put on the War Bridle, Second Form, pull right and left a few times ; then stand off at a safe distance, and pull a little upon the teats. If there is resistance, punish ; so repeat, until there is no resistance. Sometimes the teats are sore, and the pain caused by milking is very severe. Take Gonlard's extract 2 oz., sulphate zinc 2 oz. ? lard 2 oz., and rub upon the parts a few times. This is a favorite remedy among dairymen for sore teats, cake in the bag, etc. This prescription I know to have been sold for fifteen dollars, aiid it is prized by dairymen in Northern New York, where the medicine is sold especially for their use. FIG. 226. Arrangement of the cord for leading a cow. 330 MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. To LEAD A Cow EASILY. Tie a rope around the head under the horns, bringing the knot over the ear. Now bring the rope forward and under the ear, again forward over and under the cord. By pulling now, the cord will tighten around the ear, hurt- ing so severely that the cow will lead freely. To FORCE A HORSE ON THE TROT. During one of my early tours in Ohio, a horse-trainer came one hundred and fifty miles to attend my class. He stated that there was but one point in which he was interested, and if I could help him on that, it was all he de- sired. The point was, how to force and keep a horse on the trot FIG. 227.- To change a horse's gait. Under excitement. On this point he was very much interested, for the reason that he made the train- ing of trotters his business, and it was indispensable that he should be able to do this. Also, because he knew of a mare that could trot very fast, but when driven in company with other horses, or excited in the least, she would break, and could not be made to trot, and on this account was re- garded worthless as a trotter. He could buy her at a very moderate figure, and could make a big thing on her if he could break her ; but he did not wish to purchase her un- less he felt confident of success in her management. This was a new point to me ; but on the impulse of the moment I advised him to try the Breaking Rig as shown by cut on page 180, at first to work her slowly and gently FOKCDSTG TO TROT. 331 until accustomed to it ; then gradually push her under ex- citement, cracking the whip, etc., and then driving her with other horses, gradually working up in same manner with- out restraint of rig. I had noticed when driving with this rig that a horse must either walk or trot ; for the instant he struck a run, both legs coming back at the same time shortened the cord so much as to tangle and hurt severely, and consequently it must work in this case. He went home, bought the mare for $375, made the experiment, and was successful beyond his expectations, soon being able to put her under the whip, and drive her under any excitement, with other horses, at the top of her speed. Within three months he sold her for $1500. Hap- pening to meet me some time afterward, he gave me the above facts, at the same time stating that he then had an- other horse of the same character on which he expected to do equally well. The gait of a horse can be changed from pacing to trot- ting, or from trotting to pacing, by passing the cord or strap from the hind foot to the opposite fore foot through rings in the belly-band for trotters and from hind to fore feet direct for pacing. (See cut 230.) This will not, however, be found to be of much practical value. CHAPTER XI. TEACHING TRICKS. IN this chapter I give the portraits of my old group of trained horses and ponies, whose performances were re- garded with such great interest by all who witnessed them, that for a number of years I was compelled to give an extra exhibition daily for the benefit of ladies and children, for which a regular admission fee was charged ; and it w r as uni- versally conceded that these exhibitions were more inter- esting than those of any circus. The performances of Blind Billy were regarded as especially remarkable, from the fact of his being totally blind. He is, without question, the most remarkable performing horse that has ever been ex- hibited in this or any other country. I give a very fine portrait of this remarkable horse, sketched by a leading artist. The details of teaching a few tricks, which I give in this chapter, will be of special interest to farmer boys, who may desire to train their colts in this way. A horse seems more intelligent and tractable when trained to perform a few simple tricks, such as telling the age, kissing, bowing his head, kicking up, turning right and left, or following with the whip, etc., all of which any intelligent boy can easily train a colt to do. In training a colt or horse to perform these tricks, there should be no hurry, or effort to teach more than one thing at a time. Make the lesson short, and repeat until thor- (332) DETAILS OF TEACHING. 33: 334 TEACHING THICKS. oughly learned, when another can be taken up, but do not continue the lesson long enough to excite or confuse the horse. To FOLLOW BY THE WHIP. One of the simplest and most interesting tricks to teach a horse is to follow at the motion of the whip, without bri- dle or halter. It is even quite useful, as it teaches a horse to follow at command from one part of the barn to another, or to come out of his stall without attempting to get away. Full details of teaching this trick are given in the chapter on " Colt Training." To NOD HIS HEAD, OR SAY YES. To teach a horse to bow, or nod his head, prick him lightly on the back with a pin, and continue until in his ef- fort to avoid the annoyance he drops his head ; then in- stantly stop the pricking, and caress him. Repeat the pricking until the head is again dropped, when caress and give him something of which he is fond. Continue to al- ternate in this way with the pricking and caressing until at the instant a motion is made toward the back, or even to take a pin from the coat, he will drop his head. To SHAKE HIS HEAD, on SAY No. To teach a horse to say No, prick him lightly on the top of the shoulder with a pin until he shakes his head, when stop and reward him. Repeat the pricking until at the least motion toward the withers the horse will shake his head. To TELL HIS AGE. To teach a horse to tell his age, prick him lightly on the back part of the leg until, to avoid the annoyance, the DETAILS OF TEACHING. 335 foot is lifted, or there is an effort to paw ; for this, stop and caress him. Repeat until the least motion toward the leg will cause him to paw the ground. In teaching this trick, the body is naturally bent a lit- tle while in the act of pricking the leg, and by repeating, the position will soon indicate to the horse that he must FIG. 229. Blind Billy. paw. This position is to be maintained until he paws four, five, or six times, or as many times as he is years old, when the position is changed, and the pawing ceases. To KICK UP. To teach a horse to kick up, simply prick him on the rump with a pin until there is an inclination to kick up, when, as before, stop and caress him. Repeat until the 336 TEACHING TRICKS. least motion toward the rump will induce him to kick up ; then touch with the whip, and repeat until at the mere motion of it he will kick up. These tricks may be made quite interesting by talking to the horse somewhat as follows : " Tommy, I want you to tell how old you are ; will you do it ? " and signal for the horse to shake his head, as if refusing. Then exclaim, as if surprised, " Oh, you can't tell your age, I suppose, without being paid for it ! Will you do it if I give you a FIG. 230. Blind Billy running after and catching his trainer when playing Blind Man's Buff. lump of sugar ?" and signal for him to nod his head. You can now signal for him to tell his age, and when he has done so, it gives him an air of sagacity which is very amus- ing and interesting. Again, you may ask, " What will you do to one who does not treat you well?" then signal for him to kick. His prompt obedience, of course, indicates to the spectators that he understands what is said to him, when in reality he is only obeying the signals which have been taught him. The nice point lies in giving the signals in such a manner that they will not be noticed or under- stood by the spectators. DETAILS OF TEACHING. 337 TEACHING TO Kiss. Kissing is a very simple trick to teach a horse, and it adds greatly to the interest of those already explained. Stand facing the horse, with the right side turned partly toward his left shoulder, and let him take a piece of apple from your hand which is held toward his mouth. Bring it nearer each time, and finally let him take a piece in the same manner from between the lips. When he does not reach forward promptly to take the piece of apple from the lips, prick him with a pin at the point of the shoulder. Repeat until he gets the idea of avoiding punishment by bringing his mouth to that of the trainer when desired. Now put the apple farther into the mouth, which will com- pel him to open his lips to get it. Commence lessening the size of the apple, finally giving it to him as a reward after he has performed the trick of bringing his mouth to that of the trainer. This will teach him that by doing this he will escape punishment and receive reward. To LIE DOWN AND SIT UP. A horse is taught to lie down or to sit up principally by means of the whip or bridle, as follows : Tap the horse smartly across the shins until he will drop upon his knees. This method, however, requires a good deal of care and judgment, or it will occasion needless pain and punishment before the horse is made to submit. I will give the follow- ing method, which, though slower, is better calculated for amateurs : Tie the bridle-reins into a knot back of the neck, throw your strap over the back, under the body, and tie to the near foot, below the fetlock. Now pass the right hand well over the back, and take a short hold of the strap. Cause the horse to step toward you, and pull the foot up. Then 22 338 TEACHING TEICKS. FIG. 231. Blind Billy kicking up. the left, at the same time pressing down and from you firmly with the right, until the horse will lie down. Now pass the end of the strap through the ring of the bit, draw through gently, step over the neck, and as the horse attempts to get up, pull him back, until he lies quiet. Rub and caress him, and af- pass the left hand around the reins, pull back and down upon them in such a manner as to turn the head a little to the off side, at the same time pulling down steadily but firmly on the strap over the back with the right hand. As the horse goes down, gradually pull the near rein, so as to bring the head to FIG. 232. Blind Billy walking on his knees. ter lying a few minutes, say, " Get up, sir !" Repeat in this way a few times, until the horse will lie down readily. Then while holding him on or near the knee with the strap, hit him on the shin of the other with a small whip, until he will bring it under and lie down. After a while he can be made to come on his knees and lie down by simply pulling the head down a little and hitting the leg with the whip, at the same time saying, " Lie down, sir ! " repeating u^ til the horse will lie down to the motion of the whip, FIG. 233. Blind Billy in his great act of walking erect. DETAILS OF TEACHING. To SIT UP. 339 When the horse will lie down promptly, put on him a common collar, and while down take two pieces of rope, each about ten feet in length, tie the ends around the hind feet, carry them forward between the fore legs, and bring them once around the collar. *Now step on his tail, take the bridle-reins in the right hand, while holding the ends FIG. 234. Tommy. Sketch from life. of the ropes firmly in the left. Give a little jerk on the reins, and say, " Get up, sir ! " When the horse throws out the forward feet and springs to raise himself on the hind feet, he finds himself unable to complete the effort, on account of the hind feet being tied forward under him, and so brings himself in a sitting position. Instantly step for- ward, holding the ropes firmly, rub and caress the head and neck a little for a few seconds, then as you see the effort to keep up becoming tiresome, let loose and say, " Get up, 340 TEACHING TBICKS. sir !" By repeating in this way a few times, the horse will soon learn to sit up when commanded, without being tied. To THROW BOYS. To teach a horse to throw boys, first make him kick up as before explained. Then have plenty of straw on the ground, put a boy on his iJack, and while holding the halter make the horse kick up sharply by pricking, or touching him with the whip. The instant he kicks up, have the boy throw himself forward over the shoulders, for which give FIG. 235. Tommy in his vicious act defending the ring. the horse a caress and a piece of apple. Repeat until he will, at the motion of the whip, make an effort to get the boy off. When he has done this, put on a larger and stronger boy, so that he must make a greater effort to get him off. Watch the point carefully, and see that the boy comes off when the horse makes an effort to throw him, otherwise he will soon become discouraged. By persever- ing in the treatment, he will soon learn to throw the most expert rider. But it will be noticed that he will make a greater effort sometimes than at others. When he does not seem to work well, put on a poorer rider, and work up again gradually. When the horse makes a particularly good DETAILS OF TEACHING. 341 FIG. 236. Tommy as the model riding pony. point, give him apples, and caress him, for encouragement. It is important now to teach the horse to throw his rider only when commanded, or at a signal. To do this, when the boy is on, lead the horse a short distance around the ring, and then signal for him to throw. Repeat in this manner, also letting him go around alone with the boy on his back, until he will go on a sharp trot or run, and throw when commanded. I trained a pony to throw so expertly that he would at times turn a man or boy over in a double somersault, ana bring him down squarely upon his feet. The best throw- ing pony ever exhibited in this country is admitted to be "Tommy." (See cut 234.) He has been exhibited in all the principal places in the North, and although the best riders, from the bare-back cir- cus-rider to the mustang- trainer on the plains, have tried, no man has ever been able to sit squarely upon his back one minute after the horse was signalled to throw him. His performances in this way have been regarded as wonderful. He will even carry two boys upon his back for a while, and then at the motion of the finger throw them both. This sometimes afforded a good deal of amusement. First, if a boy was in- FIG. 237. Tommy in his great act of throwing. 342 TEACHING THICKS. dicated to him as being good, he would allow him to ride as long as he wished, and then to safely slide off behind down to the ground. Then another boy would come who perhaps used tobacco, or had some other vice, when the pony would throw him immediately. Again, if there was a sharp political campaign, a democrat and a republican boy would mount him at the same time, and the one who could ride the longer time could declare his party the victor. To give something of an idea of the wonderful per- formances of these ponies, FIG. 238. Tommy as the gentle pony. . ,, . , especially the expertness with which Tommy could throw a rider, I give some ex- tracts from the press : - " Last night a large number of our leading citizens, by special invitation, were present at Prof. Magner's exhibition on Champlain street. " The first exercise was performed with blind Billy, a pony, stone blind. The pony sat down at a word from his master, and walked upright on his hind legs several times around the ring. A hankerchief was thrown down in the ring, and the pony ordered by his master to find it. After walking around a few minutes, the pony came to a stand and seized the article in its mouth. Sev- eral other interesting tricks were performed by this blind pony, but the most laughable scene took place when the spotted wild horse, Tommy, was introduced. He presented every appearance of a wild steed, and ran restively about with distended nostrils and fiery eye, his mane bristling like the quills of a fretful porcupine, but at the approach of his master he became as tame as a lamb. Every one was invited to try their equestrian skill on Tommy, and all who tried were thrown to the ground, tenderly, but in the twinkling of an eye. Mr. Magner offered $100 to any one who would ride Tommy one minute. Several tried, but none were re- warded with success. One ambitious gentleman threw off hat, coat, and vest, and said he ' would be d d if he didn't ride him.' DETAILS OF TEACHING. 343 Tommy was too much for him. He was thrown several times, and finally concluded that he had better let Tommy have his own way." Cleveland Leader. "FuN ON THE PAKADE. " The parade yesterday morning presented such a lively scene as has not been witnessed for some time. The occasion was the exercise of some trained horses by Mr. Magner. Straw was plen tifully strewn on the ground, and expectation was high while the arrangements were going on. A cordon of boys and men were arranged, a rope placed in their hands, and a ring formed around the straw, into which soon pranced the first animal. This one cut up all sorts of circus capers, .the most notable and most heartily applauded feat being the dexterous unseating of a small colored boy, who had the hardihood to allow himself to be placed astride the animal. Next came a totally blind animal, which performed miraculous antics at bidding. " The last feature was the crowning one. A spotted horse was let into the arena amid the plaudits of the vast assemblage present on the ground, and the Reform Club, which appeared en masse at the windows. After various gesticulations by the horse, a challenge was sent to the multitude for some one to mount. A larger darkey essayed the task; but no sooner had he pronounced himself 'ready,' than spotty raised his hindermost legs, lowered his head, and L. D. went careering through the air. ' Golly, boss ! dat hoss can't do dat again ; ' and so up he went again, to be treated the same way, only more so. A fairer complexioned au- ditor then attempted it, but he was treated in like manner. In fact, it is quite impossible for any one to remain seated when that horse takes a notion to unseat him. The prompt unseating of these two worthies so amused the multitude that Mr. M. thought they had had fun enough for one day. and so announced the show over. " His class in this city was a large one, numbering over forty members, comprising our leading citizens, all of whom acknowledge the superiority of his system over those of other trainers who have visited this locality. "His power over untamed horses is said to be marvelous."- New-London (Conn.) Evening Gazette. "A WONDERFUL PERFORMING BLIND HORSE. " Among Prof. Magner 's fine troupe of horses is one that is blind. This beautiful pony for he is a beauty is a wonder. He seems to understand every word said to him, and will perform the 344 TEACHING THICKS. most difficult feats with an ease and rapidity that is surprising. He will go to any part of the ring, find and bring a handkerchief , take it from his leg, or any part of his body, go lame, go right or left, back, go ahead, sit down like a dog on either side, squeal like a pig, roll over, walk and kick on his knees, put his ears back and forward, kiss, with many other tricks, showing the greatest intel- ligence and most skillful training. " He was not touched with a whip during the whole perform- ance. The Professor simply stood at the center-pole, and talked to him as he would to a boy. He is, without a doubt, the finest and most remarkable performing horse in the world." Cleveland Leader. "AN EXCITING INCIDENT. " Mr. Magner's tent is crowded daily to witness the perform- ances of his wonderful ponies, and attend his lectures. One of these beautiful ponies, among other amusing performances, will throw any one from his back. Yesterday, when Tommy was introduced, a crack circus-rider came forward to ride him for the reward of one hundred dollars. Ho stated that he came to Buf- falo to get the money, as he could ride Tommy, or any other horse, as long as he pleased. At this turn in affairs, a general stir was manifested, which culminated in the most intense excitement. It was proved that no ordinary man could ride the cunning little fel- low, as shown by his performances for weeks. But here was a trained athlete, that could turn a somersault on a horse bare-back without being thrown ; would it be possible to throw him ? There were serious apprehensions that he could not. Mr. Magner stood silent a moment, with the reserve characteristic of him, contem- plating the intruder, as if to say, You may, perhaps, do it, but not if I can prevent it ; while the other stood with folded arms, show- ing the most perfect confidence in himself. " It was a scene worthy the brush of a painter. The immense throng present were hushed into silence, waiting for the contest. A signal brought Tommy upon a run. The whip was passed around his nose quietly, when the athlete was invited to come for- ward, who, disdaining help, lightly bounded upon the pony's back ; but before he had time to say Jack Robinson, Tommy commenced a series of gyrations that would astonish an Indian, and sent his man fully six feet into the air. It was beautifully and grandly accomplished; but would he, could he, do it again? " The trial was made, and, as before, the pony went into the air with the quickness of lightning, and, after a little more pro- longed effort, sent his man heavily to the ground. But the con- test was not yet over. All the desperation that pride and confi- DETAILS OF TEACHING. 345 dence could excite seemed to be now called into the actions of the man for a final test. He mounted more carefully, and, with a grasp of iron, awaited the onset. It soon came; for Tommy, seem- ing to be now conscious of the task upon him, twisted and turned and jumped as if a demon, his eyes flashing fire, until, with a tremendous bound, he sent the man high in the air from his back, this time fully vanquished. It was a grand performance. Many, with feelings of intense admiration, crowded forward to caress the noble little fellow, while Mr. Magner seemed as proud of his pet as if he had won a kingdom. It was the finest and most exciting exhibition we ever witnessed." Buffalo (N. Y. ) Courier. To WALK UPON HIS HIND FEET. To teach a horse to walk upon his hind feet, put on the First Form of War Bridle, and while holding a short whip in the right hand, with the left give little sharp jerks upon the cord, which will throw the head up. At each inclina- tion to do this, touch him under the jaw with the whip, and encourage until he will raise the fore feet from the ground and stand straight. When he learns to stand up ? step forward of him a little, and ask him to come. If he tries to come down, touch him sharply under the jaw to keep him up, and repeat until he makes an effort to walk in this position, for which caress and reward. A lesson should not be continued longer than a few minutes, and at first should not be repeated more than twice a day. By perseverance in this way, a horse will soon learn when he gets up to balance himself, and take two or three steps for- ward. This is a trick some horses cannot be made to do, be- cause they have not strength enough in the loins and hind legs to get up and walk. " Blind Billy " is wonderfully strong in this respect. He frequently walked twice around a thirty-four-foot ring without coming down, and without being touched. This was the greatest performance of the kind I ever knew, but the secret of it was the strength of 346 TEACHING TEICKS. his back and quarters. One of the most interesting tricks that " Blind Billy " does is squealing at command. He first squealed by chance, when he was put in the same po- sition again, and made to repeat it. The same is true of " Gilford's " groaning. He first groaned by chance, and was then made to do it afterward. To WALK UPON HIS KNEES. To teach a horse to walk upon his knees, first teach him with a whip to go down upon his knees, then pull him ahead FIG. 239. Tommy in his vicious act chasing a boy out of the ring. a little by the halter, until he will make an effort to walk in this position. At first he will make an effort to get up, but he must be forced back again until he learns to keep down and make an effort to come ahead. There should be plenty of soft sod or straw on the ground to prevent hurt- ing the knees. It requires patience to teach this trick, but once started, the horse will soon learn to walk as far as desired. To CHASE A MAN OUT OF THE RING. To teach a horse to chase a man out of the ring, train him first with a whip, then step away from him a little, DETAILS OF TEACHING. 347 and make him follow, for which reward him. When he will chase you across the ring, turn short around and face him. He is now to come straight up to you without biting ; but so long as you run from him, he is to run after you. The proper course is to run out under the ropes, and when he follows you, reward him. An intelligent pony will learn to do this very quickly. DRIVING WITHOUT REINS. Twenty years ago, driving a horse without reins was FIG. 240. Turco and Gilford, as driven -without reins. regarded as one of the most interesting feats of training ever exhibited. People would come from all parts of the country, often as far as twenty miles, to see a spirited stall- ion driven to a carriage without bridle or reins, turning, stopping, backing, driving fast or slow, etc., by the motion and control of a whip. Yet it is one of the most simple feats of training imaginable. The idea of this method of training after a time becoming quite generally known, so many common horses were trained in this way it soon lost its novelty. It is, however, so interesting a feature that I will give the full details of its management : First, put on an open bridle, with the reins resting 348 TEACHING TEICKS. loosely upon the neck. Provide yourself with a straight buggy whip having a straight or bow top. Stand opposite the back, grasp the rein just short enough to take up the slack, but not tight enough to pull on the head. Now with the whip commence tapping lightly about at the center of the off shoulder, when the horse will bring his head around a little to avoid the annoyance. By pulling now slightly upon the rein, he will step around to the right, when caress him and give an apple, etc., and so repeat until he will step around promptly when touched with a whip. Now go around opposite the hip, holding the rein moderately tight, and touch the shoulder, as before, with the whip. When he steps around, caress. So repeat until he will come around promptly at the motion of the whip alone. Next, go to the opposite side, and so repeat until he will step around in either direction desired. The next step is to teach him to stop at the motion of the whip. With the horse in a corner well up against the wall, stand on the near side well back toward the hip, and bring the whip gently up on the back of the head, so that the lash will reach over upon the fore head. Tap lightly at first, then a little harder until he will step back a little, for which instantly caress, and repeat until he will go back promptly. It will be necessary now to provide a whip sufficiently long that while standing at the hip or tail, it will reach the head, so that in moving, when the whip is raised, the horse will instantly stop. If he does not, he can be hit sharply to compel him to do so. Repeat in this way until he can be stopped or forced back under any excitement. The next step is to turn him right and left as if driving with reins. To do this, grasp the tail with one hand, and with the other bring the whip to the shoulder again, and tap it as before until he will step around. When he is about DETAILS OF TEACHING. 349 half way around, bring the whip to the opposite shoulder, striking him sharply until he will turn in that direction. Simply repeat until he will turn in any direction desired. Now get in, and let the reins extend back under you upon the seat, but so loosely that they will not bring any restraint upon the head. Catch the foot-strap so that you can pull the foot up at will. Now repeat the lesson of stopping, and starting, and turning either way, until he is prompt in his obedience. In the meantime should he try to go ahead, pulling the foot up will stop him. The reins are on as a matter of convenience, so they can be used when necessary. I prefer, however, to give the head perfect freedom, and depend upon the foot-strap for safety. In my practice of training a horse to drive in this way, I repeat the lesson of stopping, etc., a hundred times over, until I feel sure the horse is perfectly safe to drive with the whip. After horses are trained to drive single, they can then be put together, and with a very little practice they will drive equally as well double. CHAPTER XII. EQUESTRIANISM.* THAT there is no exercise to be compared with horse- back riding is conceded by all well-read physicians, as well as by all ladies and gen- tlemen who have given it a test. One has only to look at a person re- turning from a ride on the saddle to see at once the beneficial result. The tinge on the cheek, and ruddy glow on the whole face and neck, is a positive assurance of the fact. It will prove a sure cure for dyspepsia in its worst form, if one will but persevere in the delightful recreation. But some one will say, " Oh, I cannot ride horse-back ; it is too vi- olent an exercise." And FIG. 241. Horseback Riding. 19 a - '-, , why I Simply because * By request of the writer, this paper was furnished by J. W. Robinson, Esq., Of Portland, Me., a practical teacher of Esquestriauisin. of many years experience, (350) PKACTICAL HINTS. 351 v the attempt is made without any knowledge of the art, if it may be so called. The fundamental principle of the art of learning to ride is to learn one thing at a time, and learn to do that well, before attempting to do anything else. The first thing to learn is how to sit upon a horse. One should become perfectly at home in a saddle upon a con- stantly moving horse, so that whether it walks, trots, can- ters, shies, or jumps, he will either not lose, or will imme- diately regain, his position. The proper seat is a firm one in the saddle, with the legs below the knee free, and the body above the waist supple and pliable. Whatever move- ment the horse makes, whether to the right or left, or tip- ping backward or forward, the hips must conform to it, while the legs from the knees downward are free to obey the rider's will, and the upper part of the body retains its balance by accommodating itself instinctively to every movement. If the upper part of the body be kept rigid, its effect will be to remove the hips from their place in the saddle. If, on the other hand, it be flexible, it will yield and sway with every movement, and will be left free to obey the motions of the saddle. In Tommy's act of throwing the boys, described in another chapter, whenever a boy or young man would sit in the saddle rigidly, with a firm grasp of the mane, no matter how strong or supple he might be, the pony would throw him with great ease, and with the force of a bullet, from his back ; but when a young man came in who would sit and balance himself on the pony's back as if with the greatest carelessness, harmonizing the motions of his body freely with those of the pony in the attempt to throw him, was not quite so full in detail on some points as was thought necessary, the author has taken the liberty, not being himself a practical equestrian, to appropriate and insert instructions from the best modern authorities, being especially indebted to a series of papers written by Col. Geo, E. Warring, and published in the Agriculturist, 352 EQITESTEIAOTSM. it would frequently require the greatest effort to dislodge the rider. s The position assumed in the saddle should be with the weight of the body supported directly under the hips, the spine curved inward, and the head and chest thrown back- ward. We give two illustrations from Leach, showing the insecure and the secure position in riding. The rider in FIG. 242. An insecure position. the first illustration exhibits the greatest caution and tim- idity, with his body bent forward, and his whole attitude one of rigidity. The second illustrates the freedom with which the body may be managed when the seat is secure. When a landsman first goes to sea, he finds it extremely difficult to adapt himself to the motions of the vessel, stum- bling and falling like a child learning to walk ; but with practice he soon gets what is termed his " sea-legs." The principle is the same in learning to adjust one's self to the motions of the horse in riding. PEACTICAL HINTS. 353 The learner should make no attempt to guide or manage his horse, nor even trouble himself how to mount and dis- mount. Let him get into the saddle, turn his toes inward, press his knees against the saddle, but not his calves, bring- ing the flat of the thighs in the largest contact with it. Curve the spine inward, and throw the shoulders back. FIG. 243. A secure seat. Let the arms hang listlessly by the side. Holding mainly by the knees, shift the seat from side to side and from front to rear, with as little swaying as possible of the up- per part of the body. Continue this practice, no matter how long it takes, until the seat is firm, and the learner can move in any direction while keeping the spine curved in- ward. When the rider has accustomed himself to the slow 23 354 EQUESTB1AJST1SM. motion of a walk, let the speed be increased, until finally the horse is galloped with a long bridle rein, under all his motions, and the rider feels comfortable and easy, and has learned to depend only on his thighs and the flexibility of the body to maintain his position. FIG. 244. A good model of riding-horse. Having perfectly accustomed himself to the seat, the pupil may now put his feet in the stirrups, and learn their use. They should be used as a matter of comfort and con- venience, as it is fatiguing to ride with the legs dangling at the horse's side. In walking, a gentle support of the stir- rups keeps the body from swaying from side to side as the horse moves. In trotting, when stirrups are almost in- dispensable, they permit the horseman to either " rise to PEACTICAL HINTS. 355 the trot," or to distribute the shock in " riding hard " be- tween the feet, the seat, and the thighs, so that it is no longer a shock, but becomes a quick, easy movement. The stirrup leathers should be so adjusted that the iron will just touch the bottom of the feet, giving them support without raising their position, while the inner part of the thighs, as far down as the knees, are pressing firmly and immovably against the saddle, and the legs below the knees hanging vertically. In ordinary riding it is best to have the ball of the foot touch the stirrups, as the play of the ankle-joint gives more elasticity to the support. But in galloping or leaping it is best to " drive the feet home," and carry the stirrups in the hollow of the foot. We consider the wooden stirrup in com- mon use in this country to be the safest and best. The main office of the stirrups is to rest the legs, while at the same time they assist in maintaining a proper position. But in case of any sudden start, the knees and thighs should be at once performing their duty of grasping the saddle. They cannot do this if the weight is thrown too much upon the feet. It is also important to learn how to stand in the stirrups while the horse is in motion, turning so as to look to the rear, to throw the weight first on one foot and then on the other, and to assume every possible position rapidly and easily; for all this adds to security, freedom, and grace in the seat. The following is the correct manner of mounting by the aid of the stirrups : First, take the reins in your left hand just over the horse's withers. Stand with your right side to the horse, not too near, and put the left foot in the stir- rup. Grasp the horse's mane with the rein hand, the pom- mel of the saddle with the other, give a spring with the right foot and vault into the saddle, throwing the leg back and over the horse. Now rest the ball of the feet in the 356 EQTJESTEIANISM. stirrup, and close the knees against the horse to keep a firm seat while trotting fast. It is impossible to ride really well on an average horse without a curb bit; but it is impossible to ride well on any horse unless the curb bit is properly made and properly adjusted. And no one can either ride with pleasure or be- come really a good horseman on a horse that is in constant pain from an ill-fit- ting bit. The beginner should use the reins of the snaffle only, grasping a rein in each hand at a length that will give him command of the horse. The proper manner of holding the reins, is, however, in the left hand, the curb reins divided FIG. 245. Position in mounting. FIG. 246. Army Bit. FIG. 247. Ordinary Bit. by the little finger, the snaffle reins divided by the middle finger, the ends of both sets carried up through the hand and secured by the thumb, which should be uppermost, PRACTICAL HINTS. 357 FIG. 248. Holding the reins. and pointed to the ears of the horse. By bending the wrist to the right, so that the knuckles come uppermost, the horse is turned to the right. By bending the wrist to the left, so that the finger- nails come uppermost, the horse will be turned to the left. There should never be tension on the two bits at the same time. The horse should be ridden upon the curb ; the snaffle should be used to fix the height of its head, and occasionally to take the place of the curb to freshen the mouth. Particular attention should be given to having the saddle adapted to the size of the person who is to use it. If it is too large for the rider, it will not only give him dis- comfort, but will increase the difficulty of acquiring a seat. Invalids, or those not ac- customed to horseback rid- ing, should select a horse that is gentle and fearless, easily managed, sure-footed, and elastic in action. A riding-horse should not be used in harness, as this soon destroys the elasticity and FIG. 249. Ordinary side-saddle. ? , - smoothness of action neces- sary for easy riding. If the horse is at all vicious and un- manageable, he should be subjected to such treatment (as 358 EQUESTEIANISM. explained under that head) as will insure his entire docility and easy management. This is particularly necessary be- fore attempting to ride him in the street. Much of the foregoing instruction will apply to ladies learning to ride horseback. The lady should so sit upon the horse that her weight will fall perpendicularly to the FIG. 250. Position in the saddle back of the horse, her face directly to the front, her shoul- ders drawn back, and her elbows held to her sides. She will permit her body, from the hips upward, to bend with the motions of the horse, in order that she may preserve her balance. The right knee will hold the upright horn close in the bend of the knee. The left foot will be thrust into the stirrup to the ball of the foot, and the heel will, as a rule, be carried down. But when the heel is elevated, the upper part of the left knee should find support in the PEACTICAL HINTS. 359 side horn, and for that end the stirrup leather" should be given such a length as will permit this. A lady should never be mounted on a weak or stumbling horse. The reins are to be held in the left hand, as already described, and in a line with the elbow. The whip should be carried in the right hand, with the point toward the FIG. 251. Good position. ground. It takes the place of the right leg of the man, and the horse should be trained to answer to its application in exactly the same way as to the pressure of the man's leg. The horse should never be struck with the whip upon the head, neck, or shoulders, as such whipping will render him nervous, and may cause him to swerve. It does not come within the limits of an abbreviated article of this character to give the details for the training of a horse to the different gaits and tricks of which he is 360 EQUESTKIANISM. capable under the saddle, as there are a great variety of works imparting this knowledge in full, which are easily accessible by those who desire it. With these suggestions, and sufficient practice, any one may enjoy this the best of all modes of exercise. If people would generally adopt horseback riding, they would starve out half of our doctors, and would live in the enjoyment of much better health than they now do. I will give here one of the many cases of restoration to health from this exercise that have come under my notice : A lady (whose name I will omit) came into my riding-park in a hack from her home about a mile distant. I arranged a stand so that she could step upon it, and sit down in the saddle without any effort. I led the horse around at a walking pace for about twenty minutes, when she dis- mounted quite exhausted, and was taken home. The next day she came again in the carriage and took another short lesson, and so continued to do three or four times a week for about four months. During this time she gained in strength to such an extent that at the expiration of the time she rode by car to Boston, a distance of twenty-five miles, did some shopping, thence to Cambridge to dine with her mother, and then returned home and rode ten miles on horseback. At the end of her ride she said to me, " I feel no more fatigued than I did this morning when I started for Boston." This is only one of the many cases that have come un- der my observation of regaining health from this exercise. Let every one have good practical training if possible, but get the exercise at all events, if you cannot have the train- ing. In corroboration of what Mr. Robinson says on the ben- eficial effects of horseback riding, I copy the following par- agraphs from a valuable little work on " Horseback Riding from a Medical Standpoint," by Dr. Durant, of New York : PRACTICAL HINTS. 361 " Horseback riding, as we have seen, is one of the most ener- getic modifiers of the circulation ; it distributes the blood equally to every part of the capillary net-work, giving to each part its due proportion, by maintaining a due tension in every part by equalizing the temperature ; it prevents equally ansemia and hy- persemia, and sanguineous stagnation, by the impulsion which it gives to the circulatory phenomena, and aids nutrition by the ac- celeration of the respiratory and digestive phenomena. It is by its effect upon the reactions of the blood to the nervous system that horseback riding produces such a happy influence. " The effect of horseback riding upon the functions of the sys- tem, is especially remarkable upon that of digestion. It stimu- lates the appetite, excites and perfects digestion, favors absorp- tion in fact, to use a trivial expression, ' it makes the bits go down/ These are not the only results of the new energy im- parted to the functions which we have studied, all of which con- cur in the accomplishment of this special one ; it exercises a special influence upon the muscular fibre of the coats of the stomach and the intestines. These viscera may be considered as fairly sus- pended in the abdominal cavity, where they are barely held and limited in their movements by the folds of the peritoneum. Each shock from the horse shakes them and makes them roll, as it were, upon each other, and causes the changes in the relations of the convolutions of the intestines. These shocks and knocks and rub- bings act as a mechanical excitant upon the muscular fibre, which in consequence contracts with more energy, preserving, however, the peculiar character of the fibre-cells ; that is, of contracting slowly and successively ; the action of the fibre being increased and tlie peristaltic contractions acquiring more power, there re- sults from it a more intimate mixture of the juices and aliments in the stomach, a more perfect chymification of the food, and a more prompt and complete absorption of matters already digested ; and, lastly, all those which have as yet escaped the process are brought into the portions of the intestines where their metamor- phosis is effected." CHAPTER XIII. SUBJECTION. IN this chapter I wish to embody explanations which I could not well give in other parts ; it may also be considered as a continuation of the first chapter. The first account I find of any one taming a horse is FIG. 252. The leg tied up, and surcingle on. that of Alexander the Great, when a boy of seventeen, taming Bucephalus. The story, as recorded, is as follows : A horse was offered for sale to Philip of Macedon, who, perceiving he was unmanageable, ordered him to be taken (362) HISTOKICAL FACTS. 363 out of camp. Young Alexander, observing that the horse was simply frightened by his shadow, took him by the head and moved him about so that he could not see it, jumped upon his back and let him run. The whole camp was alarmed for the safety of the young prince borne oif on the furious horse. But nothing could be done, as the horse soon distanced all pursuers ; and when, a short time afterward, Alexander rode into camp entirely unharmed, with the horse gentle and manageable, the surprise and gratification of all were great. The horse had simply been allowed to run until exhausted, when he became manageable. The same method of subjection, with some slight varia- tions, is still prac- ticed by the peo- ple Of South Amer- Fi^-The Leg-strap. ica, and by the Indians of our Western Plains. On the pampas the horse is caught with a lasso, thrown to the ground, his head cov- ered with a blanket, when a bridle with a powerful bit and a saddle are put on. He is then mounted, the blanket pulled off, and the horse in his fear runs or bucks until ex- hausted, in his endeavor to throw his rider. He is then turned about and ridden into camp, the hair of his tail squared oif to indicate that he is broken, and he is again turned loose. The Indians of our Western plains catch the horse with a lasso, and with a small hair or raw-hide rope form a noose around the lower jaw for a bridle, mount, and let the horse run until exhausted. Cold-blooded horses may be subdued with considerable success by this means, but those of a warm-blooded, courageous nature, if given freedom to run in this way, would be liable to go until they dropped dead, 364 SUBJECTION. or until the constitution was so seriously injured as to ruin them. Any method of lowering the vitality will make a horse gentle, such as physicking, bleeding, tying down, depriving of water, food, sleep, subjecting to intense pain, etc., which can be carried to any extent desired ; but the trouble is that when the horse regains his strength, or recovers from the FIG. 254. The horse ready to be thrown. effects of the pain, he is liable to become as bad as be- fore. By disabling any part of the body, there will be pro- duced a corresponding sense of helplessness and submission. For example, tying one ear down or twisting it is regarded by many as quite a secret to make a horse stand to be shod. It is quite a trick among many jockeys, in driving a kicker, to tie the tail to the crosspiece, or forward by a string to the belly-band, having discovered that a horse will not kick if the tail is disabled or cannot be raised. It is on this HISTOKICAL FACTS. 365 principle that many headstrong horses can be driven gentle by checking the head high. A man named ZDICIEC who had considerable notoriety as a horse-tamer in England nearly one hundred years ago, based his whole success in the management of horses upon ty- ing up the fore leg, when he would mount and ride the FlG ' 255 - The Foot - 8trap use(L horse until gentle. Disabling, or tying up both fore legs, and throwing the horse down, carried this principle to still greater perfection. The first published account I find of this method of subjugation being practiced was by a man named who lived in Stanton-le-Vale, Lincolnshire, England. This man had quite a local reputation for his power over horses. A correspondent of " Bell's Life," published in London, who gave Bull one guinea to teach him the secret, described his method as follows : First, buckle a surcingle around the body ; second, tie up the fore leg by buckling a strap tightly around the foot and fore-arm ; next, attach a strap to the off fore foot, bring it over the horse's back, and grasp it firmly with the right hand. With the left, catch the near rein of the bridle, and pull the head around toward you. When the horse is made to step, pull the foot from under him, bringing him on his knees, when in a short time he will lie down ; this was the whole secret. In the account, the correspondent referred to Bull's control of several horses, making them lie down, get up, etc., at command. 366 SUBJECTION. We also learn that about the year 1800 a man named in Yorkshire, England, was quite celebrated for his power over horses, although he kept his method a great secret. The following account shows that his method was the same as Bull's : A correspondent in the Veterinarian, named Cas- tly, in referring to a cer- tain horse given Jumper to break, says that in ten days he brought him home perfectly sub- dued, for he would lie down, and rise again, at his command. About the same time a man named Sullivan, FIG. 256.-The Bridle used to prevent biting, better known as who lived in Mallow, in the County of Cork, Ireland, had quite a local reputation for his power over horses. His method of management was to shut himself up in a build- ing with the horse to be subdued, until he had him under control, when he would open the doors and exhibit the ef- fects of his treatment. While the horse was standing quietly, he would occasionally put his mouth to the horse's ear as if whispering something to him; hence the term H1STOEICAL FACTS. 367 " Whisperer " Sullivan. Many people, even of intelligence, supposed that Sullivan's control was supernatural. Though an ignorant man of the lowest class, and addicted to drink- ing, he was evidently a shrewd fellow in making the most of his secret. It is stated as a fact that the parish priest, whenever he saw Sullivan coming toward him in the street, believing he was in league with the devil, would cross him- FIG. 257. As the horse is liable to rear and plunge, in his resistance to being thrown. self and take the opposite side, to protect himself from his supposed satanic influence. Sullivan would not reveal his secret, but there is no doubt but that his method of treatment was the same as that practiced by Jumper and Bull. When exposed to the pub- lic, the horse was always sweaty, and exhibited the general effects of exhaustion usually produced by this method of treatment. According to report, he claimed to have ob- 368 SUBJECTION. tained the secret from a soldier who had been in service in America, in return for treating him to a gallon of porter. The first man in this country of whom I have any ac- count, claiming to have the secret of taming horses, was one named who traveled in the Southwest. But it was admitted that circus men understood and used it long before his time. He seems to have kept his knowledge a secret ; for we find that but very few obtained it of him, and those only at very large prices. The next was O. ZEC. IP. formerly of New London, Ohio. He claims to have traveled, when young, through Mexico and Texas, and to have lived for some time among the Comanchee Indians. I do not know positively whether he learned the secret of Offutt, but I so inferred. At least, he practiced the method prior to 1844, when he was quite a young man, as will be shown hereafter. But no great stir was made by any one in this field of effort until the advent of CTOZHZUST S. in England, in 1858. Rarey was the son of a country ho- tel-keeper in Central Ohio, at a place called Groveport. When of age, he went to Texas, and on his return traveled as a horse-tamer. Finally, arriving at Toronto, Canada, a gentleman named R. A. Goodenough, an American banker and produce broker, who carried on a large stock-breeding farm, became interested in his mode of treatment, and took him to England for the purpose of teaching the system. There were several circumstances which seemed to give him immediate notoriety : 1. His being permitted to give an exhibition before the queen and royal family ; 2. His HISTORICAL FACTS. bold pretensions to being able to know a horse's every thought, and to subdue any horse or animal in the world. In proof of these claims, he subdued Cruiser so that he coulcj handle him with safety before the public. This horse was said to be so vicious that an iron muzzle was kept on him, and he was shut up in a building built especially for him. He next subdued a horse called the Stafford Stallion, owned by the emperor of France, so that he was driven in the streets of Paris for two weeks by the side of a mare. FIG. 258. Usual position before being thrown. This horse was so vicious that he had killed three men, and had been kept confined in a building for two years. A still more surprising feat was the subjection of a zebra from the zoological gardens of London. So great was the interest excited among all classes in England by this apparent success, that two thousand sub- scribers were obtained to learn the secret, at $50 each. But when he came to reveal his method, it was found, or claimed, to be based wholly upon disabling and throwing the horse, the same as Bull's method, excepting that in- stead of bringing the strap which was attached to the off 2-i 370 SUBJECTION. fore leg, over the back, it was brought under the body, over the surcingle. (See cut 254.) The horse was then brought upon his knees, and held there until he would lie down, when he was handled and caressed until reconciled to the restraint and submissive to control. This treatment was so simple, and the change produced in so short a time seemed so remarkable, that it was surpris- ing, as there was no idea at that time that a horse could be FIG. 259. The horse subdued. so acted upon directly as to change his character. What little knowledge there was on the subject was possessed by but few, who kept it a great secret. The submission was all that could be desired, so far as the lying down and handling afterward while on his feet was concerned, but was not by any means sufficient in the management of bad cases (which was not explained) to hold him submissive afterward in other positions. (See first chapter, " First Method of Subjection/' also the close of this paper.) But over against these achievements were the unpleas- HISTORICAL FACTS. 371 ant facts that the cases upon which he claimed his reputa- tion, out of his hands became again as vicious as before, and that Cruiser, for this reason, was finally presented to him by the owner. In showing him in this country, as an evidence of his previously bad character, Rarey exhibited the big iron muzzle which he claimed the horse had worn before FIG. 260. The first step in the improved method of throwing. being subdued by him. I include here illustrations of the treatment, which, with the explanation given of it in the reference to Bull, will make it sufficiently clear to the reader. Notwithstanding the method was well known and taught in this country before his return, there was great curiosity among all classes to see Mr. Rarey himself illustrate the treatment; yet in spite of the most thorough and oft-re- peated trials by himself and others, there was failure to give the satisfactory results claimed and expected. 372 SUBJECTION. Although I could explain the mystery of his success in n few paragraphs, yet in consequence of the great miscon- ception in regard to it, and to the merits of his claims, I consider it necessary to give my reasons for doubting their genuineness, as well as the way I was finally able to obtain the facts. There were several points which to me would not seem to bear close investigation : First, if this treatment enabled Mr. Rarey to perform the feats claimed in Europe, why would it not, upon thorough trial by himself and others, produce the same results here upon horses only moderately vicious ? Second, Cruiser and the other cases referred to, out of his Lands became again entirely unmanageable. How was it that he could control such horses, while others, using the same treatment, utterly failed upon them? These were questions which puzzled and misled the public, making them believe, as the only reasonable explanation, that Harey had a magnetic or psychological power over horses that others did not possess, and which enabled him to con- trol them as he wished ; or that he gave them drugs, or something that gave him power to control them for the time. Another fact : Before going to Europe he made no especial reputation as a horse-tamer,* and after dissolving partnership with Mr. Goodenough in England, or after his return to this country, he made no special stir, nor did he make the improvements to be reasonably expected from a man capable of the resources and skill necessary to attain the success with which he had been credited. He simply repeated the same method of treatment, depending mainly upon the prestige of his European reputation for enlisting attention here. It also came out after his return from * During ray early professional career, I traveled over much country that had been visited by Rarey previous to his going to Europe, especially in Southern Penn- sylvania, and frequently heard of him. All the statements concerning him sub- stantially agreed in the fact that he traveled alone from town to town, with but verv indifferent success. HISTORICAL FACTS. 373 Europe, that he learned the secret of Offutt,* from the fact that Offutt sued him for revealing it, claiming large dam- ages, at first getting judgment, but upon being carried to a higher court, the judgment was reversed. In talking with Mr. Fancher about Mr. Rarey's claims, as proof that he did not originate the system, he brought FIG. 261. The second step in the improved method of throwing. Objectionable from danger of pulling the horse over backward, &c. Details explained farther on. See page 506 in Personal Experience. forward indorsements from Henry Clay, Daniel Webster, and other men of national reputation, showing that he (Fan- cher) practiced the same method as early as 1844, which was long before Harey was known. I had tried the treatment upon all sorts of horses, and had studied with close attention the effect it would produce upon horses of different temperaments and habits. While * See note on page 384. 374 SUBJECTION. it would insure considerable success in the control of some horses, it would utterly fail upon others. I was led to be- lieve that possibly there might be some secret about the treatment that I did not understand. To satisfy myself upon this point, I had a great desire to see Mr. Rarey him- self explain and illustrate it. This I was finally able to do in Pittsburg, Pa., in the early summer of 1865, when he gave a series of exhibitions there. I exhibited there FIG. 262. The method as now used, giving all the power desired to throw any horse with ease, and without danger. the week before, and remained over to see him. His ap- plication of treatment was precisely what I had long un- derstood and practiced. I next desired to see Cruiser, and study the peculiari- ties of his disposition. In 1868, when in Columbus, Ohio, and neighboring towns, I had an opportunity of submitting several of his colts to treatment. Two of them were con- idered entirely unmanageable, having resisted all efforts to HISTORICAL FACTS. 375 break them. One, an eight-year-old colt, belonging to Squire West, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio (a point twelve miles south of Columbus, on the pike), was especially vicious. This colt submitted to my treatment perfectly in less than an hour. I now went to Groveport to see Cruiser, and spent two hours studying him as he stood in his paddock. I found him a medium-sized, fine-grained horse. His head was well proportioned, wide and full between the eyes, which, though not large, were well set out on his head. The eyelids were thin, and the distance from eyes to ears noticeably short. FIG. 263. As the horse usually falls by this method. The ears were exceedingly fine, short, and pointed, and set close together, indicating, like the other parts, great sensi- bility and courage, and, if excited, great capacity for pro- longed resistance. (I give a sketch of his head, drawn un- der my direction from memory, by J. C. Beard of New York. It is not exactly the impression I had in my mind, but it is as near it as the eminent artist could catch from my description.) Though susceptible of being easily man- aged when subjected to proper treatment, such a horse I knew I could not make gentle and hold him so by the treat- ment claimed to have been .practiced upon him. And when 376 SUBJECTION. I took into consideration the character of the Stafford horse in France, which I knew to be that of a savage, bull-dog nature, and which would not by any means be amenable to such a method of treatment, also that of the zebra, a far more difficult nature to subdue, I was fully convinced that they never were controlled by the method of treatment claimed to have been practiced upon them. Also at this time and later I made careful inquiry in the neighboring towns in relation to Rarey, but could obtain no facts show- FIG. 264. Position of the horse when down. ing that he possessed any unusual aptitude or ability in the control of horses during his early career. I now desired to see Mr. Goodenough, Mr. Rarey's partner in England, from whom I hoped to obtain a clue to the matter. This I did not expect to accomplish, not know- ing whether he were in the country, or even living ; but I was finally so fortunate as to meet him under the following circumstances : In 1872 I gave test exhibitions in New York City (special reference to which is made in Personal Experience) before leading horsemen, to which Mr. Good- enough was incidentally invited by a friend. A few min- utes before commencing the exhibition, Mr. Goodenough HISTORICAL FACTS. 377 was introduced to me. I was impressed instantly, " Here is the key to the whole matter." I found him a man nearly six "feet tall, finely proportioned, of a strong, vigorous, pro- gressive nature, and just the man capable of engineering and making a success of such an enterprise. I immediately said to him that he was the man of all others I wished to see, and that I would like a few minutes' private conversa- tion with him. This he kindly granted, when I said, " There is one question I wish to ask, which vou alone can answer. You were with Mr. Rarey when he subdued Cruiser, and I would like to know just how he accomplished it ; for I am sure he never did it by the treatment he pro- fessed to have practiced upon him." Mr. G replied, " How do you know ? " I said, " I have studied Cruiser carefully, and handled several of his colts, and the treatment will not work for me with anything like such success upon a horse of that nat- ure and temperament, and I should like to know how Mr. Rarey was able to subdue him by such a method of treat- ment. It will make no difference now about the facts be- ing known, Mr. Rarey being dead." Mr. Goodenough laughed, and said, " You are right ; he did not subdue him by that treatment. We tried it thor- oughly upon him, and failed. I then advised Rarey to tie him down. We did so, and let him lie all night and the night following, when we could handle him as we pleased. This was the only alternative that suggested itself in the emergency, and we employed it." After writing the foregoing, and giving the facts to a well-known literary gentleman (Mr. Robert Bonner of New York) , explaining the importance of the discovery I had made, and adding that I intended to publish it, Mr. Bonner asked, " Is Mr. Goodenough living ? " I stated that I did not know, when he said at once, 378 SUBJECTION. " It will not do to publish it unless Mr. Goodenough is living." Not having any clue to Mr. Goodenough beyond having met him in the city eight years before, it was a matter of great difficulty to find him, and it was only after a long and diligent search that I was by the merest chance finally successful. I found him still in vigorous health at the age of seventy-two. He received me kindly, but on stating the object of my visit, he manifested a decided reluctance to say anything about the matter ; and it was only after urgently explaining to him that it was necessary, not only to the present but to future generations, that the facts should be made known ; that I wished to give in this book which I was about to publish only such simple facts as were necessary to a correct explanation of the principles of con- trolling and managing horses, and with the promise that whatever I should write upon the subject should not be pub- lished until first submitted to his inspection, that he, after two hours pleasant conversation, during which time he gave me many interesting incidents in connection with his efforts in England, gave me in substance the following state- ment : First becoming interested in Rarey's mode of treatment, and desiring to go to England for his own pleasure, and as a means more of recreation than of profit, he proposed tak^ ing Rarey to England for the purpose of teaching the sys- tem, and if successful, to divide the profits equally. Should the enterprise not pay, he was to return Rarey to this coun- try at his own expense. As a preparatory step, Mr. Good- enough had exhibitions given before the chief officers of the government, which were highly satisfactory. He then obtained letters of introduction from the Governor General of Canada to Sir Charles York of the Horse Guards of Lon- don, also to Sir Richard Airy, Quartermaster General, to HISTORICAL FACTS. 379 whom he explained what he wanted ; and by them he was in- troduced to Col. Hood, Prince Albert's Chief Equerry, who had charge of the Queen's farm at Windsor, and Lord Al- fred Paget, the Queen's First Equerry, who were made confidants, and to whom the system was previously ex- plained. By them he was introduced to the Queen and royal family, before whom he performed upon a four-year- old colt from the Queen's farm, and also upon other horses. These gentlemen permitted their names to be used in the London Times as reference for the faithful performance of what was promised. Books were now opened at Tatersall's for subscriptions to learn the system, and two thousand names, comprising the nobility of England, were obtained, at ten guineas each. The first lesson was given at the Duke of Wellington's private riding school, upon Cruiser. The facts in relation to Cruiser and his subjection were as follows : He was owned by Lord Dorchester, and had been vicious from a colt. He was kept for breeding pur- poses at Morrel Green, forty-one miles from London, in a building erected especially for him. He had on a simple watering-bridle, to which were attached two chains, each about twelve inches long, having buckles on the ends. The door of his stable was cut in two, and when they intended to lead him out for use, they opened the lower half and put in a bucket of water for him to drink. When he plunged his nose into the bucket to drink, they would quickly buckle to these chains two straps, each twenty feet long, when he could easily be led out between two men. I asked Mr. Goodenough, " What about the big iron muzzle which it was claimed Cruiser had worn ? " He laughed, and said, " That was all advertising decep- tion. I had nothing to do with that. There was no muz- zle at all on him." 380 SUBJECTION. He leased the horse for six months by the payment of 100, stipulating that he should break the horse, arid re- turn him in good order. Should he fail, he was to pay 500, which he subsequently paid Lord Dorchester, and brought the horse to America. Not wishing to follow the plan of the grooms in taking him from the stable, they devised the following one, and nearly failed. They backed a cart up near the door, and tried by various means to attach the straps to the bridle ; but after an hour's effort, failed. Finally, while Mr. Good- enough stood in the cart and attracted the attention of the horse as he stood near the door, Rarey succeeded in slipping the strap over the leg and arm. Once on three legs, he was speedily brought under control by throwing. He was now led into the yard on three legs, and Lord Dorchester mounted him. They now repeated the treatment out of doors. The horse finally becoming greatly excited, re- sisted with the greatest fury, to use Mr. Goodenough's ex- pression, " fairly roaring." At this point, when failure was inevitable, Mr. Good- enough suggested the only means of success available, tying down, and letting him remain until exhausted and submissive. He was accordingly led into the stable again ? his fore-legs tied up, and he was thrown down, a collar put on, and his hind legs tied forward to it. In this condition he was left until the next morning, when they gave him water while down ; but behaving gentle, he was released. They now fed and groomed him carefully, and led him be- hind a dog-cart to London, forty-one miles. To make sure, that night they tied him down again, when afterward he could be managed without difficulty. After this, Rarey handled and trained him every day for two weeks, when he had him under such good control that he could stand in the ring, and by calling, the horse would come out of his stall to him. HISTORICAL FACTS. 381 The Stafford horse was the worst one they handled. It was only after being subjected to treatment in the most thorough and persevering manner, and being tied down ten nights in succession, that they could, by using the greatest precaution, handle him with any degree of safety. The zebra was tied down every night for two weeks. Of course all this was kept a profound secret. In all critical cases, they invariably handled the horse in private until successful. Cruiser and the other horses were handled al- most daily for two weeks, to insure their reliable manage- ment when in public. Another fact was not known ; namely, that the entire subjection of the zebra, and almost the entire work of sub- duing the Stafford horse, was done by Mr. Goodenough. At the conclusion of the interview, the writer asked, "Who wrote the three principles upon w r hich it was assumed the system was founded ? " His answer was, " Oh, I fixed those up." c%0 folegoing- na& foen &umtffod fo me fol ivvi&ion and vottvction, and J find it u famftfo statement o New York, w _ June 2c7, 1881. ' / ~^/}^ I would call special attention to the far-reaching skill and boldness of conception exhibited by Mr. Goodenough in the management of every detail of the enterprise, with- out which, success would have been impossible. First, in creating such great interest in and attention to their efforts ; second, the ingenuity capable of suggesting such means of management as would give success ; third, the skill and care with which every point of weakness was guarded and concealed until he had accomplished his purpose. This 382 SUBJECTION. certainly, when calmly considered, was one of the boldest and best executed feats of management ever accomplished in any field of effort, and justly entitles him to whatever success or honor there was in the achievement. It struck me as of great interest to give a portrait of Mr. Goodenough in connection with his statement, and I re- MR. R. A. GOODENOUGH At the age of 72. quested his permission to do so. This he at first, in the most positive terms, declined to permit, but finally, after much persuasion, and as a matter of personal favor, it was granted. As before explained, any method of lowering the strength or vitality, such as bleeding, starving, depriving of sleep, etc., will give power to subdue the horse to any de- gree for the time ; yet after the strength is regained, the character is liable to become as bad as before. This is. proved by the cases referred to again becoming vicious. HISTORICAL FACTS. 383 The Allegan horse, " Case No. 9, Subjection," was starved to the point of helplessness, with other extreme treatment, without being able to hold him gentle ; yet after a course of proper subjective treatment, he was held gentle without difficulty. The Hillman horse, " Case No. 7, Sub- jection," is another striking case. The most severe treat- ment failed to hold him gentle. If necessary, the same could be said about many other cases, showing such limited imperfect methods to be entirely inferior to the regular treatment here given. As to the method claimed to have been used (disabling and throwing) , it was good so far as it went, but it did not go far enough. This can be better understood when it is learned there was but one method of treatment, " throwing," for all kinds of horses, from the green colt that had never been handled, to the old horse of the worst character ; all were treated alike. Of course it is easy to disable and throw a horse until he will not resist, so far as the act of throwing is concerned, but if the horse, after being thrown, persists in the habit, which may be expected in bad cases, it will fail. But even this principle of subjection we have now so far improved upon as to make it immeasurably more direct and powerful in effect. If in wrestling a man could be thrown directly upon his back as fast as he could get up, it is evident a much more effectual impression of his antagonist's mastery would be made than if he were permitted to carry on a doubtful struggle for half an hour, that would only occasionally bring him to his knees. The very doubtfulness of the contest would stimulate him to the utmost resistance until exhausted. But if he were thrown at once, and as often as he could get up, his courage and confidence would be at once broken up, convincing him of the uselessness of con- tinuing the struggle, and making the impression of mastery 384 SUBJECTION. all that could be desired. The effect upon the horse is the same. If the control is made direct and positive, throwing the horse on his side as often as he can get up, the confi- dence which stimulates the resistance is quickly broken up. Now this we are able to do by the improvement given in the First Method, which gives such power that any or- dinary man can throw the strongest horse as quickly and as often as he can get up ; in addition, he can hold him down or roll him back, as he pleases, thereby making it not only far more effective, but entirely obviating the ob- jections of the old method. Yet even with this great ad- vantage, it is seen that this method constitutes but a small part of my system, and is far inferior to the other methods introduced. The ease and success with which the character of a wild or vicious horse can be changed when subjected to the proper method of treatment is wonderful. For example, a wild, unbroken colt that it would be dangerous to touch or even approach, and which it would be entirely impossi- ble to control in harness, can, by ten to thirty minutes' ju- dicious, subjective treatment, be made just as manageable and gentle as any well-broken horse. Or a runaway kicker that has become afraid of the wagon, and perhaps so vicious in his resistance as to be entirely unmanageable, can, by a NOTE. In March, 1883, after the foregoing statement was in type, the writer visited New York City for the purpose of having new illustrations made, and obtain- ing assistance in the preparation of the medical department of this work. While there, he was incidentally informed by a prominent gentleman to whom lie submitted the proof-sheet of the article, that the facts concerning Rarey's being taught bv Offutt would be found in the issue of Turf, Field, and Farm of Jan. 4, 1878. To prove the assertion, the gentleman sent to the office of that paper for the files con- taining the issue in question, and read the article. It comprised an interesting ac- count of a visit by the editor, Mr. Busbey, to Mr. A. Keene Richards, at the home of the latter gentleman, at Blue Grass Park, near Georgetown, Ky. At the close of this chapter (page 449) I give the substance of their conversation in relation to the matter, as an introduction to an extract from Mr. Offutt's book, which clearly shows that Rarey received his knowledge from Denton Offutt. EFFECTS OF TEEATMENT. 385 little treatment, seldom requiring more than twenty or thirty minutes, be made so gentle as to submit even to have the cross-piece come against the quarters, a test that only horses of the very best character will bear. This is strikingly illustrated in the ease with which the most stubborn horse can by a few minutes' treatment be made, without the least restraint of halter or bridle, to fol- low or run after the trainer with the docility and obedience of a pet. It is also shown in the ease with which a nerv- ous, excitable horse can be made indifferent to an object FIG. 265. Effect of good FIG. 266. Effect of bad influence:. influences. that had previously induced in him the greatest terror. But it 13 mainly interesting as contrasting the facility and ease with which even horses of extremely bad character can be made entirely gentle when treated properly, with the diffi- culty of doing it when the treatment is not right ; show- ing conclusively that the main causes of trouble in the con- trol and management of horses are ignorance and bad treat- ment. Properly considered, the art of taming and teaching horses consists in appealing to or acting upon the brain most forcibly in the desired direction. This can be done with great success, even without the use of much physical 25 386 SUBJECTION. force. Every one knows that a single word may often be sufficient to make such an impression upon the brain as not only to destroy all kindly feeling, but to perpetuate the greatest enmity ever afterward ; also that character is formed by the influences to which the mind is subjected. This is proved by the fact that children, and those ex- posed to coarse or abusive influences, have the stamp of that character predominant, while those subject to kind, in- telligent treatment have the better nature developed ; also that even the most intelligent men and women can have FIG. 267. Effect of good education FIG. 268. Effect of bad education and influences. and influences. the mind so perverted and weakened by the use of narcot ics or unnatural stimulants, such as tobacco, opium, alcoholic liquors, etc., as to make it very difficult to overcome the habit. I give a series of illustrations showing the contrasts of character, the results of good and bad influences, for which I am indebted to the courtesy of Messrs. Fowler & Wells, of New York City. On the same principle, the horse can be influenced in the formation of his character for good or bad, by the treat- ment to which he is subjected. "We see that the impres- sion of even a few moments is sometimes sufficient of itself to change the whole character for life. This is shown by the EFFECTS OF TREATMENT. 387 ease with which many fine horses, though previously of the very best character, have been changed into dangerous, unreliable brutes, by a little carelessness which allowed them to run away, or by abusive treatment which aroused the temper into uncontrollable resistance, making them after- ward practically unsafe and worthless for use. And on the same principle, when understood and properly applied, a bad character can be neutralized and overcome so as to establish a reliable condition of docility, as shown and FIG. 269. Result of good FIG. 270. Result of bad influences. influences. j proved in the many cases recorded in this and other chap- ters of this work. The better to explain this, I give a variety of illustra- tions showing the effects of bad treatment and intensely exciting influences upon the nervous system. Understand- ing these principles and applying them properly, it is often wonderful to what a degree the brain can be acted upon in making a horse either gentle or vicious ; showing that it is not only not difficult, but even easy, to make the most vicious, unmanageable horses as gentle and obedient to control as if they had always been of the best character. It is a recognized fact that the horse partakes largely of the character of the owner. If he is kind and gentle, 388 SUBJECTION. the horse, on coining under such influences, though pre- viously nervous and difficult to manage, soon becomes do- cile and gentle; while an irritable, passionate or impulsive man will often speedily impart the same characteristics t<* the animal he undertakes to manage. To explain the principles governing these conditions, we will presume to make a few simple experiments. First : suppose a horse resists being shod ; if the foot were taken up very gently, lifted higher, and gradually using more force as there is sufficient power acquired to hold and re- strain it, until submitted to be pounded upon without ex- citing resistance, the success in the management of th^ FIG. 271. Effect of goodinflu- FIG. 272. Effect of bad influ- ences and training. ences and training. case would be easy and simple. But if there is not suffi- cient tact and delicacy in taking up the foot, or the resist- ance becomes so great that it is pulled away, the treat- ment, no matter how successful up to this point, would not only be a failure, but to some extent make the horse worse by teaching him his power of resistance. It would be necessary in such a case to use such simple or direct means of control as will enable holding and restraining the foot most easily ; but in the event of the resistance becom- ing so great that the foot cannot be held or controlled, then the restraint should be made of such a character as to first enforce general submission, when, if necessary, the treatment can be again carried directly to the foot, when EFFECTS OF TBEATMEXT. 389 the control can be made easy and simple. In this we find there are two principles involved: 1. Tact and judgment to hold the inclination to resistance passive until the atten- tion and confidence can be won, or until there is submis- sion; 2. In using means of subjection, or force, to make ev- ery step of progress so sure that resistance cannot be suc- cessfully made until all inclination to repeat the habit is overcome. Next, in the case of a wild, unbroken colt, to gradually overcome his fear by working indirectly to the point of his resistance until he becomes submissive. For example : If, FIG. 273. Expression of FIG. 274. Expression of kindness and love. disgust and hate. after haltering, a pole were brought gently to the nose until there is no fear of it, then passed back slowly, at the same time gently rubbing the mane and other parts until it can be passed around the quarters without excit- ing his resistance, it would be just as good, if not better, than if subjected to more severe treatment. But if he re- sists, or is so vicious that he will not submit to this treat- ment, then he must be subjected to such treatment as will most directly neutralize and restrain his resistance until this can be done and the impression made permanent, when but little difficulty will be experienced in enforcing docil- ity in even the most vicious cases. 390 SUBJECTION. The principle is the same in the management of kick- ing, runaway, biting, striking horses, as well as horses of other peculiarities of resistance, the point being, first, to use tact in addressing the animal's intelligence without ex- citing his fear, or to the least possible degree, and, as in the examples referred to, resorting to such means of re- straint or power to impress the brain sufficiently, without in- jury, to compel obedience, and fix the condition of docil- ity, more or less being necessary to be done, according to the severity of the case. Although I have given in the FIG. 275. Primary effects of intemperance. first chapter very full details of the principles and best methods of doing this, which, with the details of their ap- plication for the management of the various habits, to be found in subsequent chapters, should make it sufficiently clear to the reader, still I think there are some points that require in this connection more full explanation. I would allude particularly to the necessity for adapting treatment to conditions of intelligence and character, the importance of not neutralizing or counteracting the effects of the treat- ment by exciting resistance, the effect of drugs, inherent power, etc. The study of physiology teaches that the primary units, or protoplasm, are in all cases the same; that each peculi- KEVIEW OF SYSTEM. 391 arity of action or sense is governed by aggregations of these, called nerve centers; that, for example, the nerve centers controlling the senses of smelling, tasting, feeling, seeing, balancing, etc., are at the back part or base of the brain ; that the power and activity of these senses are in all cases governed by the strength and activity of such ganglia of nerves. Thus, a hound that follows the scent, or a bird- dog that has the power of smelling game at a distance, has large development of the olfactory nerve ; while the grey- hound, eagle, vulture, etc., that depend upon seeing game FIG. 276. Ultimate effects of intemperance. at a great distance, have large development of the optic nerve; and others that depend for safety upon hearing, have large development of the auditory nerve. Thus ev- ery peculiarity of animal nature has some special excellence of power, adapted either to aggression or defense. The bee has its sting, the viper its fangs, the bull its horns, and the horse bites, strikes, kicks, etc. The front brain, or cerebrum, gives the power of sense, or reason, and animals of but small brain have but very little capacity for being trained or taught, while those hav- ing considerable brain can be easily taught. For example, a fish has very little or no brain, and cannot be taught any- 392 SUBJECTION. FIG. 277. Expression of aggressive viciousness. thing, while a dog, elephant, or other animal that has con- siderable development of brain, can easily be taught a great deal. In like manner there are greater or less degrees of a natural tendency in horses to viciousness and resist- ance, imposing more or less difficulty in their subjec- tion. Twenty horses may kick or run away, and so far as the act of resistance is concerned, there is prac- tically little or no differ- ence. One horse may yield to treatment in a few min- utes, the next may require a much longer time, while the third, though subjected to the same treatment, can perhaps be controlled only after hours of extreme effort. Consequently, success in the subjection of any par- ticular case, or in over- coming any special habit, must depend, first, upon the amount and quality of the brain; second, the de- gree to which the nervous system has been impressed or deranged ; third, upon the pluck and endurance of the horse ; and fourth, the directness and power with which the resistance can be restrained or controlled, and the skill with which the treatment is applied. FIG. 278. Expression of docility. KEVIEW OF SYSTEM. 393 FIG. 279. Expression of viciousuess. It is evident that a very timid, sensitive nature, which is moved entirely by fear, can be controlled best by patient, winning treatment, while a stubborn, aggressive type of character must be met by force, or the fear of punish- ment. Hence, in propor- tion to the predominance of these peculiarities there must be force, or winning treatment, or both com- bined. To illustrate: A sheep or gazelle, or any an- imal of that nature, can be managed best by gentle, winning treatment. To ex- cite them in any way would undo the effect of a great deal of patient work, while the bear, hog, mule, and kin- dred natures, will bear force ; and punishment in many instances be- comes a necessary condition of their management. The horse possesses, to a singular degree, these, with other remarkable modifications of character, not only making a combination of kindness and force necessary, but this force must be of a char- acter not to excite pain, or to stimulate the bad nature, as this but neutralizes or counteracts the effects of good treatment. This is particularly the case when there is much sensitiveness, or where there is much tendency to the strong, wild, FIG. '380. Expression of kindness. 394 SUBJECTION. courageous type of nature. These conditions show that no matter how good and perfect the treatment, , success must depend greatly upon the skill and judgment of the trainer in properly adapting the efforts to the conditions of the case. First, these conditions require enforcing submission be- fore the horse becomes greatly excited and warmed up. Should there be failure before this is accomplished, the dif- FIG. 281. Expression of rage and fear. ficulty of making him surrender unconditionally will be greatly increased. Second, the horse must be made to understand the harm- less character of objects and sounds forced upon his notice, until intelligently reconciled to them. Third, the co-operation of his intelligence and better nature must be won by kindness to permanently fix the impression of control. In doing this, we see that so far as we can show a horse in any way that we are master, lie will become submissive and gentle. Thus by disabling and throwing until he is so discouraged that he will not try to resist, he will become gentle to handle ; but if he is allowed KEYIEAV OF SYSTEM. 395 **" ' to get up immediately and move about at will, he may again resist with the greatest courage. To make him reliably gentle upon his feet, he must be controlled in this position also. For exam- ple, should he re- sist the bit and run away, subject- ing him to any treatment short of direct control of the mouth, and that at the time and in the position of his resistance, would be defective or entirely useless. OH the same principle, should the horse kick, balk, or show any other bad habit, sufficient power must be used to com- bat or overcome these habits direct- ly, or there cannot be assurance of suc- cess. Of course it is easy, in a general way, to subdue a horse; but the diffi- culty is to do it so as not to excite his resistance, or to do him any physical injury. In teaching a colt to lead by the halter, or follow, if the pull is brought upon the head sideways, his power of re- sistance in this direction becomes so lessened that he can FIG. 283. Expression of nervous excitability. 396 SUBJECTION. be pulled around instantly and easily, and he can soon be taught to come around and follow without resistance. But if this cannot be done with the halter, increase the power of pulling by means of the War Bridle, or decrease the power of resistance by tying up one foot. If, on the other hand, the pulling were made straight ahead, which is the more common method, the work will be done at a great disadvantage, because in this way we stimulate resistance, if we do not give power successfully FIG. 284. Effect of intense fear. to resist us. This mode of pulling would retard, if not wholly neutralize, the effort to control the horse, as he would now involuntarily draw backward, bracing himself with his legs, thus increasing his power of resistance, which soon shows him there is not sufficient strength to move him. Hence the necessity of combating the resistance in such a way as not to permit this to be done. Either or both the methods combined will give sufficient power to compel his following without causing him injury. The principle is the same in combating a habit, or viciousness of any character. But should the resistance REVIEW OF SYSTEM. 397 be so great that it cannot be overcome by simple treatment, then the more direct means of obtaining power must be used, such as the various methods of general subjection, using one or more, according to the character of the case. The art of taming horses, or the principles of subjection, may be divided into four general classes. The one entitled the First Method of Subjection, in the first chapter, is the most sensational, and is based upon making the horse par- tially helpless by tying up the fore leg, and throwing. This, though necessarily limited in its effects, when prop- erly done is a valuable method of subjection. Throwing him repeatedly and rapidly as often as he can get up, and rolling him back until he gives up unconditionally, is the full extent of the power of this method. If the horse be of a nature to submit fully to this method, the result will be very satisfactory ; if not, it should be followed by the other methods. The second, called the Second Method of Subjection, is simpler, and is based upon the principle of preventing the horse from concentrating his purpose to act until he can be rendered helpless, and be subdued. In the subjection of colts and some strong, dangerous young horses, that, when approached, strike and kick, and upon which it would be not only extremely difficult, but dangerous, to try the other methods, this method will be found especially effective. It is also a reliable reserve to be used in connection with the other methods, particularly the first, or in effecting control when the others prove inadequate. It gives the true key for breaking single balkers, as it not only gives power to move the horse at will, but disconcerts the mind from the purpose of resisting, by the confusion it causes. This form of subjection, simple as it is, requires very nice discrimination to bring out its full effects, especially in the management of very bad cases ; for if not carried far 398 SUBJECTION. enough, there is liability of failure, and even when carried to the fullest extent of its power, there may in some cases be resistance to it. These are usually cases that, when warmed up or handled carelessly, become desperate in their resistance before being made to yield. The point in the management of such is to follow with the Third Method,, which will usually make the horse submit. But if there is much resistance to it, after cooling off, another sharp or short lesson with this will rarely fail to produce uncon- ditional submission. Third, by pressure upon the spinal cord, which grasps, as it were, and holds in subjection at will, the very life of the horse. This is called the Third Method of Subjection. It will be found especially adapted to the subjection of nervous-tempered horses that will not bear excitement. For example, a horse that in an attempt to throw would be- come so irritated and excited as to jump and resist so much as to endanger straining, or if subjected to the Second Method would go so quickly as to be liable to fall down directly, or be made to yield only after the most severe effort, will usually submit readily to this method of treat- ment. If a kicker in harness, that exhibits fear when any- thing is brought near or against his quarters, subjecting him to pressure of about three cords, and touching the quar- ters gently with a pole until indifferent to its contact, will usually compel submission in a few minutes. Horses of an ordinary bad character submit in from eight to twelve min- utes, but exceptionally bad cases may resist it thirty min- utes, even with the use of four cords (100 feet) ; but in all cases it can be supplemented by the other methods. One important point I wish to impress is that whatever is intended to be done with this method, must be done at once, and carried to the fullest extent that the horse will bear. If he resists it, it must at once be abandoned, EEYIEW OF SYSTEM. 399 because it is liable to make the cheeks more or less sore ; also the effect is not satisfactory when repeated next day, or at any time afterward ; so that if the point is not made at once, other treatment must be resorted to. I seldom use this method in the management of colts, because they are liable to bite, or chew the lips or cheeks. In their management, the Second Method, in connection with the War Bridle, is far more simple and easy. Occa- sionally an old horse will do this, and may resist the treat- ment violently, and become much excited over it. In such a case it must be at once abandoned. Next come the various modifications of the War Bridle, which give all the power necessary to subdue and control more than half of the average of vicious colts and horses. It is all that is necessary for nearly all horses bad to shoe, harness, etc., and is by far the best means of teaching a horse to lead or follow. It is one of the most effective means of overcoming the habit of balking. Though a minor method of subjection, I regard it so important that I have given a careful explanation of it, very fully illustrated. The Breaking Bit and Patent Bridle are equally impor- tant in their places. The Breaking Bit, without doing in- jury, gives power to train the mouth so that it will yield to an ordinary bit. The Patent Bridle was invented by me for the purpose of enabling persons lacking in practical experience, to directly control headstrong, lunging, runa- way horses. In the first place, the extra adjustment over the upper jaw gives such power upon the mouth that the most reckless horse cannot successfully pull against it, and he will in a short time be so unnerved as to become sub- missive to a slack rein. Secondly, the pressure upon the spinal cord is so intense that courage to pull cannot be maintained for any length of time. When he gives up, it becomes simply a common bit in his mouth, but ready to 400 SUBJECTION. instantly bring to bear the same terrible pain and power before felt. I also give illustrations of very powerful but simple means of controlling headstrong horses by the Half- Moon and other bits. I call attention in a general way to the application of these methods, because much depends both upon the way they are used for cases to which they are specially adapted, and in properly following with the next best suited to the case. When the case is critical, an important point is to make every step of the treatment sure, and to vary it all the horse will bear ; for the more ways in which power to enforce obedience can be applied, the more impressive and enduring will be the effect. Consequently, if the case be bad, it may be necessary to apply two, or even all three, of the methods of subjection. Suppose the case to be a bad, young, kicking horse, the First Method will usually be found applicable; he would be likely to resist the Second too severely to make it successful. The best course would be to send him around a few times, enough to take off the wire edge of his courage, then put on the throwing rig, and throw him rapidly eight or a dozen times, when his subjec- tion will be easy and simple. When on his feet, and espe- cially when driven around in harness, if it is discovered that he is yet so sensitive as to be liable to kick or break over, the Second or Third Method should at once be used. Not unfrequently both will be necessary. The First will do no good if repeated, for the reason that the horse will lie down, and remain passive while down, but when up may kick as viciously as before. Sometimes the Third Method may be tried, and the horse not submit to it uncondition- ally ; then the Second or First are to be tried. The differ- ence between the First and Second is that the First cannot be repeated with success, while the Second can be ; and usually in very bad cases I hold the Second as the reserve EEYIEW OF SYSTEM. 401 power. As explained in the first chapter, it will not do to use the First Method on a sullen or sulky horse. He will usually drop down upon his belly, not trying to get up. In such a case dependence must be placed upon the Second and Third alternately. The mustang, of a wild, dangerous nature, cannot be safely approached and subjected to the Third Method, be- cause he would strike the moment approached. If a rig could be put on, and the foot tied up (which would be very difficult to do), the instant freedom is given again he would be likely to bound into the air, or drop down sullenly upon his belly, either doing nothing or acting like a desperate maniac. For such the Second Method would be just the thing. It requires very little effort to tie the halter into the tail, and send around until helplessly dizzy, when the subjection of the case becomes simple and easy. A wild mule, that cannot be safely touched, can frequently be made entirely gentle in a few minutes in this way, and after this treatment, if necessary, the other methods can be used. If space permitted, these explanations might be ex- tended indefinitely. But whatever the success of the direct treatment, it is important to hold the advantage gained, by kind and careful after-treatment, because upon kindness must depend fixing and holding the impression made upon the brain by the previous treatment. Without this, it is practi- cally impossible to hold a very vicious horse gentle. It is, of course, easy enough to compel obedience by force, or by reducing the strength ; but unless the incentive to resist- ance is overcome, which must really be done by kindness, the instinct of viciousness is liable to again gain the ascend- ency. The importance of this is repeatedly urged in the previous chapters. Without this, the best results of direct subjection can easily be neutralized, and the horse be per- jnitted to go back into his old habits. Should this occur, 26 402 SUBJECTION. the difficulty of his subjection would be greatly increased, as such failures teach the horse to become cunning, and give him confidence to fight back at every opportunity. This is the reason why I refused to handle the Portland horse "Jet" (Case 7, Subjection), until I could remain in the city long enough to see that the after-treatment was properly carried out. Without this care, there would have been failure. It was the main key of making the " Arnd" horse, of Bath, N. Y., gentle. I refer to these as good rep- resentative cases ; for without this care neither of these horses could have been held gentle, and it is equally im- portant in the management of all cases. The great power and effectiveness of these methods when properly applied, will enable the trainer to easily and safely control the most powerful horses to any extent desired. This is proved by the success of my experiments upon all kinds of horses which had resisted all previous ef- forts to break. Reference to a few representative cases will be found at the close of this chapter. The subjection of Wild Pete," the " Hettrick Horse," "Wilkins Horse," "Omnibus Horse," "Portland Horse Jet," and many others that might be named, equally vicious, when the character of the horses, and the shortness of the time required to produce the changes, are considered, may seem to border so closely upon the miraculous as to appear incredible; yet these results were accomplished simply by the skillful application of the methods of treatment here given. Many people suppose there is a medicine or something of the kind that will make vicious horses gentle, or enable their control at will. Sometimes, when unusually success- ful in the subjection of an exceptionally vicious horse or colt, though the treatment had been carefully explained to the class, the result would appear so wonderful that they HEDICINES, OB DRUGS. 403 could not realize how such a change could be brought about by the treatment employed. It was not unusual to have persons smell of my hands or clothing to see if they could discover some peculiar odor about me to account for so great an achievement. On this account, I think it advisable to explain what medicines are supposed to do this, and their effects. The main object in the use of odors, or scents, has been to attract attention, and divert it from the real means of control. Many odors, or scents, will in some instances affect the nervous system greatly. Blood, a buffalo robe, or any offensive odor, will intensely excite many horses. In trapping for mink or other animals, it is no uncommon thing for the hunter to conceal the smell of his hands from the trap, and attract the animal to it by using some odor that is agreeable to him. Asafetida put on the bottom of the boots will cause wolves to follow the wearer eagerly. While this is admitted, there is no odor or medicine that I know of and I have experimented carefully with all those supposed to have this power, without obtaining decidedly satisfactory results that will make a wild horse approach- able and induce him to follow, or make a vicious horse gentle. What is supposed to be the great medicine for doing this is called the "Arabian secret," which consists of two parts of the oil of rhodium, and one each of cumin and anise, to be kept in separate bottles and corked tightly; but practically it makes no difference whether they are kept separate or not. A little of this is to be rubbed on the hands, and while held before the horse, approach from the windward side; when near enough, rub a little on his nose, when the horse, it is claimed, will follow anywhere. Other essential oils are recommended for the same purpose, but their effect is really no better than good apples or any- 404 SUBJECTION. thing of which the horse is fond. Warts or ostlets, grow- ing on the inside of a horse's leg, dried, and pulverized with a coarse rasp or grater, and about a thimble full blown into the nostrils, is also claimed to make any horse gentle. This is to be used in connection with the oils mentioned. The oil of parsley is sometimes used for the same purpose. A few drops are put on the hands or handkerchief, and the horse is allowed to smell of it. The perspiration from under the arms, rubbed on the horse's nose, or breathed into the nostrils from the hand, is also held as quite a secret for making a horse so gentle that he will follow Readily. Before and during the time of Rarey, parties under- standing the secret of " throwing," usually managed as follows : Force the horse to lie down on the barn floor until submissive ; and, while lying quietly, open the door and allow the people to come in. Under such circumstances, much curiosity will be manifested to discover what has been done. The operator now, while pretending that he is unobserved, will slip a piece of apple into the horse's mouth, and rub the hand over the nose. This will of course be observed, and when curiosity is sufficiently aroused, the pretended tamer will say, " Yes ; I have a secret scent by which any horse can be tamed, the effect of which you see." Then he will offer to sell the secret, naming a large price, but finally taking what he can get. I have found in my travels many who have paid from ten to fifty dollars for the " Arabian secret." The control was obtained by throwing. But this in itself being too simple to inspire much faith, the medicine dodge was added. * Denton Offutt's book, which I have carefully read, and the best features of which are given at the close of this chapter, contains some secrets for taming horses and other animals, for the virtues of which he claims a great deal ; but they ure practically of no more consideration than other treatment of the same kind. Still, I thought it advisable, and of sufficient interest to the curious, to copy them verbatim, and they will be found embodied, in this work, MEDICINES, OK DKUGS. 40.') The man who was most instrumental in teaching this method of " throwing," was Mr. 0. H. P. Fancher, before referred to, who claimed to have given Rarey instructions on the practical application of the method of subjection which he practiced. In 1865 and '66, I traveled through his section of country, and hired to him one of my horses trained to drive without reins, when he took the road, teaching my system, and abandoned the medicine scheme. Catlin, describing his travels among the North Ameri- can Indians, mentions the manner of their taming horses as follows : " The Indian coils his lasso on his arm and gallops fearlessly into the herd of wild horses, and soon gets it over the neck of one of the number, when he instantly dis- mounts so as to hold him down and prevent him from turning over on his back. He now gradually advances until he is able to place his hand on the animal's nose and over his eyes, and breathe into his nostrils, when the horse becomes so docile and conquered, that by removing the hobbles from the feet, he can be led or ridden into camp with very little difficulty." According to this statement, which seems reliable, covering the eyes and breathing into the nostrils of the wild horse, was the principal means of his subjection ; if true, it would be an easy and simple matter to make a vicious horse gentle. I have repeatedly tried the experiment upon all kinds of horses, and found it would not produce any appreciable effect for me, and consider it practically of no more account than merely stroking the head and nose with the hand. I might add many other pretended secrets, but none of them are worthy of much consideration. Ostlets, before referred to, taken from a vigorous horse, properly prepared and used, may produce very satisfactory results, especially 406 SUBJECTION. in the management of balkers. They should be prepared as follows : If the subject be a mare, the warts, fresh and strong, should be taken from a healthy horse. Sometimes old accumulations lose their strength, and are good for nothing. Dry the ostlets carefully, and grate them to a fine powder, and keep in an air-tight bottle. One hour before the horse is driven, blow an old-fashioned thimble full into the nostrils, and the horse will usually go off all right. This secret was given me by an old man in Western Ohio, who, with his sons, about ten years ago, was a mem- ber of my class. After taking me one side, and express- ing his appreciation of the information I had given him, he said he would give me a secret that he had practiced for forty years, and had never known it to fail. " Every one around here knows," said he, " that I can drive any balky horse, but never learned the secret of my doing it. I am now an old man of seventy-four years ; and not intending to handle any more horses, I will give it to you for your ben- efit." He said he had never in any case found it necessary to repeat it more than two or three times. Sometimes a horse that has learned to kick his mate, can be cured by giving this. It would also be good when a horse objects seriously to the scent of a buffalo robe or other object, to blow this into the nose, because it conceals the repugnant odor. It will also be found the principal ingredient in the remedy for the cure of fits. (See " Medical Department " under the head of " Miscellaneous Recipes.") I would here add that I have had so little trouble in breaking balkers by the treatment explained under that head, that I never used this ; but I have given the secret to many, and reports have been favorable. A great secret among some dog fanciers is holding a little of this in the MEDICINES, OH DRUGS. 407 hand, and letting the dog smell of it, when he will follow anywhere. The secret of the effect of these ostlets upon the horse, is undoubtedly the strong pungent odor, which has a remarkably soothing effect upon the nervous system, by which the horse is disconcerted and won from his pur- pose of resistance. It is well known that gypsies are very successful in managing vicious horses. Their method of management is to boil a plug of tobacco in a gallon of ale, until the strength is extracted, then give enough of it to make the horse so sick that he cannot resist.* He is then driven as desired, and when over the effect of it, the dose is repeated, if nec- essary. I never but once resorted to the use of medicine to control a horse before a class. When at Ho ward ? Steuben Co., N. Y., a strong, wild, unbroken colt seven years old, was the subject of experiment. At the time, I was so prostrated by ague that I was not able to give the horse sufficient treatment to drive him under canvas or in the street with safety. The class insisted upon my doing this. I therefore proposed to the owner that the colt be taken to the next town, where I would be on the following day, when I would make him drive gently, promis- ing that if I failed to do so satisfactorily, I would return them their money. Next morning I was more prostrated than be- fore, but as my failure to drive the horse in the street would necessitate a return of the money, and make it impossible for me to form a class there, I was compelled to resort to strat- egy. I directed one of my men to go to the drug store and get two ounces of tincture of lobelia, and, when free from observation, give it to the horse. In about half an hour, *This was given me by a gypsy who was a member of my class. Gypsies have been repeatedly in my classes since, and all admit that this was their principal secret. 408 SUBJECTION. when I supposed he felt the full effects, I subjected him as a matter of form to the Second Method for a few minutes, and then drove him through the streets perfectly gentle. The fact was, he had become so sick that he could not resist. I now directed the man to put him in his team and drive home. Knowing the temperament of the horse, I concluded he would submit to this means, which he did, but I resorted to it only because of my weakened condition. I was informed by the owner nearly a year afterward, that the horse remained entirely gentle, and that if I would return again to II , he would warrant me a large class. I have experimented carefully with this method of treat- ment upon a variety of cases. Sometimes it would work exceedingly well on those of a cold blooded nature, but courageous, strong-willed cases are liable, when excited, to resist it, even when given much larger doses. (Two ounces should be about the maximum dose for an ordinary sized horse.) In addition to making violently sick, it is liable to produce severe attacks of colic. One horse I experimented upon in this way became subject to colic. CONTROL BY THE EYE, OR WILL. It is supposed by many that certain persons possess a peculiar power by which they can with safety approach and control a vicious horse as if by magic. In the sense understood, this cannot be done. There is no inherent power beyond that of nerve to conceal any impression of fear or timidity, and the ability to exercise accurate judg- ment in determining what to do and how much, so as not to excite resistance until the horse is under control. For example, standing just beyond his reach, and looking fix- edly into his eye, saying with sternness, "Get around!" until he is disconcerted, then approaching the shoulder and passing the hand quickly but smoothly up to the halter or CONTROL BY THE EYE, Oil WILL. 409 bridle, thence to the nose-piece, and grasping it firmly, will enable one to approach some horses with safety, which it would be dangerous to go near without. It is an undoubted fact that a certain class of snakes can so charm birds as to disable and catch them, and there are well-authenticated cases of their charming children and men. An intelligent lady, in whom the writer has perfect confidence, stated that in two instances she had seen small birds charmed by a black snake. Once, when stepping over a log, she saw a bird in the act of flying into the open mouth of a large black snake which lay coiled upon the ground at the opposite side. I copy here another instance of this kind from the Petersburg (Va.) Index-Appeal: "THE SNAKE'S ABILITY TO CHARM. " A veritable instance of the peculiar fascination which the snake exerts, was witnessed a few days ago within a short dis- tance of our city. The gentleman who saw this says he was walk- ing leisurely along the road when his attention was directed to the movements of a brown thrush which was flitting about near a small plum bush, and, at intervals, giving a cry as of distress. He walked up to the bush, supposing he would find a brood of young birds. He looked carefully, but saw nothing, and was \valking off, when he noticed that the thrush had returned to the bush from which he had frightened it. He waited a moment to watch its movements, when he saw it fly down on the ground be- neath the plum. There it stood still a short time, then began to circle around the bush, still crying in its peculiar tones. This circling was kept up for a while, and then the thrush seemed gradually to weaken, and at length stood perfectly still immov- able, wih its wings partly open, and its head bent forward. He drew nearer to the bush, when he heard an ominous hiss, and, looking down under the plum he saw a large black snake coiled up, and about to spring upon the bird. He frightened the snake away and picked up the bird, which made no effort to escape, and seemed powerless. In a few minutes, however, the bird revived, and shortly afterward flew off." - It is also a fact that some men, by an effort of the will, can control others, as shown by the art of what is termed 410 SUBJECTION. psychologizing, or putting into a state of trance. This has led to a very general belief that, in like manner, certain persons have the power of controlling vicious horses, so that they can be rendered completely gentle. I have at different times seen plausible statements by different writers sustaining this theory. But notwithstanding man's intelli- gence and will power are greatly superior to that of horses, I never have known of a horse being directly controlled in this way. I think I may assume, without presumption, that I have subdued, and had treated under my supervision, more exceptionally vicious horses than any other living man. It has been a matter of hard, practical experience with me, and I know it is impossible to control wild or vicious horses by will power alone. I am so confident of this that I will give any man one thousand dollars who will show that he can control wild or vicious horses in any such way. I have many hundreds of times made wild or vicious horses so docile that they would run after, or follow me around, with- out the restraint of a halter, or without being touched in any way, a feat in most cases not at all difficult to per- form on a suitable subject. And as I have stated in an- other place, though the principles were carefully explained those present would often insist that it must have been done by some secret power. I am thus emphatic to cor- rect this false impression, which seems to prevail in the minds of all classes of society. As explained in another part of this chapter, any method of impressing the horse with the sense of helpless- ness, such as disabling, repressing by fear, intense pain, or the reverse, quieting the nervous irritation by scratching the mane and tail, giving apples, etc., can to a great extent hold passive the impulse of resistance. The principle is to so change or disconcert the general nervous action, as to secure the more easy concentration of the nervous forces COSTJ1OL BY THE EYE, OK WILL. 411 in the direction desired ; hence every method of repressing by fear, or revealing power by action or voice, etc., may be regarded as the expression of this power, which of course no one denies. But that by will power alone, the character of a horse can be held completely submissive or in a marked trancoydal state, is entirely impossible. Having taken lessons in psychology many years ago, I found that I could to a certain extent control the will of others ; yet notwithstanding the greatest effort, I never have been able to control horses without first impressing the nervous system with a sense of physical power. The cases which are most likely to resist such management, are stallions which have grown into viciousness through bad treatment, and mustangs, or those of a fixed, wild nature. The " Wilkins Horse," " Hillman Horse," and Mustang Pony," Cases 6, 7, and 11, Subjection, and the " Hettrick Horse," No. 4, Kicking, are cases in point. As a matter of experiment, while the "Hettrick Horse" was tied to the center pole of the ring, I tried for over an hour to even get near enough to touch his body without being struck or kicked, and if my life depended upon it, T could not safely do it; yet by less than twenty minutes' proper subjective treatment, his submission was made complete. In proof of this, reference could be made if necessary to a great many of like character. When a horse is thoroughly vicious and unmanageable, subjecting him quickly to a full course of treatment, sur- prises and breaks up his confidence, on the same principle that the eye disconcerts and controls, with the difference that now it is the result of direct physical control, when by careful management he can be held gentle. But in doing this, as I have repeatedly remarked, it is fatal to success to let the horse see, at any point, that there is not sufficient power to master and control him. Sometimes, 412 SUBJECTION. ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. when this is well done, the will of the horse is so thoroughly broken, and made so submissive, that, though previously so vicious as to be entirely unmanageable, he may become among the safest and gentlest for use. The main point of success, after he thoroughly submits to coercive treatment, is to win his affections. ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. As an additional aid to the reader in studying this sub- ject, I include the details of treatment in the management of a few representative cases. CASE 1. MT. VERNON HORSE. This was an eight-year old, sorrel gelding, weighing about 1100 pounds. He had an exceedingly strong, tough organization, but was most remarkable for his wild, treach- erous, sullen nature. He was one of the best types of this peculiarity of character the writer ever treated. His head was almost the exact counterpart of that of the " Hett- rick Horse," Case 4, Kicking, but was immeasurably the worse horse to subdue. He could not be controlled in har- ness, double or single, was so strong and tough that up to the time of his being brought to me, his temper had not been subdued by any treatment given him. He would kick out sidew r ays and kill a hog whenever brought near one. He was in fact one of the most dangerous and difficult horses to break ever known in that country. I had been at Mt. Vernon, Ohio, over a week when this horse was brought in to be treated before the class. The moment I saw him across the ring, I made the remark, " There is a worse horse than I have ever yet treated in the State." The owner, offended at my giving his horse so bad a character, said he could handle and drive him. Though I knew nothing whatever of the horse beyond MT. VERNON HOUSE. 413 what I saw of him at a distance, I stated that there was not a man in the country who could drive him, and if I could not prove it, I would charge him nothing for my instructions. Upon trial with a severe hit, he went straight along in defiance of the pulling of ten men upon the reins, when his bad character was confessed. Had I not been able to prepare the minds of the class to see the true character of the horse, he would have broken me down ; but in fact my statement was accepted as a reasonable explanation, and so I had an opportunity to repeat the treatment until successful. I had a very large class of experienced horsemen, and it became a matter of deep interest for them to see whether the char- acter given him would be fully proved by trial. He was subjected first to the First Method, which he resisted with great energy. This was followed by the Second and Third Methods, carried to the fullest extreme, when he would allow his quarters to be touched all around with a pole, and could be handled without difficulty. He was next taken in hand for over an hour to obtain control of the mouth, but Avithout making the least impres- sion upon him. This I expected and explained to the class, and put him over till the next day, when he was again subjected to the Second Method sharply, and the training of the mouth repeated, as before, for about an hour, with but little apparent success. This was extraor- dinary, there having no horse been brought forward for years that did not in two lessons yield to the control of the bit; but I promised that one more lesson would bring him. On the day following, he was again subjected in part to First and Second Methods, and the mouth again taken in hand, though quite sore from the effects of the previous treatment. His wonderful pluck and nerve enabled him to fight it with the utmost desperation for nearly an hour, 414 SUBJECTION. ILL USTEATIVE CASES. when he at last gave up unconditionally, and was driven before the class and upon the streets with entire success, afterward remaining perfectly gentle and manageable. A week later, he was exhibited in the street at a little town eight miles distant, where he was owned. His good character and performances enabled me to make a large class there. CASE 2. GALLOPS VILLE HORSE. This was a seven-year old sorrel gelding, owned in Gal- lopsville, N. Y. He was a remarkably fine, muscular fel- low, weighing about 1050 pounds. I refer to him as a good type of an extremely bad, unbroken colt, and but a slight modification of the previous case. In the preceding case, when the horse was hitched up, he would go, per- haps, some distance, and then, suddenly and without warn- ing, pull ahead, or kick and run away. And, once resist- ing, there was no possibility of holding him afterward. He was a snorting, treacherous brute of the worst kind, and when brought forward for treatment, was considered en- tirely unmanageable in harness. The touching of the harness, or anything brought against his quarters would cause him to jump or kick with great fury. At this time I remained but one day in a place, and taught my classes in any kind of a building available. At this place we had a small carriage house with hard-wood floor, which was so unsuitable that to attempt the subjec- tion of such a horse here Avould be not only very difficult, but dangerous. On this account the First Method, which was well adapted for his temperament, could not be used. Consequently he was subjected first, cautiously, to the Second Method, which was a necessary step toward toning down his extreme sensibility, but he could not be pushed to its limits on account of the hard-wood floor, the smallness of OMNIBUS HOKSE. 415 the place, and the large crowd present. He was next sub- jected to the Third Method, which was carried to its fullest extent. While being subjected to it, if touched with a pole, the energy of his kicking was so desperate that both shoes, though nailed solidly to his feet, were thrown off in a few minutes. Not submitting satisfactorily to this method, it became a matter of necessity to subject him again to the Second. The place was partly cleared, and the chances taken of pushing it to its fullest extent, to which he sub- mitted unconditionally. The rest was easy, little more being necessary than putting him in harness, when he drove off gently. Next day he was taken to Central Bridge, where the owner and class were promised that he should be driven in the street. It being quite safe now to attempt driving him while warm, he was put away till next morning, when, after testing a few moments, he was hitched up and driven perfectly gentle. The change was regarded quite wonderful by those who had known and witnessed his previously vicious character. CASE 3. BUFFALO OMNIBUS Co.'s HORSE. This case has some points of peculiar interest, for which reason it is included. First, it shows to what de- gree a naturally good, gentle horse, can be made vicious by irritating, bad treatment ; secondly, the ease with which, sometimes, a horse supposed to be very vicious can be made gentle. The particulars of the case are as follows : This horse was nine years old, a bright bay, remarkably fine, strong, intelligent, and weighing about 1200 pounds. He was regarded one of the best in a large stable of horses. He had been worked to an omnibus, and, it seems, gradu- ally became vicious, requiring great care in harnessing and handling. He finally bit and crushed a man's arm, and inflicted such other injuries as nearly killed him. The man 416 SUBJECTION. ILL USTKAT1VE CASES. was rescued only by the prompt interference of the other men. The horse was so furious that he would jump at and bite other horses, and it was finally only by the use of pitchforks, etc., that the stablemen were able to drive him into his stall, where he stood with his collar on for over three months. No one daring to go near him, his food and water were let down to him from above. Unable to work him, and fearing he would kill some one, the superintendent had ordered him shot, but for some cause it had been put off until the period of my visit there. Before commencing my exhibition in this place, a gen- tleman who was especially interested in my efforts, privately informed me of this case, and said there was a strong fac- tion of opposition there. They asserted they might consider it worth while to come and see me after I had subdued the horse ; that I could not or would not dare attempt it. I at once informed the people of what I had learned, and promised, if I could obtain the horse, to take him in hand before the class. At my earliest opportunity, I called at the stable, and the horse was pointed out to me. I was confident I should have no trouble with him, and told the superintendent that if he would let me have the horse to experiment upon before the class, I would subdue him. Pie frankly said that the horse was too dangerous to take any chances with, FIG. 285. Omnibus Horse. OMNIBUS HOUSE. 417 and he did not wish to take any responsibility in the mat- ter ; that if he permitted me to take him, and I should be killed, or injured in any way, the public would censure him. He said further that the horse was of no value, and he had ordered him shot. I finally convinced the gentleman that there would be no difficulty in the management of the case, and obtained permission to take him over to my building, where, in the presence of leading citizens of Buifalo, I made him entirely gentle in about twelve minutes. He was simply subjected to First Method, followed by War Bridle. His collar, which had now been on for over three months, could be taken off or put on at pleasure. I told the superintendent to put him at once at work, and have him treated with the greatest kindness, and if at any time he exhibited the least viciousness, to report to me. In about a week he was brought back, and subjected to very severe tests before them, and proved perfectly gentle. I include here an editorial notice of this case, and a letter from Mr. Ford written three months afterward : " A HORSE THAT KILLED ONE MAN AND INJURED SEVERAL OTHERS. "We yesterday afternoon visited the amphitheater of Prof. Magner, the noted horse- tamer, on Carroll s' reet. We found there a large number of our most prominent citizens and horse-owners, and all manifested the greatest interest in the doings of the pro- fessor. A horse belonging to the Omnibus Company, a most vicious brute, with the habit of biting, and striking with his fore feet, and from which those in charge have not been able to remove the collar or bridle for over three months, was brought for treat- ment. We understand, by the way, that this horse (a large and powerful bay) once killed a man by biting and trampling him un- der foot, and recently bit the hand almost off the person having him in charge. In about twenty minutes, in the presence of be- tween two and three hundred persons, Mr*. Magner reduced this brute to perfect subjection, so that the groom and himself har- nessed and unharnessed him, put their hands in his mouth, and 37 418 SUBJECTION. ILLUSTBATIYB CASES. handled him in every shape with perfect impunity, the former fu- rious beast being as docile as a kitten. It was a wonderful exhi- bition, as we can bear testimony." Buffalo Commercial Adver- tiser. "Buffalo, Dec. 21, 1869. "PROF. MAGNER, Dear Sir: I consider myself in duty bound to drop you a few lines respecting our once vicious horse, ' Man- ea'ter,' as we called him. I have often said, What a good thing it was we did not shoot him. He was taken out of the stable twice for that purpose, when I, on both occasions, interceded in his be- half. He is now one of our best horses, as docile as a lamb, and all the drivers like him. We work him double or single, as required. All this was caused from your few minutes' tuition. You are aware of his past history. For months previous to making your acquaintance, we could not get a man to harness him, and two of our drivers were disabled by him. When you visit our city, please give us a call. " Believe me, yours very truly, M. FORD, "Agent Buffalo Omnibus Co." CASE 4. OXFORD HORSE. This case is included for its remarkable peculiarity of character, the writer having found no parallel to it in all his experience. The horse was seven years old, and was owned by a hotel-keeper in Oxford, Miss. He was remarkable for his extreme sensibility, courage, and fine form. Al- though perfectly gentle to handle or approach, he would not bear the least abuse or excitement. Being a fine sad- dle-horse, he could be mounted or dismounted in a building, but not outside the building with safety. If an effort were made to lead, mount, or dismount him outside of the build- ing, he would jump and pull away, striking and jumping with such fury as made him riot only unmanageable, but really dangerous. As an illustration of his sensitiveness, the owner stated that once, desiring to shoe him, he was ridden to the blacksmith's, but refusing to go in, he was struck upon the shoufder with the end of the bridle-rein, and spoken to sharply. The result was, he took such a dislike OXFOKD HOBSE. 419 to the blacksmith's shop that he never could be ridden near one afterward, and was shod in his stable. Two traveling horse-taming parties, at different times, had visited Oxford, and tried their skill upon this case, both making a disastrous failure. When I visited the place, it was made a condition of success that this horse should be led, mounted or dismounted, in the street. And so it became a matter of either giving up the town, or taking him in hand. I never had jumped a town for any such cause, and concluded I would not now. As a matter- of experiment, I put on him two War Bridles, with over fifty feet of cord to each, and with the aid of a strong man led him out of the barn, when such a desperate struggle com- menced, he to get away and we to hold him, as was, perhaps, never seen before. The moment he was outside he rushed forward, but being restrained, he lunged into the air more than fifty times, when we were glad to end it by running him into the stable as quickly as we could. Explaining to the class that he could not be successfully treated in a barn, he was mounted and ridden to a field a mile outside the town, followed by the class. The halter was now put on outside the bridle, and while still mounted, the rider ready to jump off, the hitching-strap was cautiously tied to his tail. When ready, the rider instantly jumped from his back, when he commenced the -most violent struggle to free himself. 'As he went round with great rapidity, he struck and kicked with intense fury. When entirely helpless, he was quickly untied, the treatment reversed, and carried to the fullest extent to make him submit. FIG. 286 Oxford Horse. 420 SUBJECTION. 1LLUSTEATIYE CASES. The first form of War Bridle was now put on, when, on his being untied, I instantly took him off his feet sidewise, following up so sharply that he could not resist, when he finally submitted to it. The experiment of mounting him was now made, but he resisted so violently by wheeling, jumping, and kicking, that the rider barely escaped being killed. He was again subjected to general treatment, which was carried to the utmost extreme of its power. The pre- caution was now taken to mount him while tied. This was successful, and he was soon made to stand gently to be mounted or dismounted while the head was free. On the way back to town, the better to test him, and fix the im- pression, he was frequently mounted and dismounted. Upon arriving at the public square, these tests were re- peated, and the horse led to the stable. This case caused me a great deal of anxiety, and it was only by the most careful management that it was made so decided a success. CASE 5. HERMON HORSE. This horse was a seven-year old thoroughbred stallion, owned in Hermon, N. Y. He was a bright bay, had a good head, was finely formed, and looked very much like Cruiser. He was raised in Canada, and according to report had killed a man there. He had not beeen broken to harness, and was kept shut up, and considered a very difficult and dangerous horse to break. When I was advertised at Hermon, it was insisted as a condition of making a class that this horse be subdued arid driven in harness. I was unable at the time to obtain any particulars about the horse, further than that of his being a wild, unbroken stallion, a regular " man-eater." I had but one clue, he was a thoroughbred, and such cases, no matter how vicious, I always found the best, or rather the easiest, subjects to subdue. This influenced me to strike W1LK1NS HOUSE. 421 boldly for a large class, promising every man his money back if the horse could not be made perfectly gentle to drive in harness in forty minutes. Being compelled to work in a barn, which was entirely unsuitable for such an experiment, the treatment had to be limited to Second and Third Methods, the Third being depended upon the most. He submitted to treatment in about thirty minutes, and drove to harness with entire success. Considering the pre- vious character of the horse, the success of the experiment was really remarkable, and far better than was expected by any one ; still there were a few jockeys who were bound to find fault. They claimed that the horse would not stay broken, and offered to bet $100 that he could not be han- dled or driven the next day. This I promptly met by of- fering to put up $500 against it that it could be done in a week from that time, when they backed down. Two days later, on my arrival at Russel, eight miles distant, I found the people had been so prejudiced by the parties named, that it was necessary to make a special ef- fort there. To counteract such an impression, which I knew would spread and destroy confidence in my work, I telegraphed the owner to bring the horse there at my ex- pense and risk, which he did, leading him behind an open buggy. Upon testing him, which I did carefully, I found him perfectly gentle, hitched him before my buggy, with the breeching-straps loose, and drove him up and down hill, and through the streets generally with perfect satisfaction. CASE 6. WILKINS HORSE. This is in some respects one of the most interesting cases which has been referred to, on account of the peculiar character and notoriety given him by the condi- tions of his subjection by me (specially referred to in Per- sonal Experience, page 51]). The last effort to break him 422 SUBJECTION. ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. was two months before my visit there, when he was brought to a pretentious horse-tamer, with orders to break or kill him ; but after a week's continuous effort, he was pro- nounced as " having no brains," and impossible to subdue. As a test experiment, he was controlled by me in about thirty minutes, in the presence of the owner and Mr. Bonner, in the last-named gentleman's stable. He was a well-bred trotting horse, nine years old, a bright bay of medium size, quiet and gentle ordinarily, but when excited by being touched or handled, he would kick and strike with great violence. Touching his nose or head would cause him to strike like a wild mustang, while to touch his feet, or to attempt to take them up, would make him kick desperately. A singular characteristic in this case, rarely to be found among domesticated horses, was, that if irritated he could repeat the resistance, if he tried, a thousand times in succession ; there seemed to be no let- up to him. When studied carefully, at such a time, it would be seen that the expression of the eye indicated the untamable nature of a wild animal . In moving, his tread and actions seemed to be like those of a cat. While stand- ing, he would, without moving, or changing the position of his ears, out of the corner of his eye watch every movement, seemingly listless, but ready at any moment to strike or kick. He had in fact the true mustang nature, with any amount of endurance, and was treacherous to the last degree. This horse should have been subjected to the Second Method, which would have made his control simple and easy ; but the circumstances under which I was led to take him in hand compelled me to handle him in a box stall, and consequently I was limited to the Third Method, which was not in reality at all adapted to his case, and I barely succeeded with it. I have repeatedly stated that this WILK1NS HOUSE. 423 424 SUBJECTION. ILLUSTRAT I OASES. method must not be used when the character is such that there is inclination to bite the cheeks or lips, or when the head is interfered with, as there is then an inclination, as in the mustang nature, to strike, and the treatment will be difficult to apply. In this case the result was that both cheeks were badly bruised,* making him again very violent until cured, when I applied the Second Method, subduing him in about twenty minutes. I afterward gave exhibitions of his good character in the presence of Mr. Henry Bergh, Esq.. President of the So- ciety for the Pre- vention of Cruelty to Animals, and other well-known gentlemen, when he was turned loose in the ring without anything on him, and submitted to handling with the docility of any gentle horse. This was one of the few exceptional cases that the most patient and kind treatment would have no effect upon. As an illustration, Dr. Braily, formerly Chief Veterinary Surgeon of U. S. Cavalry, a man of exceptionally large experience in handling horses, tried for over an hour, by scratching the mane, etc., to get his hand upon a certain part of the head, without being able to do it. He had claimed that there was no living horse whose head he could not in time by this method lay his hand upon. I told him it could not be done in this case ; if it could, I would give him one hundred dollars ; that the only way it could be done was by proper subjective treat- * Proper treatment for such cases will be found iu Medical Department. FIG. 288. Wilkins Horse. H1LLMAN HOUSE '-JET." 42e ment. As explained, he made the experiment, and failed completely ; yet in about fifteen minutes' treatment, I made the horse stand gentle and allow his head to be rubbed or caressed in any manner. In these as well as in all other conditions of resistance requiring coercive meas- ures, kind treatment, as repeatedly explained, is to be depended upon as an aid in fixing and holding the character good. CASE 7. HILLMAN HORSE " JET." When the facts of this case are considered, it must be accepted as by far the most remarkable as well as interest- ing case yet referred to. He was a young stallion out of one of the best trotting horses in the State. He was but little over three years old, and of beautiful form. Not- withstanding the conditions of his treatment were of the best character, when but little past two years old, in defiance of all that could be done, he developed such an extremely vicious character as to become at once wholly uncontrollable. The circumstances under which I was induced to experiment upon this horse were as follows : In the early summer of 1875 I made a chance visit to Portland, Maine, where I had previously been in 1863, as explained in Personal Experience. Meeting Dr. Tewkes- bury, a leading physician and prominent citizen of that city, he said : " There is one of the most vicious young stallions here that has ever been known in the country, one of the worst brutes that ever lived. He is shut up in a building to prevent his injuring or killing any one. He nearly killed one man, Eben Howe, and seriously injured several others. If you can subdue him, you will prove your ability to subdue any horse, and show that you are the greatest horse-tamer .in the world." As he could give no particulars of the disposition, and 426 SUBJECTION. ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. being there on business with no time or inclination to give the matter any serious consideration, I soon after left for the West. A few weeks after, I received a letter from Rev. A. P. Hillman, the owner, asking whether such a horse could be broken; saying that unless I could come there and break him, he must be shot. I wrote him that I intended to visit Maine the following spring, and from the explanation given of the horse, I thought I should have no difficulty in his subjection. I advised him not to allow the horse to be annoyed or molested in any way, to give v'f FIG. 289. Hillman Horse "Jet." apples, etc., occasionally. Upon arriving in the State in the following spring, I went to see the horse privately ; and upon a careful examination, concluded I could not prudently experiment upon him before a class, and so announced I would take him in hand immediately after the close of the season's business, at which time I went to Portland for that purpose. Desiring to make the experi- ment a perfectly fair one, I appointed a special committee of three leading citizens to invite a few representative horsemen to be present to witness his subjection. It being feared by those interested that I would play some under- handed game, giving the horse medicine, or something that would control him for the present, a special committee was HILLMAN HOKSE "JET. 427 428 SUBJECTION. ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. appointed to accompany me from the time I got up in the morning until the horse was brought forward for treatment. The real difficulty in the management of this case was in getting to him safely, and taking him from his stable to the place of exhibition. This, however, I was fortunate enough to do without accident. Knowing by his tempera- Fm. 291. "Jet" as led into Portland before being subdued. ment that the First and Second Methods would have but little if any effect upon him, I determined, as a matter of experiment, to try by the Second Method to influence him sufficiently to enable applying the Third safely, but failed. He was so sullen that he could not be made to turn sufficiently fast to affect him. It being entirely unsafe to give his head sufficient freedom while upon his feet to apply the cord, he was thrown down by First Method. As H1LLMAN HOESE "JET.' 429 430 SUBJECTION. ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. expected, he did not resist it, proving it entirely powerless in his case as a method of subjection. He was subjected next to full pressure. For full fifteen minutes his resistance was desperate, running, jumping, and throwing himself, when he finally ceased all resistance, and in twenty-four minutes all pressure was removed. He was now hitched up and driven perfectly gentle, after which he was turned loose in the midst of the crowd, with not even a halter upon him, and proved perfectly gentle and safe. He was then taken charge of by a good practical horseman, Mr. Robinson, whom I charged to treat the horse with the most perfect kindness and care, and to go to his stable a dozen times a day, rub, caress, give apples, etc., which in- structions were carefully carried out. On the following Monday, as a matter of precaution, he was subjected to the Second Method, to which he now re- sponded promptly, after which he was harnessed and driven for about two hours. A week afterward, as previously ad- vertised, he was taken into the street in front of the Prebles House, unharnessed, led around, and shown to be as gentle as any ordinary driving-horse. Two weeks afterward, on the 4th of July morning, he was driven by me in a street procession, proving one of the safest and gentlest horses in the crowd. After the subjection of this horse, a chance occurrence nearly destroyed the good effect of all I had done. While the horse was standing with a crowd around him, I was called away for a moment. I was scarcely outside the building when I heard a great uproar inside. I went quickly back, when the sight that presented itself was most startling. The horse which I had left there so quiet and gentle was now under the greatest excitement, running from one side of the building to the other, with head up and eyes flashing fire, the people panic-stricken, and every HILLMAN HOUSE "JET." 431 man running for his life, and climbing up the sides of the building for safety. The better to understand the condition of things, I will explain that the experiment was made in a building about 75x100 feet in dimensions, that had for- merly been used for a riding-school. Back of this was a stable running across the entire breadth, with an open door- way about ten feet wide between. In this stable were standing about twenty horses. While I was out, he sud- denly became conscious of the presence of these horses, and went racing around trying to get to them. When I reached the door, I saw at once that he must be caught in- stantly, or the effect of the treatment would be entirely de- stroyed. In addition, should he get into the stable behind me, the result would be very serious. Keeping between him and the horses in the opposite stable, I ran quickly forward to his shoulder and grasped the mane firmly, and as he ran along, passed the other hand down over his nose and succeeded in stopping him. Three times he broke away, but by great effort I regained my hold. His old nat- ure was fast getting control of him, as several times he tried to reach back and bite my legs, and I saw that I must get him under control quickly, or run. The fourth time I held him, and ran him into a corner against the wall, where was a high manger. While holding him, I induced a man who was standing upon the manger trying to get away, to put on the halter, which was with some difficulty done. With this once on, he was immediately as docile and quiet as if nothing had occurred. This incident, trifling as it may seem, caused me as much anxiety* as taking him out of his stall a few hours before, but occurring without accident, it passed off with- out a comment. To show the great interest with which the subjection of this case was regarded, I include a synopsis of editorials from the press of the city, also an article from Mr. Robinson, a well-known citizen : 432 SUBJECTION. ILLUSTRATIVE OASES. " HORSE-TRAINING WONDERFUL PERFORMANCE. "The announcement that the well-known Hillman horse was to be trained at the South-street stable drew a large crowd yes- terday morning, as this horse is known to be one of the worst cases on record. Some few gentlemen, including representatives of the morning papers, took carriages, and drove out to the resi- dence of Rev. A. P. Hillman, near the Reform School, to see Pro- fessor Magner in his first attempt to handle the animal. . . . " Last September he was placed in a large box-stall, and had not been taken out until yesterday morning. ... In this condi- tion Jet was led from the stall for the first time in eight months. The line of march was taken up for the city, a man on either side holding by the cords attached to him. All the residents on the way were in waiting to see the wonderful horse pass, and on reach- ing the city a large crowd followed the horse and his trainer to the stable. " The stable was thronged on the arrival, and after giving the horse a slight rest, Mr. Magner commenced upon him. We can- riot give the method of training, for it would be telling the secret by which he governs horses. Suffice it to say that in just twen- ty-five minutes the striking, dangerous horse was as mild as a lamb. He was turned loose, and wandered about among the horsemen as though he were an old truck-horse. The trainer j umped upon his back, and afterward harnessed him to a wagon, and drove about without the least strap to keep the wagon from striking his heels. The gathering was composed almost exclusively of horsemen, and each and every one of them pronounced the horse under perfect control, and they voted the professor a vote of thanks." Portland Press. "'JET' CONQUERED. AN INTERESTING EXHIBITION OF HORSE-TAMING. "When Magner first entered the stall, the demon in the brute showed itself in the most striking manner by frantic efforts to seize him with his teeth, rushing around his narrow quarters like a caged tiger, while the red flash of his wild eyes would have de- terred many strong men from approaching him. But the pro- fessor paid little heed to the wicked manifestations of this modern Bucephalus, and, taking advantage of his quiet seconds, firmly se- cured his head with cords, slipped a large hood over his head ; and thus blindfolded and fastened in the strongest possible manner, handsome 'Jet' was led in triumph to the city, and taken to the old riding-school on South-street, arriving there shortly after 9 o'clock. A large number of people interested in horses, including HOESE JET.' ; 433 nearly every physician in the city, were assembled at this place; and, on the stallion's arrival, many were the comments on his re- markable beauty of form and color, as well as the strength and supple grace which every movement revealed. "At 10 o'clock Professor Magner cleared the place of all spec- tators excepting those holding tickets of invitation from the com- mittee having charge of the exhibition, and proceeded to carry out the promise of his circular. "Of course, the peculiar method by which, in a wonderfully brief time, one of the most savage stallions in the State was so completely conquered that he was harnessed to a carriage and driven around the enclosed yard, fast or slow, as suited, as well as backing, stopping instantly at the word, ' Whoa ! ' besides various other things, all proving that the demon had been, temporarily at least, exorcised, cannot be stated; but it was surely done." Portland Argus. "SKETCH OF THE NOTED HlLLMAN HORSE, 'JET.' "BY C. G. ROBINSON, ESQ., " Who took charge of him after being subdued. " I have known ' Jet' since he was foaled. He has been known as the finest and most promising colt of his age in the State, being of the best trotting blood. He has attracted .the most widespread notice for his remarkable viciousness. He would look at a man pleasantly, yet bite, strike, or kick, as soon as within reach, and would fight as coolly and desperately as a bull-dog. If he could not reach the person with his fore feet or mouth, he would wheel and kick with the quickness of a mule. Any one having a little experience with him once, let him alone afterwards. When but eighteen months old, he was taken for exhibition to the Lewiston fair. It was with great difficulty that he was taken out after standing in the car two days, and he was not, in consequence, en- tered for competition. His exploits at this age were numerous. For instance, a horseman who did not fear any horse, could not be prevailed upon to keep away, and, though warned to keep out, incautiously stepped into 'Jet's' department; when, quick as a flash, upon getting near enough, 'Jet' cornered and crushed him under his feet with mouth and hoofs. When that man was res- cued, which was with great difficulty, he needed no more admo- nitions to keep away. At different times foolhardy individuals were cornered in this manner at Lewiston ; and each time the horse had to be clubbed to rescue them. Though notoriously vicious, being remarkably fine in form and action, a great effort was made to use him for breeding. He was put in the care of Mr. Jacob Bailey, of Hiram, a horse-breaker who was highly rec- 28 434 SUBJECTION. ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. ommended in the language, 'If he cannot break him, no man can/ Mr. Bailey had him but a short time, when he wrote the owner that he could not manage him at all, and that he must take the horse away ; in fact, the horse came near killing him. Then a Southern colored man, who had been used to taking care of blooded horses in the South, was recommended very highly to take him, and was employed by the owner. He had him but a few days before he was beaten. Then, with much difficulty, with strapping and binding he was carried to Portland. In leading him from the cars to the stable, he got the man under him, who was rescued with difficulty from his ferocious fury. " Mr. Richardson and Eben Howe, two of our most experienced and successful horsemen, now took him in hand. They attached ropes to his feet and head, tied up one foot, taking every precau- tion they could, and undertook to lead him to his owner's stable between them. In his efforts to resist, and of the men to hold him, Mr. Richardson's rope broke, when the horse at once jumped for Mr. Howe, catching him by the breast of his thick overcoat, lifting him from the floor as if only a mere toy (Mr. Howe will weigh about 180 pounds), threw him down, and came down upon him with his knees, holding his grip with the tenacity of a tiger (Mr. Hillman's words). Mr. J. Jewell, stable-keeper on Centre-street, grabbed a hay -fork and hit the horse three times heavily upon the back of the head, while another man hit him in the same place with the butt of a heavy black whip ; but his grip was only loos- ened by thrusting the fork-handle between his jaws above the nip- pers, and thus his mouth was pried open. Mr. Howe was so seri- ously injuried that he was unable to attend to his duties for along time; indeed, it was regarded fortunate, so bad were his injuries, that he was able to regain his health even then.* By being tied and hampered in the most effective manner that skill and ingenu- ity could suggest, he was led to Mr. Hillman's place in Cape Eliz- abeth, where he was kept confined for nearly nine months, until taken out two weeks ago, and subdued in the presence of our lead- ing citizens by Prof. Magner. Such is but a brief outline of the character of this most remarkable horse. It is admitted by all that he was the most vicious horse of any age ever known in this country." CASE 8. NORWALK HORSE. This case is referred to mainly to show the value of proper treatment. When at Norwalk, Ohio, I had a large *Mr. Howe was present at the time of "Jet's " subjection, and was still an in- valid from the effects of his injuries. ALJLEUAN MAN-EATEK." 435 class, and among other interesting subjects brought in for experiment, was one having the following history : A gentleman in the place raised a fine, four-year old colt. In trying to break him, he took to kicking and running away. Several horse-breakers tried to break him, but failed. The last trial was made by two horse-tamers, who, after working upon him two weeks, not only utterly failed, but injured him seriously by their severe treatment. Upon my arrival there, he was about seven years old, and had been running loose about two years. This horse was medium sized, well bred, very intelligent, and naturally easy to manage, but had been made vicious by ignorant, abusive treatment. The owner brought him on condition that I should break him. Upon looking him over, I stated to the class that there would be no trouble whatever in breaking this horse, that he was one of the best subjects yet brought in. He was subjected to First Method, to which he yielded readily. But as a matter of precaution, he was subjected afterward to Second Method, when he was put in harness and driven gently without further treatment. Next day at one o'clock, as previously announced, he was driven without breeching through the streets. Though going at a fast trot, and distant fully six or eight rods, he could be stopped or started by word of command. He was afterward used as a family driving horse. CASE 9. ALLEGAN "MAN-EATER." In explanation of this case, I will include statements and reports published at the time. " THE ALLEGAN 'MAN-EATER,' THE ' CRUISER' OF AMERICA. "Science vs. Strength. "About the first of January last. Prof. Magner came to this place, and opened an amphitheater for the training and subjugation 436 SUBJECTION. ILL USTKATIVE CASES of wild and vicious horses. At first his claims were looked upon with suspicion and distrust by horsemen and the public generally ; and only after the most exhaustive and convincing proofs of his truly wonderful nerve and skill were exhibited, was he enabled to establish himself in their confidence. " From here he removed to Plainwell, where he met with still greater success, receiving a public testimonial signed by one hundred and fifty of the leading citizens of that place. But it was reserved for Allegan to bring a final test-case. A horse by nature of the most desperate and vicious character was brought in. He had previously killed one man, and crippled several for life, and severely injured many others. He had been owned by Dr. Way, of Otsego, an accomplished and skillful horseman. FIG. 293. Allegan "Man-eater." " When brought into the ring, the horse exhibited all the pecul- iar traits of his character: his eyes became bloodshot, and gleamed like balls of fire ; he sprang at his trainer like a wild beast, biting, striking, and kicking in the most determined manner, breaking the ropes and stakes, springing upon the seats, and throwing them down, tearing pieces from the center-pole with his teeth, lunging at any person who met his eye, actually screaming with rage when foiled in his attempts to seize his intended victims. Nearly every person was driven from the tent, some in their haste tearing holes in the canvas, and escaping through the roof. It was a truly exciting and desperate struggle of science against strength, which lasted for full three hours, when the fury of the beast gave way before the superior intellect and science of man, and the horse be- came perfectly docile, allowing himself to be handled with ease and safety, triumphantly vindicating the truth and practicability of Prof. Magner's theory. The next day the horse was handled ALLEGAN "MAN-EATEK." 437 by strangers with perfect safety, and driven upon the streets. Altogether, it was one of the most remarkable cases ever witnessed in this country, as he was in all respects as vicious as the noted English horse Cruiser. We do not write this as a puff, but to illustrate the perfection to which the science of horse-training has been brought by Prof. Magner. Many of our citizens who failed to attend his lectures here, are now regretting not having done so. His great success recently in New York, where he is indorsed in the strongest manner by all the best horsemen, including Mr. Bonner, Mr. Bergh, and even the clergy, proves him to be a man of real merit ; and were he to come here again, we predict for him a nattering reception." Kalamazoo (Mich.,) Gazette. " His HISTORY (BY DR. WAY, WHO OWNED HIM, AND WHOSE BROTHER HE HAD KILLED), WHICH WAS REQUESTED BY THE CLASS FOR PUBLICATION. " The 'Updike Horse/ better known as ' Man-Eater,' from his remarkable viciousness, was out of the Canada horse ' Lyon ' and a Messenger mare. He was a wonderfully wild colt, and would kick and strike at any one who approached or annoyed him. " When three years old, he was caught with a lasso for the purpose of castrating him. In the attempt to do so, after being confined, he broke the ropes by which he was tied, and got away, and it took several men with horses nearly all day to catch him and complete the operation. It was found impossible to take the sticks off next day, and he was allowed to run, to die or not, in consequence. He ran wild afterward until five years old, when he was sold to Nathan Austin, who, after being seriously injured by him, succeeded in getting him in harness to plow by the side of a gentle horse, and plowed him all day with one of his fore feet tied up, notwithstanding which he would kick and strike next morning as bad as ever. " By long-continued, severe, exhausting work of this kind, he finally could bed him down in stall and handle him a little. " Mr. E. Higgins got him next. In his efforts to drive him, he kicked himself loose, destroying the wagon, and defied for a long time the utmost efforts of three men to catch him, and after being put in stall no one dared to approach him. In two weeks he was sold to Mr. Lewis Hadden, from whom he got away in the attempt to drive him, and it was with the greatest effort that he was finally caught ; and after the most violent effort could finally be handled by Mr. Hadden, but by no one else. He kicked and nearly killed one of his boys, and he sold him to John Hogle. In a short time he became so vicious that he could not be let out of th3 barn or approached. 438 SUBJECTION. ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. "A company of horse-tamers next agreed to break him. They succeeded by a lariat rope in getting some of their rigging on him, but he soon was loose, kicking and running in the street with a number of ropes, etc., attached to him. After a great effort, and taking nearly all day, he was caught. They promised to break him next day, but that night they left, leaving their ropes and straps on the horse. " I bought him next. He was very poor and weak, and I put him in the barn, did nothing to aggravate him, tried to give him some oats in a dish, but he kicked and struck at me. I kept trying him in this way for several days, until I could approach and handle him a little. In the attempt to drive him in double harness, he kicked himself loose, breaking the wagon to pieces. " About a month after this he struck and kicked me, and I only saved my life by rolling under the manger, where I had to remain until relieved by neighbors. He would now kick or strike any one approaching him, injuring quite a number, one man from Kalamazoo getting three ribs and one arm broken by him. He kicked and struck my brother when he was attempting to feed him, not only killing him, but in his fury literally mangling his body by striking and kicking it about in the stall. "After this he was not approached or touched by any one for several weeks. " Another party of horse-tamers next took him in hand, and after working with him for two days, could not do anything with him not even put a blanket on him, or take their ropes off. After leaving my hands, at least a dozen horsemen and horse-tamers tried to break him, and all failed, and he was recognized and be- came known as the most dangerous and vicious horse in the State, if not in the country. " He has been driven every clay since you handled him (one week). He is not in the least injured, and continues as gentle and manageable as he was the day you handled him. "It is needless for me to say that all your class here wish you the greatest success in your humane efforts. All would be glad to have you come back. I am, with great respect, "A. B. WAY, M. D. " Otsego, Allegan Co., Mich." All the methods of subjection were used upon this case to their utmost limit, without any restrictions as to injury, as the horse was considered worthless, the question of in- terest being, Can the horse be subdued ? ALLEGAN "MAN-EATER." 439 440 SUBJECTION. ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. CASE 10. ROBERTS HORSE. I include this case because it was the first really vicious stallion subdued by me ; also to show the bad effects of rough treatment, and the facility with which a horse that has been even very vicious can be made gentle when the treatment is right. This was an "Ethan Allen" stallion, about eight or nine years old, owned by a gentleman named Roberts, in Utica, N. Y., at the time supervisor of the fifth dis- trict of that city. The horse had previously been of such good character that he was used as a family driver. A groom in the habit of drinking occasion- ally, was employed to take charge of him ; and to make him show up, was in the habit of whipping him until he grew vicious and got to fighting. The owner, hearing of this, discharged the man, and took charge of the horse himself; when, the first he knew, the horse pitched suddenly at him, biting him, and undoubtedly would have killed him had not two men who happened near driven the horse off with rails. When I visited the city, the horse had been confined to his stall for seven months, fed through a hole or window in the wall, it not being considered safe for any one to go near him. In consequence of his serious injuries, Mr. Roberts was yet confined to his room, a helpless invalid. As a condition of doing anything there, the citizens insisted that I should first subdue this horse. Consenting to make FIG. 295. Roberts Horse. EOBEBTS HOESB. 441 the experiment, I was accompanied by the Butterfield brothers, one of them proprietor of a large livery stable, the other better known as General Butterfield, Mr. Golden, a well-known merchant and horseman, and the reporters of the Telegraph and Utica Herald, to Mr. Roberts' residence in the upper part of the city. When these gentlemen saw the vicious character of the horse, fearing I would get injured and they censured for it, they unanimously requested that I would have nothing to do with him, saying that if I would not, they would do all they could to help me form a class. I told them to borrow no trouble about me, to keep out of my way ; that the experiment must now be made, and I would take care of myself. I was fortunately able to get the horse out of his stall without serious difficulty, and into a small yard or open wagon house, on one side of which was a loft or haymow, where the gentlemen named seated themselves, beyond the reach of possible harm. It is necessary to explain here that at this time I had no well-defined theory of manage- ment, simply doing the best I could to adapt my efforts to the control of such cases as were brought me for experi- ment. Usually I succeeded fairly, sometimes quite flatter- ingly, though not unfrequently, when compelled to take some exceptionally bad case, I made more or less failure. I had repeatedly heard of this case, but was cautioned by friends to hav9 nothing to do with him. But having a desire to see the horse, and not knowing just how to pro- ceed, I was betrayed into the promise of taking him in hand ; and once starting in the matter, I was bound to go through at all hazards. Still I made no special preparations, and in fact had with me but a simple War Bridle cord. Having the horse out in the yard, as stated, controlled by two long ropes fastened to his bridle and held by myself and assistant, the question arose in my mind, What shall 442 SUBJECTION. 1LLUSTBATIVE CASES. I do next ? I could not safely let go or put on any rigging. In fact, I had none. Without stopping to consider, I resolved to take the only chance open for me, that of com- bating him in the most simple and direct manner. He was a wonderfully quick, energetic fellow, and just as vicious as he was quick, having no idea but to jump at a man. Should I succeed, his control would be simple and easy, whereas if I failed I should be completely helpless and in his power, the result of which would be serious if not fatal to me. A supreme effort was my only chance, and I prepared to make it. I took as short hold of the rope as I could with safety, measured the chances, and said to the other man, ^ Let go." The moment the horse was given freedom, he jumped for me. At the same instant I sprang for his tail, which I was barely able to catch and hold. The struggle now was for me to hold on and keep upon my feet while going around rapidly. I barely suc- ceeded, soon making him so helpless that I could safely let go and reverse a few times, after which I quickly put on the War Bridle, and made him feel all the power I could exert with it. The whole time of doing this was not more than five or six minutes, when he became completely docile, following me around and allowing me to handle him as I pleased. I now advised that he be treated kindly, given apples, petted, and put to work. He was driven almost daily afterward, while I was in the city, by members of the family, proving as safe and gentle for use as he was in the first place. When I look back upon this experiment, and consider all the circumstances, I regard it as one of the most sue cessful I ever made. It was, at the same time, so fool- hardy that after mature experience I would have hesi- tated long before taking such a risk. It would be simple and easy enough in ordinary cases ; but when the horse .ROBERTS HORSE. 443 is extremely vicious and quick, there are two sources of danger : First, of being kicked while catching the tail, on which account it cannot be safely attempted with mustangs or horses of this character ; second, of missing the tail, or of inability to run fast enough to keep up with the horse in his rapid circular motion. In which case there would be no alternative but to let go or be dragged under the fore feet. In either case, should the horse be really vicious, as in the present instance, I would have been brought within reach of his mouth, helpless to resist his biting or striking, which would be extremely perilous. CASE 11. MUSTANG PONY. The question is frequently asked, Can any horse be subdued ? Practically there is no horse that cannot be subdued ; but I will refer to a case, the only one I ever found, that would not yield to treatment, though I am con- vinced that with time and proper opportunity there would be no real difficulty in making even this case manageable. Two years before my visiting the northern part of New York, there had been shipped into that part of the country seven car-loads of wild mustangs. Two of these ponies, up to the time of my coming, could not be broken, and one of these is the subject referred to here. At North Lawrence I had for subjects a six-year old, runaway, kicking mare that had not been harnessed in two years, and a cream- colored mustang pony. As was often the case, there was nothing said about the bad character of this pony, but there was something about his appearance that I could not understand, and had never seen in any other horse. He crouched up in a corner, apparently indifferent to all around him, his head down, and his ears, which were heavy and long as a mule's, thrown back and out. His under lip was large, and hung down, leaving his mouth in appearance 444 SUBJECTION. ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. partly open. The eyes were large, showing the sullen expression of a wild animal. A very noticeable feature was the extreme size of his nostrils. The fist could almost be put in one of them. An indifferent look at him would indicate a rather scrawny, low-necked, pot-bellied, dirty, long-haired fellow ; but a closer examination showed won- derfully large bone and muscle for a horse of his size. I stated there would be no difficulty in making the mare drive gently within fifteen minutes ; but I did not know wha*t I could do with the mustang, as he appeared to be one of the worst horses I over saw, and not a suitable subject to experiment upon before a class. Upon trial, the mare submitted to treatment perfectly in about twelve minutes, was driven on the following day to the next town, and remained gentle afterward. Upon cautiously testing the mustang, he exhibited the most fearful resistance. If a stick were pointed at him, or he were touched in any part of the body, he would jump, strike, and kick several times in succession, then crouch into the farthest corner, rolling his eyes, snorting, and blowing like a bellows. He was with great difficulty subjected to Second and Third Methods, which were carried to the farthest limit prudent. While under pressure, he would sometimes strike and kick desperately, then again stand sullen, doing nothing ; finally seeming to submit, the moment the pressure was removed he resisted as badly as before. It was the same in relation to the Second Method ; he would either go rapidly around a few times, or stand sullenly, refusing to go around, regardless of the most severe punishment, several times dropping down upon his belly; yet the moment he was free, he would fight as recklessly as ever. After bringing out his bad character, the owner stated frankly that the horse was really worthless, and could not be broken, and we were at full liberty to see what we could MUSTANG PONY. 445 do with him. Consequently it became a matter of consid- erable importance to subdue him, and the full force of treatment was used upon him for two hours, without seem- ing to have the least permanent effect. It is proper to state that the First Method was not at all suitable for this case, as this class of horses, when the leg is tied up, will either throw themselves violently or drop down upon the belly sullenly, while the War Bridle would have no effect upon him. The better to explain his peculiarly lithe, desperate char- acter, after being treated for nearly two hours, with one leg tied up, he dropped forward upon his head, turned clear over like a wheel, and came forward upon his feet, making a complete somersault without any seem- ing effort; and the next instant he jumped clear of the ground, struck, and kicked out furiously with both hind feet. I give a good portrait of his head, also an illustra- tion of this remarkable feat, which was witnessed by the entire class. He was several times brought under sufficient control to be harnessed in shafts and driven quietly for perhaps a minute, but with the first freedom he would fight back with the same insane fury as before. I made the statement that such a horse could not practically be broken before the class, and I doubted whether anybody could break him. FIG. 296. The mustang. 446 SUBJECTION. 1LLUSTBAT1VE CASES. The owner, a strong, practical man, laughed, saying he believed he could break him, anyhow he should make a thorough trial ; as much as to say, I will show you that I can break a horse that you cannot. Weeks afterward, he informed me that he made the most thorough trial, not only working with him for days, but actually almost starv- ing him, without having the least effect upon him. My time being limited, I could not continue the treat- FIG. 297. The Mustang in the act of turning over, as described. ment longer. In addition, an indispensable condition of success was stopping when greatly excited, and repeating when cool, and treating him slowly in connection with the utmost kindness. But not being able to make a perfect success of the experiment, about half of the class demanded a return of their money, and received it. This made a good deal of stir and talk, as it was considered a great thing to find a horse that we could not manage ; and I knew it would go like wild fire, and prejudice the people against me in that part of the country. I made a special request that all MUSTANG PONY. 447 * present would meet me at the next town, and bring their friends with them. On the day following, there was a hig crowd assembled, and evidently the tide of feeling was decidedly against me. It was my usual custom to simply explain what I could teach and do, then amuse the audience by the performances of the ponies, which was of itself one of the best illustrations that could be given, showing the value of intelligent treatment. But on this occasion some- thing more substantial was needed, and I prepared myself for the emergency. I had the people assemble in a hall, and commenced by explaining the singular adaptation of the domestic animals to the wants and requirements of the people among whom they are found in the different parts of the world. I then referred to the different peculiari- ties of character common to each family or class, and followed by an explanation of the changes produced by chance causes, making the inference clear that exceptions were possible, either from a lack of intelligence or extreme wildness, which would make their training and management extremely difficult. I pointed to the fact that one of the horses treated the day before, and driven there that day by the owner perfectly gentle, was broken, as promised, by less than fifteen minutes' treatment, a horse that twenty- four hours before it was not supposed could be successfully managed by any man in the country. I then took up the principles of subjection with their effects (as explained in this and in first chapter), and finally referred to the general success and appreciation of my efforts. All seemed to see the point, and I made a large class. Even those of the day before who took their money back, voluntarily subscribed anew. The result of this was an overwhelming success, and interest that was almost unprecedented in my experience throughout the country. 44S SUBJECTION. ILLUSTEATIYE CASES. The other pony referred to was found a few weeks afterward at Brush's Mills, in the same county, where I had a large class. The case yielded to treatment in about thirty minutes, allowing himself to be ridden or driven gently. His subjection was so thorougfi that on the day following he was driven to a buggy to the next point of engagement, about eight miles distant, proving perfectly gentle and manageable. CHAPTER XIV. DENTOX OFFTJTT, RAREY' s INSTRUCTOR. AFTER the information given me in relation to Mr. Rarey being instructed by Offutt, referred to on page 384, I called at the office of the Turf, Field, and Farm, and requested the privilege of examining the files containing the issues in which Mr. Oifutt's book was published. This was kindly granted, and I read it through with great care. It struck me that the dialogue between man and horse ? and the recipes for scents or drugs given for approaching and controlling wild or vicious horses, would be of interest to my readers, and worth preserving, so I determined to ob- tain the copy for publication, if I could. With this object I called upon the chief editor, Mr. Hamilton Busbey, and placed the Rarey matter, before re- ferred to, in his hands for perusal, at the same time stat- ing my desire for the matter mentioned. During the con- versation, he gave me the facts in relation to Mr. Richards' statement regarding Offutt and his instruction of Rarey, as follows : In October, 1877, he (Mr. Busbey) was dining with Mr. Keene Richards at Blue Grass Park, when the subject of horse-taming came up.* Mr. Richards stated that the founder of the horse-taming school was a native of George- town, Ky., and that his name was Denton Offutt. Mr. * Keene Richards, Esq., a leading breeder and turf patron of Kentucky, died March 19, 1881. 29 (449) 450 DEN TON OFFUTT, KAEEY'S INSTEUCTOE. Richards himself was a pupil of Offutt, whom he described as uneducated, but full of originality ; that when quite a young man, John S. Rarey came to Georgetown and stud- ied with Offutt, and later on practiced the system in Ohio, before going to England with Mr. Goodenough.* The conversation was continued in the library, when Mr. Richards handed Mr. Busbey a book which Offutt had published for the benefit of his pupils, all of whom he pledged to secrecy. Mr. Busbey was very much interested in the book, and carried it with him to New York. One day he let Mr. Robert Bonner have it to examine, and the next morn- ing he received the following note from that gentleman : " There are many interesting things in Offutt's book, some things that are entirely new to me, and well worth copying. The dialogue between man and horse, beginning on page 37 and ending on page 46, contains the essence of all that Rarey ever taught. He evidently based his sys- tem on that." Mr. Busbey, beginning with January, 1878, published the work of Denton Offutt in the Turf, Field, and Farm, and it attracted much attention. The dialogue, which I thought worth preserving, and which Mr. Bormer found so interesting, by the kindness of Mr. Busbey I have copied, and here present to the readers of this work. DIALOGUE BETWEEN MAN AND HORSE. " Man. I wish to put my hands on your face, and come near you. "Horse. If so, you must let me see that you will not hurt me, nor will have anything about you that will, nor anything * Of the partnership of Rarey and Goodenough, Mr. Richards was fully aware. He was in London at the time of their operations there, and upon being asked by Mr. Pembroke whether he would advise him to subscribe to learn the secret, replied that he need not go to that expense, as he could explain it all to him, which he did, also loaning him a copy of Offutt's book that he had with him. DIALOGUE BETWEEN MAN AND HORSE. 451 that smells badly. I am a stranger to you ; all that will offend any of the five senses, I will be compelled to guard against, and those senses must have the proof that you will not hurt me, before I will allow them to be on me. " M. I wish to put my hands all over you. " H. This you may do, by commencing at the face. Com- mence rubbing on the face, and repeat it; then pass on down the neck, first as slight as possible, and as I become used to it, rub the harder. Remember always to rub the way the hair lies smooth. My tail is, when I play, to be held up high ; as my pride and beauty, you must be careful in handling it. But after you raise it, be sure to repeat it, and raise it and put it down several times, until it goes up quietly. It becomes habituated by use. " M. Then the more I rub you, and repeat it, the quieter you get? " H. It is so with all beasts. " M. I wish to show you a pretty blanket, to teach you to let a man's coat or lady's dress hang down by your side, and in win- ter to keep you warm. " //. You Jiave shown me that you would feed me, and have also shown me other new things that have not hurt me. I will let you use the blanket about my face as soon as I can see and smell it, and then, when I feel it and hear the rattle, I will better understand it. If you change it for one of another color, I want to look at it and examine its quality. "M. I will then spread it quietly over you, and repeat it, then let it hang down at the tail, and let it fall off at the heels and sides for a while ; then I will fasten it to the tail. This will make you used to things falling off your saddle or person, so that they will not frighten or make you kick. Will you let me hang a rope over you about the creases of your neck so as to let it drag along by your legs, and then over the back, to hang against the hips, and as you turn to rub the hocks ; then to put on the gear and fasten a rope to the ends of it, to get you accustomed to them, and put lines on your back? " H. Yes, sir; if you will do it quietly, and not have the rope too hard or rough, so as to make me think it is a snake bit- ing, or thorns sticking in me. If you put on the gear and lines (there are so many things about me at one time), I want you to put me by the side of my old acquaintance, Ball, for I have often seen him in the wagon, and the side that is against him I am not afraid of being hurt, and where he goes I will go. Young horses are fond of following their old friends; but you must remember not to have me encumbered by a lot of gear, and then or to have things knocking and jerking about. " M. How shall vou be sta] you be started? If you will go before, I will 452 EXTRACT FROM. OFFTJTT'S BOOK. follow. I want to feel my way five steps at first, or less than that. If alarmed, then let me know if anything is wrong by rubbing me over the face and neck, then after starting and stop- ping some three or four times, you will understand that. " H. If you fasten me to such things and rush me off, and commence fighting me, I will then commence rearing and jerking to get loose and free from such abuse. Remember that confidence lost is hard to restore. Remember that all have to learn, and practice is important in exercise. " M. With your practice of the use of the bridle, and friendly acquaintance with me, will you not allow me to ride you ? " H. Yes, if you will show me that you will not hurt me. This is done by your rubbing me over the face, neck, and body ; then get along by my side, rising quietly in the stirrup, then down in the same place, until I can know your will. Now I am inclined to go with Ball round the fields, to learn how to walk and to turn to the right and left. There are cases that we learn to turn but one way, sometimes from sore mouth, other times from the tongue of the wagon striking against us, other times from alarm of gear, others from whips, so as to pull more than I know how ; consequently I look for the whip, and begin jumping up in confusion. " M. How shall we teach you better than by taking level pieces of ground ? The wagon can be drawn slowly and quietly, and repeatedly practiced until it is well done. To be well done must be well practiced, for the mind to comprehend or design. " H. How can you teach rne to stand, if you have no plans or signs for me to comprehend tho difference between going or stand- ing ? I am always looking for the whip or a jerk of the bridle. " M. If you are to know my will, I cannot let you know but by first letting you know my design until understood ; as for your stopping, I then speak to let you know I wish you to go along ; but if you repeat this, you know that " H. If I am to stand while you get on me, or for you to get seated in your carriage, or otherwise, you must first take the reins in your hand, then speak to me to let me know when to go ; for if I am always to be on the look for the whip for the sign to start by, I will be off in time to keep clear of it ; for between two opinions, doubting both, it is certain to be as often wrong as right, but guess if you are ready or not ; but as soon as you come to me and commence whipping me, and halloo, Whoa, I then look for the whip ; whenever you halloo. Whoa, confidence is lost in you, and I am looking for the whip, and friend horse shows signs for us to be off. " M. How shall .1 teach you the acquaintance of umbrellas, handkerchiefs, my hat, my gun, or buffalo skin, and many other tilings you will meet with ? DIALOGUE BETWEEN MAN AND HOESE. 453 " H. All these things are easy ; first, you must rub ine in the face to get my attention, and then let me look at it in a quiet manner, and not get me scared and fearful of it, for I cannot always relieve myself of it at my will ; after I look, I want to smell of it, then to feel it, then hear the rattle of it ; if I feel at the time you rattle it, I more clearly comprehend it. First com- mence slowly and continue until understood. Fire off the gun ; at first it should be upward, as this is a new thing to me. " Let the smoke and all be blown from the face of the horse, for in all cases are changed as soon. In various cases he will stand while the fire goes up when under foot, or at the nose, though it causes much alarm ; some stand well in the woods, others will not let persons stand round them and fire. In all cases of noise, keep the face in the direction of the noise ; steamboat or car, as it passes, turn their face to it ; it is a natural desire to see all things that they hear or smell. '' M. How do you like the drum ? " H. It is pleasing to the organ of combativeness, as soon as I find it will not hurt me. Let me look at it and smell it, then rub it against my neck and shoulders, and where it is to rub me as you ride ; then lightly tapping it, then smell it, and rub it on me ; soon I will be after you with it, for I am inclined to give my attention to new things ; keep my eyes in the direction of the sound, it is easy to get me to follow the drum or any other music in like manner. " M. A flag is pretty in the breeze and sunshine ? "H. Yes, it is. " M. You are fearful of its motion ? "H. Yes, I am. "M. Now the best way is to use the senses God has given you for your safety, for one failure would lose your life by poison, as you are surrounded by poisonous snakes ; but remember to see you are right, then go ahead ! " H. It is in this case as in all others ; or let it be the cover- ing always flying about ; fold it up, let me see, smell, and rub it over my face ; then commence slowly by waving it over me, and as soon as the proof is enough all is light. " In many cases it is better to put on first the bridle with the gagerarian side-reins, martingales and crupper, to hold the head and all in one attitude, that he is more willing to hear your friendly and quiet offering. In this manner you will soon let him know your will in repeated proofs, and all is right then. As soon as it is done, you then change the bridle ; you should begin by showing the same ; if he then receives it quietly, you may forever depend upon him if there be no cause for change. " M. Why do you pull back when I go into your stall ? 454 EXTRACT FEOM OFFUTT'S BOOK. " H. I am fearful of you ; if you will put your hand on my hip before you come in, and let me know you will not hurt me, I will stand. " M. You appear to have been displeased with this stall ever since you got hurt and scared here. " H. I never like misfortune nor the places that cause them, for it is bad memory that forgets them. " M. Why are you fearful of the bridle ? " H. My mouth has been hurt by it and the fingers, my ears pulled, sometimes my eyes flies have hurt them ; I am trying to take care. " M. I will put on the bridle to let you know my will ; check reins, martingale, and crupper to hold all fast ; so you are com- pelled to hold still ; then quietly handle the ears and lips ; I lind there is no hurt, all is right. I will in this case put on and take off' another bridle over this until all is right. It may be important in some cases to do so with other things, or to spread a blanket over them, and over the head, and one down the back to the heels. " H. I am more cautious than fearful. I do not fear the blanket ; after examining it closely you may fasten it to my tail after putting it over the head and down the back to the heels, and letting it fall at the heels and sides ; but be careful in opening and spreading it over the body, and frequently letting it go to the tail ; if it does not cause me to stir up the dust, or in some degree tend to alarm me, you may know it is all right. If you wish it to drag after me, first let there be a piece of cloth hung on each side of me, some six or eight yards long, so as to rub each side of me at the same time ; after this is done, fasten it to my tail. Let me be as wild as I may in all cases, have me by the bridle, and rub me in the face, speaking kindly to me, and not make me move only by my own will. " M. If you are alarmed at anything around you, and will not move off quietly, the best way is to show you that you will not be hurt ; then you will move off quietly ; so when you are alarmed, you had best stand until the alarm is over, to prevent a fright. " H. When you wish me to get on a bridge, ice, or in a boat, or into a strange stable or narrow walk, how will you manage to accomplish your design ? " M. I will go before you and show the best way. I am in- clined to look around at it in as many different ways as possible, so, by turning about and leading up on one side of the place, and then the other, sometimes the width of the door, the trial will suc- ceed gently. Be careful, the less you suppose the better ; as like begets like, he is soon to contend. " H. Remember that all animals are desirous of regular DIALOGUE BETWEEN MAN AND HOKSE. 455 exercise to wear off the unpleasant feelings produced by standing and want of water and motion ; it is necessary to quiet and com- pose the system, for those cause a horse to be gentle ; is in a better condition to remain in dry, but that he may be hungry and ready to receive your kind offer of some good food, and then exercise prepares them for further teaching. In many cases you exercise the horse and teach him the use of the blanket on his back, or to the rope over his body and along his sides and legs, to teach him not to kick ; you should not fasten the rope to anything, as it only tends to scare him. " M. Will you lie down on a sandbank, or plowed land, or on a snow pile, that is free from sticks or stones, and all that is calculated to hurt you ? " H. I am cautious where I place my body, so I will look around me to see if there is anything in the way before I lie down. " M. How shall I teach you to lie down ? " H. First rub my fore leg on the inside and out, until I find you will not hurt it ; then take it up and put it down until I know there will be no hurt ; then loop around the leg, to hold it up, for fear of its slipping off ; then tie a string between the leg and foot. " M. What advantage is there in teaching you to lie down ? In some cases there is none, but all horses are aware of their con- dition ; some that are wild, after being handled in this way seem to be convinced that they will not be hurt, and as they become more convinced by rubbing their legs and flanks, or any other part that will tend to quiet them while down ; but if any accident has previously happened to him, you can fasten him and do what is necessary ; so all that will make him docile is calculated to make him more useful and safe. " H. All teaching is best that is quietly performed, and then repeated until well understood ; all would perform this ; after it is practiced some several times, you may take hold of the foot and the bridle, and cause them to lie down ; and you may by fasten- ing up the leg, then gently tapping them on the front part of the leg, cause them to lie down at your command ; if you wish them to sit upon their hips, you must place their fore feet out before them, then let them rise gently, and you should stand closely to the sides to hold the bridle and press against them that you may steady them up. In some instances of this kind, it is better to use the curb bridle, yet you should be cautious not to hurt the mouth, as it is calculated to produce bad habits. " M. You have long been rearing, kicking, pitching, and placing your head between your legs. " If. All creation resents mistreatment, and this is the cause 456 EXTRACT FROM OPFUTT'S BOOK. of these actions ; some are inclined to practice them more than others. " M. You say in some cases they are forced to do wrong, and some you are forced to make them do right ; there are various ways to force them to obedience. The first is to fasten them together with a strong rope around their neck, giving them not more than one foot apart, so that they cannot rear up and fall down, then leading them about to let them know they are fast, mount them and dismount them ; in this manner no horse can throw his rider. Another method is to have a leather strap, so strong that it cannot be broken, and draw around the waist so tight that he cannot rear up. Another is to put on them side lines to teach a horse to pace. " H. Our reason and observation teach us that a thing to be done well, the mind must well comprehend the subject of it, and practice makes it the more perfect." "RECIPES FOR TAMING WITH MEDICINE. (VERBATIM.) " To catch a horse, mule, or cow, take oil of rhodium, oil of an- ise, oil of cinnamon, three equal parts, mix them together, and let them smell it by putting it on your finger ends, and rubbing it on or in the nose, and in ten or twenty minutes they are ready to re- ceive your kindness and your plan of teaching, etc. It has an as- tonishing effect on the animals of the world. I have managed dogs in a wonderful manner by it. It soothes the wild and timid. With a cow I have never failed to do all that may be required. "TO SICKEN HORSE WITH TOBACCO. * c Washing a horse with a strong decoction of tobacco will sub- due his viciousness. One quart will make a nervous horse very sick. Others of a bilious temperament require a gallon. "GREAT SECRET FOR TAMING. " One pound of oatmeal, a quarter pound of honey, half Law- ranee, made into a cake and baked. Put the cake into your bo- som and keep it there until it sweats, and when the horse has fasted twelve or twenty -four hours, give it to him to eat. Then use him kindly and gently. " The second best plan is to use the chestnut or scurf from the leg of another animal. It is found on the inside of the fore leg, above the knee, and on the hind legs adjoining the hocks. By drying and pulverizing it, and putting it into a goose quill that will hold a dose for each nostril, it serves to sicken or stupefy him. " Third. The Spanish manner is to milk the mare and mix salt in it, and give it to them to lick from your hand some three or four times a day. In three days they become fond of you." CHAPTER XV. FAMILIAR TALK WITH THE READER. IT may be asked, " Have you given in this work all the secrets of your system?" I answer. Yes, without any reservation whatever. In the development of the principles presented in these pages, I was compelled at first to grad- ually feel my way, as it were, following up every clue that promised success, until, by practice and experience, the principles and methods of treatment herein given were de- veloped, which must be considered as constituting a com- plete system. The one important point in which I was most interested, and of which I made a specialty, was the art of direct sub- jection, to learn how far I could be successful in changing and holding the character as desired. With a variety of the most difficult cases to treat almost daily, I was com- pelled to demonstrate the practical value of every phase of treatment that promised good results, even including the various kinds of drugs supposed to be effective in taming horses. In time I noticed the peculiarities of disposition and character upon which certain lines or combinations of treat- ment would have the best effect, until I was able to system- atize the treatment, with great accuracy, to every condi- tion of temperament and character of resistance. If not sure of the best treatment to use, I soon learned it by what I termed testing, or exciting the horse sufficiently to (457) 458 FAMILIAR TALK have him reveal his true character, when I could easily determine the line of treatment to pursue. For nearly twenty years I have been experimenting almost continually in this way upon all kinds of horses, so that I have been able to prove beyond doubt, by the most exact experimental tests, the effectiveness and superiority of the methods of treatment given. I was at first, like others, greatly misled, by the pretensions and assumed success of Rarey, into believing that there must be more in that method of treatment than I had yet been able to discover. On this account I was induced to try the treatment hundreds of times in cases upon which I had prac- tically failed, with the hope of catching this hidden secret, until I was able to comprehend beyond all doubt its exact effect upon all kinds of horses. This ultimately brought me to the conclusion that back of it was gross trickery, which it was necessary, if possible, to unearth and explain. Indeed, the fascination and mystery in the public mind in relation to this treatment was constantly a source of embarrassment to me. The question, " Is your treatment anything like Rarey's?" was quite common. Or, if I hinted the least doubt of being able to control as by magic the most difficult case brought me, it would be made the basis of the unpleasant assertion that Rarey claimed to be able to subdue any horse in the world. If I could not assume to do as much, it was plain evidence that my treat- ment was not so good as his. Of course, when once able to form a class, I could make clear the limited and imper- fect character of his treatment. Indeed, I would consider this work seriously defective were the explanation given to be omitted, as without it there must exist a strong vein of mystery and doubt as to the correct principles and true key of subjection. I have also been frequently startled, even of late years? WITH THE BEADEH. 459 by the bold pretensions of parties I have occasionally met, who claimed to be able to perform the most wonderful feats with horses ; such, for example, as being able to make any horse in the world no matter how vicious stand gently to be shod, or be able to drive or ride any horse without breeching, etc., etc., in a few minutes. The positiveness of such assertions frequently led me to believe they really were in possession of new and important secrets, as I knew I had no treatment by which I could in so short a time perform such feats in the control of all cases. But invariably, in tracing the matter up, I found that their knowledge of the subject was very limited, being entirely based upon the use of one of the simpler methods of sub- jection given ; and further, that many such persons had obtained their knowledge by attending one of my classes years before, or had learned the points indirectly of others ; proving conclusively that I had nothing to learn from them, and enabling me to determine at once just what they could do. I refer to these cases to show that if I could be influ- enced by the pretensions of such persons how easy it must be to impose upon and mislead those having but a very limited knowledge of the subject. As to the use of pretended secrets in the way of drugs, etc., it is very easy to settle all doubt in the matter, as any one can obtain and experiment with them for himself. I have tried to make every point so simple and plain that the reader can easily understand that there is no mystery in the control of horses, beyond that of skillful, intelligent treatment ; that when managed according to the laws of their nature, it becomes a very simple matter to subdue and control even the most vicious horses ; that every horse made vicious or unmanageable, is so, in reality, as the result of ignorance and bad treatment. 460 FAMILIAR TALK It is evident that a very little carelessness or inatten- tion is liable to cause irreparable damage to a finely con- structed engine. The adjustment of parts must be kept perfect, no friction permitted. Managed by a skillful hand, it will do its work smoothly and reliably. But ma- chines are of a fixed nature, governed by laws that are unchangeable ; so that when the conditions and adjustment of parts are understood, they are easy of management ; while in horses, as explained, there are such greatly vary- ing degrees of size, strength, intelligence, and endurance, that their subjection and management requires, if any- thing, a far higher order of care and skill than is neces- sary in the management of even the most complicated ma- chine. A man must have patience, and the courage, if neces- sary, that borders upon rashness ; yet always holding him- self within the limits of safety. Whatever the difficulties or failures, like the skilled mechanic, he should only ex- hibit the more care and patience, until successful. It is especially important that there be no fool-hardiness, lack of judgment, or carelessness that will expose the horse to danger or accident. It is an invariable fault of those who claim any skill or experience in the management of horses, to be over-confident, to think too much of the little they know of applying the treatment, and too little of the diffi- culties and dangers of resistance in the horse to be treated. I have known so many fine horses needlessly excited or abused, strained, or even killed, by the sheer lack of judg- ment and care in the man, that I regard it as proof of the rarest qualifications of fitness and skill to succeed without accident. A man who assumes to know all about horses, and "can break any horse," etc., only gives to any sensible, observing man the strongest proof of his ignorance. The WITH THE HEADEJK. 461 most ignorant man I ever knew in the business was the greatest pretender, and a good type of the many pretentious horse-tamers who have of late years infested the country. One of the points that impressed me most forcibly in ques- tioning the genuineness of Mr. Rarey's pretensions, was his bold assumption of claiming to know the horse's every thought, and to be able to subdue any horse or animal in the world, a boast that he repeated nearly every time he appeared before the public. Notwithstanding I handled daily all sorts of horses, and was fortunate enough not to have any serious accidents occur, I never handled a horse of decided courage and spirit that I was not doubtful of succeeding without more or less trouble or accident. Many a time, in handling a critical case, my nervous system would seem to be fairly chilled with anxiety and apprehension, until I had suc- ceeded. The greater my experience and opportunity for studying horses, the more could 1 see reasons for the greatest care and attention to every detail. A little care- lessness, for example, might cause a horse to slip and break his leg, or be otherwise seriously injured. I have known horses when even led out by the halter, in jumping around, to break the leg, or be seriously lamed. Because there has been no accident, it should not be accepted as reason for not anticipating danger in future cases. No violent lung- ing, or careless, hap-hazard throwing, should be permitted, especially in the management of sensitive, valuable horses. It is as much the part of success to prevent accidents as to ultimately subduo the horse; because carelessness, or management that would expose the horse to strain or serious injury, would destroy the very object and value of the treatment. Every precaution should be taken in securing a good place for operations, with every requisite for the sure and easy control of the case. Nothing should be hazarded to chance. 462 FAMILIAB TALK Of course it cannot be difficult for any ordinary man, if he follows the directions here given, to break the average of bad colts and horses. But if the case is at all critical, success must depend upon making no mistakes, and being thorough. Every failure is an undoubted proof of the lack of judgment and proper effort. True success in this as in every other field of effort, must be the result of compre- hending the conditions, and regulating the efforts accord- ingly. All these conditions require careful observation and thought. If the horse is bad, and there is not full knowledge of him, there should be an effort to make him reveal his character, when it will be easy to determine the kind of treatment to be used. In building a bridge or steam machinery, where large risks to life are involved, extraordinary precautions are taken to insure safety against accidents, by requiring much more strength or power than is expected to be used at any time. Every part is tested as to its strength and weight, far beyond what it is ever required to sustain, and, when completed, is again proved, in order to give assurance of its safety. Now in the subjection of horses, on whose docility and security so much is risked, I cannot too strongly urge the necessity of at least equal prudence and care to insure the greatest possible degree of safety in their use. All horses, especially those used for carriage and family driving, should be tested very thoroughly. There should be no fear of any rattle or noise of wagon, nor should any of the usual minor causes of fear be noticed by him while driving. There should be entire freedom to let the cross-piece run against the quarters, and yet the driver should be able to stop him instantly, without the horse offering the least resistance. Catching the rein under the tail, and all such incidental causes of irritation, should not be noticed by WITH THE BEADEK. 463 him. It is not sufficient that the horse should bear these tests when not excited, but they should be borne under the most severe trials, to give assurance of perfect safety. Certainly if a horse will not bear these tests, no mat- ter how fine and good he may be in other respects, he should be rejected for such use. The better to show the liability to failure in consequence of the want of judgment in carrying out the treatment properly, by persons having even the best of experience, I will refer to a few cases in point : While in New York City, a gentleman brought me a Kentucky mare that had resisted every effort to break. The last time, hitched to a sulky, she ran away, and was lost forty-eight hours. I took her in hand, and subjected her carefully to the Second Method, and succeeded in about fifteen minutes in driving her in the ring without difficulty. But knowing that to fix the impression of being entirely fearless of the shafts, etc., would require consider- able driving, I directed one of my men who had assisted me for years, and who, so far as experience was concerned, should have been far more than ordinarily successful in the management of such cases, to take her in hand and work her carefully during my absence. I particularly cautioned him in regard to her extremely sensitive and positive character, and that he must be very careful not to get her excited and to fighting him, and left, supposing he would do as I directed. But to my surprise, on my return in the evening, I found the colt seriously injured from the abuse of exceptionally severe treatment. By carelessness, he got her excited and to fighting him, when he subjected her to the Third and other methods, carrying the treatment to the extreme of abuse. The injury, however, was only superficial. In a few weeks, when well, in the presence of the owner, to whom 464 FAMILIAK TALK I explained the facts, I subjected her again to treatment in the same manner, and drove her in shafts without breech- ing. I explained to him that my treatment in the building would not break her; that she must be treated out of doors, and carefully driven in poles until thoroughly gentle to rein and submissive to them. In a word, the treatment must be made carefully progressive (as explained in chapter on Colt Training). He was advised to employ a good, patient man, and if the treatment were carried out as directed, there would be no difficulty in making her per- fectly safe and gentle. Before leaving New York, in 1872, a leading gentleman requested me to remain over a day, and show a man in his employ how to break a very promising trotting mare. He stated that the man informed him that she was so ugly and unmanageable he could do nothing with her. I knew the mare well, as she was once brought to my place for treat- ment. When driven with other horses, if not given her own way, she would balk. She was extremely sensitive, but perfectly gentle until excited or maddened, when she would become very stubborn, and difficult to manage. I explained to the owner at the time that we could not break her under canvas ; that she should be worked on the track, with other horses, at first moderately, but gradually pushing until she balked, when she should be subjected to treatment until submissive. Then the driving should be continued up to the point of proving her perfectly safe and reliable. The man who had been employed to handle her was a sort of professional trainer, who claimed much skill and experience. He had attended the class of every horse- tamer who had visited New York for many years, including mine. He was quite an enthusiast, and on this account was employed by the gentleman to break this mare, WITH THE READER 465 Next day I met this man, by appointment, in the upper part of the city, where the mare was kept. Upon inquiry, the man stated that he had hitched her to an express wagon, and she refused to pull. He made up his mind he would make her go, and threw her a dozen times or more, when he resorted to the whip. In fact, he entered into a regular fight with her, which ended in the mare becoming so stubborn and mad that he could do nothing with her. Said he, " She 's a bad one ! " I was certainly amazed that after all my instructions he should be guilty of such bad management in this case. I told him he should have known better in the first place than to hitch such a sensitive mare, that was entirely unaccustomed to drawing loads, to a heavy express wagon ; that it was the quickest and surest way of spoiling her ; that the First Method of Subjection was not at all adapted to her case ; that it would make her submit so far as lying down, but no farther ; that he should have hitched her to a light sulky, at first moving her slowly so as to get her into good humor, then gradually letting her out. If she balked, he should have tried the War Bridle, holding the Second Method as a reserve power. Yet he could not understand this, though it was repeated to him over and over. I hitched the mare to a light sulky to test her, and let her go moderately for a few minutes, then gradually let her out, testing her quite hard, but she never offered to balk. She needed, in fact, but little more than careful, good management. In Personal Experience, page 486, I make special mention of the difficulty I had in training Turco to turn to the motion of the whip ; that I worked upon him for three days without making the least progress ; and that finally he jumped over the girt upon the hay-mow to get away 30 466 FAMILIAR TALK from the abuse of the punishment to which I was subject- ing him. Yet as soon as I comprehended the idea of doing it properly, I was able in a few minutes to make him do it without difficulty, showing that the real trouble was in my- self and not in the horse. In looking back over my past experience, I can see that hundreds of times I struggled and worked with horses for hours, and even days, regard- ing it a great feat when I finally succeeded, even after the use of the most severe treatment, cases which, had I known how to treat them as I by after experience learned to do, I could have succeeded in subduing in from a few minutes to an hour. A very common and dangerous cause of trouble is in being led to believe that because a horse has submitted to treatment in one place to the point of making him docile, he must prove equally so in others. To show the danger of this, I will refer to an incident in point : While at a small town in Western New York, a man informed me that he had a six-year-old runaway colt that was entirely unmanageable. He wished to join the class, and bring in this colt for treatment. In consequence of a serious indisposition at the time, I could not do the work of teaching a class, and so informed the people. There was, however, so much interest in the matter that they volunteered to be satisfied with the instructions of my assistant, who was fully competent to give all the os- sential points, and to make the experiments. I cautioned him in regard to the character of the horse upon which ho would experiment, for though I did not see the horse, yet from the description given I knew he was one that would require very careful treatment ; that no matter how well he might drive before the class in the building, on no ac- count must the attempt be made to drive him out of doors. With these precautions observed, I apprehended no WITH THE KEADER. 46V trouble. But the experiment upon the colt was so success- ful, he driving around in the building without breeching, entirely gentle and fearless, the people requested that he be driven outside. My assistant, not being able to explain the principles and conditions of success so that they could understand (a dangerous omission which I feared he would make, but which I supposed I had guarded against) , finally consented, being persuaded he would have no trouble in doing so. When the doors were opened, the horse drove all right until he got just outside, when he made a spring forward, pulled away, and made directly for the canal, which was close by. He jumped from the bank to the bottom, a distance of twenty-two feet, crossed, and soon disappeared down the tow-path. Being apprised of the trouble, I told the owner I would pay any damages sustained by the horse, and gave orders to have him caught and brought back. Fortunately the horse was unharmed, and I again subjected him to treatment, when he was driven without difficulty. I made the incident an opportunity for explaining that a very common cause of failure is in supposing that because a horse has submitted to treatment in one place, and ap- pears perfectly docile, he will prove equally so in all places ; that there would be no more difficulty in driving a horse out of doors than in a building, provided he could be worked there as in the building. But the difficulty was, we could not do this on account of the crowd that always hung around, making it impossible to have sufficient privacy to subject him to treatment. The public, somehow, could not understand this condi- tion, and it was continually the cause of more or less trouble to me. A very bad case would frequently be brought for- ward to be experimented upon, when by subjecting to treat- ment he could be made to submit to being hitched up and driven around in the building perfectly manageable ; but 468 FAMILIAK TALK when I explained that the treatment must be repeated out of doors to make him work equally well there, they would regard it as sufficient proof that the horse would not stay broken, and that the treatment was good for nothing. Or, after being taken home, if not proved perfectly gentle there, the treatment and experiment were regarded as a failure. On this account I was continually between two fires ; for to admit that there were any conditions of fail- ure would prevent my making a class, and to have any bad luck with a horse after his having been experimented upon, would be equally bad. Not unfrequently I would be com- pelled to drive horses in the street without the necessary preparations, and take desperate chances ; or after driving without trouble a really vicious, dangerous horse, the owner would think he could do as much, and insist upon hitching him up and driving, and if any accident resulted, the fault would of course be laid to me. Very often, after desper- ate horses that had previously resisted all effort to break, had been driven before the class with perfect docility, the owner, and not unfrequently the entire class, would de- mand a return of their money, unless I would guarantee that the horse could be driven home with perfect safety, and this, too, after I had taken every precaution to explain to them, before forming the class, that I could do but little more at the time than to teach the owner how to manage him that he must be treated at home according to the di- rections I should give. For example, when at a certain town in Northern Maine, a five-year-old mare that had defied every effort to drive in harness was brought to me for treatment. It being im- possible to shoe her, as a last resort they put her in an ox- frame to do so, but she struggled so desperately they could tack on but one shoe. I stated that there would be no trouble in breaking this mare, but that I could not do it be- WITH THE BEADEB. 469 fore the class in a barn; that so far as making her gentle to be shod, I could do that in a few minutes, but to drive her in harness successfully, she must be treated out of doors, which could not be done on account of the crowd. They agreed to be satisfied with what I could do in the building. Hav- ing but a very small place to work in, it required the great- est skill to manage her successfully, and in less than ten minutes she submitted to have the feet handled, and finally to be driven, not only in the barn, but out of doors, as this was insisted upon. Yet the owner, and the entire, class, were dissatisfied because I would not guarantee that the mare could be driven home to a carriage with perfect safety and so I returned their money. A very little effort out of doors would have made this mare perfectly gentle to be driven, as I stated to them, and which was proved two days afterward, when she was driven in a crowd, without breeching, by a horse-jockey who traded for her. At a place in Central Ohio, a horse that was afraid of a top carriage, one of the worst cases I ever saw, was brought in for treatment. After driving him successfully to a top carriage under the canvas, it was insisted upon as a condition of their being satisfied, that I should drive him out and into the streets. I did so, at great personal risk, barely succeeding. The owner now insisted that he could drive the horse just as well as I. I explained to the class that the horse should be treated out of doors before he could be driven with safety, and to prevent an accident, which I knew would inevitably follow, and destroy the confidence of the people in that part of the country in my efforts , I bought him. I refer to these cases particularly to impress inexperi- enced persons, as shown by the first cases referred to, with the necessity of having a correct idea of the treatment for the case, and then carefully and patiently persevering until 470 FAMILIAK TALK successful. The last-named cases indicate that the work must be thoroughly done, where the horse is in the habit of resisting, and that in critical cases, stopping short of suc- cess in even a single point would precipitate failure. The extent to which horses are used, and the depend- ence of life and property upon their docility and perfect obedience to control, together with the great depreciation in their value when they become of unreliable character, or have habits fastened upon them which render them danger- ous and unfit for use, makes such instructions as will pre- vent and overcome these difficulties of the first importance. Yet notwithstanding the magnitude of the interest at stake, there is no duty in its true sense that is left so much in the hands of ignorant, irresponsible persons. Now while it is conceded that the horse is the most noble and valuable of all the domestic animals, and his possession and training are in every sense ennobling, the suspicion and taint of prejudice and jockeyism in the training and driving of es- pecially fine and valuable horses have been so strong that if a gentleman even dared to own one, it was regarded as a sufficient cause for social ostracism. If he wished to test his speed, he dared not take a public road, but usually re- sorted to some back street or by-lane to escape observation and comment. When Mr. Bonner had the hardihood to buy Dexter (at that time the fastest trotter in the world) for his own private use, paying for him the large price of $33,000, it served to give the horse his true status in the estimation of cultivated, intelligent people. Other gentlemen of wealth soon followed his example, and purchased the best horses obtainable at fabulous prices, until the emulation has become so great that some of the best horses now kept for private driving cannot be bought for $100,000. In like manner the study and practice of the art of WITH THE EEADEE. 471 taming and controlling horses has been regarded as so low and degrading that persons having any regard for their re- spectability would scarcely dare give it attention. But happily, as the importance of this knowledge is made plain to the people^ the impression has become almost universal that it is worthy the study of the best minds in the coun- try, and that it should be taught as a specialty in all agri- cultural colleges, and as far as possible to owners of horses in every town and county in the country. Certainly it cannot be denied that when it is engaged in with the sense of responsibility, care, and skill which it demands, it is in reality worthy of being ranked among the most important, interesting, and elevating of the professions. CHAPTER XVI. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. THERE has been such a desire to know how I came to engage in this business, that I venture to give a short ac- count of myself under this head. I came from Ireland when a boy of fourteen, and, being thrown upon my own resources, I engaged to learn the car- riage-making business in Wellsville, N. Y. At the end of three months I was compelled by circumstances to seek employment elsewhere. I next engaged in the same busi- ness by the month at Almond, N. Y., where I remained two years, after which I obtained employment at Dry den, N. Y., where I remained nearly two years. While here, I arranged to go into business with a young man in the man- ufacture of carriages in Myersburg, Pa. ; and after continu- ing the business nearly a year, I bought him out, and con- tinued there alone for four years. During this time I be- came so successful a manufacturer of carriages that I took the first premium at two county fairs in Towanda, the first year on single, the second on double, carriages. The diffi- culties of this achievement can be better understood when it is stated that I did but a small country business, doing most of the work of painting and trimming myself, besides being compelled to compete with several large manufac- turers. During my residence here I first exchanged carriages for horses, and this led me to dealing in them. In this (472) PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. 473 way I became owner of horses of all kinds of habits, and was forced to the task of trying to break them. The bet- ter to illustrate some of the difficulties I experienced in do- ing this, I have included an account of one of these cases in the chapter on Balking. But the most remarkable and difficult case I had at this time was a medium-sized gray mare, which had the habit of balking and lunging. She could trot a mile in less than three minutes, and had the nerve and courage to go until she would drop. She would either balk, or suddenly rush ahead at the top of her speed, and make a succession of lunges in the air. She was one of the worst horses of this character I ever saw. On com- ing to the top of a hill she would jump several times, then rush down headlong. On reaching the foot of a hill she would rush up in the same manner. While driving, if she met a person or team, she would get into the same tantrums, and rush by regardless of all restraint. At such a time she would throw herself into the air against the bit with such fury that it would be impossible to hold her. By blindfolding and other devices I succeeded in driving her during the three months which I owned her, though I had many narrow escapes. While driving this mare, my neighbors would frequently wish to ride with me ; but af- ter trying it once it was rare that any one could be induced to repeat the experiment. I learned afterward that she had defied every effort to drive her before coming into my possession, and was never driven after I sold her. Had she been properly broken in the first place, she would have been a valuable horse ; but she was ruined by bad treatment. Though I succeeded in driving her, still I wished to subdue her so thoroughly that she would show no inclination to resist. After ex- hausting my patience and ingenuity, I tried as a last resort a remedy which I had often heard horsemen recommend 5 474 PERSONAL EXPERIENCE.. namely, to tie her to a tree and whip her with hickory withes until she would surrender. I made the experiment, but it only made her so excited and bad that I could scarcely drive her at all afterwards. As I have stated elsewhere, whipping is a means of punishment, and not, properly considered, of subjection. Consequently, if there is serious resistance, it should not be resorted to, as it is liable to do a great deal of harm. In the first place, tying and whipping a horse does not give him any idea what it is for ; hence it has no direct relation to the resistance. In addition, it so intensifies and rouses the bad nature that the habit is, if anything, made worse. Another cause of trouble is that when excited the trainer is liable to overdo and seriously injure himself. I did not recover in a week from the excitement and exhaustion caused by whipping the horse as referred to. This mare was the only one in all my experience that I failed to re- form. At the expiration of my lease, I closed my business, and started out without any definite idea as to where I should go, but kept on until I arrived at Somerset, in Southern Kentucky. After waiting several months for Ci something to turn up," my attention was called to a fine horse which had a very bad reputation for running away, and could only by the use of much rigging be driven by a horse-tamer from Pennsylvania. The owner saw that I fancied the horse, and so got the man to hitch him up for me. While riding with him, I wished to take the reins, which he re- fused, Isaying, " No man can drive this horse but myself." Though I had no use for the horse, I determined at once to buy him, and did so. There was great curiosity to know what I could do with this horse, from the fact that this man had said that if I attempted to drive him, he would be sure to run away. Before hitching him up, I took him to PEBSONAL EXPEDIENCE. 475 the woods, and worked on him until confident that I had him under control. When it became known that I intended to drive him in the streets, it caused great excitement. Many called it mere fool-hardiness, and tried to prevent it ; but failing, they all came into the street to witness the per- formance. My jockey friend volunteered his assistance, but I told him I needed no help, and that I believed I could show him some things he didn't know yet. When ready to start, a couple of men in the crowd began to fight, one of them being knocked down, and falling directly under- neath the horse. To the surprise of everybody, he stood perfectly still until the man was taken away, and then started off like any gentle family horse. His altered be- havior aroused the suspicion that the horse had been " doped," or drugged ; but as he remained perfectly gentle during the entire time I remained in the place, the mystery surrounding the affair was very great. After spending nearly a year traveling in the South, I returned North, and finally brought up in Pit-tston, Pa. While here, there boarded in the same house with me a book-can vasser, who came in one morning and said he had made $3 in a couple of hours' time. I thought this was doing exceedingly well for a cold ; rainy morning, and it led to my starting out to get names for him on commission. I succeeded that afternoon and the next day in obtaining seven orders, which so encouraged me that I bought him out, and industriously pushed this new business with great success among the coal-dealers between there and Hawley. During one of these canvassing peregrinations I hap- pened to put up over night with a man named A. L. Burns, at Dunning, Lackawanna Co. This gentleman was an in- telligent, progressive farmer, who had raised a fine Hamil- tonian stallion, then past two years old, which proved of a very vicious temper. 476 PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. While Mr. Burns was milking his cows in the morning, I slipped into the stable and subjected the horse to simple treatment, making him follow me around in the barn with- out any difficulty whatever. After breakfast the owner went to the barn to show me the horse, when I walked in and led him out, and made him follow me around as gentle as a pet.* The change was so great that he was led to ask if I had not been doing something to the horse. I an- swered, " Yes ; I went out before breakfast and got ac- quainted with him ! " He said, " If you will show me what you did with him, I will give you $50." This seemed to me to be too much for so little knowledge ; but wishing the money, the idea struck me instantly of instructing a num- ber of persons at a nominal charge, and thereby fairly earn- ing it ; and in answer I said, " That is too much for you to pay ; but if you will get ten of your neighbors, at $5 each, I will teach you for nothing." He at once went among his neighbors, and in a short time returned accompanied by a number of them, and handed me $50. f It now occurred to me that I was in a bad corner? * Since writing this paper, I am informed that this was the same horse that was shot a few years afterward for his extreme viciousness. The statement made by Mr. Burns authenticating this is as follows: " I drove this horse single until he was five years old, when I put him into other hands for one year, and he became un- manageable. I then sold him to J. & A. Wells, who afterward sold him in Middle- town, N. T., and the authorities there ordered him shot on account of his vicious- ness." In 1878 the writer was in the stable where this horse was confined and shot a short time previous. f While writing this article, it occurred to me as of sufficient interest to write to Mr. Burns for the names of those comprising this class. After much trouble in obtaining his address (having heard nothing from him for over twenty years) I wrote him, and received the following statement: " So far as I can remember, the names of the men in the class at my house were J. D. Burns, Prompton, Pa.; J. E. Meyers, Canaan, Wayne Co., Pa.; J. S. Collins, Keyser, Lackawanna Co., Pa. ; Andrew Coss, Canaan, Lackawanna Co., Pa. ; Alva C. Bemeer, Canaan, Lackawanna Co., Pa. ; L. C. Darte, Ariel, Wayne Co., Pa. ; Jason Myers, and myself. Tour friend, A. L. BURNS, "Thinning, Lacka. Co., Ja." MY FIKST CLASS. 477 478 PERSONAL EXPEDIENCE. knowing that I really knew nothing about horse-taming ; but I had the money, and felt that I must, if possible, carry the matter through, so as to be able to hold it. In the neighborhood was one of the most uriexception- ally vicious, biting mares ever known in that country. When turned loose, she would run at a man with all the fe- rocity of a bulldog ; but of all this I knew nothing. When I organized the class, I observed that all got up overhead except one, who from a side stable turned the mare loose upon the barn floor where I was standing. With ears laid back and mouth open, she instantly ran for me, showing the most savage ferocity. I saw that she would bite and tram- ple me under foot. Directly behind me was an empty hay- mow extending three or four feet below the floor, thus mak- ing a fall of from seven to eight feet from the top of the girt to the ground. I turned quickly, but not having time to jump, I threw myself head foremost over the girt. The ground was covered with stones and limbs. I was consid- erably stunned, of course, by the fall, but not seriously in- jured. Fortunately I had a common slip-noose halter in my hand, which I retained. When I arose, I saw the mare's head over the girt looking at me. Overhead were my scholars out of harm's way, laughing at my defeat. I con- sider the event of sufficient interest to give an illustration of it. The mare had nothing on her, and it was evident that no one could approach her with safety. Here I was at the first movement helpless and defeated ; but my temper was up, and I was bound to go through with the matter at any hazard, and make it a success. I still held the halter in my hand, and scarcely thinking what I did, I picked up a stick, and hanging the head-piece on one end I reached up and carefully placed it over her head. I now put the end of the stick against her jaw to keep her head from me, and ALMOST A FAILUKE. 479 climbed upon the girt. Getting as short a hold of the halter as I could, I took the chances of jumping towards her tail, and caught it. The momentum of my jumping pulled her head after, and threw her hind parts from, me ; a fact which I improved upon, and pulled her around rapidly five or six times, making her dizzy and disconcerted. I then reversed quickly to the other side, catching the tail in the same man- ner and running her around rapidly. This I repeated sev- eral times, when I had her sufficiently disconcerted and under control to make the next step ; namely, tying up her leg and throwing her several times, after which I put on the old form of War Bridle and made her follow me, mak- ing the experiment a complete success. This took me not more than ten minutes. So far as I know, this was the first attempt ever made to halter a horse with a pole, or to run one around in this way to make him dizzy and helpless. The necessities of the moment drove me to this course as the only way out of the corner in which I was placed, and it was successful. It would be an easy matter for me to control such a horse now, but taken as I was then, without even a knowledge of first principles, it seemed like a great success. The next horse experimented upon was a surly kicker, though not in appearance very vicious, yet a far more dif- ficult case to manage. The novelty and excitement of the whole thing so interested me as to strike a new key in my nature, and without reflection I dropped everything else, and determined to engage in the horse-taming business. My first step now was to inform myself upon the subject. Procuring every book available upon the training and man- agement of horses, I was surprised to find no authority whatever on the subject except Rarey. His method of treatment, though regarded as so much of a feat, seemed so simple to me that I did not feel under any apprehensions of being unable to do this, or even more. 480 PEBSONAL EXPEBIENCE. My real difficulties now commenced ; had I realized at the time what they would be, nothing could have induced me to engage in such business. First, I was very youthful in appearance, and undersized points very greatly against me ; and secondly, I was without the address necessary to interest others in my efforts. I at first made but one small class in two weeks, and to add to my difficulties, my expenses had about exhausted my means. At my last place of engagement, notwithstanding I made a supreme effort to get a class, I failed. Still I was determined to succeed, and by the influence of this effort I made a success at a neighboring town. This became a turning point in my fortunes, for from that time, my success was almost continuous, the citizens frequently clubbing together to form a class for me, and I was often invited back several times to the same place. Some time after this, a chance circumstance occurred which had great influence in increas- ing my success. I was advertised in a little town called Minaville, in Montgomery Co., N. Y. Upon arriving there, I not only found no interest at all in my efforts, but those present commenced ridiculing and blackguarding me until I was finally driven to defend myself. After this, to my surprise, those who had abused me most were the foremost in proposing to form a class for me. It being then too late, and having no suitable subjects upon which to illustrate treatment, I declined. They then made the request that I would come another day, promis- ing, if I would do so, not only to come out themselves, but to do all they could to bring out a general attendance of their neighbors. A week later I returned, and was successful in making a large class. Some time afterward, at a small town across the river from Amsterdam, when about ready to make up a class, three of the Minaville members then present requested a MEETING DIFFICULTIES. 481 private interview with me. They told me they were dissatisfied, and demanded a return of their money. They said, if I would return it quietly, they would say nothing about it, and would help me all they could in that place. They could give no reason, only they were "not satisfied." I told them I could not do so unless I returned the money to the other members of the class also, but what I had to say about the matter I would say publicly. I accordingly called the people up around me, and told them what the fellows wanted, and what I had said to them, and closed up by announcing a time when I would go back to Mina- ville, and give to them and every member of that class their money back if they wanted it. Despite the strong opposition set up by these Minaville members, I succeeded in making a large class here, which was a decided success. It now became necessary to make decided effort at Minaville, as I knew these fellows would do all they could to prejudice the other members of the class. On this account, before the day appointed, I scoured the town to find good subjects, and succeeded in finding but one horse that had the habit of running away, and which had not been harnessed in over a year. By paying a liberal sum, and passing the owner into the class free, I procured this horse, and succeeded in making him entirely gentle. At the close of the lesson, I explained why I had returned, and told them that if they then felt they were not satisfied, one and all of them could step forward and get their money. They all expressed themselves fully satisfied, even those who had been opposing me, and passed a unanimous resolution of thanks, which was published in the county papers. That evening, the horse referred to was purchased by one of the scholars, and proved afterward a safe, reliable family horse. During the early years of my experience, my efforts .31 482 PEESONAL EXPEKIENCE. were more or less experimental, each new difficulty or phase of character trying me harder. When I failed, I never felt satisfied to let the matter so rest, and often at great inconvenience and expense would return and repeat the experiment privately until successful. I did it mainly for my own instruction. To show the persistence with which I sometimes followed this up, I will refer to a case for the sake of which I was compelled to lose over a week's time, and travel over a hundred miles : At Vienna, N. Y., I failed on a horse brought in by Dr. Carpenter, a leading physician in the place, and lost a large class. Before leaving, I told the owner I was unwilling to let the matter rest so, that after meeting my other engagements, I would come back and take the horse in hand privately, and see what I could do with him. These engagements took me over sixty miles away. A week afterward, I drove back and spent half a day in handling the horse, barely succeeding in his control. The gentleman proposed that I again advertise the place, assuring me, if 1 would do so, I could get all the members of the former class, and a number of new ones. This I declined to do, when he offered to get them together him- self, providing I would teach them ; and through his efforts and influence a larger class than before was assembled. This time I made a decided success. Whenever I found very peculiar cases, I obtained them, if possible, to experiment upon. I will refer to one very marked case. When in Buffalo, N. Y., I heard of a trotting mare which was a desperate runaway of a peculiar charac- ter. She had been owned by a canal stableman in Erie Street, who, after she had run away with him several times, traded her off. Upon inquiry, I found the mare, and prevailed upon the owner to let me have her to exper- iment upon. He consented, on condition that I would pay EXPEE1MENTS. 483 for her keeping while in the city, and pass him into the class free. Out of harness, she was entirely gentle ; but in harness, despite the pulling of two or three men, the patent reins, or the most severe bits that could be used upon her, she would resist all restraint and run away. This mare was a nervous tempered, ordinary looking bay, long-haired, deep-chested, rather heavy-boned, and not inclined to put on flesh. A very noticeable indication of the character was in the head, which was quite long and narrow. The eyes were rather small, and full below, the nose rounding, and ears long. I would call attention to one point ; viz., that a well-bred horse, possessing great powers of endurance and action, and having the head full and straight below the eyes, especially if the eyes are small and set well back, will be likely, if vicious, to show great obstinacy of resistance. Upon trial under canvas, she submitted readily to treatment, driving around the ring gently after about twelve minutes' treatment; but not revealing herself, she became the more suspicious and dangerous to me. On this account, while testing her outdoors, I took the most careful precaution to prevent her from getting away. She would drive gently for a few moments, then suddenly rush against the bit with all her might. In this way, for more than five hours, she continued the struggle with the most wonder^ ful courage, when she yielded and drove perfectly gentle. Accompanied by a good assistant, I next tried her outside the city, when I found her as desperate in her resistance as though she had never been touched. She fought every point from nine o'clock in the morning until four in the afternoon, when she again yielded. This was one of the greatest exhibitions of pluck I ever saw in any horse, and I was determined to see whether or not such a horse could be broken. During the struggle, her eyes 484 PEKSONAL EXPEDIENCE. were like coals of fire, her ears thrown back, and the sweat at times pouring from her in streams. The Patent Bridle would have enabled the control of this case directly. The subjection of these extreme cases caused me a great deal of extra work and expense, but finally enabled me to determine with great accuracy the character of any case when presented for experiment. It was often a matter of surprise that, upon being told what a horse would do, I could with but rare exceptions, describe accurately the color, size, kind of head, and character gen- erally. Of course there are modifications of character which cannot be determined while the horse is in a passive condition, but which can be easily determined by testing. I early felt the need of some feature of interest that would attract the attention of the people. I at first purchased a pair of elks, which I tried to train and drive, but in consequence of their being too old, I could not make them safe. Some time after this, I heard of a man who as an advertisement drove a stallion without reins in the street. At Fonda, N. Y., I saw this performance, and introduced myself to the owner, Mr. A. H. Rockwell, who afterward became quite famous as a traveling horse-tamer. As a great many since then have claimed to be the originators of this feat, I will state the facts in relation to its first accomplishment : The horse Morgan Tiger was undoubtedly the first driven in this way. He was trained by a lady, Mrs. Fred Bunnell, then a resident of Wellsboro, Tioga Co., Pa. Mrs. Bunnell exhibited remarkable skill in training and driving horses. She trained this stallion, and, among many other novel tricks, taught him to go right and left, back, etc., to the motion of the whip. This horse was naturally very intelligent and stylish in appearance, but DRIVING WITHOUT RELNS. 485 gentle and lazy in disposition just the kind of horse to train easily and not incline to run away. She exhibited him several years at Chemung and other county fairs in that part of the State of New York, attracting much attention with him, yet always having reins on him.* He finally passed out of her hands, and was afterward hired by Mr. Rockwell to give exhibitions in halls. This not paying, and finding the, horse would turn right and left by the whip, he took off the reins and so drove him in the street. To attract attention, he now advertised to drive a stallion in the street without reins, and engaged in teaching horse-taming on the Rarey system. Upon seeing this horse thus driven, I at once determined to train the first good horse I could find to drive without reins. Although I failed to learn in this instance hoAV it was done, yet I made up my mind that it had been done once, and it could be done again, and 7 would do it. Soon after I went to Smithville, Jefferson Co., N. Y., where I found a remarkably fine, four-year old, black stallion, entirely unbroken, owned by 'Squire Cole. He was naturally vicious, but, liking him, I gave all the money I had for him. I now had a wild, unbroken colt, so vicious that it was difficult even to lead him, and certainly the possibility of training such a horse to drive before a carriage safely under any excitement, and with nothing on his head, seemed not only a difficult but a doubtful task. I worked three days trying to teach him to turn to the right or left with the whip, but utterly failed ; yet I did not in the remotest degree give up the idea of succeeding. At this point I was impressed as though by inspiration * This I learned when in that part of the State afterward, from various parties, including Mr. Bunnell, husband of the lady, who became a member of my class at Wellsboro. It was also corroborated by Mr. Hurlburt, Mr. Rockwell's brother-in- law, who traveled with him. 486 PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. how it could be done. My first step was to quiet clown the excitement I had caused him by my previous abuse (for it was nothing else). I then gently mounted him, took a short driving whip, and commenced a moderate tapping against the shoulder, at the same time pulling his head around a little, arid repeating until he got the idea, and would come around himself. When he moved the first time, it seemed a great achievement. I then repeated the treatment upon the opposite side, and in less than half an hour had him so he would turn right and left as touched. Soon he would turn around without being asked, and stop to get his reward of apple. If he did not promptly get it, he would repeat the turning, and then stop again, and ask for his reward as plainly as a beggar. From this point, he made such rapid progress that in a week I could drive him freely without reins in the street, guiding and controlling him perfectly with the whip. In two weeks I was able to give exhibitions with him, the first being in Watertown, where the known circumstances were regarded with great interest. This was my horse Turco, which afterward became quite famous for his remarkable sagacity, and the ease and perfection with which he could be driven with the whip. He was in reality the only horse ever exhibited in this way that proved perfectly safe and reliable, and that never ran away. I could even put him on a run, and drive within an inch or two of any point desired, then turn so short around as to upset the wagon, yet at command he would stop instantly. I trained several horses afterward to drive single or double, but never had one that would equal him. He developed some traits of remarkable sagacity. He was naturally so vicious that I did not dare go near his head without keeping my eyes on his, or catching his halter to keep his head from me. MY FIRST PUBLICATION. 487 To turn my back to him would certainly at times be dangerous ; but by careful management, I so subdued his nature that he became very gentle, though occasionally he exhibited great vicioushess toward others. For example, if the groom showed the least timidity in approaching him, he would become so aggressive that he would lunge and kick at him with bull-dog ferocity. At such times, I had only to step in front of his stall, and say, " Turk, this man is all right ; he only wants to clean you," when he would stand a model of docility, even allowing the man to sit under his body to clean him. As he grew older, he learned to distinguish stablemen from others ; for any man who held a brush or currycomb in his hand, would be permitted to walk into his stall and around him with perfect safety, while others would get an emphatic warning to keep out. I next traveled through Northern and Central New York. At North Vernon I made the important discovery of the Second Method of Subjection, explained in the first chapter. Soon afterward I visited the city of Utica, where, after subduing the " Roberts horse" (Case 11, Subjection), and teaching several large classes, I was severely injured by a horse's stepping upon my foot, which disabled me about two months. It occurred to me while here to write up the details of my treatment, as there was almost daily an inquiry from my old scholars for it in printed form. I did so, and had it published at the Utica Herald Office in 1862. This was the first publication, called, " The New System for Educat- ing and Training Horses." A year later, when in Newark, N. Y., Mr. Rockwell, before referred to, visited me for the purpose of arranging to travel with me through the Eastern States. I drove from this point to Greenfield, Mass., meeting him by 488 PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. appointment at Harpers ville. Upon arriving at Greenfield, I concluded not to engage in the enterprise, but sold out to him, for $300, the right to republish my book (which he was very anxious to do) . I include a copy of the contract^ drawn by a counsel : "It is hereby understood and agreed between D. Magner and A. H. Rockwell as follows ; to wit, in consideration of the mutual agreement herein made, it is agreed that said Rockwell shall make notes and additions to the book called ' The New System of Training Horses,' of which he has bought one-half of the copy- right of said Magner, said notes and additions to be such as he, the said Rockwell, shall think suited to add to the value of said book ; and that a copyright of said book shall be taken out in the names of said Magner and Rockwell jointly and equally. "Nov. 3, 1863." Soon after, I consented to have my name left off the title page, which he desired on publishing a new edition. In making a revision of this little work, Mr. Rockwell claimed to have trained my horse Turco, before referred to, and implied that he started me in the horse-taming business, when the facts were that I was over a year on the road before I ever met or heard of him, and I had trained and exhibited this horse nearly two years before he ever saw him. From Greenfield I went directly to Maine, where I met with the most flattering success. At Portland, almost the entire population came out to witness the feat of driv- ing without reins. I had several large classes there, reference to which will be found in the following editorial notices : " Mr. Magner, the horse-tamer and trainer, has been in Port- land during the past week, and has created a great stir among our horsemen. So great was the interest excited, that Mr. Magner formed a school, which was largely attended by those interested in such matters, including many of our best citizens who have fine horses, years. FIG. 316. At 4 years. the gums, while the corner ones will be di- minished in breadth, worn down, and the mark become small and faint. At four years the central nippers will be fully developed; the sharp edge somewhat worn off, and the mark shorter, wider, and fainter. The next pair will be up, but they will be small, with the mark deep, and ex- tending quite across them. At four years and a half, or between that and five, the corner nippers are shed, and the permanent ones begin to appear, some- thing like cut 315. The central nippers are considerably worn, and the next pair FlG - 317 About 4 years. are commencing to show the marks of usage. The tush has now protruded, and is fully a half inch in height; externally it has a rounded prominence with a groove or hollow in the inside. At five years the horse's mouth is almost perfect. The corner nippers are quite up, with a long, deep, irregular mark on the in- side, and the other nippers are showing the effects of increased wear. The tush is much grown, the grooves on the inside are al- most or quite disappeared, and the outer surface is regularly con- HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 563 are FIG. 318. At 5 years. vex. It is still as concave within, and the edge nearly as sharp as it was six months before. At six years the mark on the central nippers is worn out In the next pair the mark is shorter, broader, and fainter ; and in the corner teeth, the edges of the enamel are more regular, and the surface is ev- idently worn. The tush has attained its full growth, being nearly or quite an inch in length; convex outward, con- cave within; tending to a point, and the extremity some- what curved. The horse may now be said to have a perfect mouth, as all the teeth produced and fully grown. At seven years, the mark, in the way in which we have de- scribed it, is worn out in the central nippers, and fast wearing away in the corner teeth ; the tush also is beginning to be altered. It is rounded at the point; rounded at the edges; still round without; and beginning to get round inside. At eight years the tush is rounder in every way; the mark is gone from all the bot- tom nippers, and it may almost be said to be out of the mouth. There is nothing remaining in the bottom nippers that can afterward clearly show the age of the horse. The upper nip- FIG. 319. At 6 years. pei*s will give some indications, but nothing certain. After the age of eight years, there are no points that will ena- ble determining age with any degree of accuracy. A horse that 564 HOW TO TELL THE AGE. FIG. 320. About 7 years. is fed on corn will show an older mouth than one that is fed on oats and sloppy feed. The usual time for determining a horse's age is in May ; but a colt may come any time be- tween then and fall, so that the wearing away of the teeth or disappearing of the marks or cups may in some cases indicate the horse to be older or younger than he really is. These conditions must be taken into consid- eration. At six years the teeth are rather short, flat, or wide, and the gums run across them horizontally, s o m e - thing like cut 324. After the eighth year the gums begin to recede from the center, and the teeth become longer in appearance. By looking at cut 325, show- ing twelve years, we can see that the gum is receded and run to a sharp point at the center of the teeth. At twenty years, the teeth are considerably narrower and longer, and the gums are drawn back sharper. By observing the face of the teeth, there will gradually be seen a change to the triangular form, which can be best seen and described by cuts 330, 331. From the age of fourteen, we see this is more noticeable, the middle nippers gradually increasing and extending out to the corner ones, as indicated by cut 331. From fifteen to eighteen this triangular form becomes laterally contracted, so that at about twenty and afterward, the teeth become biangular. As before explained, there are great peculiarities in the form of the teeth with advanced age. The most common is shown by cut 332. I include a somewhat rare form shown by extreme age. See cut 333. Many curious tricks and methods of telling the horse's age after eight years old have been shown the writer at various times, as wrinkles about the eyes, and root of the tail, etc,, none of HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 565 which give the idea so correctly as the general appearance of the teeth and absorption of the jaws. In young horses the edge of the lower jaw is round and full ; as the horse becomes older, this edge becomes sharper and thinner. The most unique trick shown the writer of telling the age was the following : If a gold ring be attached to a hair pulled from the tail or FIG. 321. About 8 years. FIG. 32'2. At S years. mane of a horse, and suspended directly above his head between the ears, it will oscillate, like a pendulum, just the number of times the horse is years old, then stop and repeat. I have re- peatedly made the experiment, and it certainly seemed to repeat the age of the horse; but I could not feel satisfied that the motion of the ring was not in a great measure controlled by the involuntary movement of the hand. The man who gave the idea made the experiment in the presence of the writer with apparent success. Jockeys frequently resort to cutting down the teeth of aged horses, so as to simulate as much as possible the appearance of the mouth at eight or nine years of age. This was formerly done by sawing or filing, but more recently there has been invented, by Dr. Dancer, a leading veterinary surgeon of New Jersey, a very in- 566 HOW TO TELL THE AGE. genious instrument for chipping off the teeth, so that the front nippers can be cut down very quickly and easily by any amateur. But the breadth of the teeth and other changes of form, as explained, will expose the de- ception ; also the deep hollow and gray hairs about the eyes, with the under lip considerably pendant. This treatment is called "bishoping," from the name of the man who intro- duced it in England, and is prac- ticed very largely by jockeys FIG. 324. About 6 years old. try, especially in New York. I wish to call at- tention to the fact that horses, especially those advanced in years, are liable to have the teeth in wearing overlap one another, become very rough and wound the inside of the cheeks, or the grinders be- in the larger cities of this coun- FIG. 326. About 20 years old. FIG. 325. About 12 years old. come irregular in length when they do not come oppo- site each other in shutting, or the teeth become carious and break away when not corres- pondingly worn with the other, shoots up to a degree to penetrate the jaw, causing soreness and inflammation, and seriously interfering with eating. DISEASES OF THE TEETH. 5G7 The writer saw a very interesting case of this kind at the Columbia Veterinary College, in which the unobstructed tooth had seriously penetrated into the upper jaw. In the endeavor to Fio. 327. About 1 1 years of age. FIG. 328. Mouth of the mare at 13 years. relieve the pressure of the parts, the animal evidently masticated the food wholly upon the opposite side of the mouth ; in conse- quence of this the teeth on this side were so worn down that both upper and lower jaw were twisted around more than an inch out of line. Sometimes caries or ulceration of a tooth produces such serious disturbance that there may be an enlargement of the parts, growth of fungus, or necrosis of the parts. This too is much more common than is suspected. Prof. Cressy of Hartford called my attention to a case in which a back tooth in the lower of jaw became ulcerated, causing much enlarge- ment of the jaw. He first removed the tooth, then divided the skin at the lower edge of the jaw, and with a drill made a hole through the bone. Through this hole he put a seton to keep the parts open until a healthy healing process should be produced. A strong preparation of carbolic acid was put upon the seton and dressed once a day, which finally effected a perfect cure. FIG. 329. Mouth the mare at 13 years. 568 HOW TO TELL THE AGE. When the horse, without any apparent cause, is running down, munching or eating his food but slowly, especially if there is any lateral action of the jaw, examine the mouth carefully to see whether there is any noticeable cause of trouble in the teeth. If rough and irregular, they should be rasped down. The method of doing this is now so well understood as to scarcely need explana- tion. The rasping down of all irregularities should be FIG. 330. At 14 years old. carefully done, and if there is a decayed tooth it should be removed by a veterinary surgeon who is conversant with the simplest and best method of doing it. There are now regular horse den- testry implements in gen- eral use for this purpose, which can be easily ob- tained. If the tooth has grown down beyond the level of the others, it should Fic " 8S1 At 16 years old * be rasped or sawed off to the proper dimensions, and carefully watched af- terward so as to remove any undue growth harm- ful to the opposing parts. If there is any enlarge- ment of either jaw, more especially of the upper one, with perhaps a run- ning sore offensive to the smell; and if in addition FIG. 332. From 17 to 18 years old. DISEASES OF THE TEETH. 569 there is offensive matter running from the nostril on that side, the trouble may be suspected as arising from a carious tooth, and the jaw on that side must be carefully examined. It may be asked, "How is it, if the trouble arises from a ca- rious tooth, that the mat- ter comes from the nos- trils ? " Answer : By the im- prisoned matter forming a sinus into the nasal cavity. The treatment for all such cases is, first, in the removing of the offending cause, namely, the tooth itself, and also, as far as possible, the dead or dis- eased parts, and favoring a healthy condition of growth by cleaning out the parts with a strong solution of carbolic acid, or chloride of lime, or any good disenfectant. Next, protect the parts from the lodgement of par- ticles of food, by filling with a pledget of tow saturated with the tincture of myrrh, or any good healing astringent, and dress once a day. If there is diseased bone, or fungus growth, it should be treated the same as for other diffi- FK, 334,-Irregular growth of teeth. . FIG. 333. Extreme age. * Since writing the above, my attention has been called to an article in the Journal of Comparative Medicine and Surgery of April, 1883, by Dr. Robert Jennings of Detroit, Michigan, in which he refers to a large number of cases of this description- 570 HOW TO TELL THE AGE. FIG. 335. The lower incisors are chiefly depended upon to indicate the age. From their position they have received particular names. The two middle are termed pincers, A.; those near them on either side, the middles, B B; those which complete the half circle, the corners, C C. FIG. 336. Front and back view of an incisor. FIG. 337. A longitudinal view of an incisor. FIG. 338. Lateral section of an in- cisor; a, external enamel; 6, central en- amel: , dental star formed by newly- formed ivory which has filled the cavity of the absorbed pulp ; d, primitive ivory. HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 571 FIG. 339. The shape of the incisor varies considerably when exam- ined in the direction of its length. At its free extremity it is flattened before and be- hind ; further down it becomes oval, then round, then triangu- lar, and at last flattened at the sides, so that if the length of an incisor be divided into a series of cross-sections, a dia- gram will be obtained, showing the change of form with ad- vanced age. This will be indicated more particularly by referring to other cuts. FIG. 340. Canines, or Tushes (the mare has them only in a rudimentary form) ; A, exter- nal face; B, internal face. FIG. 341. Temporary, or Milk Teeth. 572 CONTRASTS OF CHARACTER. FIG. 342. A noted vicious horse. FIG. 348. Nervous, sensitive character FIG. 344 Wild, untamable nature. FIG. 346. A vicious character. CONTRASTS OF CHAEACTER. 573 Fio. 347. A good bead. FIG, 348. Heads showing no vitality, or action. FJG, 349. 574, GOOD POINTS. FIG. 350. BAD POINTS. 575 FIG. 351. FIG. 352. FIG. 353. FIG. 354. 576 GOOD POINTS. FIG. 355. BAD POINTS. 5,77 FIG. 356. FIG. 357. FIG. 358. FIG. 359. 578 GOOD POINTS. FIG. 360. BAD POINTS. 579 FIG. 361. FIG. 362. FIG. 363. FIG. 364. CHAPTER XXI. SHOEING.* THE foot of the horse is composed of two series of parts ; the one internal, organized and sensitive ; the other external, formed of a horny, organic matter, but possessing no vital property or sensibility. A. The internal parts are : 1. Bones to the number of three ; the third phalanx, the lowest portion of the framework of the member, which is continued on its sides and rear by elastic prolongations forming the base of the heel, the lateral jibro-cartilage (which gives a longitudinal section of the foot) ; the second phalanx, imme- diately above the third, with which it articulates; and the navicular, shaped like a weaver's shuttle, situated be- hind the third phalanx, of which it forms the complement. These three bones together form the articulation of the foot. See Figs. 365, 366. 2. Special ligaments which connect per pastern ; e. Lower pastern ; these bones to each other, placed chiefly /. Coffin bone; g. Navicular on the sides of the bones. 3. Tendons, which serve the three- fold use of agents for the transmission of motion, of a means of fastening the bones, and of organs for suspending the weight of the body. These tendons are three in number : an extensor in front and two flexors behind ; first, the perforator ; second, the perforated. See Figs. 369, 370. FIG. 365. Bones of the foot. a. Cannon or Shank; 6. Sesa- amoids; c. Fetlock joint; d. Up- * From Outline of Structure of the Foot. (580) By M. BOULEY. SHOEING. 581 4. An elastic fibro-cartilaginous process ; the plantar cushion attached to the third phalanx, which it complements behind, and enlarges the surface by which it takes its bearing on the sole, and transmits to the ground the pressure which it supports. It is the means of deadening shocks and reactions. 5. Arteries, veins, and lymphat- ics, vessels which contribute to the nourishment of the foot, and are remarkable by their number and their flexuous and anastomotic dis- position. See Figs. 371, 372, and others farther on. 6. The nerves, the organs of sensibility in the foot, also remark- able for their number. 7. An integumental membrane peculiar to the region of the foot, and differing from the general in- tegument, or skin, of which it is a continuation, by its external ap- pearance, its modified structure, and its special functions ; thus it is this membrane which secretes the horny case or hoof, but as- sumes a particular appearance ac- cording as it is required to secrete the anterior and lateral face or wall, or the lower face or sole. At the height of the second phalanx it forms a thick circular pad which, released from the horn which hides it, displays the form of a rosy mem- brano covered with an infinite number of little short filaments, thick as those of velvet. These form the matrix of the horn, and are true hair-roots, for the horn is nothing but a great quantity of threads or hairs attached one to FIG. 366. Posterior view of front digital region. 1. Large metacarpal bone; 2, 3. Outer and inner splint bones; 4, 5. Sesamoid bones; 6. Suffraginis; 7, 8. Tuberosities for insertion of cru- cial ligaments; 9. Triangular space for insertion of short sesamoid lig- ament; iO. Anterior face of suffra- ginis; 11, 12. Tuberosities for liga- mentary insertion ; 13. Articular de- pression separating condyles; 14, 15. Second phalanx; 16. Scabrous surface for ligamentous attachment; 17. Smooth surface for gliding of deep flexor tendon; 18. Navicular bone; 19. Pedal bone; 20. Basilar process; 21. Plantar foramen. SHOEING. FIG. 368. Deep mus- cles on external aspect of right anterior limb. 9. Anterior or great extensor of the meta- carpus; 10. Ulna; 11. Extensor pedis ; 12. Ul- naries accessories, or Ulna portion of the per- forans ; 13. Lateral ex- tensor of the metacar- pus, or extensor suffra- ginis; 14. Oblique ex- tensor of the metacar- pus; 15. Flexors of the foot; 16. Trapezium; 17. Annular ligament; 18. Carpal ligament of perf orans tendon, 20 ; ^ 19. perforatus; 21. Ten- FIG. 367. Right fore foot of a horse. 1. Radius; 2. Groove for the an- terior extensor of the phalanges; 3. Scaphoides; 4. Lunare; 5. Cunei- form; 6. Trapezium; 7. Magnum; 8. Unciform; 9. Metacarpal; 11. Ses- amoidbone; 12. Suffraginis; 13. Cor- onary; 14. Navicular; 15. Pedal; 16. Its ala. FIG. 368. don of anterior extensor of metacar- pus; 22. Small metacarpal bone ; 23. Suspensory ligament; 24. Lateral band of metacarpo-phalangeal sheath; 25. Perf orans tendon ; 26. Branch of the suspensory ligament joining the extensor pedis, 27. SHOEING. 583 another. It is this pad which secretes the wall of the hoof. Be- low the pad the integumental membrane presents itself under the form of rosy leaves pressed one against another, and so disposed as to facilitate the gliding of the horn which is continually pass- ing over it. This leafy tissue is called leaves of flesh or podophyllous tis- sue. The podophyllous tissue is continued under the foot by a velvety tis- sue similar to that of the pad, and which secretes the sole and the frog. B. The external parts of the foot, to the num- ber of four : the Wall, the Sole, the Frog, and the Periople, forming together a Tiorny box. The hoof, the interior cavity of which is exact- ly fitted to the external face of the sub-mural membrane, the two working one within the other, thus completing the general structure of the foot by f urnishing to it:: sensitive parts an envelope thick, hard, re- sisting, yet elastic, incor- porated with them and protecting them against the violence of bodies with which the foot, by the very nature of its functions, is required to be inces- santly in contact. See Figs. 376, 377, and others further on. The wall is that part of the horny case which forms its front and sides, but it does not end, as many may suppose, at the heels ; it is folded back and prolonged to a point toward the extremity of the frog. These prolongations of the wall are termed the bars, FIG. 369. Tendons and Ligaments of the fore leg. A. Flexor perf oratus ; d. Bifurcation of the ses- amoidal ligament; y. Continuation forward of branch of the sesamoidal ligament; B. Contin- uation of the flexor perforans afterwards in- serted into the lower side of the ospedis. 584 SHOEING. and the angles which they form at the heels, the deft. The external surface of the wall is glossy, as though var- nished ; its internal surfac/ is striated throughout, except at the hollowed bevel at its upper edge; the striae of the external face of the wall (horny laminae, keraphyllous tissue) are designed to work into the fleshy laminae or po- dophyllous tissue. The bevel at the upper edge of the in- ternal face of the wall, hol- lowed like a groove, is de- signed to receive the pad, and is pierced with a number of small openings, into which penetrate the filaments of the pad, which are true hair-cells. FIG. 370. A. The outside nerve, or that part of it where the branch H communicates; E. The suspensorj' ligament ; C. The great lig- ament of the back sinew ; D. The two back sinews, or flexor tendons ; E. E. The extensor tendon ; F. The cannon or shank bone ; G. The splintbone, which is placed on each side, rather posteriorly, ofthe shank bone, beginning immediately under the knee,and extending tapering downward, and terminating at fig. 1 in a sort of bulb ; H. The back sinews and their great sus- pensory ligament, apparently joined to- gether. This, however, is not the case ; it incorporates only with the perforans ten- don, marked fig. 2, and so intimately, that they form one and the same substance, at the part marked by the small letter '. The perforatus, marked fig. 3, forms a sheath for the perforans, as already de- scribed in the article Strains. 4. The knee joint. 5. The fetlock -joint. FlQ. 370. SHOEING. 585 The wall or crust, or rather its lower edge, is divided into por- tions designated by different names, as explained in Figs. 376 to 379. FIG. 371. F 10 - 373 Fore leg, with skin removed, showing, veins, arteries, and nerves. a, Z, Plantar nerve ; 0, digital artery; A:, median branch; e, branch of artery; d, pre-plantar branch of nerve. The sole forms, with the frog and bars, the lower surface of the horny case ; it is in the form of a crescent, and is surrounded by the lower edge of the wall, to which it adheres; its lower sur- SHOEING. face is concave, rugous, and formed of horn, which continually scales off and exfoliates. The upper surface is slightly convex, and pierced with an infinite number of little holes, into which penetrate the filaments of the velvety tissue or cushion. The ex- ternal edge of the sole bears the same names as that of the wall. The frog is situated in the posterior cleft of the sole be- tween the two bars. It is formed of a more elastic de- scription of horn, resembling india-rubber, which is secreted by a sensitive frog, covered with a velvety tissue like that which secretes the sole. The frog is in the shape of a trian- gle bent twice in its length and cleft in its base. It presents on its lower surface two pro- jections bordering three hol- lows which are termed lacunae; there are a central lacuna, and two lateral lacunae. The pro- jections and lacunae on the in- ferior surface correspond to hollows and ridges on the su- perior surface. The apex of the triangle which constitutes the frog, is termed the point of the frog ; the two ridges, separated by the central lacuna, the branches of the frog. These FIG. 373. Back view of foot with half of frog removed, showing perforans ten- don as it is united to the bottom of coffin- bone. Drawn from Manikin. branches are prolonged behind a thin layer of soft and whit- ish horn, which after having surmounted the heels under the name of glomes, is extended in the form of a thin band which encircles the upper part of the wall, and is termed the periople or coro- nary band. The foot is at once a means of support and source of elasticity ; it is at the same time an organ of touch. SHOEING. 587 To adapt it to these triple functions, nature has endowed it with three properties apparently opposed, but which are neverthe- less here made compatible with each other ; namely, in the first place, extreme external hardness, which is found in the envelope of horny substance ; secondly, a certain flexibility, the combined result of the physical prop- erties of this corti- cal envelope and of the mechanical arrangement o f the different parts of which it is made up ; and, thirdly, a highly devel- oped sensitiveness, the result of the exquisite organi- zation of its integ- umentary mem- brane. But, to make good the injury incessantly caused by Wear On the horny bed which i ii -i 1 f clothes it, the foot should possess the faculty of reproducing it in a manner so contin- uous that the activity of the reconstruction should be exactly pro- portioned to the rapidity of the destruction. This is, indeed, what actually takes place ; the foot is the seat of a highly important secretion the horny secretion. The nutritive functions, also, in the digital region are endowed with great activity, indicated especially by the great development of its vascular apparatus, the remarkable disposition of which is made known to us by anatomy. 374> _ Side view of the foot ^^ the part of the frog i n previous cut removed, now in place, showing ligaments, etc., under the lateral cartil- a ^ e which ha8 been Amoved. Drawn from Manikin. 588 SHOEING. Such are, in their entirety, the complex functions of wKlch the foot of the horse is the seat. As an organ of support, the foot has an essential duty, since it is through it that the entire machine is put in connection with the ground, while the point at which it is placed is in fact the fulcrum of the levers the limbs-on which all the locomo- tive agencies work. As an organ of elasticity, its duty is no less important when it is considered what enormous forces, the result of the weight of the animal com- bined with its powerful mus- cular contrac- tions, all bear on that apparatus, and that it is the means of neutralizing the con- cussions which, without it, would be fatal to the entire mechan- ism, and particularly so to the limbs. The elastic apparatus furnished by the foot of the horse is very complex, for the greater part of the elements of which it is made up are conducive to this purpose. A. The three phalanges obliquely inclined on the metacarpals or metatarsals, and sustained behind by the ligamentary and ten- donous apparatus which has been mentioned, constitute an admir- able means of neutralizing the weight of the body. At each step it is seen to yield and spring back like a bow that is bent and re- FIG. 375. Foot with lateral cartilage in place, with outlines of nerves, ligaments, etc. Drawn from Manikin. SHOEING. 589 FIG. 376. Lateral view of horse's foot after removal of the hoof. 1. Periople ring, divided by a narrow groove from the coronary cushion; 2. which is contin- uous with the plantar cushion, and joins the vascular laminae; 3. through the medium of the white zone. FIG. 377. Lower face of the horse's foot, the hoof being removed. FIG. o78. FIG. 379. Two views of hoof with outer portion of the wall removed to show its interior. Referred to in the text. a. a. Periople, or coronary frog- band. b. Cavity in the upper part of wall for coronary cushion. c. Upper, or inner, surface of "bar." d. Vertical section of wall. d'. The same at the heel. e. Horizontal section of ditto. f". Lateral aspect of a lamina. h. Junction of the horny laminae with the sole (the "white line"). i. Toe-stay at the middle of toe. A:. Upper, or inner, surface of the horny frog. I. Frog-stay. m. Cavity corresponding to * branch of the frog. n. Ditto corresponding to the body of the frog. 590 SHOEING. FIG. 380. Hoof just removed from the foot; side view. a. Inner face of periople, or coronary frog band, with some hairs passing through ; a'. Outer surf ace of same at posterior part of foot ; a". A ^ section through the wall to show its thickness ; * 6 to c. Quarter of the hoof, from 6 to the front FIG. 381. Plantar or ground sur- is the outside (or inside) toe; from c to d, the face of a hoof ri ht foot outside (or inside) heel; e. Frog; /. Bevel on up- per margin of -wall for reception of coronary cushion ; g. Keraphylla, or horny laminae. FIG. 382. Foot with outer portion of the wall removed to show its interior. Referred to in the text. The interval from a to a represents the toe ; from a to b b outside and in side quarters; c. o. Commencement of bars; d. d. Inflexions of wall at the heels, or "buttresses;" e. Laminated lacuna; /././. Sole; g. White line; g. g. Ditto be tween the sole and bar; h. Body of frog; i. Branch of frog; k. k. Glomes or heels pf frog ; I. Median lacuna, SHOEING. 591 leased. But it must be remembered that this arrangement becomes feebler in proportion to its length ; that is to say, that the tendons sustaining the three phalanges become more weighted a. Wall, with its horntubes; b. b. Horny laminae pro- jecting from the wall ; c. c. Horn- tubes formed by the terminal villi of the vascular lami- nae, the horn sur- rounding them and occupying the spaces between the horny laminae, con- stituting the "white line;" d. Horny sole, with its tubes. be d FIG. 384. Horizontal section of the junction of the wall with the sole of the hoof. and fatigued as the lever formed by these phalanges becomes longer. B. The plantar cushion has duties indicated by its structure and position ; it fulfills the office of a buffer on which shocks may be spent and extinguished. When subjected to shocks or the a. Inner portion of the wall with the laminae aris- ing from it ; b. Vascular laminae ; e. Horny laminae of average length; c'. c', Unusuall}" short laminae ; c '. c". Laminella on the sides of the horny lamime ; d. Vascular laminae passing between tf. two horny ditto ; d'. Vascular lami- n a passing b e- tween three horny lamina); d". Lateral lami- nellce ; e, e. Arte- ries of vascular 1 a m i n ;e which have been i n- jected. c' c" d" d' e FIG. 385. Horizontal section of the wall, and horny and vascular laminae, to show the junction of the latter and the laminelle. pressure of weight, it flattens and extends, to resume its form when the pressure is removed ; but in its enlargement it presses on the cartilages, which yield because of their flexibility and elasticity ? and come back to their own shape immediately when the action of the plantar cushion ceases. 592 SHOEING. C. The natural hoof is not only flexible, as is affirmed by Lafosse, but perfectly elastic, since it recoils on itself after having been lightly opened behind. Open behind by nature evidently with intention, for nature does nothing in vain when the plantar cushion comes to be compressed, and bears upon the lateral cartil- ages of the bones of the foot, these cartilages transmit the pressure received to the quarters and heels of the wall, which yield and open slightly, drawing with them in their movement the branches of the sole, which itself, pressed also by the plantar cushion, sinks a little ; at the same time the frog, in direct contact on its superior surface with the plantar cushion, lodged in part in its folds, opens them, unfolds them a little, and forces the branches to open also. All these movements are certainly very slight, much less sensible than Bracy-Clark affirms, but nevertheless very perceptible, when studied on young subjects which have not as yet been shod, and in which the diverse functions of the foot are yet complete. The older the subject, the more obscure they become. It is to these diverse motions of flexion and extension of the phalangeal arrangement, the spreading and retraction of the plantar cushion and the horny case, that is owing the deadening and extinction of the forces transmitted by the limbs, or of the shocks of the ground ; and they are the combined result of func- tions which it is necessary to preserve in their fullest integrity. As an organ of touch, the foot of the horse is, in spite of its horny envelope, a very delicate organ. This is proved by the great number of nerves which anatomy shows to enter into its organization, the knowledge which it possesses of the condition of the ground over which it moves, and on which it preserves its equilibrium at different paces, whatever may be the form of the ground, its consistency, its inequalities, or the obstacles with which it is strewn. SHOEING. FIG. 386. FIG. 387. PLATE I. Fig. 1. A vie\v of the lower extremity of the coronary bone, seen from behind, to show the surfaces articulated with the navicular and foot bone. A A The surface articulated with the navicular bone. B Cavity filled with fat. C C The surface articulated with the foot bone. Fig. 2. A posterior view of the navicular and foot bone, seen from behind in their rela- tive situation. A A A A Rough surface of the navicular bone, from which the upper ligaments take their rise. A B Smooth surface corresponding with the cavity in Fig. 1, at B, filled with fat. 38 SHOEING. PLATE II. SHOEING. 595 PLATE II. A front view of the bones of the fore feet of a horse in their relative position. a The pastern bone. b The coronary bone. c The navicular bone. d The foot bone. e The point of insertion of the tendon of the extensor muscle. / A concavity to give attachment to the ligament which unites the foot bone to the coronary bone at y. h A continuation of the same concavity, to which the cartilage of the foot bone is attached. i i The upper and lower processes of the foot bone. Jc k A groove in the foot bone, which receives a division of the main artery, coming round from behind. k I A groove receiving another division of that artery, which proceeds round the extreme edges of the foot bone. FIG. 390. PLATE III. A, Plantar nerve; B, Median branch ; P, Posterior branch; C, Anterior branch; D, Digital artery ; H, Inconstant division given off to the cartilaginous bulbs ; I, I, Branch to the plantar cushion ; K, Transverse coronary branch ; M, Podophyllous branch ; O, Pre-plantar branch ; Q, Descending ramuscule to the fissures of the pat- ilobes; R, Ramuscules accompanying the digital artery in the plantar fissures; V, Vein whose presence is not constant, and which sometimes accompanies the plantar nerve throughout its phalangeal course. SHOEING. 597 FIG. 391. PLATE IV. 598 SHOEING. FIG. 392. PLATE IV. SHOEING. 599 PLATE IV. A Pastern Bone. B Coronary Bone. C Navicular bone. I) Foot bone. E Ligament uniting the muscular and foot bone over the navicular, and inserted on the bottom side of the coffin bone. F Sensitive or fibrous frog. G Navicular bone. H Tendon of extensor muscle of the coronary bone. I Tendon of the extensor muscle of the foot bone. K Tendon of flexor muscle of coronary bone. L Tendon of flexor muscle of coffin bone. M Sheath of last tendon. Ligamentous substance, called sensitive frog. 600 Fio. ;w. PLATE V. SHOEING. 601 FIG. 394. PLATE V, SHOEING. PLATE V. Fig. l. A back view of the bones of the fore foot in their rel- ative situation. A Pastern bone. B Coronary bone. C Navicular bone. D Foot bone. E A cavity, which in the natural state is filled with fat, F F The upper surface of the navicular bone, from which two ligaments arise, and pass round the lateral de- pressions in the coronary bone, marked G G. B B Points of attachment of the ligament which unites the navicular bone to the foot bone. I I Two grooves in which two main trunks of the arter- ies are continued into the foot bone. K K K The line of insertion of the tendon of the flexor muscle. Fig. 2. A view of the anterior and inferior surfaces of the na- vicular bone detached from the other bones. A A The anterior surface opposed to the coronary bone. B B The inferior surface opposed to the foot bone. CCA posterior portion of the inferior surface excavated for the purpose of giving a firmer attachment to the lower ligament SHOEING. (503 Fio. 395. PLATE VI. SHOEING. FIG. 396. PLATE VI, SHOEING. 605 PLATE VI. A comparative view of the bones of the fore and hind feet. Figs. 1 and 2. Bones of the fore foot explained in Plate I. Fig. 3. Coronary bone of the hind foot. Fig. 4. Foot bone and navicular bone of the hind foot, show- ing that the surface of the foot bone, which is artic- ulated with the coronary bone, is rather more con- caA r e than that of the fore foot, and the position of the navicular bone more upright ; so that the coro- nary bone bears more upon the foot bone and less upon the navicular bone. That surface of the na- vicular bone (A B) which in the fore foot was smooth, appears rough, and the upper ligaments are ittached to the whole of this surface. C C Portion of the cartilage of the foot bone ossified, which is not natural, but so frequently met with that I thought it necessary to notice it, merely by giving an outline of it. See large variety of mor- bid specimens in chapters on Navicular Joint Lame- ness and Laminites. 606 SHOEING. FIG. 397. FLATE VII. SHOELNTGK 607 FIG. 398. PLATE VII. SHOEING. PLATE VII. A front view of the bones of the fore feet, to show the ligaments. A The pastern bone. B The coronary bone raised from its natural situation, to show the upper ligaments of the navicular bone at C C, which pass round each side of the coronary bone, and are lost upon the anterior surface of the pastern bone at D D. K The foot bone bent forward, to show the lower liga- ments of the navicular bone at F F. G The navicular boiio. 11 H Ligaments that unite the coronary bone to the foot bone. I 1 The surfaces to which the ligaments H H are at- tached. K K The tendon of the extensor muscle cut off at its attachment to the foot bone. L L L The skin turned down to expose the ligaments. SHOEING. FIG. 399. PLATE VIII. SHOEING. FIG. 400. PLATE VIII. SHOEING. 611 PLATE VIII. A posterior view of the bones of the fore foot, to show the ligaments of the sesamoid or navicular bone. A The pastern bone. B The foot bone. C The cut end of the tendon of the flexor muscle of the coronary bone. L> D D D The upper ligaments of the navicular bone, as they pass round the sides of the coronary bone. E E A thin expansion from the ligaments D D I) D cov- ering the mass of fat lodged in a cavity in the cor- onary bone. F Y Y Attachment of the lower ligament of the navicu- lar bone to the foot bone. G G The tendon of the flexor muscle cut off at its inser- tion into the loot bone. B B B The natural surface of the villi continued from the true skin. 612 * FIG. 401. PLATE IX. FIG. 402. PLATE IX SHOEING. PLATE IX. Three views of the cartilages of the foot bone of the fore foot attached to the bone. Fig. 1. A view of the inner side of the cartilage. Fig. 2. A view of the outer side of the cartilage. A A The part of the cartilage which terminates by a small curve, and over which those parts of the hoof are carried which are called the bars. A B Those parts of the extremity of the cartilage which are connected to the under surface of the foot bone. Y F F F Holes for the passage of blood-vessels. Fig. 3. A view of the cartilage from the sole. C C Upper posterior extremities of Fig. 2, A B, the pos- terior edges of which are connected to the under surface of the foot bone at D D by a fatty ligamen- tous substance, which serves as a cushion to the flexor tendon E E, and is what is commonly called a fleshy frog. SHOEING. 615 FIG. 403 PLATE X. A side view of the foot, to show the arteries and veins, n the sketch the arteries are shaded, and the veins are not. SHOEING. FIG. 404. PLATE XI. A view of the posterior surface of the foot, to show the arteries and veins. In the sketch the arteries are shaded, the veins are not. SHOEING. 617 FIG. 405. PLATE XII. A view of the under surface of the foot bone, with its cartilages and fleshy frog. The skin which immediately covered the whole is removed, and exhibited in the next Plate. A A Cut edges of the skin. SHOEING. FIG. 406. PLATE XIII. The skin taken off from that part of the hoof exhibited Plate XII. Sli) FIG. 407. PLATE XIV. The under surface of the foot seen in its natural situa- tion, the hoof having been removed. A A Continuation of the fibrous structure which COT- ers the anterior surface of the foot. SHOEING. 621 Fm. 410. An exact drawing of a hoof, on a scale of three-fourths size, which was macerated* from the foot of a five-year- old horse that was never shod but once. The shoe is ac- cording to the author's idea of form, and the nailing, how it should be done. * The hoof from which the above drawing, and sections of the same following, were made, was as nearly a perfect specimen as could be found. It was secured by Prof. McLellan, and by him given to Mr. David Roburg, referred to in another part of this chapter, by whom it was highly prized as a model. The writer called upon this gentleman, and upon making known his desire to secure the specimen to make drawings from, it was cheerfully presented to him for the purpose. The difficulty of securing a competent artist to make the drawings required, notwithstanding the greatest effort, nearly defeated the accomplishment of this object. One was finally obtained for a few hours at a time, until the drawings here given were secured. It was the intention of the writer to give in this part not only a number of illus- trations showing different kinds of feet and shoes, but also the changes produced by contraction and disease. With this object in view, several visits were made by him to the docks at 28th street, New York, where all dead subjects are daily col- lected, to make suitable selections. But after weeks of persistent effort he found it impossible to secure a competent artist to make the drawings, and in consequence the project had to be given up, but hope to be able to accomplish this at some future time. / 622 SHOEING. FIG. 411. V Showing the exact outlines of the hoof, Fig. 410, with the form of adjustment and nailing of shoe as usually done. The shoe and nails are too large, and the nails too many in num- ber. The shoe set too far hack, and the nails driven so high and deep as to endanger driving into the quick, the real cause of harm being made apparent by reference to Figs. 421 and 422. The hoof is rasped away so much as to weaken and destroy its symmetry ; a common cause, as will be seen, of destroying the natural adjustment of good feet, and so weak- ening the wall and sole as to produce lameness and contrac- tion. rt-23 Fig. 410. hoof the same size, cut in two, showing the thickness of wall, sole, and frog at the center. The circular form towards the toe could not be fully brought out by the artist, as shown in the hoof, but is an exact re-pro- duction of the thickness and proportion of the various parts. FIG. 413. View of the inside of the hoof. Drawn by Mr. Norman, one of the leading artists of New York, under the special supervision of the writer. a Coronary ring ; b Laminated structure; c The frog; d The sole. 624 SHOEING, FIG. 414. A, Cross section of hoof, Fig. 410, indicated in 412. showing the exact thickness of wall, sole, and frog at A. FIG. 415. B, View of the next section of the wall of the same, drawn on an exact scale as indicated in the foregoing FIG. 416. C, Third cross section of the same, showing the thickness of wall, sole, arid frog at the points indicated bv the same. SHOEING. 625 FIG. 417. FIG. 418. FIG. 41 ( .i. 1, 2, 3, show the thickness of wall and sole full size at poinfs indicated. The inner or soft parts of the wall (not represented as clearly by the engraver as it should be) represents about one-eighth of an inch less in thickness than shown in 1 and 2. The outlines of the hard part, as originally drawn, being cut away by the engraver, show the wall on this account thicker than it should be. No. 3 was drawn to show the thickness of hard fiber with the soft or laminated part omitted, which will give a good idea of the small amount of horn there is in an average light foot to nail to, and how easy it is to break and weaken it seriously by nailing deeply, rasping and cutting away reck- lessly, as shown by Fig. 411. The notches between the sole and wall indicate the degree to which the soft horn at this point had been macerated or dissolved by the action of moisture to which the hoof had been subjected for two weeks. 40 626 SHOEING. FIG. 420. FIG. 421. FIG. 422. Sections of hoof, the first two showing an outline of the wall at the points marked, with an estimate of the amount usually cut away in rasping and fitting the foot to the shoe. Also showing the liability to drive the nails so deep in such cases as to be bent into the quick when clinched. The third shows the size of nails and the depth they should be driven, in proper proportion to prevent in- jury to the foot. SHOEING. 627 Not five horses in a hundred, shod a few years by the system in general use, have sound, healthy feet. Contraction and its consequences, corns, quarter-cracks, thick- ening of lateral car- tilages, inflammation and ulceration of the navicular bone and coffin joint, with other changes of structure that make the horse liable to soreness or in- curable lameness, are the rule ; while horses having sound, healthy feet, are the excep- tions. The loss to the people of the country from this cause ig- norant, bad shoeing FlG - 453. Foot of a five-year-old horse that j i j had never been shod.* is enormous, and could, except in some serious cases, be entirely prevented or cured by good shoeing and proper treatment. This being true, it is of the greatest importance, not only as a matter of humanity to horses, but economy to owners, that such knowledge as will prevent or overcome these serious causes of in- jury and loss, be made available; and this, as explained, I have made a special effort to do in this chapter. It is idle to assume that shoeing-smiths would intentionally spoil or injure the feet; that they are not willing to learn or heed the teachings of reason. While there are a great many who are unpardonably stupid and ignorant, and who, in the blindness of their prejudices, are not willing to learn; yet, as a class, the writer never found any peo- *CutsNos. 423 to 428 were copied from Bracy Clark's treatise on shoeing, published in 1809. No. 423 is an illustration of the foot of a five-year-old horse which had never been shod. The others in the order as placed and explained, show- ing the atrophied, contracted condition of the heels and quarters after shoeing. These are followed by drawings from casts of colts' feet made by the author. In the part on contraction, the causes and proper treatment will be found explained. 628 SHOEING. pie more appreciative of special points of interest to them, than shoeing-smiths. Nor is the fault wholly to be accounted to the shoer. The man who scoops out and rasps the foot most per- sistently to make it look artistic, puts the most iron into the shoe, and nails it on so firmly that it will remain so indefi- nitely, and works the cheapest, usually gives the best satisfaction, the owner believing he is get- ting the most for his money ; the health of the foot and the comfort of the animal, being a mat- ter of secondary consid- FIG. 424. The same after one year's shoeing. oration. The foot is, next to the eye, the most beautiful and per- fect in the details of its structure. It is in every particular the most perfectly adapted of any part of the body for giving the greatest possible strength and elastic- ity ; and, if not interfered with, is capable of sustaining all the strain and wear to which it can be reasonably subjected. But when exposed to causes which bring about disease and change of struct- ure, there are also involved, to a greater or less degree, the health and mobility of the FIG. 425. The same after three years' shoeing. SHOEING. 629 entire limb. Any one knows that an injury to the toe or any part of the foot is liable to cause severe pain and disturbance throughout the entire limb. The effect is the same in the horse's foot. This being true, we want to learn, if we can, the causes of these derangements, and how to prevent as well as overcome them. I regard this subject so important as to demand more than ordinary care to make it so simple and practical in its explanations that it can be easily understood, as well as give such proofs of the faults common to the pres- ent system of shoeing that the necessity for correcting them will be apparent.* To aid in doing this, I. give a large variety of illustra- tions of the hoof and inter- nal parts of the foot, which will give a good idea of its general structure. Among these will be found many entirely new illustrations. For example, cuts showing parts of hoof cut away, and FlG ' 4a6 - The same alter si * yea different views showing tendons, lateral cartilages, etc.; also a great variety of shoes which have been drawn or copied under my special supervision. * This chapter, as first written, was limited to simple details ; but upon reading it carefully it became evident to the writer that a more complete and thorough ex- planation of the subject was necessary, in order to make it worthy of acceptance for general reference. He then, as a preliminary step, obtained every work availa- ble that had been published during the past hundred years. He also took notes from leading experts on the subject of shoeing, particularly from Dr. Hamill, for- merly professor of Pathological Shoeing, in Columbia Veterinary College, of New York, and one of the most thorough professional students of the foot in the coun- try. After re-writing the chapter, it was first submitted to him for revision and correction; next, to Hon. Win. C. Gage, of Battle Creek, Mich., who had been led to study the subject in the preparation of a work on Shoeing some years previous. Again, to Dr. McLellan, of Bridgeport, Ct., the present professor of Pathological Shoeing in the above-named College, and accepted as one of the very highest author- 630 SHOEING. FIG. 427. Foot of a five-year-old horse that had never been shod. point which I find the author in his anatomical description has not made sufficiently strong to arrest the attention of the reader; namely, the amount of blood that passes through the foot ; and I would advise the reading of the description of the circulation of the foot, given in the chapter on L a m i n i t i s , or Founder. Many years ago, in Buffalo, N. Y., a well-known veterinary surgeon, a man of unexceptional skill and experience, told me that years ago a man bought In addition, at the conclu- sion of the chapter will be found extracts from a num- ber of leading authors, fol- lowed by the best anatomical description obtainable. This course I have thought advis- able, for the reason that shoers and also most owners would be likely to read with more care and attention the details of such a description, after becoming interested in first reading the details of treatment. There is, h o w e v e r , one FIG. 428. The same after one year's shoeing with thick shoes. ities on the subject. It was afterward read by Mr. David Roburg, of New York, who is probably one of the very best expert shoers in the country. The article be- ing rather lengthy, it was particularly desired of them to point out any part that could be omitted with advantage ; but it was the opinion of all that no part could well be dispensed with. Dr. Hamill and Prof. McLellan made some additions, which are noted. The writer was particularly interested in Mr. Roburg's advice on con. traction, as he is a special expert on the subject, but he suggested no changes. SHOEING. 631 out a livery stable in that city, and put all the horses on short shoes or tips ; that he believed at the time that the horses would be ruined by such treatment, but, to his surprise, they were greatly improved ; several of them that had been affected with obstinate corns, and which he had been called upon to treat, and could do little more than palliate, though for the first few weeks they traveled sore, entirely recovered ; and that the horses of his stable had bet- ter condition of feet than any in the city. Said he, "The whole point of suc- cess in the Goodenough shoe is, that the iron is so soft that it wears down rapidly, and lets the feet come to the ground." These statements were so suggestive to the writer that they led to his study- ing the conditions of shoe- ing with more discrimina- tion and care. It was no- ticed, first, that the feet of young horses that had not been shod, no matter how driven or worked, except the wearing away of the outer rim of the wall, retained a sound, healthy con- dition. This being true, why the necessity of thinning out the sole, opening up the heels, trimming the frog and other parts, and loading down the feet with an amount of iron of such form as to be in most cases entirely out of proportion to the proper adjust- ment and wear required ? The writer was next led to observe that horses shod with the most care, according to foregoing principles, the bottom of the foot and frog abundantly cut away and scooped out, the shoe filed and fastened on firmly, the whole made artistic by rasping down the outer surface of the hoof had the worse condition of feet ; while those shod most carelessly or quickly, barely leveling the wall, without regard to sole or frog, and nailing on the shoe FIG. 429. Foot of a four-year-old colt that had never been shod. 632 SHOEING. with, perhaps, a few hurried rakes FIG. 430. Foot of a five-year-old colt that had never been shod. It will be noticed, first, that those having thick shoes with high calks, show a greater or less degree of curl- ing under of the quarters, with so much absorption and weakening of them as to make them moro or less sore or lamo. Or, when the foot is flat, the quarters resting upon such largely concave surfaces (as shown by sec- tional drawings of shoe), the foot becomes convex, or the frog settles down below the bearing of tho heels. This causes ohe foot to become so weak as to be unable to bear the strain of severe work, while those having the shoes of the rasp over the clenches and lower edge of the wall, maintained the best condi- tion of liealth. This is particularly notice- able in horses that travel on ground which allows the feet to settle into it, so as to bring more or less pressure upon the sole and frog. These re- sults are more noticeable in large cities, especially in New York, where there are large lines of travel that afford am- ple opportunity of studying the condition of the feet, in conjunction with the method of paring, and the form and weight of the shoe. FIG. 431. Foot of a three-year-old-colt that had never been shod. SHOEING. 633 low or worn down, have broader and stronger heels. This will be more noticeable in horses used exclusively on certain lines, that wear shoes without calks, or those with slight elevations around the outer edge, which soon wear down and admit of a reasonably close contact of the foot with the ground. Upon inquiry into the mode of adjusting such shoes, it was ascer- tained that the invaria- ble rule was, simply to lower the wall, fit and nail on the shoes with- out touching sole or frog, except to remove or scale off any extra accumulations. Companies adopting this method all admitted that it was not only a great saving, but greatly improved the condition of the feet.* We see there is rarely any trouble with the feet, no con- traction, quarter-cracks, FIG. 432. Half of hoof removed, showing coro- nary ring or cushion from which the hoof grows. FIG. 433. Bottom view of the above. * I present a series of illustrations showing the bad effects of a few years' shoeing with thick shoes which re- moved all contact of the sole and frog from the ground, the results of careful experiments made by Bracy Clark, and published in 1809. First. of a healthy, natural foot; next, showing the degree of contraction and change of structure produced in the same foot after one, three, and six years' shoeing. 634 SHOEING. corns, or other causes of derangement, until after being shod; also that the feet of the Indian ponies, though ridden and driven FIG. 434. Showing the frog-band, or coronary ring. in the severest manner, without shoes, on the plains, and horses that are worked in sections of country where the attrition is not so great as to re- quire shoes, such as Southern Michigan, Illi- nois, Iowa, and other parts of the South and West, retain a remarkably sound, healthy, natural condi- FIG. 435. Model of hoof and shoe, made by writer in 1860. tion.* *It is claimed, and not without reason, fhat the feet of colts are not always in a natural, healthy condition; that they are liable to grow out of shape, thus de- stroying their natural adjustment and health, and that it is often necessary to ob- viate this by trimming the hoof and properly adjusting a shoe. This tendency is sometimes induced by hereditary causes, resulting from bad shoeing, or from bad treatment in preventing such healthful freedom and attrition to the feet as would keep the horn worn down. The writer's attention was especially called to this point when ia New York, in 1872, by the invitation of Dr. Bryden, a well-known expert in the art of shoeing, to accompany him to witness his treatment of a colt's feet which required treatment on account of undue confinement, and hereditary tendencies to contraction. SHOEING. 635 We observe also that the excessive wear is always at the toe, and that the heels rarely suffer even on bad roads. Consequently the best shoeing for the feet, for all roads and seasons, when in a good condition of health, must be such as will permit them to be as nearly barefoot as possible, or at least that the posterior part is so, yet sustaining all the attrition of wear to which they may be subjected. This being true, the object, then, of shoeing should be to prevent excessive wear, give power, and prevent slipping, which necessitates the following conditions : First, the preparation FIG. 436. Side view of a properly proportioned shoe. of the foot; second, the weight, form, and fitting of the shoe; and third, nailing to the foot. First, in preparing the foot for the shoe, the aim should be to cut away so much of the wall as would be a surplus of growth, or so much only as would bring it back to its natural form and adjustment. Second, the shoe should be in form, so that when on, the ad- justment of the foot, or its power to obtain hold or grasp upon the ground, will be as nearly as possible what it was before being shod, and yet sustain the wear for the tune it is intended to be on. Third, it should be nailed on firmly, yet so as to break or weaken the wall of the hoof as little as possible, and not interfere with the freedom of the quarters, or enlargement of the foot as it grows. Pedestrians who are compelled to study carefully the fitting 636 SHOEING. and adjustment of shoes, are particular to have them big and easy, yet support the foot perfectly in all its parts without altering its natural adjustment. The shoe must exert no undue pressure upon any part, nor be so stiff as to interfere in the least with the natural mobility of the foot. Even a chance knot or seam in the stocking- would be fatal to these conditions ; because when under great strain it would cause chafing which, if not arrested, would set up so much inflammation as to soon induce entire disabil- ity. Now in shoeing horses, we see that the hoof is a shoe of another kind, which is the exact counterpart of the internal parts, and is perfectly adapted for the protection and support of this internal structure. If its mobility is impaired, or any part of the foot is sub- jected to excessive press- ure or injury sufficient to cause inflammation, the same effect must follow of producing inflammation and alteration of structure, not only of the foot, but of the entire limb, which would soon ruin a good horse. In the state of nature ; the bones of the foot are so nicely adjusted and balanced by the ligaments and tendons of the limb, that there is no unequal strain brought upon any joint, but each assists in supporting the others. But if the heels are raised too high, there will be correspondingly increased strain brought upon the ligaments supporting the back or front part. In like manner, raising or lowering the inner or outer quarter, would produce a lateral strain upon the joints and ligaments which must ultimately cause serious injury, and cause the foot to grow out of line. FIG. 437. View of foot from which the hoof and skin have been removed, showing circulation through the arteries and veins. SHOEING. 637 The strain comes perpendicularly from the shoulder to the fet- lock, and thence to the ground as it passes along to the pastern and foot. These are inclined more or less obliquely forward ; con- sequently, the strain or weight imposed upon the limb has a con- stant tendency to be in- creased by the length of the foot and its obliquity. To prevent this, there are two strong tendons, perf o- ratus and perforans (see cuts 369, 370), which sup- port the ankle and main- tain its natural angle. It is evident that the longer and less upright the lever, the greater must be the strain upon these back tendons. If the degree of obliquity is made greater than is intended by nature (which is caused by allow- ing the toe and foot to grow unnaturally long), this result will follow. To prevent this, at stated in- tervals the shoe must be taken off, and the foot cut down to its natural size and adjust- ment. On the other hand, if the toe is made too short and the heel is raised, the front or flexor tendons will be subjected to in- creased strain, and equally liable to produce serious harm. A popular writer says : "A shortened point of hoof, with or without wrong interference of the heels, alters the degree of obliquity of the whole limb, and diminishes the power and possible rate of speed of an animal, from the instant such a state of things is beg'un. One of the first signs of this occurrence in a young horse of high cast, is a swelling of the back sinews below the knees, and it is that enlargement which attracts attention, and not the foot." I give here a variety of illustrations showing the different degrees of obliquity, and length from the fetlock to the toe. Fig. FIG. 438. View of foot from which the hoof was removed by maceration. 638 SHOEING. 447 shows a good adjustment. Fig. 445 shows the toe too long. Fig. 446 shows the toe too short, with fetlock too straight. FIG. 439. Too short and upright. FIG. 440. Too oblique. FIG. 441. Natural ob- liquity of ankle. If the heels on a pair of boots are too high, there will not only be unnatural strain brought upon the calf of the leg and ankle FIG. 442. FIG. 443. Fro. 444. Different modifications of obliquity and length. while walking, which in a short time produces weariness and pain, but a sliding or crowding of the foot forward against the toe and upper. This condition in a short time would cause a shoulder SHOEING. to form against the foot, and become a cause of soreness and in- flammation. On the other hand, should the sole be excessively long and stiff, there will be correspondingly in- creased strain brought upon the ankle and great ten- don at the heel, causing fatigue and inj ur.y . Again , if the heel is too narrow or drawn in too much on one side, the surface of resist- ance being thereby less- ened, it wears down more rapidly and runs over. To remedy this, it is nec- essary to make the adjust- ment of the shoe to conform to the line of bearing of the foot ; that is, low heels, with broad, elastic sole, an increase of the bearing surface of that side, and, if necessary, a drawing in or narrowing of the opposite side sufficient to equalize the line of bearing. The principle is the same in re- storing or preserving the ad- justment of the horse's foot ; consequently properly cutting away and leveling the foot, and adjusting the shoe to it so that the bearing surface will be ex- actly the same from the center outward on each side, and of the right length, requires con- siderable skill and judgment. Again, the foot is continually growing wider and longer, so FIG. 446. Toe too short. that after being shod, propor- FIG. 445. Toe too long. 640 HKOEIJS'G. tionate to the amount of growth or length of time the shoe is on there will be corresponding change from the original size and ad- justment, making the shoe too small, or drawing it forward under the heels, and, as before explained, increasing the strain upon the back tendon. To restore this to its natural adjustment, at stated intervals of four or six weeks, according to the rapidity of growth, the shoe must be taken off and the wall of the foot cut down to its original form, and the shoe nailed on again. In its natural condition the outer rim or wall of the foot comes in contact with the ground first; second, the frog and outer edge of the sole; third, the center of the foot and spaces between the bars and frog. Now, in putting on the ?^ shoes, the aim should be to keep the adj ustment of the feet as nearly as possible what it w^as before shoes were put on. To show this more clearly, three sectional drawings are made, showing the concavity of the foot at different points between the heel and turn of the hoof, and the necessarily great disturbance of this relation by the form of shoe usually put on. Cut A shows the foot at the point of the heels as it rests upon the ordinary thick shoe, with calks raising the frog and sole so unnaturally high from the ground, that there can be no contact of those parts with it necessary for obtaining moisture and preserving a condition of health. In addition it will be noticed, that in the way shoes are usually fitted, the bear- ing surface is very much concave, tending to force the quarters together. Cut B shows the same, with form and fitting of shoes as they should be; cuts C and D show the same at relative dis- tances between there and the turn of the foot; D, at the widest part, representing a heavy shoe. The better to explain some of the causes of contraction and FIG. 447. Foot about as it should be. SHOEING. 641 FIG. 448. Foot at point of heel on thick shoes. alteration of the structure of the foot by shoeing, the writer intended to give a cut of the impression of a natural, unshod foo, upon the ground, showing that the outer rim or wall comes first, and that when the ground is so soft as to let the foot settle into it, there is a corre- spondingly strong pressure upward and outward upon the quarters. To do this, when in New York City making illustra- tions for this work, he made three trips to Flatbush, to obtain casts from colts' feet from four to five years old, from which to make the desired drawings. After the FlG ' 450 - Ad J ustment between heel and turn of foot. loss of a week's time, and large expense, two drawings of such impressions were made by two of the best artists in the city. FlG> ^Adjustment at turn of foot. But it was finally decided that neither could be engraved so as to bring out the idea sufficiently clear and good to be of any spe- cial benefit; conse- FIG. 452. An exact drawing from a colt's foot, quently it was aban- one-half size, showing the natural concavity doned. The sectional of the sole. drawings given are made from a half -size scale of casts, showing the exact degree of concavity at different parts, as given. The colt's foot in its, natural state, being the most simple and 41 FIG. 449. Shoe fitted as it should be. 642 SHOEING. easy to prepare for the shoe, we will consider first. For colts requiring to be driven around in harness, tips or thin plates only would be sufficient. In such a case, simply trim off the wall in front down to a level with the sole, and adjust to, and nail on with about four small nails, a small thin strip of steel or iron a little broader than the thickness of the wall. Steel would be best, because it admits of being made light- er, and wears longer. The heels and frog should not be interfered with unless one heel is much higher than the other, when it should be lowered suffi- ciently to restore the proper adjustment. The objection to tips is that, as the toe is growing, the heels are wearing, which in time would be likely to increase the strain upon the flexor 58,-Tip about as it should be adjusted. ^^ ^ -^ appendages . This disproportion of wear would be more rapid and noticeable should the roads be wet and gravelly, as moisture and grit soften the horn and cause it to break and wear away more rapidly, but not so much as may be supposed on paved streets and mud roads. The writer saw several horses in New York City that had been shod with tips with decided benefit to the health of the feet and without any apparent disproportion or wearing down of the frog and quarters, though the iron was worn down fully a quarter of an inch. The parts became, as it were, hardened and polished, thereby resisting the wear almost as much as the iron. If the colt or horse is used but moderately, and the roads not very stony, tips, if properly fitted and put on, will be found of decided ad- vantage. They are necessary in cases where there is a lack of nutrition, and an unhealthy and slow growth of horn usually fol- lowing laminitis. AS there has been much discussion among writers in relation SHOEING. 643 to the use of tips, or thin-heeled shoes, and desiring to make this explanation as clear and reliable as possible, I requested Dr. Ham- ill and Dr. McLellan, the two best veterinary authorities on this subject in this country, to give me a statement of the cases for which, in their judgment, tips would or would not be adapted. I give herewith the reply of each, and invite the attention of the reader to the points made, and the reasons given therefor. Prof. Hamill says: " In shoeing the horse's foot, the question of frog pressure is a debatable one, owing principally to a universal but mistaken belief in uniformity in horses' feet. Every innovation in shoeing for the past hundred years has been wrecked on this point, uniformity. No two horses' feet are alike ; no two feet of the same horse are alike. This may sound strange to most people, but it is a fact, that they are no more alike than human faces are alike. And why should the (so-called) students of the foot insist on treating all horses' feet in the same manner, and with the same shoe? Xow while I am a firm advocate of frog and sole pressure, and have driven my own horses for years over the pavements of New York City, with nothing on the feet but what is known as the English tip or toe-piece shoe, which gives the foot the entire free- dom of all its natural movements, yet I must say it would be absurd to attempt to shoe every horse in this way. There are any number of cases where this system would be injurious to the foot arid even to the limb. But as the foot, or rather that part of it inclosed within the hoof, is the object oftenest under consideration, I shall explain briefly how it may suffer from extreme frog pressure. (One point which we should always keep in view is a due propor- tion, or equal distribution of the weight in all parts of the hoof, and by no other system can the foot be healthy.) * Any foot that is thin in its general structure, but more so in its vertical position, or from top to bottom, and with the frog full at its pyramidal eminence or body, is not a proper foot for frog pressure. In such feet the plantar cushion, or what is known as the fibrous or fatty frog, is very thin, is easily made weaker by absorption through extreme pressure or irritation on the horny frog, and therefore offers very little protection to the great flexor tendon where is passes under the navicular bone. " But I may be asked, How could this in any way cause injury, if the navicular joint be perfect, as the tendon requires only a slight cushion underneath ? My answer is, that there is a double* impingement of the tendon, owing to the navicular bone descending on the tendon every time weight is thrown on the limb, the proof of which is the pain caused by this action on the internal structures of the hoof. I ask, Where is the SHOEING-SMITH who has not seen the agony of a horse while standing on one bare foot on the level floor while the other foot is being shod, and the relief Avhich followed 644 SHOEING. when the shod foot was placed on the floor ? I may be told that such feet have been previously weakened by bad shoeing and bad care, and that a horse which never had been shod would not suffer in this way. Those who make such assertions are entirely ignorant of the anatomy and physiology of the foot. "My answer is, that when a horse first comes to the world he has no frog development, and for the first year of his life, Avhile walking on a level, can have no frog pressure. It is only animals that are raised on low or marshy land that have a great develop- ment of frog. Horses belonging to mountainous countries have very little frog, and generally narrow or apparently contracted feet, which is no evidence of disease. Witness the ass and the mule for example ; and I may add that although wide heels are generally desirable, they are no evidence in themselves of perfect health. I am well aware that most thin heels, and generally thin feet, have a large frog, but the depth of such a frog is more apparent than real, as it will be found on close investigation that the flexor tendon and navicular structure are lower or nearer the ground- surface in such a foot. Therefore we must discriminate in all cases, as one mistake may cause irreparable injury. To be definite, we can safely give extra frog and heel pressure in all cases where the hoof is deep at the quarters, where there is a tendency toward con- traction and atrophy of the frog, where the obliquity of the pastern is not too great, and where the feet and limbs are perfectly sound and well proportioned, " (This latter will narrow the circle more than most people are aware of.) No thoughtful man would dare to throw extra weight on the sole and frog of a foot that had long suffered with navicular disease, however excellent this would be as a preventive. Neither should we throw extra weight on the posterior 'parts of a foot or limb where there is any soreness of flexor muscles or tendons, or any ligament involved, as it would entail greater tension on the parts, while the opposite is what is required, viz., flexion or relaxa- tion. "I say distinctly, we should only carry frog pressure to the extent of bringing into activity all the elastic structures of the foot, which increases the circulation of those parts so liable to atrophy, and only through the circulation can we keep up or restore the health, vigor, and growth of frog, sole, heels, and quarters of the horse's foot." Prof. McLellan says: "In reference to the use of tips, I give you only an outline. They are useful in the case of corns, in quarter-cracks, in thrush, in interfering, and in fitting the horse to run at grass. They are not applicable to feet that have thin, flat soles, with low heels. They are not applicable to heavy work horses with flat feet and prominent frogs (such frogs are liable to suffer bruises when so ex- poseti, the resulting inflammation extending fluently to deeper SHOEING. 645 and more vital structures). They are not applicable to feet having naviculap disease. They are not applicable when, in applying them, it is necessary to disturb the normal relation of the bones of the limb. They will bo found particularly useful in strong feet that have corns in both heels, and in the case of bad interferers." FIG. 454:. Inferior (lower side) FIG. 455. Superior (upper side) surface concave surface of shoe. of shoe, bearing on the sole. I give here illustrations of the form of shoe and method of preparing the foot advised by Prof. Williams of the Edinboro College. The shoe is concave on the ground surface, flat on the bearing surface, and drawn back to the thickness of the wall at the heels. " The calkins and toe pieces should be done away with for all kinds of horses except those used for heavy draft in towns where the streets are paved and steep. It is urged that all horses required to go beyond a walking pace are injured by shoes with turned up heels and toes. Farm horses and those employed on macadamized FIG. 456. The foot prepared for the roads are better without than with shoe. The sole, frog, and bars un- toe pieces, although the pace at touched with the knife for two which they are required to go is years; the natural length never faster than a walk. In fact, of toe and depth of all horses, when possible, should wall kept in their be shod With a flat shoe. The relative positions by the rasp only. 646 SHOEING. form of the shoe, as shown by the illustration, ought to be so made and fitted as to bear upon all parts of the sole and crust that are calculated to bear pressure the sole around the margin of the crust for a distance of about half an inch in all parts of the foot except at the heels ; i. e., that part of it embraced in the triangle between the wall and bar. Here the shoe should rest upon the wall, only being made sufficiently narrow at this part." See statements from Lafosse and others at the close of the chapter. TRIMMING. Before preparing the foot for the shoe, the smith should go in front and Jook at it, so as to determine better its adjustment. FIG 45 1 ; FIG. 458. Good form of thin-heeled shoes, from models presented by Mr. Goodenough, of New York. Sometimes the foot may be run over by having one side too high or the toe worn off excessively. If it is desired to be particular, he should see how the feet are carried in a sharp trot; whether too high or too low; or whether he travels too close, endangering interfering or cutting using the words of a high authority, "to see whether there are any traces of brushing or cutting on the inner sides of hoofs, fetlocks, or knees." The foot can then be taken up, when a look from the heel forward will enable an expe- rienced shoer to determine how much and what part is to be cut SHOEING. 647 FIG. 459. Location cf nail-holes in an ordinary flat shoe. away to level it to the proper proportion, and the faults, if any, that can be modified or corrected. If the horse travels high, the shoes must be light ; if low and subject to stumbling, they may be increased in weight a little, and the toe somewhat rounded; if lia- ble to strike, then set close under the wall with edges filed smooth. It is not the business of the writer to say what in- struments should be used for doing this, the buttress, drawing-knife, or rasp, or each alternately; the point is to cut away or remove the surplus growth in the easiest and best manner, which depends more upon the deftness and ingenuity of the man than upon the use of any special means. The but- tress, in the hands of a man who knows how to use it, can- not reasonably be objected to, next to which a good sharp rasp is advisable. The wall should be reduced to nearly or quite on a level with the outer margin of the sole, providing the sole has not been cut away too much. As a rule, the less taken away from the foot the better, except for special rea- sons, which will be explained hereafter. The bearing sur- face of the entire wall should be made level, so that an even bearing surface of 'he shoe will rest upon it fully. The rasp should now be passed around the toe, to FIG. 460. An ordinary flat shoe nailed on. 648 SHOEING. cut away the sharp edges and bring it to the size required. Prac- tically, this should be little more than rounding off the sharp edges of horn to prevent splitting. The principle is the same of leveling and preparing the feet of horses that have previously been shod. In such cases, to take off the shoe the best method is, after the clenches are cut off, to raise both heels slightly with the pincers, then pry forward and across the foot a lit- tle, when the nails can be pulled out one by one. It is seriously obj ection- able, as generally done, to pull off the shoe by force, as the severe wrench- ing endangers tearing the hoof and straining and inj uring the foot. This would be especially objectionable if the hoof be thin and the horse sensi- tive. Next, any stubs or nails should be removed. While it is simply intended to pare down the wall to its natural form, if it is thin and weak, growing but lit- tle, especially at the heels, where there is great difficulty to grow sufficient wall for the support of the foot, no more should be removed than is bare- ly necessary to level it. There should be no interference with sole or frog, excepting to chip or cut away the portion of the old horn which could not be exfoliated. Frequently the heels are too high, or the toe too long ; in hither case, whatever the excessive accu- mulation or growth of horn, it should be cut away until the foot is brought back to its natural form and adjustment. Sometimes there is excessive accumulation to the amount of half an inch or more at the heels, or even of the whole wall of strong, upright feet, yet to the ordinary observing shoeing-smith it may not appear excessive, because cutting away so much would make the foot appear to him to be unnaturally small. Several specimens of abnormal growth of feet are given. (Figs. 463,' 464 are taken from life.) Fig. 461, which was seen by the writer at Fulton FIG. 461. Mobility entirely d stroyed in right foot. SHOEING. 649 Ferry, is that of a pony mare driven before a huckster's .wagon. The right foot was so contracted by this excessive accumulation of horn, that its mobility was entirely destroyed. It will be noticed that the toe of the shoe is carried forward something like a sled crook, to enable a rolling motion upon the ground. It was pitiable to witness the pain and mis- ery this poor ani- mal exhibited. She walked with a crippled, sensi- tive motion, and while standing Would put out one FlG - 462. Showing extreme foot, then the oth- de ^ ee to which the inter - nal structure has been er, but mostly the compressed and f orced right one. The upward out of the hoof. case could have been easily relieved of pain and soreness, by simply cutting down the feet, and thoroughly soaking and opening the quarters, as ex- plained in treatment for "Contraction." In Fig. 463 the dotted lines represent the point to which the horn should be cut away, showing an excess of accumulation of over three inches. Figs. 464 and 465 were taken from a specimen belonging to the Colum- bia Veterinary College, of New York, loaned to the writer by Prof. Walton, the House Surgeon, to make a drawing from. The Professor told the writer that the horse when living was com- pelled to walk on the heels, a complete cripple, on account of the extreme length of the toes. The original size was estimated to be about where the outline runs, the alteration being the result of contraction while drying. The exact proportion of the original is FIG. 463. View of right foot enlarged. Dotted lines showing point to which the horn should have been cutaway. FIG. 464. Outside view of hoof. 650 SHOEING. maintained in all its parts. A reversed view of the same is shown by cut 465. The dotted lines show the point to which the hoof should be shortened, and the relation of the internal parts to the wall and sole. The illustrations heretofore given of the hoof and internal parts will give a good idea of the parts generally, and how much should be removed. But shoers wishing to study the subject more thoroughly, can easily do so by procuring a dead foot and letting it remain in water until the parts can be sepa- rated; or burying it in stable dung for a short time, when the hoof can be easily taken off, showing its exact thickness, and the FIG. 465. Reversed view of Fig. 464. Half size. Degree to which the bones are crowded up out of the foot. relation it has to the parts within. In any case of paring the foot, the principle should be to reduce it from its deformity, what- ever it is, to its natural proportion and adjustment. If the frog is hard and bony, it should be cut down so as to come within the lower edge of the shoe; for in such a case it would be like any other hard, unyielding body under the heel. But usually tKe frog is small, and seldom requires any attention. The authorities most common on "Shoeing" are explicit in directing that the sole should be well pared out made, in fact, so thin that it will spring to the pressure of the thumb. This is so injurious that I regard it necessary, though subjecting me to considerable expense and trouble, to give at the conclusion of the chapter such proofs as would convince of this, and would ask for a careful reading of them. SHOEING. 651 When a chip of horn cut from the foot falls to the floor, the moisture being absorbed from the upper surface quickest by its FIG. 460. Good model of a concave road-shoe, adapted for summer or winter. greater exposure to the air, causes it to curl upward, the same as a thin board or shingle will warp when exposed to the heat of the sun. Now, when the sole is trimmed out, as explained, the expos- ure of its denuded surface to the dry air causes it to lose its moisture rapidly, contract and bend upward against the soft parts, making the sole more hollow. But paring out the sole so excessively that it will yield to slight pressure, will allow the horse to travel better for the present, and it is quite natural for one to believe it so great a benefit, that at each time of shoeing it is repeated, regardless of the fact that the feet will be brought Ultimately into a COn- FIG. 467. Bearing surface of the same 052 SHOEING. FIG. 468. Good model of road-shoe. dition to require a continual paring away, and the horse is hope- lessly ruined. Wealthy men in England, who are in the habit of riding much, finding that a horse will ride easier by having the soles pared out thin, require to have it clone, not caring if it does spoil the horse in a short time, as they are able to buy others. While in conversation on this subject with Dr. Hamill, before referred to, I asked the question: "Doctor, what do you think of thinning out the sole as usually practiced? " His answer was: "It is death to the foot, because the foot in consequence loses its moisture so rapidly that it becomes a direct cause of con- traction through the absorption which takes place. This, acting on the nutrition of the part, may cause various changes, etc. Yet there are occasions when extreme paring may be resorted to with some advantage." In explana- tion he related the follow- ing incident: Some years ago when John H. Cook, the celebrated equestrian, came from Paris to per- form at the New York Cir- cus, his horses were consid- erably the worse for the long passage and close confine- ment. Two of them, both Splendid animals, had their FIG. 409. Bearing surface of tlie same. SHOEING. 653 feet trimmed and shoes reset to enter on rehearsal the next day af- ter landing, but they were very stiff and sore, apparently foundered. As no other horses could be put to this special act, Cook despaired of making a creditable, first-class performance. As there was no time for the usual treatment of such cases, he consulted the boss hostler, and together they acquainted Dr. Hamill of the difficulty. Hamill promised, if they would allow him his own way, to relieve the horses immediately, which he did by cutting away almost the entire sole of the front feet, relieving the quarter, in fact, cutting the foot until it was elastic or yielding in all its in- ferior and posterior parts. This was death to the foot, as he told Cook. The soles were protected by leather and tar- dressing until recovery took place. Although this was an extreme mode of treatment, Mr. Cook was well pleased at the result. I asked him if he could not counteract this effect of paring by keeping the feet wet. He said: "Yes, to a certain extent; that was what he did where it was possible." In 1869 the Humane Society of Edinburgh, Scotland, offered a series of prizes for the best essays on " Shoeing," having in con- sideration the comfort and soundness of the horse. About forty essays were sent in for competition. The Vice-President, Mr. H. S. A. L. Hay, says: "It is gratifying to find so general a concur- rence among the writers in their utter condemnation of the com- mon but unscientific and irrational practice of paring away the sole and frog as a necessary preparation for shoeing " For the special benefit of shoers, I think it advisable to include here Prof. Gamgee's instructions on paring: * * " Horse-Shoeing and Lameness," London, 1874, by Joseph Gamgee, Vet. Sur., Lecturer on the Principles and Practice of Farriery in the new Veterinary College of Edinburgh. FIG. 470. Model of shoe for express horses, from Prof. Hamill' s collec- tion in New York. 654 SHOEING. " There is scarcely a horse that comes under our hand to shoe that does not require some portion of the hoof to be removed, even though it may be so excessively weakened by mismanagement as to require several months' conservation before due quantity and proportion can be produced. Bad management and disproportion of hoof go together, and though the latter may be slight, it requires attention and adjust- ment ; all the horn we may remove with a file (not a coarse rasp) will, in some cases, amount to no more than would cover the surface of a shilling, yet the bearing surface of the foot is thereby both increased and greatly improved. It is just, in these cases, when with equal mas- tery a shoe is selected and fitted out, so that the surface of both foot and shoe are counterparts of each other, and the latter is nailed to its place with all possible care, that the animal which reached the shoeing forge in torture and unable to walk, leaves it with freedom of action and a cheerful countenance. "If I be asked, From what part would any hoof require to be removed in various degrees in those cases vulgarly termed stumped up cases ? I reply that it is impossible to state this here, and nothing but an apprenticeship at shoeing, or some such equivalent, can make a man reliable for putting into execution details of the kind, whererule helps so little ; but generally, if not exclusively, the wall is the part requiring adaptation of surface; at the toe it may be projecting, and the edge re- quire the file to be passed transversely across it ; or, the toe being too short, the columns of the heels on cither side may be lowered slightly, by holding the foot in the left hand and passing the flat part of the file over the bearing surface from behind forward in one, say outside, extremity of near fore, and backward over the inner heel, taking care that both heels are level; the off foot, by reversing the action of the hand, is treated in the same way. " But many men will say, Why not take the horse's foot between the legs, as is the custom ? Because, where so very little has to be done, 1 want to see how to do it, and I do n't require the greater purchase which the firm hold of the foot between my knees gives. I am only stating, however, what I do, and how I do it. In the hind feet we see and can manage best by taking the foot in the ordinary way. . . . I then take each foot forward upon my knee, and, having seen exactly how much hoof is required to be removed, and from what parts I take the rasp, and with either the rough or file surface, according to the quantity of hoof to be removed, I pass it vertically, so as to take off the outer edge to the extent required; then placing the foot between my legs, remove the exfoliated sole, and, detaching parts of the frog, the first by means of the buffer, raising the loose flakes of horn from the front backward by tapping the tool with the hammer, the superfluous exfolications of the frog are then removed with the drawing knife, not by paring it at all, or much cutting, but more by raising the flakes with the left thumb and finger, and detaching them with the knife. This done, the bearing surface of the wall is to be adapted, and, holding the foot in the ordinary way, fore or hind, the rasp is passed over the point of the wall to reduce it to its proper depth. . . . "If tho instructions just given be intelligently carried out, the. SHOEING. 655 quarters the surface across the bottom of the foot will be fairly provided for from the extreme ends to the middle, which is commonly left flat or hollow and weak ; the shoer will be assisted in avoiding this defect by acquiring the habit of glancing down the foot, from heel to toe on each side in parallel lines ; his eye will then be able to judge whether he has secured the object on which I am laying stress a full- ness in the surface across the center of the foot. Tho center of the foot is the region of the greatest breadth and depth of its arch ; on the pres- ervation of its breadth and depth depend the strength of the arch and of the foot itself, and the firmness, safety, and power of the horse's action. " The third class of feet are those in which, by mismanagement, a morbid accumulation of hoof places them out of form. Some of these are not in this state because they have not been shod at regular inter- vals, but because those who shod them have not known their art how to reduce the abundance of horn to due proportion in different parts of the hoof. . . . "There is a common saying, that in shoeing, 'the shoe should be made to fit the foot, and not the foot to fit the shoe.' This hackneyed expression, when closely examined, amounts to nonsense. The horse- shoer, if he be an artist worthy of the art, is required to know the foot so that he can with the greatest possible exactness and extent, econo- mize its want of substance and energy ; he must, like the sculptor with his clay or marble, bring out the true figure from a mass of deformity. That the over-reduced and weak hoofs are the most numerous, is granted ; but I have seen numerous bad cases of deformity and lame- ness due to the excess of horn in the wrong places. . . . " One difference between the English mode of shoeing and that adopted in all other countries in the world is, that we hold up the horse's foot to work at it. I only incidentally allude to the fact, because the origin of our custom is as much hidden by antiquity as the more extended mode. It is that of holding the horse's foot and working at it, to which I allude, while the continental farrier has the foot held while he shoes it. This last is the chief difference which attacts the atten- tion of travelers. In using the buttress, the rasp is superseded as well as the drawing knife ; the latter altogether, and the former, a small, fine rasp, employed only to smooth off the surface of the lower wall, as the last act in the process. Together with the buttress, the continental shoer uses a tool analagous to that which we formerly employed under the name of toeing-knife ; but a modern continental shoer, if a good workman, uses this, which in wrong hands would be very destructive, with admirable effect. This foot-rounder the literal translation of the name of the instrument- is a straight steel blade, of about nine inches in length by one and a half in breadth, and moderately sharp, by means of which the hard margin of the wall of the hoof is cut off by light taps of the hammer, while the instrument is held so as to regulate the quan- tity to be detached. " The plan which I have given, which I adopt with the rasp, of tak- ing the foot forward, was founded upon this method ; but when we come to those hoofs where overgrowth and disproportion to an indefinite 656 SHOEING. extent prevail, I find that no amount of skill in the application can bring the rasp and drawing-knife, with the rest of our tools, up to the round pied and buttress of the continental shoer. To produce the same effect, we, with equal knowledge of the requirement, take much longer time and devote more labor to the work ; while in ordinary practice, with us, the work is liable to remain undone or be badly done, as a rule, it is fairly accomplished on the continent. Take a foot grown to one or two inches beyond its normal depth and length, curled over at both heels upon itself, the bottom of the column being in an almost transverse line with the center of the foot, and a morbid thickness of sole and frog impprisoned and bound immovably together such a foot puzzles a workman ; with such a weapon as the rasp and knife, he does not know how to begin or proceed with a view to its proper reduction.* "In such a case the foreigner lays his foot- rounder transversely, with the edge toward one heel or column, about one-fourth of an inch from its lower surface, and with two or three taps with the hammer, cuts transversely forward from one to two inches; the same thing is done with the other column, and then usually, but not always, a greater depth is rounded off the toe, and a little, if there be abundance, at the sides ; all of which can be effected in the space of a minute or two; the man then takes the buttress, and in the foreign mode of holding the foot, cuts from toe to heel, and when the hard edge of the wall, and some of its depth has been removed, that which remains is pared down to give the required surface. " One advantage, at this point of the operation, I find favorable in the continental practice, is that when there are morbid accumulations of sole, which come in the way, and are as much foreign and incompat- ible with its functions as a snowball at the bottom of the foot, they are met and easily broken up by the direction in which the buttress is pushed ; whereas, by holding the foot ourselves, and working more from heel to toe, our instrument slips over the exfoliations of horn which have their fixed basis behind, and rise in front as they become ripe for being cast off. "Having learned these conditions by experience, acquired late, and working according to what I was taught in the course of apprenticeship, I fairly met the inconvenience by making use of the buffer for breaking up the loose, imprisoned sole and exfoliations of the frog ; these parts would detach spontaneously after the wall was reduced to its normal proportion, and the local condition would not ensue but for the general state and want of motion of the foot ; such motion implies health and freedom, in the enjoyment of which sole and frog cast off their flakes and maintain their proper substance. It might appear that this disen- gaged horn, if left unheeded, would fall with time a plausible theory, but incompatible with good practice. Such incumbrance must be got * Many intelligent smiths in various parts of this country visited by the writer, are in the habit of using the toeing-knife and buttress. If the growth is excessive, the wall is chipped off as described, and then reduced by the buttress by cutting from the heel forward. SHOEING. 65T rid of, not only before the shoe is put on, but before the proper surface can be adapted for it." The shoe should, in form and size, little more than cover the wall, excepting at the heels, where it should be so much wider and longer as to compensate for the growth of the foot, and be heavy enough to sustain the attrition, or wear, for the time it is ex- pected to be on. But should this require an excessive thickness, then the bar may be made wider, to permit more wearing surface. It should fit closely all the way around to the bearing sur- face prepared for its recep- tion, so that it may give to the crust all the support it can receive, and carry out in its ground surface, as nearly as possible, the form of the It is a rule, recognized by the best- authorities, that the sole should not rest upon the shoe, except around the toe where the out- er edge is left full and nat- ural. But if the wall is cut down close, and the sole rath- er thin (which, as explained before, in no case should be done except for special patho- logical reasons), it is advisa- ble, if it comes too near the iron, to lower the part coming under it. As a rule, the bear- ing surface should be level, and the ground surface con- FIG. 472. Bearing surface of the same. cave, or the inner edge of the 42 FIG. 471. Ground surface of the Goodenough shoe. wall before it was cut awav SHOEING. ground surface so bevelled off that it will not harbor stones and dirt, and be so stiff that it will not bend. If the horse is expected to be driven only occasionally, as for family use, and upon common dirt roads, the wear will be but little, and the shoes should be correspondingly light ; but if much travel is required on stony or macadamized roads, the weight should be sufficient to sustain such wear. The addition of a small bit of steel, hammered well into the toe, and tempered, would add FIG. 473. Badly fitted. Foot FIG. 474. The same not cut trimmed too much. Outer away enough. The shoe, edge of wall only, resting though properly fitted, upon the shoe, which is is too thick, made concave. greatly to its durability. It would be much better to make them wholly of steel, as they would be very much lighter, equally stiff, and less liable to bend. An objection to steel is, especially in cities where there are paved streets, that there will be more tendency to slip, than by the use of shoes made of iron. (See cuts for light-driving shoes.) In a condition of health, from the light family driver to the heavy draught horse, the principle of shoeing is the same ; the size, thickness, and weight only differing so as to adapt to each case, with the difference that when exceptional power is necessary, as for draft horses, or to prevent slipping, calkins must be used. As a rule, nothing more is wanting, unless necessary for extra wear, than just iron enough to protect the outer crust of the foot, and SHOEING. 659 prevent its breaking. More iron than this becomes extra weight, and causes fatigue in carrying, like thick, heavy-soled shoes or clogs. It is a question among English authorities whether a shoe should be "rounded at the toe" (a practice known as the French system) to aid mobility. As shown by Fig. 478, it brings the bearing surface in the form of a circle. On this point I copy here from Mr. Goodwin's new system of FIG. 475. FIG. 476. As the heel often rests upon the inner edge of shoe, with the bearing surface badly concave a direct cause of contraction and weak heels. shoeing. " If we refer," says he, "to the action of the fore leg, it will tend to explain some of the advantages to be derived from the curved shoe. When a horse is about to move, the first indication of motion is a bend at the knee, which raises the heels, and they become more and more elevated, till the toe (which is the last part that leaves the ground) is suspended for the moment that the foot is lifted. The base of the foot, just at its leaving the ground, is al- most perpendicular. When the knee is bent to its fullest extent, the foot is then in the same position, with the heels of the shoe pointing upward. If we consider this first part of the motion of the limb, we find the movement of the foot very nearly describes a semicircle ; and on viewing the form of the joints connected with the action, the necessity for a curve at the toe is clearly demonstrated. Again, the form of the shoe worn out, at FIG. 477. About as the shoe should be fitted. 660 SHOEING. once shows that it must be more suitable to put on a new one of that form, rather than to suffer the action of the leg to be opposed until it is worn to that form. . . . "The fore legs may be considered simply as pillars of support, having no pow- er of themselves to propel the body forward, progres- sion being entirely per- formed by the hind parts, If it were not so, the action would be different, as I have before observed it to be in those horses that have great weights to draw ; and this may be more readily totaM^ LU - FIG. 478. Model of a French shoe, showing average amount of curve. observed in any draught horse going up hill. I have offered these remarks upon action, in order to bring the reader's attention to the curve of the French shoe at the toe. This form of shoe cer- tainly harmonizes more with the motion of the fore foot than the English shoe does ; it affords a greater surface of bearing at the toe than the projecting ridge of the straight, ordinary shoe, and is much more calculated to allow of the motion of the leg and foot ; the labor of the muscles is also diminished, and the limb being in ite natural position, the ligaments have less imposed upon them ; they are more at ease, and conse- quently are not so liable to be strained." A moderate rounding at the toe would seem desirable in all cases where there is want of mobility. It is especially desirable when the horse is a little stiff or sore, as it enables him to travel much easier. This is proved when the mobility of the foot is destroyed, and there is necessity for using a rounded shoe to con- form with the action. When winter shoes, or calk shoes, must be FIG. 479. French shoe taken from an old work. See Navicular Lameness. SHOEING. 661 FIG. 480. Shoe too short and thick, with nails driven deep, and too far back in the quarters. used, the forward calk may be set well back in the toe, as shown by illustration. The object of nailing should be to hold the shoe firmly to the foot without injur- ing the wall, and leave the foot as in- dependent of the re- straint of the shoe at the quarters as pos- sible. The nails should be driven where there will be most secure nail- hold; more or less as well as heavier nails being necessary, in proportion to the thickness of the wall, weight of the shoe, and severity of the work. The wall is thickest and strongest at the toe or front, and becomes thinner and more flexible toward the quarters and heels, especially so at the in- ner heels, where it is sometimes exceedingly thin and flexible. By reference to Figs. 423, 429, it will be seen that there is con- siderable difference in the breadths and form of the quarters ; that of 423 is most notice- able. The end secured in this part being nar- rower and straighter, is supposed to be the prevention of interfering or striking ; but the narrowness is com- pensated for by the increased height of the wall, for the purpose FIG. 481. Nailing that will do no harm. 662 SHOEING. of giving more bearing surface to the laminated structure. This inner quarter or wall is very much thinner and more elastic, and on this account it becomes necessary to give very particular at- tention to the adjustment and freedom of the part. There has been much speculation during the past few years in relation to the cause of this quarter's giving out before the other, as nature evidently intended it to stand strain and wear equally with other parts. The cause, undoubtedly, is the interference in its mobility by bad fitting and nailing. This being true, it is ev- ident that the principal nailing should be at the toe and front, because there is more horn there to nail to, and less liability to do harm by separating and breaking the fibers of the wall. They FIG. 4S2. FIG. 483. Turner. The unilateral method of nailing, with model of a shoe. should not extend any farther back into the quarters than is barely necessary to give a safe hold of the shoe to the foot. The fewer and smaller the nails driven, the better, providing they are sufficient to hold the shoe. But much will depend, in doing this, on the accuracy of the fitting, thickness of the wall, and weight of the shoe. If the nails are driven well back on the outer quarter, and only round in the toe of the inner side, for the purpose of affording more freedom to the quarters, it will be found that as the foot grows, the shoe will be carried to the outside quarter and toe to such an extent that the inner heel of the shoe will be drawn inside of the wall at the heel, and rest upon the sole, causing a bruise or corn. In addition, so much of the shoe being left unnailed, makes it liable to get loose and work under the quarter, which would cause a rapid wearing or breaking down of structure. All things SHOEING. 663 FIG. 484. Points showing where the horn is strongest for the driving of the nails. considered, the best way is to nail back to the turn of the wall securely. Or the nailing may be extended a little farther back on the outside, and shortened a little on the inner side, in any case giving both quarters all the freedom compatible with security, in retaining a firm hold of the shoe. As the foot grows, the shoe will be brought forward so evenly under it as not to do harm. For ordinary light shoes, I am in the habit of using from six to seven nails, evenly distributed around the front part (something like Figs. 457, 459); sometimes extending the outer nail a little beyond or nearer the quarter than the inner one. But if the shoes are heavy, and the work hard, as for draught horses, heavier nails, and from seven to eight in num- ber, will in most cases be required. A small, thin clip turned up at the toe, and one at the outer quarter, will help greatly in holding the shoe firm- ly in position ; but they should be turned up thin, and set well out on the edge of the shoe. But very little of the wall should be cut away, so as not to weaken or injure it ; but sufficient to en- able bringing the shoe to its position. The shoes should not be hammered down tight to the wall, but simply sufficient to rest easily against it. Next, if the foot is broken, or FIG. 485. The same as it would appear with the shoe on. SHOEING. much weakened by old nail-holes, punch the holes where there is soundest horn to nail to. A thin shoe will not admit of any full- ering, because it weakens the shoe, without giving any special ad- vantage in nailing. The stamp form of punching the holes should be used ; that is, the hole made larger at the surface and smaller at the bottom, so that the nail heads will fit into it exactly. The method of driving the nails is next worthy of considera- tion. There are two methods ; one, starting the nail rather near the outer surface and driving high, called the English method, which is practiced very generally in this country; the other, starting the nail deep and bringing out low, known as the French method, which leading authorities concede to be the best. If the nail is driven very near the surface, it is liable to chip or break the horn out, which injures and weakens the wall very much ; whereas driving deep and bringing out low, insures a good hold, and the wall will be almost grown out by the next shoeing. Con- sequently they should be punched deep over those points where the wall is thickest, and less so toward the quarters where it is thinnest, or proportionately farther from the outer margin of the shoe. The common method of fullering all shoes alike, and bringing the nails at the same distance from the edge, can be no more adapted for all kinds of feet, than can the size of the shoe itself. Thif> straight-jacket way of punching all alike, brings the nail-holes at the same location at each repetition of shoeing, so that if the shoe becomes loose, or is pulled off, this part of the wall is liable to be torn off, or so split and broken as to leave only a soft, imperfect horn. In resetting such a shoe, it becomes necessary to put it farther back under the foot in order to gain secure nail-hold. Not only this, but the portion of the protruding wall being cut down to the shoo, leaves it deformed and injured to an extent that several months' growth cannot repair. But if the holes be punched over parts that would give a secure hold, the shoe can be nailed on sufficiently firm to hold it without doing harm, and thereby pre- serve the symmetry of the foot. In such a case it may be neces- sary to nail rather close to the heels ; but even this had better be done for a short time than risk injury and malformation by the method named. If by carelessness or otherwise a nail should be driven into the SHOEING. 665 quick, which will be known by the horse's flinching, it should be pulled out at once; or should a horse show soreness, after being taken out of the shop, the foot should be examined carefully by tapping over the part, and the nail at the point of soreness pulled out. (For more details, see treatment for Pricking, Rucking, etc., in latter part of this chapter.) CLENCHING DOWN THE NAILS. When the nail is twisted off, the end should be filed down to the proper length, and, with the corner of the rasp or little punch, cut out the pith or raised part under the clench, and turn down lightly but firmly. The common custom is to make a deep notch with the corner of the rasp, which extends across the face of the hoof from one nail to the other. This is so injurious that it should not be permitted even to the smallest degree. No rasping of the outer surface of the wall should be allowed, excepting to touch or smooth any roughness of the clenches, and to round off the edge of the wall down near the shoe. It has been explained under the proper head, that the inner surface of the wall is soft and spongy, and that as it approaches the outer surface, it becomes hard and bony, and the fibers closer and denser, and that over the surface is a sort of skin or thin covering of enamel, that prevents too rapid evaporation of moist- ure ; and it is necessary to retain intact this strong, fibrous horn, as well as that of its outer covering, so as to hold the nails firmly, as well as to prevent the excessive evaporation of moisture which would follow. Should the shoe be too short, which is liable to happen, to remedy the difficulty it is the common custom to set it back under the wall, and rasp the thick, strong wall, extending out over the shoe, down to it; or, should the shoe be too straight or narrow for the foot across the points of nailing, to drive the nails so deeply as to not only endanger pricking, but to greatly weaken the wall. The excessive rasping not only destroys the strongest part of the wall, that best able to retain the nail-holes and support con- cussion, but causes a serious internal disease not usually under- stood, which shows its effect in an absorption of the coffin bone and other parts beneath. Fig. 486 is a good illustration of this. 666 SHOEING. The specimen from which it is drawn, was obtained from Dr. Hamill. The small sketch is full size, and shows the exact appear- ance of its surface, and small points of horn which are over a quarter of an inch long, extending out like pegs. It is needless to add that this is the result of the most inexcusable ignorance, and the cause of much harm. If there is much wall ex- tending out over the shoe, it should not be deformed by cutting down to it ; the edge should simply be rounded off and let alone. FIG. 486. Showing effects of excessive rasping. SHOEING THE HIND FEET. There is usually so little trouble with the hind feet, that it is scarcely necessary to give any directions as to their management. The horn is thickest at the quarters, and the principal nailing should be done there. Sometimes there is a curling under or con- tracting of the heels, which may be the cause of more or less inflammation, extending to the sheaths of tendons and other parts of the leg ; in such a case, if thought advisable, either or both quarters can be treated as explained under that head. I think it advisable, in this connection, to say a few words about pricking, which is more common than many suppose. It is not unusual, indeed it is a very common occurrence, to drive the nail too near the quick or into it, and thus by a little carelessness cause great harm. First, if the nail be driven so as to go to the quick, in which case the horse may show it by flinching, it should in all cases be pulled out at once, and the hole be left vacant. If this is done, no harm will follow. Sometimes the smith, especially if he expects to be scolded, will drive the nail down, which in a few hours or next day will show itself by making the horse lame ; or the nail may be driven so deeply as to go near the soft parts of the inner edge, and when the point strikes the hard horn of the SHOEING. 667 outer surface, it may bend inward or press upon and break through to the sensible parts. This is called rucking. (See Fig. 420.) The nail should be pulled out at once. Still another cause of harm is what is termed fitting and drawing the nails too closely. If the nails are driven rather deep and clenched down firmly, they are liable to bend inward and press upon the sensible parts. This is called pinching. If present when the horse is shod, and it is noticed that the nails are driven rather deep for the thickness of the wall, insist upon their being driven farther out. An ignorant or thoughtless man may claim there is no danger, when he is driving the nails much too deep. Should the horse show soreness or lameness within three or four days after being shod, especially if he puts the foot forward to ease it, give the matter attention at once. First rest the hand lightly upon the hoof to discover whether there is any unusual heat, and if so, at what point ; next take a light hammer or small stone, and tap lightly round over the nails, until the horse flinches, when the offending nail or nails can be discovered and pulled out. If this is done soon after being shod or during the same day, all that may be necessary to do is to leave the nail out. I have had success by pouring a little callendula into the hole. In one case, where there was considerable soreness a few hours after being shod, though the horse was quite lame on account of the nail being driven too deep, after pulling out the nail, a little cal- lendula was poured in, and the shoe again put on, and the horse in a few hours was free from lameness. But if he shows lameness in a day or so after being shod, cut away the wall from around the hole, so as to let out any matter which may have formed. Next poultice the foot until the inflammation subsides, then cover the hole with a little digestive ointment (which is made by melting together equal parts of tar and hog's lard, and stirring till cool), over which put a little tow and put on the shoe. More especial directions will be given under the head of Pricking, Rucking, Nail in the Foot, etc., in Medical Department. 668 SHOEING. CONTRACTION. I ain now entering upon what must be considered as practi- cally new ground. There is nothing published by any author of whom the writer has any knowledge, explaining reliably how to cure contraction and quarter-crack. Indeed, the leading veteri- nary surgeons of the country seem to be so much at sea in relation to accomplishing this, that they do not pretend to give practical FIG. 487. Front view of sound, healthy feet. FIG. 488. Side view of sound feet. treatment. The treatment herein given is published for the first time, and will be found as reliable and effective as it is simple. I give illustrations of the usual position assumed by horses suf- fering from contraction, as well as appearance of feet and legs gen- erally, in Figs. 489, 490, which have been drawn from life. The contrast between such conditions and those of health, which are also shown, are quite noticeable. By looking at Figs. 414, and also 448 to 452, it will be seen that the arches formed by the union of the bars and frog near the extreme of the heel, extend well upward into the foot. Fig. 493 shows the outline of the hoof in its natural condition. Fig. 494 shows the heels somewhat SHOEING. 669 drawn together, and a corresponding elevation of the sole. Fig. 494 shows extreme contraction of the quarters, now perpendicu- lar, with the arch of the sole correspondingly acute and elevated. The points before referred to, noticed inside the heels in this con- dition, are crowded together as well as upward, so that in extreme contraction they press upward severely against the great tendon, where it passes over the navicular bone. This, in connection with the strong upward pressure of the sole against the bottom of the coffin-bone, forces the whole internal structure upward, as it were, FIG. 489. The effect of contraction and soreness. FIG. 490. A bad case of contraction and soreness. out of the hoof, thereby seriously interfering with, or obstructing, the circulation, as well as locking the whole machinery of the foot. Consequently the whole foot is tied and cramped, by such unnat- ural pressure upon the soft parts, so that walking, or even stand- ing, becomes painful. In this condition the horse will stand first upon one foot, then upon the other, or put the worst one forward, to ease the pain and pressure upon it. In traveling he will try to shield the feet all he can from concussion. For over two hundred years there has been great effort made to prevent and cure contraction. I give a few illustrations, mainly from the French, out of a large number coming into my posses- 670 SHOEING. sion, used for this purpose during the past one hundred years. We see first not only a hinge shoe, but a combination of hinges. Next, shoes with clips, by which to spread the heels. The shoes, after being fastened on, were spread by screws and other means, some of which were quite ingenious in their construction, but not of sufficient importance to give them a place here. In 1802 Prof. Coleman introduced and patented a convex shoe. See Fig. 502. Goodwin soon after introduced a combination of this form of shoe with that of the French system of rounding or FIG. 491. FIG. 492. How a horse stands when sore-footed. turning up the toe. Bracy Clark, in 1809, devised a shoe with a hinge at the toe, with a steel rivet to protect the joint from wear- ing, so that the quarters could have freedom to expand. See Fig. 503. I find also that this form of shoe was devised as long ago as the 16th century, by Ceasar Fiaschi, specimens of which are given in another part of this chapter. He also gave the "bar," and other shoes. But tho most recent modification of this form of which the writer has any account, was made by a man in New Hampshire in 1875. He had a shoe jointed at the toe, with wide bar at the heel, so fitted that one edge overlapped the other at the center. See Fig. 501. The bars were made of malleable iron, about three-eighths of an inch thick, with slight calks at the heels, SHOEING. 671 and riveted together at the toe. On this shoe he claimed to have a patent. I was invited to examine the feet of several horses hav- ing these shoes on. In some cases the bars were separated from an eighth to a quarter of an inch, by the spreading of the quarters. This expansion was partly owing to the natural enlargement of the quarters by growth, and frog press- ure. But the same, or even better, results could have been obtained FIG. 493. Showing the usual arch of by the use of an ordinary thin sole in a healtn y foot bef re i , -i . , , . . , P contraction, shoe, as this would give the frog contact with the ground, provided the W quarters were not unduly restrained by excessive nailing. The shoe above described would be of undoubted advantage on pavements or rough roads where the thin shoe could not be worn, as it gives necessary support to the frog, while protecting FIG. 494. Showing arch of the the footfrom the rough pavement ; but, sole bent upward by partial ^ lained ^where, the froff will contraction. i i not always bear Jong-continued press- ure of this kind without producing harm. About twenty years ago, a smith named Terrel, in Batavia, N. Y., devised a shoe for the cure of contraction, with clips turned up at the inner side of each heel, with the for- ward part weakened on each side of the toe. The foot was simply beveled down, the shoe fitted to it closely so that the clips rested against the quarters at the point of the heels. >. i ., -, v, i i ,1 FIG. 495. Showing the It was firmly nailed on, well back upon the 6ole bent upvvard> press . quarters on each side, and the quarters reck- j n g against the ten- lessly spread with the tongs. He had very don and joint in strong indorsements from leading horsemen, center of foot, i .. ST. .. ff caused bv contraction, claiming its effectiveness for curing contrac- tion, etc., and doubtless it was successful in curing many cases; 672 SHORING. but in spite of the utmost efforts made to introduce it, it went into disuse.* But the most striking innovation was that made by a man FIG. 496. Hinge shoe for cure of contraction. From a French work. FIG. 497. Form of shoe devised for preventing contraction. From a French work. named Dunbar, whose method consisted in cutting away the bars, opening the heels, and cutting out the sole almost to the quick, then fitting^ the shoes larger, and nailing back to the quarters. The principle was, that the removal of this horn which tied the heels together, enabled the quarters to spread and grow wider. While this seemed but a crude idea, it was, how- ever, so successful in many cases as to attract considerable attention, and proved an additional step toward the key of curing contraction. The government gave this man FIG. 498. Shoe used by the French for the cure of contraction. * Passing through this part of the country in 1866, I was persuaded by this man to have such a shoe put on one of my horses that was a little lame in one of his feet. I cautioned him not to nail the shoe on too firmly, or open it too vio- lently (which I could see was his intention to do), as it would be sure to cause seri- ous irritation in the foot. But disregarding ray wishes, assuming that he knew just how to do it, and saying that it would be all right, he put it on in his own way. The result was as I had anticipated ; the lameness that followed soon compelled me to take it off. SHOEING. 673 $25,000 for teaching the secret to the veterinary surgeons of the army. His instructions in explaining his system were as follows : " If the foot is healthy, and of a natural shape, and has been shod regularly, no alteration is required, but simply to pare out the sole of the foot, removing the bors [bars] entirely, and opening out the heels back. The surface of the frog should be trimmed out very little, but the sides should never be touched. By removing the bors [bars] and opening out the heels, contraction is prevented, and the frog retains its natural shape, because all pressure is removed FIG. 499. FIG. 500. Old forms of shoes used by the French for the cure of contraction. from each side. The shoe is now to be fitted and nailed on moder- ately tight. " The treatment for contraction, briefly speaking, is expansion. If the horse is lame, the farrier should shorten the toe, lower the foot all around, and open the heels back, until the blood is drawn. The sole of the foot should be pared as closely as possible on each side of the frog. The frog should be lowered, but the sides should not be cut. A groove should be made with the rasp, just under and parallel with the coronet on each side, deep enough to draw blood; then, with a fine shoeing-knife cut little notches down from the coronet at equal distances across the entire length of the groove. These notches should be deep enough to draw blood. This will re- lieve the pressure caused by contraction of the cartilages on both sides, and allow them to resume their proper shape. " The shoe must be very carefully fitted, and have eight nail holes, for the reason that it is the heel nails that relieve a foot while 43 674 SHOEING. FIG. 501. Hinge bar shoe for cure of contraction. in contraction. It should be so fitted as to project a quarter of an inch on either side of the foot, and so as to see the nail-holes pro- jecting on either side of both outer and inner quarter. This accom- plished, the bearing should be equal. The nails should be driven halfway, first toward the toe, then toward the heel. The higher they are driven the better, the shoe being fitted so wide there is no fear of pricking. The nails toward the heels should be driven by al- ternate taps on each side, because the foot expands on account of be- ing pared so thin on either side of the frog. Considerable soreness will result from this mode of treat- ment, which may be relieved by keeping the feet wet, or by poultic- ing." This principle of treatment was well understood long before Dun- bar's day, and doubtless was ob- tained by him from old authors. In relation to the scoring of the wall, J. Clark, in his work pub- lished in 1782, says: " When, according to the general method, a long shoe with a broad web is unfortunately put on, which is made thicker at the heel than at the toe, the consequence which commonly ensues is that of hindering the expansion of the heel of the foot, which in that case soon overcontracts itself. This circumstance produces very great pain to the foot by occasioning too great a compression of the cartilages, and of the blood-vessels by which they are surrounded. To ease these blood-vessels, I have known scores made perpendicularly all the way down every part of the outward wall with a drawing-knife, and the blood taken by a lancet underneath. This is but a partial remedy, and frequently a bad one ; for although temporary ease may be given to the foot by a process which possibly does diminish the power of contraction in the heels, as long as the crust is weak- ened by the scores on the wall; yet as the crust is perpetually renew- ing itself, the heel has in a short time a power of becoming still stronger and more contracted, after the temporary weakness has ceased, which was occasioned by scores. But the worst of all, al- though too often practiced in the case, is the cutting away the bars. This causes the heels to contract, having no mechanical power to open and hold the quarters in place." Bracy Clark, in his work published in 1809, in describing some of his experiments on contracted feet, says: " The bars were pared away from the frog, the heels, as we were SHOEING. 675 used to term them, were well opened, the quarters rasped thin, and to give it the better chance of expansion, a deep longitudinal channel was cut with the drawing- knife, down the front of the hoof, that it might have no resistance to the expansion of the sides ; further, to assist these measures of dilating the heel, they were drawn very thin, and the bars as much as possible clear from the sides of the frog " In the course of making these experiments, a circum- stance occurred which gave me much satisfaction, for I found that if the horn of the bars or inflexures of the hoof were pared away from the sides of the frog, it greatly contributed to the pleasant- ness of his going." pp. 104, 109. Many other p assages of Flo> 503 - Coleman ' 8 convex shoe - this description could be included, if desired. Of late years there have been many parties traveling through the country, claiming to cure contraction and all diseases of the feet, by sawing into the heel, and with the screw or other means violently spread- ing the quarters apart, subjecting the poor ani- mal to so much pain and torture by the operation that frequently he could not stand up for many days. This was regard- ed as a matter of no con- sequence, as the horse would soon get over it. The main point was to get all the money they could, and get out. Contraction is induced by six different causes, all acting more or less upon each other to aggravate the difficulty : 1. Trimming FIG. 503. Bracy Clark's hinge shoe. 676 SHOEING. the frog and sole so as to cause them to lose their moisture. 2. The thickness of the shoe, greatly increased by high calks, which removes the frog and sole from all contact with the ground, and prevents them from ob- taining moisture from it.* 3. Bad fitting of the shoes, by which means the bearing sur- face of the heels is made to a greater or less degree con- cave, so that when weight is thrown upon the limb, the heels slide inward. 4. Nail- ing back in the quarters so that as the feet grow, instead of becoming wider as they would if free, they are to that degree crowded together. 5. Allowing the feet to become too dry ; because the drier FIG. 504. Pony that cut his foot seriously J by calking, causing so much inflamma- and harder they become, the tion and pain that the foot was more direct is the tendency held up, as represented, for to become Small. 6. If from any cause inflammation is produced in the foot, it will in a short time perceptibly diminish in size. See Figs. 505, 506, showing the effect of acute or chronic inflammation in causing severe and rapid contraction. The results of these causes, separately or combined, are suffi- cient to ruin even the best of feet in a short time. But all the ef- forts heretofore made for the cure of contraction seem to have been simply to spread the heels open, which failed of making a cure on account of the crude way in which it was done, regardless of bringing about a natural condition of circulation, whereby healthy tissue could be grown. * I would remark here that keeping horses in stalls so narrow that they are greatly restricted from moving more than a few feet, and with floor largely inclined backward, is not only so exceedingly hard on the feet as to be a cause of fever and contraction, but so uncomfortable for the horse, that every humane owner should do what he can to remedy the difficulty. Particular reference to this will be found under the head of " Stabling." SHOEING. 677 Contraction may be divided into three different classes : 1. A general compression or drawing in of the wall upon the vascu- lar structure. 2. When but one or both quarters are drawn in. 3. When the heels are curled in, or pushed forward under the foot. Hence the prevention and cure of contraction must depend upon re- moving excess of horn, frog-pressure, freedom of the quarters, or, if nec- essary, opening them mechanically as desired, and upon moisture. Any of these conditions lacking, there must in serious cases be partial or entire failure, no matter what the means or methods used. If the feet could have conditions that would afford natural moisture, and the FIG. 505. The foot after the inflam- mation subsided, growing down nearly a quarter of an inch larger. shoes made so thin that the frog and sole could have reasonable con- tact with tho ground, the quarters so free that they could expand with the grov.-th of the feet, there could be but little if any contraction. We see that in all cases where there is reasonable frog pressure, it be- comes larger, firmer, and more elas- tic ; while raising the frog from con- tact, causes it to become small and hard, the quarters to draw in, and the whole foot to diminish more or less in size. But if not accustomed to pressure, it should be given grad- ually, in connection with keeping the feet thoroughly softened, so as FIG. 506. The foot drawn in and deformed from long-continued in- flammation caused by a nail be- ing driven into the foot. The hoof growing about half an inch larger after the in- flammation subaided. 678 SHOEING. not to excite inflammation or soreness. It would not do for a man accustomed to wearing boots for years to suddenly go bare- foot on rough, hard ground. The skin on the feet is so thin that they would be made sore, and be liable to serious inflammation. In like manner it would not be prudent to bring the heels and frog of a horse's foot, that has long been accustomed to the protec- tion of thick shoes, sud- denly to the ground. If there is but little contrac- tion, with fairly good con- dition of the feet, all that will be necessary to do is to level down the feet, and remove any surplus of old horn from the sole, put on thin-heeled shoes, and keep the feet soft by moisture. The next simplest and best method would be to use the convex shoe. After leveling and trimmiDg out the foot properly, as before explained, cut away or vveaken the arch between the bars and frog sufficiently to allow of some elasticity of the quarters, then fit the heels nicely to the bearing surface of the shoe. In doing this, care should be taken to leave them sufficiently deep to enable matching the bevel of the shoe nicely without cutting away or lowering the wall too much. No horn should be left projecting inside, as it would form a wall against the inner edge of the shoe, and prevent the heels from spreading. Of course no nails should be driven back in the quar- ters. As before explained, the frog should gradually be given con- tact with the ground. As the quarters are opened, the shoe can be taken off, made larger, and reset, until the foot is reasonably expanded, when a level bearing surface may again be used. But for anything like a bad condition of contraction, more di- rect and positive treatment will be necessary. For example, if the foot is badly contracted, the frog small, and sole forced upward acutely, the whole internal structure, in fact, locked and tied, as FIG. 507. Bearing surface of convex shoe. SHOEING. 679 it were, by the severe compression of the wall, three conditions are necessary: First, complete elasticity of quarters and sole; sec- ond, power to open quarters so as .to relieve pressure, and allow the sole to settle back to its natural position ; third, gradual frog pressure so as to restore a healthy condition of circulation and strength of parts. The first important step in the treatment is to thoroughly soften the feet. The sim- plest way of doing this in the stables is by tying two or three thicknesses of blanket around the feet and keeping them wet for about twenty-four hours ; or better, fill two small bags with bran, put a foot into each, and tie a string loosely around the top of the bag and leg above the fetlock. Put each foot into a bucket of water, and afterwards pour on water to keep wet ; or the horse can be made to stand in mud till the feet are soft. There is usually a large accumula- tion of horn, especially at the heel, all of which must be removed, and the wall leveled down to its proper dimen- sions. Next, with the drawing-knife pare out the sole ; not enough to make it bend to pressure, but more than be- yond the removal of the old horn. Then with a small knife, which should be made expressly for the purpose,* weaken the wall between the bars and frog, by scraping or cutting out the bottom of the channel, back to the point of the heel so much that when pressure is brought upon the heels outward, there will be no impediment to their open- ing freely at their upper edge. To do this, commence well for- ward near the point of the frog, and cut back, following the line of the arch carefully. Particular care should be taken not to cut *Let the blade be made straight, with a cutting edge on both sides. Turn the end about a quarter of an inch, temper and grind down to & keen edge. It should not cut a channel much more than one-eighth to three-sixteenths of an inch wide. FIG. 508. The shoe as fitted before being put on. 680 SHOEING. so much at any part as to cause bleeding. On this account the operator should feel his way cautiously, cutting deeper as he goes back. The bar should be cut away to within three-quarters of an inch from the point of the heel. No more should be cut away from the rest of the bar, or part coming under the clip, than may be necessary to give a straight shoulder for it to rest against. Both sides must be treated alike. If the part has been cut through in the least, it should be pro- tected after the shoe is on by melting a little rosin and tal- low into it, and covering with tow. By looking at Fig. 413, an outline of this arch can be seen on the inside. There have been many ignorant and pretentious quacks, who have presumed to weaken the heel by sawing in between the bars and frog. Only a very small point can be reached in this way, without cutting to the quick. The saw cannot be used, here at all with advantage. The point is to weaken the horn at the bottom of the cleft so that it will spread freely, and this can be done properly only with the cutting knife. The proper flexibility of the heels can be judged by a slight pressure with the hand. This done, our next object is to remove the compression of the wall. To do this, fit to it a rather thin, flat shoe, made of good iron. At the heels it should be made a little wider and longer than the foot, and the nail-holes punched, as in Fig. 508. Lay on the shoe as intended to be nailed, and with a pencil make a mark over the inside of the bar at the point of the heel on both sides. This done, accurately punch or drill two holes through the iron, about three-sixteenths of an inch in diameter. If it can be done, it would be better to have the holes beveled on the inside of the bar, extending up and back at the point of the heel. Next, take FIG. 509. The shoe when on. SHOEING. 681 two little pieces of good iron or steel, about three-fourths to seven- eighths of an inch long, by about three-sixteenths thick, and about five-eighths of an inch wide. Cut down the end until it will fit the hole in the shoe, ._ and rivet it, as shown in Fig. 508. These are now to be warmed and bent, and, if necessary, filed so as to lie flat against both heels, and just long enough to come a little short of touching the soft horn above it. Next weaken the shoe a little on both sides, which may be ex- tended over a much larger space than shown in Fig. 509; or if the shoe is not very heavy, it may be spread with- out weakening. Reg- ulate so as to come a little forward of the point where the hoof begins to draw in. If the shoe is thin, the in- ner edge should bo turned up and formed into a clip, which, with a little care, can be filed and fitted. But if the shoe is at all thick, it would be somewhat difficult to do this; fcr if the clip is turned up so that the shoe is too large or too small, a very tedious, annoying bungle would be the result. In addition, it would be difficult to make the clips sufficiently long to enable bringing pressure as high up against the wall as it will admit, which is a very important point towards opening the upper part of the hoof. FIG. 510. Spreaders in position to open the heels. 682 SHOEING. The method before given, which necessity compelled me to devise and adopt, makes this simple and easy to do; and except the shoe is so thin as not to admit of punching or drilling, it will be found by far the simplest and best method of forming the clips. When properly adjusted, nail on carefully. The nails around the toe may be larger than those driven in the quarters; and while driven so as to give a good hold, and rather high, if the feet are at all sore and tender, great care should be taken that the ham- mering is not too heavy, nor the nails driven deep. The clenches should simply be turned down lightly. If the hoof extends out over the shoe at any point, it should be no reason for more rasping than merely to round off the edges of the horn. Let it alone. It is frequently the case that one quarter is more con- tracted than the other; in fact, it is not unusual to have one side of the heel very much drawn in, while the other may be very little, if any, contracted; so that two conditions must be met, namely: first, to open either heel as little or much as may be desired, independent of the other. This the spreaders (which have been devised and patented by the writer) will enable doing in the most perfect manner.* However necessary it may be to have this part of the work well done, it is, in reality, but a preparatory step for what fol- lows. First, if a tongs or screw be used to spread the shoe, the pressure being made equal on both sides, the side which is weakest must do all the bending opening that quarter too much without affecting the other at all. Another cause of difficulty, is not having * Simple as these spreaders are, the writer has found it very difficult to have them made properly. On this account he has found it necessary to have them made ac- cording to an exact pattern, and they will be furnished at a moderate price to those desiring them. FIG. 511. The shoe as nailed on to be spread. SHOEING. the tongs convenient with which to spread the shoe, and it is put off too long; and when finally attempted, done so roughly, or opened so much, as to cause violent inflammation and lameness. With the spreaders, this difficulty is entirely overcome. The method of doing this should be about as follows: First ? measure between the heels of the shoo carefully, by cutting a bit of straw or stick the exact length between them, and then esti- mate how much each heel will bear opening without causing soreness. Unless the foot is very soft and elastic, it is hardly prudent the first time to open them more than a quarter or three-eighths of an inch. It is weU to first open the quarter most contracted, which, until brought out to balance with the other, should be opened the most. Then measure again and spread the opposite side. If opened too much, or enough to cause sore- ness, a few light taps of the hammer against the outside will set it back. The feet should be kept soft by stopping with flax-seed meal, and tying two or three thicknesses of blanket around, and wetting occasion- ally. In the course of an hour or two examine the condition of the feet carefully. If the horse puts out one foot, or indicates the least soreness, the quarters have been opened too much, and they must be at once knocked back sufficiently to relieve the undue pressure, and kept wet. It is rarely, however, that the spreading of a quarter, or even three-eighths of an inch, will at first cause any soreness. On the contrary, it always gives relief. Still I think it necessary to use care. The horse can be driven or worked moderately, if desired. In two or three days the spread- ing can be repeated, but now not so much as before, and again in three or four days following, and so on at longer intervals. If the foot has been properly prepared, two points will be FIG. 512. As the shoe appears after being spread. 684 SHOEING. accomplished by this spreading, namely, the severe compression upon the vascular structure and coronary ring will be immedi- ately relieved, and the sole, which in all cases of this charac- ter has been forced up, as shown, to an acute angle, will straighten and let down. To aid this, the sole must by par- ing be made so flexi- ble that, as the foot is opened it will set- tle down and come back to its natural condition. The sore- ness resulting from the compression of the parts will be re- moved, and a better FIG. 513. Badly contracted foot. The lines B show condition of circula- the degree to which the foot can be ^ion and nutrition re- safely spread. ^ By thig CQUrse the mobility will not only be restored, the horse travel with more freedom and confidence, but as the hoof grows down it will be- come thicker and of a better fiber. As before explained, to bring about a healthy condition of circulation and nutrition, the frog must necessarily be given con- tact with the ground to the degree it will bear, which should be provided for by the thinness of the shoe. In some simple cases nailing the shoe to the heel, as shown in Fig. 511, may be sufficient to hold the quarters firmly enough to enable spreading them as desired. The objection is that the wall is so thin at the point of the heels, that it may be difficult to get a good nail hold without pricking or breaking out; besides, the nailing cannot be repeated. The nails should be small and driven very carefully, getting as much hold as the horn will admit of. The supposed objection to this plan of opening the quarters is, that it prevents their natural SHOEING. 685 elasticity by their undue confinement. But this is not a valid objection; because in the direction it is desired to give them free- dom outward, it only facilitates it, while at the same time it gives a certainty and positive- ness of relief that cannot well be secured in any other way. Curling Under of the Heel. This has heretofore been an extremely difficult form of contraction to over- come, but by the treatment given is not at all difficult to manage, because it gives the power to force the quarters back hi place to any degree desired. It simply requires a little more care in making the adjustment. As this form of contraction is mostly common to heavy team horses in large cities (though not uncommon now among road- sters), and directly the cause of ruining a large number of the finest horses, I will include some additional explanations on its treatment. Usually the foot is broad and healthy-looking, till at the back of the turn of the wall, from which point the heels are turned under, and drawn to almost a sharp point, entirely closing the commissuers. The wall is thin and weak, growing very slowly, with frog extremely small and hard. This form of con- traction is mostly caused by wearing thick shoes with the bearing surface so formed that the heels rest upon sharply concave sur- faces, which tends to crowd or force them together; also by ex- cessive paring and want of moisture. The writer visited several shops to note the details of shoeing such horses, and with a view of getting exact illustrations of the average of such shoes. The frog, sole, and bars were cut down excessively the sole so that it would bend to the pressure of the thumb, and the bearing surface of the heels so scooped out, that FIG. 514. Draught or express shoe. Model from Dr. HamilTs collection. 686 SHOEING. only a very narrow edge of the outer wall gave a bearing surface. In addition to this senseless, bad treatment, which will destroy the health of any good foot in a short time,dt was noticed that the form and fitting of the shoe were equally bad; so that it was not difficult to understand why naturally good feet were soon ruined by such shoeing. Next, it was noticed that the seating extended clear out to the nail -holes, leaving but a comparatively narrow edge for the wall to rest upon. A number of average shoes were obtained and photographed for the purpose of explaining the cause of such bad effects : but it was found upon trial that it was impos- FIG. 515. The shoe as drawn. sible to bring out the defects sufficiently plain to be of any ac- count, and as the next expedient, an exact drawing of one cf the shoes (Fig. 575) was made, showing the concavity at different points of bearing surface of the quarters. The dotted lines show the location of the heels upon the shoe. To explain this ' more clearly, three drawings of transverse sections are given ; (a) shows by two points outside the inner edge where the outer edge of the heels rested; (6) the same at half the distance between there and the center of the clip on the sides; (c) at that point. See p. 688. In the first place, the shoe is made very much longer and wider at the heels than the foot, for the purpose of making them look wide. In these cases, not only the bearing surface itself is largely bevelled, but this bevel is greatly increased by the seating, which SHOEING. 687 is carried well back to the heels and extended out to the edge of the nail-holes, the point of the heels extending even inside the inner edge of the iron. Out of the eight specimens selected from a pile of old shoes, there was but one exception to this. The con- sequence of such treatment is that the heels are constantly being crowded forward and under as weight is thrown upon them, which, with an excessively pared condition of the foot, causes such rapid loss of moisture that the heels become curled under, weak, and contracted. Now follows the putting of leather between the shoe and foot, the use of hoof lin- iments, and other means of re- lief, without any practical benefit. I copy here the remarks of an old author, J. Clark, of Edin- burgh, Scotland, in 1782, show- ing the bad effects of this treat- ment : " They cannot be satisfied un- less the frog is finely shaped, the sole pared, and the bars cut out in order to make the heels appear wide. This practice gives them FlG 516 ._ The previous sh engraved a show of wideness for a time, yet from photograph . Would not bri that, together with the concave out concave appearance, form of the shoe, forwards the con- traction of the heels, which, when confirmed, renders the animal lame for life." The principle of shoeing such horses is the same as in that of others : First, to level down the wall without interfering with the sole or frog. The bearing surface of shoe to be flat, and bent to the form of the foot, so as to support the wall evenly all the way round ; the shoe to be no heavier, and the calks, if used, no higher, than is barely necessary to sustain the wear to which it is subjected. In addition, the feet should be kept soft by stoppings and coverings of wet cloths at night. This should be especially attended to during dry weather, or when the feet are hot or feverish from severe work. The treatment for the cure of such is practically the same as for other conditions of contraction. Of course, much depends upon 688 SHOEING. FIG. 517. Concave bearing surface of shoe at heel. the skill and ingenuity brought to bear in the treatment. In fact, herein lies most of the success in the management of all conditions of contraction. In my experience I never have found a smith who could catch the points of properly preparing the foot and fitting the shoes for such cases. In every instance I have been compelled to stand over the sheer, and dictate every movement, or do part of the work myself. First, the want of judgment in preparing the foot ; second, A ^ in adapting the weight of the shoe to the foot, and fit- ting the clips so as to enable opening the quarters easily and surely as de- sired. Since writing the foregoing, my attention has been called to a very simple and practi- cal method of opening the quarters for the cure of contraction, il- lustrated in Fig. 522, and devised by Mr. David Roburg, a prac- tical horse-shoer of great ingenuity and skill, who is located in No. 106 West Thirtieth street, New York City * This spring he patented fourteen years ago, and has since used it with marked success. Various methods of opening the heels on this plan have been familiar to me for many years. Fig. 520 is a specimen of form which I copied from an old French work. I also saw a spring almost the same in form and principle of ad- FIG. 518. Concave bearing surface of shoe between heel and turn of foot. FIG. 519. Concave bearing surface of shoe at turn of foot. * My attention has been particularly attracted to this gentleman's method of treatment by two incidents : First, in a conversation, some years ago, with Mr. Bonner, who is himself undoubtedly one of the closest and best living students of the principles of shoeing in this or any other country, by his stating that Mr. Roburg was probably the most profound student in the art of shoeing in the coun- try; second, by learning at the Columbia Veterinary College of his remarkable success in the cure of a case of lameness that was pronounced by one of the highest authorities in the city as an incurable case of navicular-joint lameness. Special reference will be made to his method of treatment for this difficulty under the head of Navicular-Joint Lameness. SHOEING. justment which was devised and patented a few years ago by a horse-shoer in the upper part of New York City. But Mr. Roburg, by giving more length to the spring, and simplifying its construc- tion, makes it all that can be desired. The spring is made of steel, the exact proportion and adjustment of which is shown in Fig. 522. The wall is first weakened by sawing down slightly be- tween the heel and frog, when the spring is placed in position with so much force given to it as may be thought necessary to press the heels outward as desired. The shoe is then nailed on over it, as ordinarily done. The press- ure is gradual and constant, and must prove just the thing where both quar- FIG. 520. Shoe with spring for ters will admit of equal pressure. But cure of Contraction. Copied i-i-i i i from the French. should one quarter be much more con- tracted or unyielding than the other, it would not work so well, be- cause the full pressure would then be thrown on the weaker quar- ter. This is in part obviated by nailing the shoe well back on the quarter of the oppo- site side, which would prevent that side from being acted upon. It does not, how- ever, and cannot be made to give the re- quisite power to open the quarters back and outward, should the heels be drawn sharply inward and forward, as shown in Fig. 573, as can be very easily done by the method devised by myself. But this method of treatment is so simple and good that I have thought it advisable to give very careful drawings of it. This spring of different sizes and strength, with all particulars, can be obtained by addressing the patentee, Mr. Roburg. I also give illustrations FIG. 521. French method of shoeing after Lafosse. A, B, C, D, and E show lines of adjustment. 44 690 SHOEING of a form of shoe -devised and largely used by him with great success, the form of which can be well understood by them. The object to be attained is, where there is a want of mobility, or much soreness and inflammation, to so form and adj ust the shoe that the foot will partly roll upon the ground and relieve the strain. This form of shoe has been patented by him. To use Mr. Roburg's words, " This shoe, by allowing the foot to roll upon the ground, gives the foot the advantage of an extra joint, and to that degree relieves the strain or want of mobility, which causes lameness or sore- ness." Consequently it not only enables the horse to travel easier, but aids in FIG. 523. FIG. 524. FlG. 522,- An outline of spring, with its position on the foot. Thickness of the Width of bar spring full full size, size. making a cure. This principle of treatment he has studied very closely and is remarkably successful. More special reference will be made to this in Navicular-joint Lameness. This principle has long been in vogue in France. I give an illustration from Laf osse, showing a side view of the hoof fitted for the shoe ; also a specimen of the French shoe. The principle is to turn up the shoe at the heel and toe about the thickness of the iron. Mr. Roburg's shoe differs essentially from this, in that he gives a curvature side-ways as well as with the length of the foot. What he terms his " best model of shoe," and which is the most unusual, is Fig. 525, which is nothing more than a thin plate hammered into a rounded or bowl shape, the exact proportions of SHOEING. 691 which are preserved in the drawings given. Fig. 526 is a side view which will give a good idea of the relative proportion of the curve. By this form of shoe the foot has perfect freedom of motion either way. If the foot is feverish or dry, a wet sponge or oakum is pushed hi between the shoe and bottom of the foot. Fig. 5 29 is a view of the same made a little heavier, the same form of circle being preserved, with the difference of the central part being removed with cross-section of the same. The shoe from which this drawing was made was claimed to be the same that was worn by Dexter when he made his fastest time to road wagon. Figs. 531, 532, show the method of putting on calk- ins. FIG. 525. Roburg's best form of shoe to aid the mobility of the foot in lameness. FIG. 526. Side view of the above, showing the curve. QUARTER-CRACK. This is the one difficulty next to contraction which seems to have baffled the skill of the best veterinary au- thorities and horsemen to prevent or cure; be- cause in extreme cases they had no practical treatment beyond that of a bar shoe, cutting away the horn SO that FlG ' 528 Cross-section of the same. the part back of the split would have no bearing upon it, or of sup- FIG. 527. An exact scale of the curve of the shoe. 692 SHOEING. porting the weak parts by drawing the edges together with nails, or fastening on a plate with screws ; all of which are merely pal- liative, and not to be depended upon. It would, of course, be easy to grow the foot down by keeping the horse in a stall or small yard where the ground is soft, but when put to work it would be li- able to split down again as before. Con- sequently it has been one of the most vexatious and annoying of difficulties, because to to do this it was nec- essary to keep the horse idle from three to gix mont hs and FIG. 529. Ordinary form of rolling motion shoe. FIG. 530. Cross-section of the same. then, when put to work, if by chance he were driven sharply over hard or frozen roads, the quarter was liable to burst, which would again make the loss of use necessary, liative measures refer- red to, and thus in time the value of an other- wise good horse would be destroyed. We see, in the first place, that the whole trouble arises from the hoof becoming con- tracted or too small for the internal parts. This will be most noticeable FIG. 531. Side view showing degree of curve. Or it became necessary to resort to the pal- Fm 53 2._Ground surface of above, showing method of putting on calkins. SHOEING. 693 at the inner quarter by the wall becoming straight or drawn in sharply a little below the hair, the part at which the split in va- riably occurs. This is proved by the fact that the quarter is most liable to burst or split when the hoof is dry and hard, or when concussion is increased by driving on hard roads. This tendency to split is also increased by the inferior quality of horn grown; because the contraction of the parts, or pressing of the wall in against the soft parts so obstructs the circulation that there is not sufficient blood to grow a sound, tough, healthy horn. On this ac- count in all such cases, if serious, the horn grows thin and brittle. The only reliable and practical cure is opening the quarters suffi- ciently to remove pressure until the new horn is grown, which can be done to any degree desired as follows : First, cut down between the bar and frog of the inner quar- Fm 533 ._ Quartei , crack . ter, as explained for contraction, until it will yield readily to pressure. Next cut away the edges of the wall to the end of the split ; then make a crease with the firing iron at the edge of the hair. If the split extends well up into the coronary band, this can be omitted, and instead, the iron touched length- ways with the split. If, however, the quarter is properly opened, such interference with the firing-iron will be un- necessary, as the horn would usually grow down sound without it. Now fit a shoe as explained for contraction, putting a clip only upon the inner side (as shown in Fig. 536). The opposite side is to be nailed well back to counterbalance it. When the shoes are nailed on, with the spreaders open the quarter all it will bear without producing soreness, or about a quarter of an inch. This done, fill the crack with a little melted resin or tallow, over which put a little tow to prevent gravel or dirt from working into the quick. It is next advisable to stimulate the growth of tough, healthy horn. This can be done with hoof liniment, which should be put on as explained, two or three times a week. In addition, the hoof should not be permitted to become dry or hard, which can 6 94 SHOEING. be easily prevented by stopping with flaxseed meal, and tying two or three thicknesses of blanket around the feet, and keeping wet while standing in the stable. The horse, if necessary, can be put to work as usual. In the course of a few days, spread out a little more, or as may be necessary to make the hoof sufficiently large to remove all pressure from the weak parts. When grown down, the cause is removed, first, by the quarter being opened out to its natural position, there- by removing all press- ure upon it outwardly ; second, by the circula- tion now having entire freedom more blood is brought to the parts, FIG. 534. Toe-crack. FIG. 535. Quarter-crack. ,, ,, so that there is grown a tougher and thicker quality of horn, thereby making it a relia- ble cure. If an ordinary case, with but little drawing in of the quarters, simply lower the inside quarter a little so as to remove pressure from the upper edge of the wall, and put on a level shoe. Next, with a firing-iron, burn a slight crease across the upper edge of the wall, keeping the foot soft, and stimulating the growth by applications of hoof liniment. This will enable growing the wall down without its splitting back. But if the quarter is drawn in perceptibly, then in addition to the creasing, the quarter must be given entire freedom by cutting down between the bar and frog. The advantage of a bar-shoe is that it brings some pressure upon the frog, causing a slight spreading of the quarters, and giving relief; but, as must be seen, in its best form it is merely palliative, as the frog soon becomes atrophied by the pressure. But if the hoof is thin and much contracted, and especially if the growth of horn is not very healthy, nothing short of opening the quarter and keeping it so can be relied upon for success. Blind Billy, on account of the severity with which he brought the feet to the ground when traveling rapidly, frequently burst the quarter of one of his feet which grew white horn and was con- tracted a little. By weakening the horn between the bar and frog so as to let the quarter give as pressure was thrown upon it, in connection with keeping the feet soft and stimulating the growth SHOEING. 695 with hoof liniments, enabled growing the wall down several times without resplitting. Finally, during a severe freezing spell, when the roads were rough and hard, the quarter was split very seri- ously, which, on account of the thin condition of the hoof, it became impossible to grow down again without its splitting back. All palliative measures failing, it became necessary to either control the quarter while growing, or in consequence of the serious lameness the injury caused him, to take the horse off the road. This was not admissi- ble, as he could not be spared, and to prevent this I was compelled to devise some means of treatment by which this could be remedied. I noticed first that the whole trouble arose from the quarter being too small, or pressing too much upon the internal structure, and it occurred to me to open out the quarter and hold it there. The experiment was made, fit- ting the shoe with a clip, and it worked perfectly. The horse was driven as usual, over the hardest roads, during the balance of the whiter ; yet the hoof grew down, not only sound but stronger than it was before. The incident suggested the idea of fitting a shoe in this way for the cure of contraction ; and for the convenience of opening either quarter as desired, the spreaders were devised, which enabled doing this most perfectly. CORNS. Corns are usually to be found at the inner heel, or at the angle between the bar and the crust, and are caused by the shoe pressing upon the part. This will be most likely to occur should the wall break down, or be cut away so much as to let the shoe rest upon the sole, or should the shoe be nailed well back on the outside and toe, as- then, if left on too long, it will be drawn out- ward and forward so much that the inner heel will be drawn FIG. 536. Form of shoe for quarter-crack. 696 SHOEING. under the quarter, and rest upon this part, bruising it. When the sensible sole is thus bruised, .the effused blood mixes with the horny matter and makes a red spot, and if the irritation is continued so as to produce very much inflammation, ulceration may take place, which would, in some cases, be sufficient to affect the inner wing of the coffin bone, and cause matter to break out at the coronet. Some- times when the quarter is very much contracted the space between the bar and quarter being greatly lessened, it causes such bruising or pressure upon the soft parts as to ex- cite inflammation, or a corn, which, in some cases, may be very serious. The usual remedy is to cut away the parts so that the shoe will not rest upon it, and put on a little caustic, or touch it with a hot iron, which de- stroys sensibility, and changes the condition of se- cretion. Butter of antimo- ny, or salts of nitre, is the favorite remedy; then melt in a little tar, resin, and tallow, and cover with a little tow to prevent gravel or dirt working into the tender part. The usual way, in severe cases, is to put on a bar shoe, so as to enable re- moving all pressure from the part. This mode of treatment, however, as usually done, is only palliative, not curative. The horse will travel better, but if the shoe is left on a little too long, or presses upon the part in the least, or should gravel or dirt accumulate between the part and the shoe, inflammation and lameness will follow. The only remedy for this is to remove the pressure. But in time by this treatment the difficulty is only aggravated and made worse. Hence, the usual assertion that " corns cannot be cured. ' The writer will now explain how corns may be cured without difficulty ': The black performing horse, Gifford, one of his former FIG. 536. Gifford's foot, as it appeared before treatment. SHOEING. 697 FIG. 537. Position of spreaders for opening quarter. team of horses trained to drive without reins, had a very bad bruise (corn) on one of his inner heels, which, if not carefully attended to, caused se- rious lameness. After being troubled with it about seven years, it had grown to such proportions as to in- volve the entire angle at the heel, so that the horn was broken quite through, and the sen- sitive structure partly ulcerated. At the close of the season's business, early in June, there was considerable inflammation and sore- ness in the entire foot, in consequence of the aggravated condition of the corn, despite the fact that all pressure had been carefully kept from it. All palliative measures having failed, it occurred to the writer to try the experiment of removing all pressure from the part, and turning the horse to grass during the summer months. But there was an- other serious difficulty, to which, in part, some of the soreness might be attributed. By the contraction or curl- ing uoder of the outer heel, it had become so weak that it could scarcely be made to FIG. 538. The shoe as it appeared when on, SU ppo r fc his Weight in trav- with the outer quarter opened out. v ., j j j j. eling, so it was decided to treab this at the same time. The division between the bar and frog of this side was well thinned out to make the quarter flexible. 698 SHOEING. Next, a thin shoe of untenipered steel, a little more than an eighth of an inch thick, was made to fit accurately to the wall (as shown by Fig. 537), the end being turned up for a clip, and fitted nicely to its place. The part of the opposite heel of the shoe coming over the corn, was entirely cut away, leaving simply suf- ficient to cover the wall, which at this point was very thin. The shoe was now fastened on sufficiently to hold it firmly in place, but with very small nails. There was no rasping or attempt to beautify the foot in any way. This is never in any case permit- ted by the writer in shoeing his horses. Figs. 536 and 538 give a very good idea of the appearance of FIG. 539. Best forms of bar shoe. FIG. 540. the foot before and after the shoe was put on. The quarter was now carefully opened back about three-eighths of an inch, without causing any irritation. Nothing was put over the bruise or corn, nor was it meddled with in any way. The horse was now turned out to grass daily. At first he moved very tenderly, though not lame. In a week the heel was again opened a little more, and again at intervals until opened out as desired. In a few weeks the tenderness, fever, and inflammation subsided ; and at the ex- piration of three months the corn was entirely cured, there being a healthy growth of sole over the part, leaving only a slight touch of redness on account of not being entirely grown out. The con- tracted quarter was also out in its natural position, the change for the better in all respects being very gratifying. An ordinary fiat SHOEING. 699 shoe was now put on, when he traveled as well as ever. Most of such cases can be easily cured while the horse is kept at his usual work, by putting on an open shoe if the foot will bear it, if not, a light bar shoe, with the part coming under the corn entirely cut away, leaving only sufficient to cover the wall. It will not mat- ter whether the bar is cut away or not, as there will be nothing over it to harbor gravel or dirt. It would be advisable to fit the shoe carefully, or even drive two or three nails, to know exactly the posi- tion of the shoe upon the wall. Then mark the part to be cut out, when the nails can be pulled out, the part cut or filed away properly, and the shoe again nailed in place. The success in the treatment of the case referred to, led me to believe I had made FIG. 541. Shoe fitted for cur- an important discovery, as I had not in corns - From Cole - f ound it laid down by any of the ordinary authorities on " Shoeing," under my notice. Since then, upon in- vestigation, I have found that the principle was well understood by many old authorities, though the method of treatment, as will be seen, was slightly different. Page 96, of Freeman's work on "Shoeing," published in 1796, says: " I have frequently bought horses whose feet, on examination, proved to have corns, occasioned by ill-made shoes having pressed upon them. These were, in general, easily cured by paring the feet properly where the grievance lay, and turning the horse out without, shoes for two or three months." In the supplement to Coleman's work, published in 1802, the writer found, for the cure of corns, the shoe cut away over the corn (see Fig. 541). Bracy Clark's work, in 1809, for the cure of corns, gives an illustration of a shoe with that part which would come over the corn entirely cut away. The half -moon shoe, or tip, by Lafosse, referred to hereafter, is claimed to cure corns. Caesar Fiaschi, of the 16th century, gives a cut of a three-quarter shoe; almost the same form as that of Bracy Clark's, for this trouble. White's work, published in 1820. says: 700 SHOEING. " Tho only thing to be done is to take off the shoe, and turn the horse out to grass. In slight cases, however, this may not be absolutely necessary, and is often inconvenient, but it is by far the best plan, and, 1 may add, perhaps the only effectual one, when a radical cure is desired." This writer being good authority, I will include what he says on direct or palliative treatment : " When a horse cannot be sent to grass, and the disease is so slight as not to produce lameness, let the affected heel, crust as well as sole, be rasped or cut down with the drawing knife, so that when a bar-shoe is applied, there may be no pressure upon the affected heel, or about an inch beyond it, that is, toward the toe. . . . The practice commonly is to scoop out the reddened solo or corn between the bar and crust, and have these receive the bearing of the shoe; but this will not do ; the crust also must be removed as well as the bar to the depth of a quarter of an inch. . . . Caustics and even a hot iron have sometimes been applied to corns ; they may have had the effect of deadening the feeling of the part for a short time, but they often do great mischief, and should never be employed or permitted in any case of corn whatever. Tar ointment, Friar's balsam, or a solution of blue vitriol have also been used.* They may be innocent, but certainly not necessary. When corns are not attended to, severe lameness is often the consequence. Smiths frequently do nothing more than scoop out the corn, and apply a common shoe. This sometimes relieves the horse for a short time, but he soon becomes lame again, and generally lamer than at first. It is in this way that corns are rendered troublesome, and produc- tive of so much inconvenience. Inflammation and suppuration are thus sometimes induced in the heels, and matter breaks out at the coronet. In this case the whole of the affected heel must be removed, even the crust of the heel and the bar ; and when the part has been well soaked with a poultice, that is, after a few days, it may be dressed with tar ointment, and about a week after it has been thus dressed, the horse should be turned to grass without shoes." WEAK HEELS. If from any cause there has been much fever in the feet for some time in consequence of being driven on hard roads, or being partially foundered, there will be diminished supply of horn, so that the wall will not only grow slower but thinner. Sec refer- ence to inflammation and Figs. 505 and 506, on page 677. T * Formulas for these prescriptions will be found among miscellaneous recipes. t According to scientific authority, ordinary inflammation of the horn-secreting surfaces gives a greater cell proliferation in general ; but when inflammation ap- SHOEING. 701 Sometimes the heels are cut down so closely that should the shoe work loose, and wear or break down the quarters, it would be easy to pro- duce a weak, low condition of the heels. This may cause a great deal of trouble, on ac- count of the slow- with which FIG. 542. The foot as it appeared. ness the horn grows to supply the in- creased wear. This morbid con- dition of inflam- mation also pro- duces another very marked ef- fect, namely, that of separating the wall from the sole, or what is termed becoming shelly. Sometimes, if the shoes are badly fitted and made too wide at the heels (as explained under the head of Con- traction), they will soon cause a weak, bad condi- tion of the heels, the quar- ter gradually giving way or breaking down, and if the foot is at all flat, the sole and frog become lia- ble to settle, or are made convex. One of the most marked cases of this kind the wri- ter ever saw was that of a FIG. 543. Form of shoe the writer would advise, cart horse, brought to his proaches the suppurative stages, death of the horn occurs. But atrophy, or wast- ing of the secreting structure, gives a corresponding atrophied portion of horn- structure. 702 SHOEING. notice in Central Pennsylvania. The feet were broad and flat, with the heels drawn in to a point so that there was scarcely any bearing of them upon the shoe. The result of this was that the horn wore or broke away until the line of bearing was over an inch above that of the frog. To remedy the difficulty, the calks were raised correspondingly high to keep the frog from the ground. (See Fig. 542.) This horse trav- eled with great diffi- culty, even on a walk. If it is desired to re- store the condition of the circulation and quality of horn, by far the best way of doing it would be to put on thin-heeled shoes, with iron just wide enough around the quarters and heels to protect the wall, and then turn the horse out for a few months. In the meantime, dress the feet two or three times a week with hoof liniment to stimulate the growth of good horn, and prevent the weakening effects of too much moisture. If, how- ever, the feet are weak and the horse must be used, a better way would be to put on a thin bar shoe, the bar part extending well forward under the frog, to give more basis of support. (See Fig. 543.) Of course nothing more should be cut away from the heels than is sufficient to barely level them a little. Especial care should be taken to protect them from excessive wear and break- ing down by the shoe, which may be done by placing leather be- tween the bearing surfaces of the foot and the shoe. The better to support such a shoe and lessen the nailing, a light clip may be turned up on each side. In many cases of this kind the horn may be very brittle, so that it is not only advisable to use small nails, but to drive them where a strong hold can be taken any- way, the shoe must be fastened on so firmly that it will not get loose or work on the foot. In some cases it may be necessary to FIG. 544. The shoe as it may be fitted to support weak heels. SHOEING. 703 FIG. 545. Original shoe fitted with plate on. bend the bar down, so as to enable a more accurate line of ad- justment to the wall and frog. If an arch becomes so weak that it settles under the weight upon it, the only safe or reasonable alterna- tive would be to support it. In like manner, when the sole becomes so weak that it settles down, it must be given contact with the ground, or supported by the use of a bar shoe. When in Massachusetts, in 1876, a leading horseman called my atten- tion to a fast-trotting stallion that had weak feet, and which caused him a great deal of trouble. He wished to know how to shoe them so as to improve their condition. I found the feet in good shape, but the sole and wall were very thin and weak, the effect, undoubtedly, of the horse being slightly foundered or overheated. I advised putting on a shoe that would support the sole and frog, the space between the shoe and frog to be packed with oakum, and the use of hoof liniment to grow a tougher and better condition of horn. He ob- jected, that this would not do, as the horse would not bear any press- ure at all upon the sole. Some time afterward my attention was called to a very high indorsement from this gentleman, of a certain form of patent shoe, that had been used on this horse. It stated that it enabled the horse to travel as well as ever, and that its utility was all that could be desired. I was interested to know just what kind of a shoe had been used, and when again in that vicinity, at considerable trouble found one, of which I give an accurate drawing. (See Fig. 545.) While it may be evident that in many such cases the shoe could FIG. 546. The same with plate removed. 704 SHOEING. FIG. 547. Heel of shoe with pad of oakum attached. be made to support the entire sole, if hammered out of iron, the increased weight would make it seriously objectionable. The fit- ting of a thin piece of steel plate, as shown in Fig. 545, would enable this to be done with but little addition to its weight. The manner of putting it on was simply by bringing the whole surface of the wall and frog to an even bearing, to which the shoe was carefully adjusted. Next, the space between the shoe and bottom of the foot was filled with oakum, to which was added a little tar and resin, so as to -form an even but firm support all the way round.* The drawing of the oakum, as it appears in Fig. 547, is an exact illustration of that which was used upon the shoe named, though only the back part of it is shown. Parties who had used the shoe upon feet which had become sore and tender from driving upon hard, stony roads in the city and neigh- borhood, stated that it enabled the horses to travel much better. If the foot is sore and sensitive, sup- porting it with a bed of oakum in this way, will serve to break con- cussion, and consequently make the horse go better for a time. But for contraction, quarter-crack, coffin- joint lameness, etc., for which it was advertised as a cure, it cannot ben- efit beyond the effect of slightly breaking concussion as explained. It would be just the thing for weak heels and for any condition where the sole and frog * A preparation of tar, beeswax, hard soap, and resin, melted and formed into a salve, to be used with oakum as a packing, was given the writer by a horseman of much experience, as the best for this purpose, claiming that it softened the feet and stimulated the secretion of horn. FIG. 548. The plate as attached. SHOEING. 705 need supporting. As it is, however, seriously objectionable to cover the whole bottom of the foot when it can be avoided, I in- clude cuts of an improvement by which the whole bearing surface of the frog and heels, the important parts, can be supported without the sole be- ing excluded from moisture or air, which is important for the secretion of healthy horn. In such a case, if desired, the plate instead of being let to the inner edge of the bar (which is mainly made so in the cut to give it a more dis- tinct appearance), can be ex- 549. Forward shoe to prevent strik- tended across the quarter, so ing. From Dr. HamilFs collection. that the Upper surface will come even with that of the shoe, and be riveted on. The main point in the management of interfering is to have the shoe close under the wall at the point of striking, and the of- fending part shortened or straightened a little, and that there be no nails driven there, the clinches of which would soon rise and cause cutting. The edge of the shoe should be beveled under a little, and filed smooth. There is usually a good deal of carelessness in letting the shoe extend outside the crust at the point of the heel. It should set well under the wall all the way round, and the wall filed smoothly to it. In addition, in some cases the horse will travel better to lower the inside heel a little, in others to raise it. It is in all cases advisable, however, if the horse can be made Fl - 550._Shoe to prevent inter- to travel without striking, to keep the adjustment natural by paring the foot level, and making tue 45 706 SHOEING. shoe of an equal thickness all the way round, with perhaps the inner part straightened a little. Raising the inside heel, which is the method in general use, while it tends to throw the ankle out, tends also to throw the foot in, as it is carried forward. It also brings such unequal strain upon the ankle joint as to some- times cause serious injury to it. Fig. 552 is introduced to show the bad effect of this. The inner condyle of the joint is worn down or eroded over one-eighth of an inch, and, by its friction, cut in through the cartilage of the oppos- ing part so as to conform to the an- gle shown in the bones as represent- ed. There is also a large accumu- lation of bony deposit on the outside, grown by the inflammation excited, showing the extremely bad effect of forcing an unequal bearing on the joint, and throwing the foot out of line. FIG. 551. The shoe as sometimes Sometimes colts driven to a sulky, formed to prevent interfering. badly ; in such a case the ankle must be protected. In all cases when the ankle is cut, the swelling and soreness increase the dif- ficulty, and should be guarded against by covering. If the irri- tation is kept up, and this is not done, it may result in perma- nent enlargement of the part, which ivould afterward increase the liability to be hit. This can be prevented only by coverings, or by being protected by the ordinary simple means, until the in- flammation subsides and the injury heals. I include here Prof. McLellan's directions : "Treatment for interfering, to be rational, must take into account the causations. Thus, if the toes turn out a very common cause of interfering they should be inclined in all that is possible. This can be accomplished by bending the outside web of the shoe from its inner to its outer border, making the edge through which the nails are driven, quite thin. Or if calks are used, the toe calk can be welded nearer the inside than the outside toe, and the toe calk beveled at the expense of its outer extremity. If the kneo is banged, but light shoes are indicated. Lightness in the shoo is al- ways desirable in the hind feet, and if the season of the year per- mits, tips will he found very effective in prevention of interfering. SHOE1JNG. 707 The nails should be left out of the hoof at the point where it strikes, because the clinches are liable to become raised or loosened, and do injury." CLICKING, OR OVERREACHING.* "This is a term applied to the striking of the hind shoes against the forward ones during progression. It may be due either to a faulty conformation, to weakness, or to disease. In seeking to remedy the defect, we must endeavor to discover its cause. If it is due to defective form, we may so adjust the hoofs and apply the shoes that the feet shall be placed upon the ground in such rela- tion to the body as to modify in some measure the fault of form. In some cases the toes of the forward feet must be reduced all that is possible, and the toes of the hind feet length- ened. In others, weights or heavy shoes upon the forward feet answer a good purpose. In some, weights upon the outside of the hind feet over- come the difficulty. " If the hind feet are placed upon the ground well forward when the animal is at rest, heel calks of extra length will be found useful. Weakness, as a cause of clicking, is shown in colts and in horses that have diseased hind feet. In the first, the animal is not able, or has not FIG. 552.-Effect of injurv caused learned, to dwell upon the hind foot to give to the body that forward im- pulse that comes from the long push; in the second, pain prevents the ex- tension. In the case of the colt, shoe- ing must be supplemented by good driving, the animal should be kept up to the bit, and the head well checked up, and should not be fatigued by over-driving. In the case where the clicking depends upon a diseased condition of the foot or leg, the removal of the cause is the indication. As general rules for the prevention of clicking, the toe of the forward hoof should be reduced all that it will bear ; the shoe should be short, both at the toe and heel ; the heels of the shoe should be beveled at the expense of its ground surface ; when the toe should be beveled, giving the shoe, when applied, the appearance of one partly worn. In many cases con- caving the ground surface of the shoe is useful. If the toes are by interfering. From a speci- men presented by Prof. Cressy, of Hartford. * Contributed by Prof, McLellan. 708 SHOEING. long and the heels extremely low, thick-heeled shoes or heel calks are indicated. " The hind shoes should be light and long at the heels, giving the heels of the shoe as wide a bearing as possible. In case the toe of the hind foot is much worn, and as a consequence the hoof spread at its plantar surface, clips should be drawn up from each side of the shoe, so as to grasp the wall at its widest part. No attempt should be made to fit the shoe to the squared and shortened toe ; but give it the natural form, and let it project at the toe to that extent that would indicate the length of the hoof were it un- worn. Heel calks upon the hind shoes are applicable to nearly all cases. "In all cases of overreaching or clicking, adjusting the hoof and shoe so that the inside quarter and toe of the hoof are higher than the outside, will assist in overcoming the difficulty." STUMBLING. "Stumbling is usually associated with some diseased condition of the foot. In the prevention of this disagreeable and dangerous habit, particular attention must be given to cutting the hoof. Ileducc the hoof all it will bear without injury ; see that the hoof is of equal depth on each side of the toe. This you can ascertain best by standing in front of the horse and comparing the two sides. In fitting the shoe, bend up the toe, giving it the rounded appearance of one well worn. If calks must be used, weld toe calk back to inner margin of web, making it low. In the stable use wet swabs to the feet." SHOEING SOKE OR TENDER FEET. It is very important in shoeing sore or tender feet to enable the horse to travel with the greatest comfort and ease. As will be found in "Navicular or Chronic Lameness," much depends upon the method of shoeing in producing favorable conditions, which should be studied in connection with this explanation. Should a horse show increased tenderness or soreness while driving down hill or over rough, stony roads, at times " crimpling" badly, going better on smooth, soft, or sandy roads, and with the shoe worn perceptibly more at the toe than at the heels, first see whether there is any contraction at the inner or both quarters, with the hoof looking rather hard and glossy (usually one foot only will show this condition, and may be correspondingly tender or lame). Also see whether the lameness came on suddenly or gradually. If SHOEING. 709 suddenly lamed, it is probably caused by straining the coffin-joint, which would be indicated by its being unable to bear pressure upon the frog. In such a case the horse go decidedly worse on rough, stony roads or down hill, where there is liability to severe inci- dental pressure being brought against the frog. For such a condition of lameness, the shoe should be made with high heels and rounding toe no toe calks. The calks should be gradually shortened as there is improvement. If the lameness came on gradually, and especially if it set in at a time when the feet were very dry and hard, it was probably caused by some slight inflammation, the result of contraction and fever ; because when the feet are very dry and feverish, the hoof becomes smaller, causing increased pres- sure upon the soft parts and lat- eral cartilages. There may be also some inflammation or a mor- bid condition of the coffin-joint. If any contraction is noticeable, the feet should be softened and treated as explained under that head. If, however, the object is to FIG. 553. Form of shoe that may bu used. FIG. 554. Form of shoe for covering a weak, thin sole. shoe the horse for present use, simply raise the heels a lit- tle and round the toe. If there is but little soreness or want of mobility, then let the shoe be an ordinary flat one, with the toe turned up like that of an old shoe considerably worn. Great care should be used in taking off and 710 SHOEING. nailing shoes on such feet, not to wrench or hammer the foot heavily. In winter, if calks must be used, let them be arranged something like Fig. 553; or a low, long calk can be put on well back under the toe. In taking off the shoes, the clinches should be carefully raised, and the nails, one at a time pulled out. In nailing on, the strokes should be light, and the clenching barely sufficient, by repeating light tap- pings, to turn over nicely. Any- thing in the way of hard, tight nail- ing should be avoided. The shoe should be simply held nicely in place without being pulled tight. There are a great many pads and cushions advertised for tender feet. If rubber pads be put over the shoe, it is seen, in the first place, that nailing on the shoe and turning down the clinches suffi-; ciently tight, presses it down so closely as to take out all its elasticity ; in addition, the heels soon wear and cut through it to the shoe, so that they can have but little, if any, effect in relieving concussion. Leather well fitted between the shoe and foot will, in many cases, help considerably. I have found that making the heel-calks rather low and sharp, and the toe-calks well back about the middle of the bar, greatly helps in breaking concussion on mud roads ; as by their setting into the ground the force of the blow is much lessened. FIG. 555. Adapted for a hind foot in aiding mobility. FIG. 556. Form of shoe with toe simpl}' rounded. A great many shoes have been devised for the purpose of relieving concussion ; but practically they have proved of but little or no value. The most successful way has been to fit two thin plates with rubber between them, but it proved too expensive and complicated to come into general use. (Prof. Going's Patent SHOEING. 711 Rubber Shoe.) A common method practiced by many shoers is to spring or bend the shoe off from the heels, with the belief that it must relieve them. (See Fig. 558.) This is objectionable, because it transfers the bearing from the natural position of the heels to parts least capable of receiv- ing it, multiplied with such leverage upon the wall where the shoe is bent off, as to cause severe pain. It also soon breaks down the quarters so as to work upon the shoe, thereby becoming an additional source of weakness and injury. SHOEING FOUNDERED HORSES. a stiff joint. If the mobility of the foot is destroyed, as the result of chronic founder, or other cause of morbid inflammation, mobility must be aided by rounding the entire shoe or toe. If the foot is entirely stiff, the shoe must be so formed that it will roll upon the ground, which can be easily done by leaving the inner edge of each side wide, and turning down hi a half circle, as shown hi Fig. 557. If the sole is broken down, or the wall separated at the toe, the result of acute inflammation or founder, weight will be thrown more upon the heels. For such cases the shoe must be so fitted as to extend well back under the heels, and if the sole is very thin at the toe bulging down it may be sup- ported by letting a thin flange of iron extend well back under it, or fitting a steel plate across the part so as to give an even FIG. 558. Shoe raised from the heel. FIG. 559. French shoe for aiding mobility. support all the way round, and the adjustment made easy by packing with oakum, though in most cases the sole will not bear pressure, and is simply to be protected by a wide shoe. The shoe- ing of such feet must be in a great measure experimental ; con- sequently the ingenuity of the owner or smith must be exercised 712 SHOEING. to conform with best advantage to the condition of the case. First, do nothing that will irritate or make the foot sore. It sim- ply must be supported to the best advantage, and the mobility aided by rounding the toe, or setting the calks well back under it, as shown by Figs. 531 and 55 EXTRACTS FROM STANDARD AUTHORS. This chapter would be incomplete without reference to a few authorities, showing the bad effect of paring the sole and frog excessively, rasping the outer surface of the hoof and the use of thick, badly-fitting shoes. I will call attention first to. the most prominent authority, Prof. Coleman, from whose teachings all the modern works in this country have been principally guided in their instructions. In January, 1792, a Veterinary College was started in London. A short time afterward Edward Colo- man was appointed Chief Professor. I cannot do better here than copy from Prof. Gamgee's work on " Shoeing," published in Lon- don in 1874, in relation to Coleman's teaching. He says : " In England, since Prof. Coleman ruthlessly destroyed the em- pirical knowledge of the old masters, and substituted for it a system of fantastic and often cruel notions, we have been a prey to endless speculative theories. The result is that with the best horses in the world, we have a far larger proportion of lame ones than are to be found in any other country. . . . " It was a kind of teaching on the foot and on shoeing that did the incalculable and, I fear, almost irreparable damage which has brought suffering on horses and shortened their existence, which has spoiled farriers by leading them astray on false pretexts, and has entailed discredit on the English Veterinary School. . . . " One change, among others introduced by Mr. Coleman, has entailed, 1 believe, a more lasting damage 011 the art farriery than any of his many other crochets, which have unfortunately become thoroughly parts of English horse shoeing. He introduced the drawing-knife, and made it supercede the buttress for preparing the feet for shoeing. The buttress is the instrument still in use for paring down the wall surface to receive the shoe every where except in England and parts of the New World, to which English hands and language have carried our modes of shoeing, such as it has become only within the present century. " Old men can remember the buttress being in general use throughout Great Britain ; but the way it was banished from En- glish practice is known to few ; and its supercedence, and these remarks on the effects of the change, may astonish many. The SHOEING. 713 drawing-knife, or searcher as it was called, a small hooked, crooked little instrument, was formerly kept for the purpose of exploring wounds and extracting foreign bodies from the foot, and was to that extent in vogue on the Continent as well as in England. But theorizing:, and a fancy for a change, led the professor to order the general use of the little hooked knife instead of such a broad, level tool as the buttress. He had unfortunately conceived such notions as that the sole of the foot did not bear the weight of the animal, that it was necessary to pare it thin every time the horse was shod, and that the broad, level buttress was not suited for that ; hence the preference for the little scooping, crooked searcher. As these incidents have had a dis- astrous effect on shoeing, which we have scarcely in any degree begun to relieve, I will quote from Mr. Coleman's work of 1798 : " ' Those who supposed that the weight of the animal was chiefly supported by the horny sole, have attributed a function to that organ which it does not possess ; but, although the lam- inae are capable of sustaining the weight of the animal, yet, as they are elastic, arid at every step elongate, the* horny sole is necessarily pressed down in the same degree, and by first descend- ing, and then ascending, as the laminae dilate and contract, the horny sole contributes very materially to prevent concussion. This union of the crust with the coffin-bone sustains the weight of the animal ; the crust supports the weight even when the horny sole and frog are removed ; if the sole and frog in reality supported the weight, then the foot would slip through the crust when the frog and sole were taken away. u ' The sole, frog, and bars were taken away from both the fore feet of a horse ; the feet were then alternately lifted by placing the hands on the loins of the horse ; he kicked, all his weight was then sustained by the laminae of the fore feet, and yet this made not the smallest degree of change in the situations of the bones. " ' From this experiment, therefore, it is, that the union of the sensitive laminae with the horny laminae is sufficiently strong to support the whole weight of the animal on two feet. " c The first thing to be attended to is to take away the portion of the sole with the drawing-knife ; and to avoid pressure, the sole should be made concave or hollow. If there be any one part of the practice of shoeing more important than the rest, it is this re- FIG. 560. Shoe for weak sole, or foundered feet. 714 SHOEING. moval of the sole between the bars and the crust. In common practice these parts of the hoof are removed by an instrument called the buttress. " < The removal of a proper quantity of horny sole has been represented to be a delicate operation, and in the hands of common smiths, liable to do mischief. But any smith capable of paring a hoof cannot fail to be equal to removing part of the sole with the draw- ing-knife. That the practice may be faithfully executed in the army, a farrier from each regiment of cavalry has been permitted to attend the college to learn the practical part of shoeing.' "The foregoing pas- sages, abounding as they do in errors, give evidence of the manner in which some of the greatest changes in the practice of horse- shoeing have occur- red since its history has been written, and changes which have led to the worst possible results. Once, however, the notion got possession of the minds of the men at the wheel, that the bottom of the foot, its arched sole, was not designed to support the weight, but to yield to pressure downward ; every- thing had to give way to that idea. The sole and frog were torn away, and because, during the barbarous experiment, the connection did not yield, and the bone protrude as a finger through a torn glove, negative evidence was taken in confirmation of the theory framed ; the paring away of horses' soles with the drawing-knife was thus established, and the army, by sending farriers to learn the new system, became the means of enforcing the absurd and cruel practice of thinning the sole throughout this kingdom and the colonies." " It is interesting to see the differently constituted mind of Mr. Moorcroft on the natural bearing of the question in 1800. He says : " ' The sole ties the lower edge of the crust together, and by its upper part forming a strong arch, it affords a firm basis to the bone of the foot, and by its strength it defends the sensitive parts within the hoof.' " This is true. "We fail to discover a single passage in any work or any traditional account to show that any objection was raised to the continuance of the use of the buttress in England, any more than over the rest of the world, where it had been adopted from time immemorial, until along with his other new theories about FIG. 561. Side view of the previous shoe. SHOEING. 715 shoeing, Mr. Coleman believed it to be the wrong thing to employ, and then a crooked knife and a coarse rasp were adopted as weapons that might do more destructive execution than the one dismissed." The writer has talked with several veterinary surgeons of high standing, who think that Coleman did not mean, by the experi- ment named, to infer that the sole should be cut away to such a degree as to yield to the pressure of the thumb (which is the com- mon rule), but that he wished to prove that ifc could be done without breaking down the foot ; and that his followers carried it to this extreme, thereby making it the cause of a great deal of harm. A few paragraphs are also introduced from Youatt and Miles, the most commonly accepted and widely read authors in this country, to show that their principles of treatment are the same, and have been derived from the same source. " That portion of the horn should be left on the foot which will defend the internal parts from being bruised and yet suffer the ex- ternal sole to descend. How is this to be ascertained? The strong pressure of the thumb of the smith will be the best guide. The buttress, that most destructive of all weapons, being, except on very particu- lar occasions, banished from every respectable forge, the smith sets to work with his drawing-knife and removes the growth of horn until the sole will yield, although in the slightest possible degree, to the strong pressure of the thumb." Youatt. " It would be impossible to frame any rule applicable to the par- ing out of all horses' feet, or indeed to the feet of the same horse at all times. For instance, it is manifestly unwise to pare the sole as thin in a hot, dry season when the roads are broken up and strewed with loose stones, as in a moderately wet one, when they are well bound and even ; for in the former case, the sole is in perpetual danger of being bruised by violent contact with loose stones, and consequently needs a thick layer of horn for its protection ; while the latter case offers the most favorable surface that most of our horses ever have to travel upon, and should be taken advantage of for a thorough paring out of the sole, in order that the internal parts of the foot may derive the full benefit arising from an elastic and descending sole, a state of things very essential to the due performance of their separate functions. Again, a horse with upright feet and high heels grows horn very abundantly, especially toward the toe, and is always benefited by having the shoe shortened, and the heels lowered and well pared out." Miles. George Fleming, who stands confessedly at the head of the 716 SHOEING. English Veterinary Profession in England, in his work on Shoes and Horse-shoeing, says: " By dint of knife and rasp, the dimensions of the organ, the foundation of the edifice, have been greatly reduced, and the animal rests on a narrower basis. The sole has been carefully denuded of its protecting horn, until the thin pellicle of newly secreted material is exposed and readily yields to the thumb. The frog is scientifically reduced on every side, the heels or commissures are well opened up, the bars are reduced in size, and fantastically delineated, and the portion of the crust between them and the seat of the corn as carefully carved out a la Miles. The plantar surface of the foot altogether is much more concave than it was previously, and it looks like a master-piece of workmanship. It may present something like the shape, when prepared for the shoe, seen in Fig. 562. " A shoe is then fitted to the foot. In all probability it is then too small ; it has FIG. 5^lFoo7^Tessively J wi ^ e ' flat , ground surface the foot sur- tace has a plane border on which the crust rests, and the remainder is beveled to avoid contact with the abnormally thin sole. When this metallic- plate is fastened on the hoof, and the horse once more rests on the limb, the foot has no longer its natural bearing. The whole weight of the horse, as well as any other weight he may have to sustain on his back, is borne by the crust of the foot alone. The frog is elevated above the ground, and the sole dare not come near it. In fact, the shoe has a very wide surface or web to protect the sole of the poor mutilated foot from the injury likely to be inflicted by stones on -the road, injury that before shoeing could have been resisted far better by nature's protection. " The shoe, as we have seen, was too small ; or rather the farrier imagined the plantar surface which supported the weight and strain so admirably in a natural condition, to be too large ; so when the metal plate has been securely attached, a large portion of the hoof hangs over it the best and strongest portion ; and this has to be removed with the rasp or toe-knife. The nails have been driven to a certain height in the wall, and as their extremities must be riveted or clinched, these clinches must not be disturbed. The over-hanging crust between them and the shoe, however, is rasped away, and the face of the foot presents a rounded or knobbed ap- pearance, very unlike its natural outline. In all probability the whole external surface up to the coronet is tastefully rasped and polished, the varnish-like covering nature had spread over it is carefully removed, and the fibres beneath are more or less damaged, exposed to desiccation, and shrink; while below the clinches they SHOEING. 717 have been entirely destroyed, and nothing is left to support the nails holding on the shoe but the thin, soft fibres, as fragile almost as the pith of a rush, and which were never intended by nature to be exposed. Consequently they lose their moisture, wither, crack, and break off, and frequently the shoe is lost, and with it a large portion of the hoof. 4 ' ; The same process goes on with the sole and frog. The young horn, prematurely exposed, cannot resist the effects of evaporation, and shrinks in the same way. At each shoeing the same routine is followed by the farrier, and the horn is often so hard that arti- ficial means must be adopted to soften it in order to get off a sufficient quantity to allow the sole to spring under the thumb. " In this we cannot altogether blame the farrier ; he is only carrying out the ideas of men who have published books on shoeing. Can we wonder that it soon becomes necessary to adopt every means to supply, artificially, that which has been removed indiscreetly ? Heavy iron shoes with plenty of cover to defend the morbidly sensitive horn of the soles which p IG . 553. Bad effect of may have been thinned till the blood was excessive paring, oozing through, before these cumbrous shields were applied. Words cannot describe the agony a horse must experience when he chances to step on a sharp or even blunt stone. And yet the writers who have counseled this mutilation of the foot, have laid this tenderness the limping gait, and falls with broken knees to the nails of the shoe preventing expansion. Plates of leather covering the delicate frog and sole, and layers of tar and tow are brought into requisition to compensate though such is not confessed for the loss of the horn, but with very small results. In a brief time the whole foot becomes dwarfed ; the frog deprived of its natural functions, like the muscles of a paralyzed arm, becomes atrophied, diseased, and almost disappears, the sole becomes still more concave and hard, and the foot toward the heels narrower, as in Fig. 563. At the same time the unfortunate creature begins to move as if it were in pain ; the flexor tendon on its course over the navicular bone has lost its support, and has, from the first shoeing, been acting at a very serious dis- advantage. The mutilation of the hoof by removing the best portion of the horn at the very time it was most required, has inflicted a serious injury upon it, and the bone over which it has to play during its arduous task of flexing the foot and limb ; while the heavy iron shoe and the increase of concussion it engenders on artificial roads, all tend to hasten the ruin of the animal ; and, sooner or late, depending on the circumstances, we have either acute or chrtmic navfcular disease, acute or chronic lajiadnitis, or a 718 SHOEING. host of other maladies of a more or less serious character. 1 am of course always speaking of the anterior extremities. " This evil of paring or rasping must be looked upon as the greatest and most destructive of all that pertain to shoeing, or even to our management of the horse. Nine-tenths of the workmen who resort to this practice cannot explain its object, and those who have written in defense of it say it is to allow the descent of the sole and facilitate the lateral expansion of the hoof. "Fancy our gardeners cutting and rasping the bark off our fruit trees, to assist them in their natural functions, and improve their appearance; and yet the bark is of no more vital importance to the tree than the horn of the sole wall and frog are to the horse's foot. fi The sole, frog, and bars m.ust on no account, nor tinder any condi- tions, unless those of a pathological nature, be interfered with in any way by knife or rasp. As certainly as they are interfered with, and their substance reduced, so surely will the hoof be injured. Nature has made every provision for the defense. They will support the contact of hard, soft, rugged, or even sharp bodies, if allowed to es- cape the drawing knife; while hot, cold, wet, or even dry weather has little or no influence on the interior of the foot, or on the ten- der horn, if man does not step in to beautify the feet by robbing them of their protection, perhaps merely to please the fancy of an igno- rant groom or coachman. "If we closely examine the upper surface of the sole of a hoof that has been separated from its contents by maceration, we will find it perforated everywhere, by myriads of minute apertures, which look as if they had been formed by the point of a fine needle. If we look also at the vascular parts of the foot that have been in contact with this horny surface, it will be observed that they have been closely studded with exceedingly fine, yet somewhat long filaments, as thickly set as a pile of the richest Genoa velvet. These are the villi, or papillae, which enter the horny cavity and fitting into them like so many fingers into a glove, constitute the secretory apparatus of the frog as well as the sole. Each of the fila- ments forms a horn tube or fibre, and passes to a certain depth in a protecting canal whose corneous wall it builds. When injected with some colored preparation, one of them makes a beautiful micro- scopical object, appearing as a long, tapering net-work of blood- vessels, surrounding one or two parent trunks, and communicating with each other in a most wonderful manner. These filaments are also organs of tact, each containing a sensitive nerve, destined to endow the foot with the attributes of a tactile organ. " This distribution will enable us to realize, to some extent, the amount of injury done by paring. The horn thrown out for their defense and support being removed by the farrier's knife, and per- haps the ends of these villi cut through, the meager pelicle remain- ing rapidly shrivels up, the containing cavity of each vascular tuft as quickly contracts on the vessels and nerves, which, in their turn, diminish in volume, disappear, or become morbidly sensitive, through this squeezing influence. The feet of a horse so treated are always SHOEING. 719 hot, the soles are dry and stony, and become unnaturally concave. The animal goes tender after each shoeing, and it is not until the horn has been regenerated to a certain extent, that he steps with anything like ease. Until the new material has been formed, each papillae experiences the same amount of inconvenience and suffer- ing that a human foot does in a new, tight boot. "This tenderness is usually ascribed to the nails and other causes; and the horse, in the stable, rests on one foot, then on another, as if he- suffered uneasiness or pain.* * * " All the preparation any kind of foot usually requires for the shoe may be summed up in a few words; leveling the crust in con- formity with the limb and foot, and removing as much of its mar- gin as will restore it to its natural length, rounding its outer edge at the same time, and leaving the sole, bars, frog, and heels in all their natural integrity." Osmer, an old writer of good standing, in 1751, says: " I believe there are many horses that might travel their whole lifetime unshod on any road, if they were rasped round and short on the toe; because all feet exposed to hard objects become thereby more obdurate, if the sole be never pared; and some, by their par- ticular form, depth, and strength, are able to resist them quite, and to support the weight without breaking; and here a very little re- flection will teach us whence the custom arose of shoeing horses in one part of the world and riot in another. In Asia there is no such custom of shoeing the horse at all, because the feet require a very obdurate and firm texture from the dryness of the climate and the soil, and do really want no defense. But every rider has a rasp to shorten his horse's feet, which would otherwise grow long and rude, and the crust would most certainly split." He continues by saying, " From the good that was found to arise from putting shoes on horses which have naturally weak feet from being brought up on wet land, the custom of putting shoes on all kinds of feet became general in some countries. Our ancestors, the original shoers, pro- posed nothing more, I dare say, in their first efforts, than to pre- serve the crust from breaking way, and thought themselves happy that they had skill enough so to do. The moderns also are wisely content with this in the racing way. " In process of time the fertility of invention and the vanity of mankind have produced a variety of methods; almost all of which arc productive of lameness; and I am thoroughly convinced from observation and experience, that 19 lame horses out of every 20 are lame of the artist, which is owing to the form of the shoe. His ig- norance of the design of nature, and maltreatment of the foot, every part of which is made for some purpose or other, though he does not know it. "I suppose it will be universally assented to that whatever 720 SHOEING. method of shoeing approaches nearest to the law of nature, such is likely to be the most perfect method.* * * "The superfices of the foot around the outside, now made plane and smooth, the shoe is to be made quite flat, of an equal thickness all around the outside, and open and most narrow backward at the extremities of the heels, for the generality of horses, those whose frogs are diseased, either from natural or incidental causes require the shoe to be wider backwards; and to prevent this flat shoe from pressing on the sole of the horse, the outer part thereof is to be made thickest, and the inside gradually thinner. In such a shoe the frog is permitted to touch the ground, the necessity of which has already been seen. Add to this, the horse stands more firmly upon the ground, having the same points of support as in a natural state." " Make the shoes as light as you can according to the size of your horse, because heavy shoes spoil the back sinews arid weary the horse; and if he happen to overreach, the shoes, being heavy, are all the more readily pulled off. " Those who think it frugality to shoe with thick and heavy shoes, and seldom, are deceived, for they lose more by it than they gain; for thereby they not only spoil the back sinews, but lose more by it than if they had been light." It is conceded by all the best modern authorities that the French author above referred to, whose work was published in 1750, was the great father of a correct system of reform in in shoeing. It was supposed in his day as it is in a great meas- ure now, that a horse could not travel without having heavy, un- wieldy shoes on, and that the greatest skill was exhibited in the amount of cutting and rasping done on tho feet. He boldly proclaimed that all this was injurious, and tried to prove it by the most convincing arguments. The principles of treatment, though given a hundred and thirty years ago, are just as important now as they were then. He says: " In the state of nature, all the inferior parts of the foot concur to sustain the weight of the body; then we observe that the heels and frogs, the parts said to be most exposed, are never damaged by wear, that the wall or crust is alone worn on going on hard ground, and that it is only this part which must be protected, leav- ing the other parts free and unfettered in their natural move- ments." In advising tips or thin-heeled shoes, he says: << Thin tips extending back to the middle of the quarters, al- lowing the heels to bear upon the ground, and the weight to be sus- tained behind and before, but particularly in the latter, because the weight of the btody falls heaviest there. SHOEING. 721 FlG - 564. Thin shoe devised and used b ? Lafosse. " The shorter the shoe is, the less the horse slips, and the frog has the same influence in preventing this that an old hat placed un- der our own shoes would have in protecting us from slipping on the ice.* * * " It is necessary, nevertheless, that hoofs which have weak walls should be a little longer shod, so that the gradually thinning branches reach to the heels, though not resting upon them. For horses which have convex soles, these long shoes should also be used, and the toes should be more covered to prevent the sole touching the ground. This is the only true method of preserving the foot and restoring it. A horse which has its feet weak and sensitive, ought to be shod as short as possible, ancf with thin branches, so that the frog comes in contact with the ground; because the heels, having nothing between them, are benefited and relieved." See Fig. 564. " Crescent shoes are all the more needful for a horse which has weak, incurvated quarters, as they not only relieve them, but also restore them to their natural condition. Horses which have contusion at the heels (blains, corns), should also be shod in this way; and for cracks (seins, sand-cracks) at the quarter, it is also advantageous. "The sole or frog should never be pared; the wall alone should be cut down, if it is too long. When a horse cuts himself with the opposite foot, the inner branch of the shoe oughf to be shorter and thinner than the outer. "Rasping the foot destroys the strength of the hoof, and consequently causes its horn to become dry, and the horny laminae beneath to grow weak; from this often arises an internal inflamma- tion, which renders the foot painful, and makes the horse go lame.* * * " When a horse loses a shoe, a circumstance often occurring, and if the hoof is pared, the animal cannot walk a hundred steps without going lame ; because in this state the lower surface of the foot being hollowed, the horse's weight falls upon the crust, and this, having no support from the horny sole, is quickly broken and worn away ; and if he meets hard substances on the road, he all the more speedily becomes lame. It is not so 'when the sole is allowed to retain its whole strength. The shoe comes off, but the sole and frog rest on the ground, assist the crust in bearing the whole weight of the body, and the animal, though unshod, is able to pursue his journey safe and sound. . . . It is necessary to be convinced of another fact ; that is, it is rare that a horse 46 722 SHOEING. goes at his ease and is not promptly fatigued, if the frog does not touch the ground. As it is the only point of support, if you raise it from the ground by paring it, there arises an inordinate extension of the tendon, caused by the pushing of the coronary against the navicular bone, as has been mentioned above, and which, being repeated at every step the animal takes, fatigues it arid induces in- flammation. From thence often arises distentions of the sheaths of tendons (moletts-vulgo, 'windgulls") en- gorgements, and swelling of tendons, etc., that are observed after long or rapid journeys. These accidents arise less from the length of the journey, as has been currently believed, than from the false practice of paring the sole. . . . We always find ourselves more active and nimble when we wear easy shoes ; but a wide, long, and thick shoe will do for horses what clogs do for us. render them heavy, clumsy, and unsteady. . . . " That feet become convex by hollow- ing the shoes to relieve the heel and frog, because the more the shoes are arched from the sole, the more the wall of the hoof is squeezed arid rolled inward, par- ticularly toward the inner quarter, which is the weakest, the sole of the foot becomes convex and the horse is nearly always unfit for service. . . . " The reason why it is dangerous to pare the feet of horses is, that whjen the sole is pared, and the horse stands in a dry place, the horn becomes desiccated by the air which enters it, and removes its moisture and its suppleness, and often causes the animal to be lame. ... . " It is the pared foot that is more affected with what is termed contracted or weak inside quarter, and which also lames the horse. " It also happens that one or both quarters contract, and some- times even the whole hoof, when, in consequence of its smallness, all the internal parts are confined in their movements ; this is due to paring, and lames the horse, " There also occurs another accident : "When the quarter becomes contracted, the hoof splits in its lateral aspects, and the horse is lame. This accident is termed a sand-crack (seime)." Lafosse. Though not generally known, this system of shoeing has long been in use in India. Freeman, in his work published in 1796, who is yet considered good authority, strongly advocated this system of shoeing. He gives the following statement which ex- plains itself : FIG. 565. Shoe devised by La- fosse for use on dry and slip- pery roads. A thin slip of iron let into the wall, and fastened with ten small nails. SHOEING. 723 " The instance in which I was disappointed is that of a horse kept entirely for that of a riding-horse, and which is consequently almost daily under my own inspection. This horse has very strong feet, one of which was smaller than the other, with the toe turning out and the frog almost wasted. The bars of this foot, before he was turned out, were scarcely visible, but upon examining them after he had been out about three months, they were found to have increased surprisingly. Notwithstanding this, they were not strong enough to counteract the pressure of the quarters ; and the foot itself appeared to be rather decreased, which is contrary to what is usual ; for after having been turned out for a certain time, they generally become larger. So particular a case led me to turn my mind to a particular method of cure. This I should have hardly found out. if chance had not at that time put into my hands Lieu- FIG. 566. The Goodenough FIG. 567. The ordinary shoe thin-heeled shoe. as usually fitted. tenant Moor's Narrative of Captain Little's detachment. On page 93 of this book is the following passage : " ' The bigotry with which all sects of the Hindoos adhere to their own customs is very well known; still when these customs are strikingly injudicious, and totally abstracted from all religious prejudices, perseverence degenerates into obstinacy, and sim- plicity into ignorance. So it is with the Mahrattas in abiding by their present practice of cutting the hoof and shoeing horses; they cut away the hinder part of the hoof in such a manner that the pastern almost touches the ground, and the frog is suffered to grow so that the hoof is nearly a circle, in which form the shoes are made, the hinder parts almost touching, and so thin that a person of ordinary strength can easily twist them. Instead of making the back part of the shoe thickest, they hammer it quite thin, making the fore part thickest, and the shoe, gradually becoming thinner, ends in an edge.' " This mode of shoeing in a country where, from the nature of the climate, the horse's feet probably are very strong, did not strike me to be quite so injudicious as the author above mentioned repre- 724. SHOEING. sents it. I determined, therefore, to try on this particular horse a shoe in some respects similar to those described, that I might see whether it would alter the shape of his foot ; since it is said to make * the frog grow so that the hoof is nearly a circle, ' which was the very effect that in this case I wished to produce. I therefore ordered my smith to make a shoe at my own forge in the form I generally use (which will be hereafter described), with the following exceptions : The web of it was to almost cover the sole, room being given to admit a picker ; and as it proceeded to the heels, the web on each side was to be continued as far as the cleft which separates the bars from the frog. He was to make the l fore part the thickest,' and to hammer it so thin at the heels that it would < end in an edge,' by which a person of ordinary strength could easily twist it." " I own I apprehended that this shoe, from being so thin at the heels, would bend in different places, and thereby injure the foot. But as it was constantly under my own eye, 1 knew that if that circumstance should happen, the injury could not be material, in the short time it would FIG. 568.-Lafosse's method of let- be permitted to go unnoticed. But ting the iron into the hoof. thlS ^ ld " ot P 1 " * be the *\ Af ~ ter the horse had worn this shoe a day or two only, 1 found the action of the leg was more free than it had ever been before ; for the bars with their covering touched the ground ; the extremities of the web on each side, by being so very thin, having bent a little over them, but they were prevented from injuring them by being extended to the cleft which separates the bars from the frog. This pressure of the web on the bars was an assistance to them in the expansion of the quarters ; and the shoe was kept so wide at the heels that the exterior parts of it could not hurt him. This shoe therefore acted exactly contrary to other shoes, which, as I before mentioned, are generally an impediment to the expansion of the heels, whereas this became an assistance to it. " In three weeks I took off this shoe to examine the state of the foot. His frog was found to be increased, and in a better condition than I had before seen it. The same shoe was therefore replaced for three weeks more, at the end of which time his foot had become considerably larger and straighter. In a week or ten days more the horse was to go thirty-six miles on a turnpike road. "Although this kind of shoe had succeeded so well in a riding- horse, 1 had some doubts about venturing it on the road. However, 1 at last determined to risk it, and had another shoe put on exactly the same pattern, in which he performed his journey without any injury, so that I have ever since continued to adopt it, having found it to answer beyond any expectation I had formed of it; for that foot which was before smaller than the other, with the toe turning out, has, by the use of this shoe, become of the same size, SHOEING. 725 showing the wall cut away. and so straight that there is now scarcely any difference between the two feet." Freeman. The preplantar system, introduced by M. Chaiiier, of Paris, which is simply letting a narrow band of steel into the wall to prevent wear, thereby preserving the integrity of the bars, sole, and frog, and giving the foot its natural adj ustment, is a modification of a shoe introduced by Lafosse for preserving the feet of saddle horses. See Figs. 565, 568. As there is no probability of this sys- tem (preplantar) being introduced into this country, I will not more than copy a part of the report of a leading Veter- Fl " 569 - M ' charliCT ' 8 6h< *' inary Surgeon in France, Signol, mainly to show the benefit of keeping the integrity and adjust- ment of the foot natural in shoeing, or as nearly so as can be : " First, in consequence of the comparatively trifling weight of their shoes, the horses acquired a lightness of movement they did not exhibit previously. Second, they gained an extraordinary solidity on the pavement, and did not slip. Third, many horses which always had corns and sand-cracks, and could not be used without bar-shoes, spon- taneously recovered from their in- firmities after the application of this shoe. Fourth, those frogs which were before shrunken and i etrangle^ became considerably developed, a fact which proves that this shoe is perfectly adapted to the physio- logical movements of the foot." By accident this cut was left out of its proper place, on page 231, under head of "Bad to Shoe," where the explanation of it will be found. FIG. 571. Four-ring bit form of War Bridle. FIG. 570. Side view of the above, showing the amount cut out. 726 SHOEING. We give here a few specimens of shoes from Csesar Fiaschi's work, published in England in the 16th century. The figures of shoes he gives are twenty in number. No. 1. Fore-shoe without calkin ; 2. Shoe with the calkin ; d 'I Aragonaise on one side, FIGS. 572-592. and the other side thickened ; 3. Lunette shoe, or "tip": 4. Three-quarter shoe; 5. Beveled shoe, with the Aragonaise calkin on one branch, and the other thick at the heel ; 6. Shoe with sciettes, or projecting toothed border, thickened toward each heel to prevent slipping ; 7. Thick-sided shoe, thin toward the inner border, and seated like the English shoe ; 8. Shoe with buttons, SHOEING. 727 or raised catches on the inner branch, and thickened on the heel of the same side; 9. A shoe which has the inside heel and quarter much thicker and nar- rower than usual ; 10. A shoe with crests or point toward the ground surface on the toe and quarter, and barbettes at the heels ; 1 1. A shoe with the calk- ins doubled over, and provided with rings; 12. The foot sur- face of a shoe with the heels turning up toward the foot; 13. Shoe with two calkins; 14. A bar shoe; 15. A jointed shoe to suit any size of foot; 16. A jointed shoe without nails, and secured by the lat- eral border and the heel-screw; 17. A hind-shoe with calkins; 18. A shoe with one of the branches greatly thickened at the heel ; FIG. 594. Tartar Chinese shoe. FIG. 593. Thin shoe for cure of con- traction, fitted with clips turned up, as explained on pages 680 and 681. FIG. 595. Old English concave shoe. FIG. 596. French shoe of the 13th century. 19. A hind shoe with a crest or toe-piece; 20. A hind shoe with the toe elongated and curled upward, probably for a foot the back tendons of which were contracted, causing the horse to walk on the point of the toe. 728 SHOEING. FIG. 597. A shoe devised to prevent throwing much weight upon the limb when lame. FIG. 598. Covered shoe, with the branches very wide and thin, and deeply ad justed. Applied to very flat, foun- dered, or badly-formed feet. FIG. 599. Ordinary hind shoe for rid- ing or carriage-horses. Face and side view. FIG. 600. Shoe with truncated toe ; used on hind feet of horses that over- reach. FIG. 601. Lafosse's Half-moon shoe, and tip of steel. F ;G. 60S. Scotch shoe for draught horses. SHOEING. 729 Below, from Fig. 604-614, are given a variety of old Roman shoes found in England, France, and Switzerland, and supposed to be from nineteen hundred to over two thousand years old. Figs. 604 and 606 are the best preserved. FIG. 604. FIG. GOfi. FIG. 605. Fie. 608. FIG. 609, 730 SHOEING. FIG. 610. FIG. 611.- Supposed to be a pathological shoe. FIG. 612. FIG. 613. FIG. 614. FIG. 615. Shoe found in Germany, supposed to be several hundred years old. SHOEING. 731 Arabian shoes. FIG. 619 FIG. 620. African shoes, FIG. 621, CHAPTER XXII. THE CIRCULATION. THE phenomenon of the circulation ia of so interesting and remarkable a character, and its condition has such an influence upon the health, that I think it advisable, as an introduc- tion to the Medical Department, to make some reference to it. There are so many diseases and difficulties of a serious character which are the result of derangements of circulation, that it cer- tainly seems necessary to give some explanation of it, that the reader may be impressed the better with the necessity for such prudence and care as would prevent its disturbance. The writer thinks it also advisable, instead of giving a labored description, which may be easily obtained from any physiology, and which but few would take the trouble to read, to do this mainly by the aid of illustrations, a variety of which have been included at con- siderable expense. GENERAL PLAN OF THE CIRCULATION. The blood is circulated through the body for the purpose of nutrition and secretion, by means of one forcing pump, and through the lungs, for its proper aeration, by another ; the two being united to form the heart. This organ is therefore a com- pound machine, though the two pumps are joined together, so as to appear to the casual observer to be one single organ. (For general outlines see Fig. 625.) In common language, the heart of the mammalia is said to have two sides, each of which is a forcing pump ; but the blood before it passes from one side to the other, has to circulate through one or the other set of vessels found in the general organs of the body, and in the lungs, as the case may be. This is shown at Figs. 622 and 623, where the blood, commenc- ing with the capillaries on the general surface at a (Fig. 623), passes (732) THE CIKCULATIOX. 733 TIG. 022. Theoretical plan of the circulatory system. H, D, C, E. The canal for red blood; E, B, A, G. Canal for black blood. The arrows indicate the course of the blood. The two canals arc represented in then* middle por- tion, A B, C D, as isolated; but in nature they are envel- oped at this point in a common sac that concurs to form the heart. through the veins which finally end in the vena cava b, and enters the right auricle c. From this it is pumped into the right ventricle d, which, contracting in its turn, forces it on into the pulmonary artery e, spreading out upon the lining membrane of the lungs, to form the capillaries of that organ at /, from which it is returned to the left auricle g through the pul- monary veins. From the left auricle it is driven on through the left ventricle; and this, by its powerful contraction, forces the blood through the aorta i, and the arteries of the whole body to the capillaries a, from which the description commenced. While the venus blood is on its way to the heart, when near it, it is met by the thoracic duct (see k, y, Fig. 626, and k, Fig. 627), which conveys into this returning blood the nutritive property of the food extracted from it by the digestive organs. With this new FIG. 623. Plan of the circulation. A. Capillaries on the gen- eral surf ace; B. Vena cava; C. Right auricle ; D. Right ventricle ; E. Pulmonary artery; F. Capillaries of the lungs, uniting to form the pulmonary veins, which en- ter G. The left auricle; II. The left ventricle; I. The aorta posteria, dividing into smaller arteries, and united with the capillaries at A; J. Trunk of the aorta anterior. 734 THE CIRCULATION. supply of nutritious matter, the blood goes to the heart and lungs to be oxygenized by contact with the air, and thus be continued through the heart and arteries as before explained. The system takes up its material for its wear and tear through the capillaries or hair-like tubes, which are interposed between the two great Fia. 624. Distribution of the anterior aorta. 1. Anterior aorta; 2. Left axillary artery; 3. Right axillary artery; 4. Dorsal artery; 5. Subcostal artory; 12. External thoracic artery ; 14. Carotid artery; 17. Posterior aorta; A. Pulmonary aorta; B. Trachea; E. Superior branch of the ilio- spinal muscle; F. Inferior branch of the same; G. Great complexus muscle; I, I. Originating aponeurosis of the splenius and the small anterior serratus muscles; N. Sterno-maxillaris muscle; 0, P. Great pectoi al and sterno-prescapularis muscles turned downward. divisions of the vascular system, arteries and veins. These little tubes are so small that they are from y^ to ^Vfr of an inch in diameter. The smaller are found in the retina of the eye and brain. The larger in the liver and lungs. The worn-out tissue THE C1BCULATION. 735 ~ 2- Cb c OD :T ~ L blood in the body makes its entire circuit in the short period of from two to three minutes. I refer to this fact, which is not familiar to the average reader, to show the great importance of not subjecting the horse to such 47 THE CIECULATION. 739 influences as will derange the circulatory system. The remark- able energy of the circulation through the blood-vessels is very finely illustrate'd by spreading and ty- ing apart the toes of a frog's foot, and examining the web through a good microscope. The field of observation will appear like an immense plain cut up with large riv- ers intersected by numerous small streams, all run- ning with the ra- pidity of a torrent, the larger currents running much the faster. The blood corpuscles are also clearly distinguishable. Something of an idea of this can be seen by referring to Figs. 631 and 632, which represent such a view of the circulation through the web. When the circulation is in its natural state, that is, distributed properly to all parts of the body, it implies a state of perfect health, but if, from any cause, it is withheld or forced from any part of the body, there is not enough blood in that part, while there will be an excess in other parts. Thus, if the horse is exposed to a cold wind, or is chilled by a current of air striking the body, the blood will be forced from its surface to the inter- nal organs, accumulating where there is most free- dom for it, or where it is weakest; usually in the . lun ^ and surr ounding P arte > kidneys, bowels, Magnified 350 di- and sometimes in the feet, the first indication of ameters. which would be a shivering fit, followed by fever. FIG. 629. Web of frog's foot stretching between two toes, showing the blood-vessels and their anastomoses. a, a, Veins; 6, 6, 6, arteries, the capillaries being between. FIG. 630. Epithe- lial cells of blood-vessels. a, &. From a vein; c. From an artery ; 740 THE CIRCULATION. Now it is evident that the object should be, when there is such disturbance, to equalize the circulation again, or force it back to its natural chan- nels as quickly as possible, and that treatment by which this can be done most easily and quickly will be the best. The circulation is really controlled by the nervous FIG. 631. Portion of the web of a frog's foot, largely magni- System. If the fled, after a drop of strong alcohol had been placed upon nervOUS system it. The black spots are caused by the congestion j s from any induced by the alcohol. ^^ weakm . ed, so that it is unable to act with the usual vigor, there is less ability to resist the influence of disturbing changes, and the horse J FIG. 632. Irregular contraction of small vessels in the web of a frog's foot after the application of stimuli. is, as it is termed, more liable to take cold, which means a disturb- ance of the circulation. Hence a horse, when warm and exhausted after a drive, if given a little too much cold water would be liable to have colic, THE CIRCULATION. 741 742 THE CIBCULATION. founder, etc. ; or if allowed to stand in a cold current of air, to have an attack of pneumonia, or some other indication of vascular disturbance before referred to, which would be scarcely felt if cool, and the nervous system in a vigorous condition. It is evident also that the quality of blood being depend- ent upon the food taken, and the con- dition of the air breathed, it is neces- sary that the food should be clean and of good quality. No moldy grain, hay, or other food unfitted for proper nutrition, should be given, and the sta- ble should be well ventilated with pure air at all times, and FIG. 634. 1. Superficial layer of skin or cuticle Rete mucosum; 3. Corium; 4. Duct of sweat gland; 5. Sweat gland; 7. Sebaceous gland; 8. Walls of hair sac ; 9. Root of hair; 10. Fat cells; D. Cellular tissue. all poisonous gases, particularly the ammonia which is formed from the urine, should be allowed free egress from the stable, as the animal cannot be expected to keep in good health while com- pelled to inhale such malaria. It is needless to explain the bad effects upon the depurative organs of the derangement of circulation by which these channels are to a greater or less degree " clogged," or unable to do their proper work. f V.- Now, it is within the province of every owner to prevent these troubles by the exercise of care in feeding, exercise, etc., which is much better and easier than to try to cure them when sick. It is far easier to prevent a house from getting burned up by not letting the fire get started, than to depend upon the power of putting it out, for with the best of energy it may cause a destruction of the building. So in the cure of diseases, it is a great deal better and safer to take such measures as will prevent them, for derange- ments once started will often, in spite of the best of treatment, THE CIKCULATIOK 743 greatly injure, if not destroy the animal. It is certainly the owner's duty to guard his horse against unnecessary exposure, or merciless driving until in a profuse per- spiration, and then leaving the animal in . ^ some cold, bleak place without even a blanket, or but a very poor apology for one, and that thrown on carelessly, while the owner is perhaps enjoying himself with his friends in some drinking saloon, toasting his shins, and the poor horse stands shivering at the door. The effect of such bad treatment will not then have time to develop itself, but will be seen in a few hours, or at farthest on the follow- ing day, by a cold or cough, running at the nose, an attack of pneumonia, lam- initis, or other cause of trouble. The three principal points in preserving the health of a horse are feeding, air, and exercise. In the first place, irregularity of feeding, even of the best of food, will produce disease ; but when with this is combined the giving of tainted or musty hay or grain, the difficulty is greatly ag- gravated. Ventilation. The stable should be nei- ther too hot nor too cold. The horse will show the effect in a few days by coughing or having slight irritation of the mucous membrane of the throat. A horse can take cold as easily by go- FIG. 635. Sweat gland, mag- ing out of the cold air into a hot stable, as nified 40 diameters, he can by going from a hot stable into 6,6. Canal; c. Gland; d. cold air, and vice versa. It is the sudden Opening on surface; caused by in- ca uses, symptoms, and treatment will be better un- ^ ury * derstood by taking the most common example of splint, spavin, and ringbone. SPLINT, OR SPLENT. Splint is a hard, bony tumor occurring on the inside of the shank or cannon-bone of the fore leg, usually well up near the knee, which is well represented by Fig. 642. It is situated partly on the splint-bone (from which it takes its name), and partly on the cannon. Young horses are most subject to splints. The periosteum in them being more vascular than in old animals, it is more liable to inflammation, which is very readily induced in the unsolidified bones of the young horse when exposed to con- cussion or external violence. It occurs in the inside, because the center of gravity falls through that part; when there is splint or enlargement on the outside, it is usually caused by an injury. Sometimes the opposite foot striking the part will cause so much inflammation as to produce considerable soreness and lameness, followed by thickening and enlargement of the part. Symptoms. At the start there may be no enlargement, nor anything to indicate the seat of trouble. The horse appears all right on a walk or on soft ground ; but if moving rapidly on a hard road, and especially down hill, considerable lameness will be DISEASES OF THE BONES. 755 shown. Running the fingers along the edge of the bone from the knee down, and pressing with the ends of the fingers, inflamma- tion or enlargement will soon be discovered, both by heat and tenderness, and in time by enlarge- ment. Treatment. If the in- flammation is up near the joint, it will usually be more serious, and cause more lameness; but as a general thing, splints re- quire but very little treat- ment, and in time will get well themselves if let alone. During the acute stage, treat simply with cooling applications. Cold water turned for some time from a pump or by other means Fl - 643.-S P Unt, and F,G. 643. -A * . small wind-gall. splint after of lettmg a steady stream cure strike the part, which should be continued for at least fifteen minutes, and repeated two or three times a day, would be best. If this is not done, then tie several thicknesses of cloth around the part, and keep wet; but this will not be so good as the first method. The following is a favorite remedy for any local inflammation: 2 drachms muriate of ammonia. 2 ounces vinegar. 2 ounces water. 4 ounces spirits of wine. Mix. The simplest and quickest way of relieving the lameness, and that which is now practiced very generally by veterinary surgeons, is to cut through the periosteum over the part. This is done by catching up the skin between the thumb and finger at the lower edge of the splint, and with a knife or other instrument make an incision in it; then pass up under it a probe-pointed bistoury, or 756 DISEASES AND THEIK TREATMENT. a common nicking-knife, to the top, and cut down to the bone. The part may now be treated as for simple inflammation ; after- ward, simply by cooling applications. The usual treatment is, after the acute stage has passed oft', to clip the hair and blister once or twice. Or, a more effectual way would be by firing, the best way of doing which is by the pyro-puncture process; but this is seldom necessary. I give several excellent remedies for splints and ordinary en- largements, either of which may be used ; also a number under the head of Special Remedies, given near the close of this book, all of which are very good. The following is also used with much success: 1 ounce oil of origanum. 1 ounce oil of turpentine. 3Jr ounce of alcohol. To be applied night and morning, for a few days at a time. SPAVIN. There is so much misconception among people generally about the nature of spavin and its cure, that I will include such illustra- tions as will show clearly the character and location of the disease. I first give various views of the hock, with an explanation of the different parts. Also views of specimens of a bad condition of spavin; first, a union of all the bones of the hock without any enlargement; next, the same condition with a large, bony deposit, the result of long-continued inflammation of the parts. This enlargement is what is called a spavin. Many pretend to be able to cure spavin by a medicine that will take off the bunch, claiming that it is simply a form of detached growth, and by removing this a complete cure will be effected. The fallacy of this pretension would be better understood could the specimens from which the illustrations are taken be examined. The remedies generally used are nitrate of silver, corrosive sub- limate, arsenic, muriatic, sulphuric, and nitric acids, or their com- binations with other medicines of less severe character. These medicines applied to the surface deaden or destroy the skin and sub-tissues of the part, which, in the course of a week or two, sloughs off, leaving a bad sore. The operator exhibits this sloughed DISEASES OF THE BONES. 757 off part, or a piece of cartilage prepared for the purpose, which he claims is the spavin. Or the medicine may be so prepared as to act as a severe blister. In any case, the unsuspecting owner is usually induced to pay a liberal sum, either as pay for FIG. 644. Back inside view of the bones of the hock. FIG. 645. Front outside view of the bones of the hock. a. Tibia; 6. Oscalcis; c. Astragalus; d. Cuboides; e. Navicular; /. Outer cuneiform; g. Middle cuneiform; h. Splint; >. Cannon, or shank. the medicine, or to meet expenses, etc. This game is being played constantly all over the country. There are innumerable patent cures for spavins, and concom- mitant difficulties, which are usually nothing more than ordinary blisters which act merely as counter irritants. In fact all the great secrets for curing spavins, etc., are but mere pretensions of the charlatan, and should deceive no one. During my early ex- perience I frequently paid large prices for these pretended cure- alls, which did little more than convince me of the extent of imposition practiced in this way, until I had no confidence in any 758 DISEASES AND THEIE TBEATMENT. one professing to doctor horses. Becoming finally acquainted with a well-known veterinary surgeon, Dr. Wm. Somerville, of Buffalo, New York,* I employed him to give me a private course of lectures, in- structing me in the principles and treatment of the most common caus- es of sickness and lameness in horses, and I spent nearly a year in obtain- ing this knowledge. At the commencement of these lectures there were three interesting cases of spavin for treatment, two of them from distant cities. He ex- plained, among other things, that he charged one hundred dollars each for treating these cases, guarantee- ing a cure without blemishing; and that were the treatment for these cases understood by the local veter- inary surgeons, whose .charges were comparatively nominal, they would not have been sent to him at such large expense for treatment and shipping. The better to explain the nature of spavins, I quote from the best description I can find of this disease and its causes: " There are two distinct kinds of bone spavin : The first is in all re- spects similar to splint, and arises from inflammation of the periosteum. It frequently comes on insidiously without causing much annoyance. The other form, arising from inflam- mation of the internal structures of FIG. 646.-Bones of leg and foot. the hock-joint, is frequently attended by caries or ulceration, and from the first produces intense pain and lameness, when the bones rub on one another. * I give his exact method of treatment in the first method of firing. DISEASES OF THE BONES. 759 " The hock-joint corresponds to the heel in man, and has no fewer than ten bones entering into its formation, an acquaintance with the arrangement of which is necessary be- fore the complexities of hock diseases can be un- derstood. The bones of the leg, (seo Fig. 647,) the shank-bone g, and the two small splint bones behind h, support the lower layer of the bones of the hock. The cube-bone d rests prin- cipally on the shank - bone, and in a slight de- gree on the outer splint- bone. The middle wedgebone f rests en- tirely upon the shank- bone, and the smaller wedge-bone (not seen in the cut) presses in a very slight degree on the shank-bone, but princi- pally or almost entirely on the inner splint- bone. Then the splint- bone sustains a very un- equal degree of concus- sion and weight. Not only is the inner one placed more under the body, and nearer the Center of gravity, but it has almost the whole of the weight and concus- sion communicated to the smaller cuneiform bone carried on to it. It is not, therefore, to be wondered at that, in the violent action of this joint in galloping, leaping, heavy draught, and especially in young horses, and before the limbs have become properly knit, the inner splint-bone, or its ligaments, or the sub- stance which connects it with the shank-bone, should suffer injury." Different views of the bones of the hock can be seen more clearly by referring to Figs. 644, 645, in the first part of this chapter. Also Figs. 648-651 show the various changes of struct- FIG. 647, Bones of the hock enlarged. 760 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. ures produced. Figs. 648, 649 were copied from two interesting specimens loaned the writer by Prof. Cressy, of Hartford, Ct. The causes of spavin are numerous altered bearing, predisposition from conformation or mal-conformation of the limb, but proceed- ing mainly from hard work, sprains, or any cause which excites in- flanimation of this part. But the most common cause lies in the breeding of horses, as very often a colt is bred from a spavined sire or dam, or both, FIG. 648. Union of all FIG. 649. The same, when the colt is sure to the bones of the hock with excessive bony without enlargement. enlargement. Symptoms. The fi r s t symptom usually shown in spavin is a stiff moving on the toe, which causes a pe- culiar quick catching up of the leg, especially in trot- ting. This varies according to the amount of inflamma- tion and its location, from being scarcely noticeable at first, and passing off entirely after going a little ways, to severe lameness or stiffness of the hock, which greatly improves or disappears when warmed up during a sharp inherit the same defect. FIG. 650. FIG. 651. Showing a bad condition of spavin. DISEASES OF THE BOJSTES. 761 FIG. 652. Healthy hock dissected. FIG. 653. Diseased hock dissected. drive of a few miles, but appearing much worse after such a drive when the blood is again cooled. The hock is observed to be less freely used than the other. He is worse on the hard road. He limps consider- ably when he strikes his toe on a stone or the ground. If the leg be taken up and the j oint forcibly extend- ed or flexed, he will limp quite badly. Spav- ined horses gen- erally lose con- dition, and from the pain caused by rising they frequently stand for a long time. If it is the result of a strain, causing acute inflammation, the lameness will not pass off by ex- ercise so readily as it will after it becomes chronic. An enlargement usually makes its appearance from the fifth to the sixth week. Any prominence can be seen by standing in front of the horse about three or four feet from FIG. 654. Action FIG. 655. Action of the shoulder, and looking back when natural. badly sprained leg. acrogs ^ hoc ^ Qr by gtand _ ing behind the horse, and looking forward across the hock. The effort the horse makes to relieve the heels by walking upon the toe, indicates the necessity of removing the shoe, raising the heel-calks, hammering down or cutting off the toe-calks, and rounding the toe. Care must be taken not to mistake a natural f ullness, known 762 DISEASES AND THEIK TKEATMENT. as " rough hocks " ; and it is always advisable to compare the one hock with the other. We frequently have inflammation or spavin uniting the small bones without the least outward, enlargement. Fig. 648. Quite often, before any enlargement appears, the trouble may be mistaken for hip lameness. But in this difficulty there is a peculiar dragging motion, and for want of muscular action the hip is some- times fallen in or wasted; while in spavin the leg is lifted and brought forward easily, traveling mostly on the toe, and shows marked improvement by exercise. Treatment. If there is heat during the first few days, use cooling applica- FIG. 656. Showing situa- tion of bone-spavin ; a shallow groove being left in the os- sific deposit for the passage of the oblique tendon of the flex- or metatarsi, immediately un- der which the spavin is situa- ted. Williams 1 Surgery. FIG. 657. A healthy hock. FIG. 658. A Jack spavin. tions, such as an ounce of sugar of lead to half a pail of ice- water, about two weeks, when the inflammation may pass off. A dose of physic may also be given. Or a very simple way, and accord- ing to my judgment the best, is to throw a strong stream of cold water against the part for twelve or fifteen minutes, repeating two or three times a day as before explained. If past the first stage, and the case has become chronic, the only reasonable treat- ment is counter irritation and rest, or keeping up sufficient local inflammation, without dissolving or blistering the skin, to arouse DISEASES OF THE BONES. 763 nature sufficiently to produce anchylosis, or a union of the bones involved. There are two methods of treatment for this: First, if not very FIG. 659. Small spavin. FIG. 660. Ordinary spavin. serious, by blistering. Second, by what is termed "firing." This is done in two ways: First, by burning lines over the skin with a feather-edged iron sufficiently close and deep to produce an extensive external inflammation, but without breaking or destroying the skin. Second, by burn- ing small holes into and around the dis- eased parts. On the f ollowing page are given a few of the best practical reme- dies. Blistering is adapted for only simple cases, so that when serious, firing is the most reliable and effectual treatment. In case of either blistering or firing, the hair should first be clipped from two to three inches above and below the en- largement, and out to the middle of the FlG ' 661 - Ver y lar e e s P avin - hind and fore part of the leg. A favorite blister used by one of the best practitioners in the country is pr^nared and applied as follows : 764 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 3 drains of biniodide of mercury. 1 dram of iodide of potass. 1 drams of iodine in crystals, pulv. 1 ounce of blue ointment (mercurial). 1 ounce of lard. Mix, and apply to the seat of the spavin three days. When the parts become sore, omit the treatment for the same length of time ; then apply once in three days for two weeks, after which stop all treatment. Or either of the following blisters may be used, which are among the very best : 1 ounce finely powdered cantharides. 2 drams powdered euphorbium. 1 ounce lard. 2 ounces tar. Mix. This is a very strong blister, and is regarded as very good. Another favorite prescription is :- 2 drams corrosive sublimate. 1 ounce lard. ^ ounce tar. 2 drams cantharides. The following will also be found efficient: Equal parts of biniodide of mercury and cantharides, and three parts each of tar and lard. The blister should be thoroughly rubbed on with the hand about ten minutes. Twenty-four hours afterward apply a little vaseline or oil, and repeat night and morning until the action subsides. This will prevent the skin from cracking as well as lessen the pain. After which, wash with castile soap and warm water. In no case should more than one leg be blistered at a time, especially if the horse is thin skinned and sensitive, as it produces serious disturbance and fever. A variety of prescriptions for blisters will be found under the head of the best remedies used, if it is desired to use blisters ; also the most famous secret quack cures will be found under that head ; but it is not advisable to use them. DISEASES OF THE BONES. 765 FIRING. For firing, put the horse in stocks. If this is not convenient, the next best way is to bring a rope around the neck and fasten to the well leg ; or still better, buckle a soft strap around the fetlock, and from a ring attached to the strap, pass a rope around the neck of the horseanddraw LlG ' 663 Feather-edge firing-iron. Three-fourths size. snort enough to raise the foot from the ground. Next put on a twitch, with the stick part at least twenty inches long ; it should be so arranged as not to hurt the horse until the instant of touching with the iron, when the head should be thrown up a little with a slight jerking motion, to divert his attention from the pain of the firing. I give two illustrations of the firing part of the iron, reduced in size about one-third. The larger the iron, the longer it will retain the heat. The blade should be of steel (of the form given in the illustration), a little more than a quarter of an inch thick at the back, and grad- ually thinned down to the edge, which should be about one-sixteenth of an inch in thickness, and nicely rounded. The"handle may be nothing more than a straight round bar of iron, from sixteen to seventeen inches long and turned back at the end. It is necessary to have at least two irons, so that while one is being used, the other can be heating. It should be heated to a dull red color, and when taken from the fire the edge quickly run over a board or plank to make it smooth. When the edge is turned dark, draw perpendicular lines on the leg, as shown in Fig. 664, from top to bottom. They should be about two inches 766 DISEASES AND THE1E TEEATMENT. apart at the top, and not drawn deeply. Lay the edge where desired to start from, and draw steadily and gently to the bootom. Then commence at the top and make cross lines, obliquely, about half an inch apart. Start the point of the iron from the line at the right or left, and draw toward the center, as shown in Fig. 664. The skin should not be penetrated or cut through, as it would leave a blemish. The cuticle is simply to be destroyed, and a dark brown impression left upon the skin, from which there will exude a glutinous substance soon after the operation. If the iron is red or too hot, there will be great danger of burning through ; though FIG. 664. View of lines as they should be made with feather- firing-iron. FIG. 665. Bad method of firing. The lines cover too small a surface. if the operator is dextrous he can use it quite safely by drawing it proportionately light and quick, but the work cannot be so well done as with an iron that is of a dull red color, or quite dark at the edge. With such an iron, if the first line is not drawn quite deep enough it can be repeated until the right depth upon the cuticle is obtained, which will be indicated by its color. If the lines are drawn much nearer than half an inch, there will be danger of sloughing, while if too far apart there will be propor- tionately less inflammation produced. They should be of a cer- tain depth and distance apart, and crossed as little as possible to avoid breaking the skin. If this is done neatly, when the healing process takes place, the creases formed by the iron will be drawn DISEASES OF THE BONES. 767 together, the hair grown over, leaving no visible trace of the firing. After the operation the horse should be put away in a box-stall. On the following day a little grease, vaseline, or oil should be rubbed over the part, which will keep it soft and pre- vent cracking. This may be repeated at any time afterward, should it appear too dry. Should any of the cracks break and threaten to make a sore, dust on a little of the magic healing powder, which will stop it immediately unless very severe. No bandaging or any such means should be resorted to. Simply see that the horse does not bite or rub the parts. This method of firing is the one that has been most generally used. It is very painful to the horse, and re- quires considerable practice to do it well, al- though there is no particular sleight or secret in doing it beyond making the lines over rather a large surface, and as near each other as can safely be done without causing so much inflammation as to extend across the division and blemish by breaking or destroy- ing the skin between. The next point is depth of the firing. This can be learned reli- ably only by practice. The deeper the firing, the more extensive the inflammation pro- FIG, 666. Dots showing duced, though in no case should it be carried usual number and lo- deep enough to break the skin, as this will cation of punctures surely cause a blemish, while in very slight firing there will be proportionately less inflammation, and to that degree less effective. THE PYRO-PUNCTURING PROCESS. The method of firing now found to be most effective for this difficulty, and that used most generally by the best practitioners, is the pyro-puncturing process. It is much easier done, more simple, not so liable to blemish, and far more effective. I give two forms of iron; one "representing about three-sixteenths of an inch, the other about an eighth of an inch or less in diameter. The rule is, the larger the iron the farther apart must the holes be made, and the smaller the iron the closer together. The principle is to make the punctures as near as can be done safely without producing so 768 DISEASES AJSTD THEIK TREATMENT. much inflammation as to cause the skin to break or slough between them. The average distance apart is from three-fourths to one inch for the larger iron, and half an inch for the smaller iron, ob- serving not to go near the vein. If the horse is valuable it is best to use the smaller iron, as there FIG. 667. Small Pyro- FIG. 668. Large Pyro- FIG. 669. Small Pyro- puncturing iron. puncturing iron. puncturing iron. The wire represented too small. is less danger of blemishing . The part of the iron used should be sufficiently long to enable puncturing as deep as desirable. I give illustrations of two such irons; one representing the round part drawn out with considerable bulb behind to give sufficient body to retain heat; the other a bulb of iron with a hole punched, into which is fitted a piece of steel or iron wire of suitable size. These DISEASES OF THE BONES. 769 fine pointed irons for pyro-puncturing should be used only when at a white heat, and never when cooled to a red heat. The reason for this is that there is much less pain felt when the iron is at a white heat, as the sensibility is almost immediately destroyed. It is desirable to have three or four irons heating at once, so as to be sure of having one continually at white heat. The method of using it is to barely touch the skin at first to mark the points to be punctured, which should be extended out some little distance beyond the line of enlargement or immediate seat of trouble (as shown in Fig. 666). Then repeat, burning much deeper each time until the holes are made to a depth of about three-eighths of an inch, more or less, according to the severity of the case. Where there is much enlargement, penetrate to the bone proper over that part. When the firing is complete, rub on thoroughly a strong blister. The f ollowing simple Spanish fly blister is good : 1 ounce Spanish flies. ^ ounce liquid tar. 2 ounces lard. Mix, and rub on thoroughly from five to ten minutes, putting on a pretty thick application, and leaving on about forty-eight hours, when wash off with warm water and soap. When dry, rub on some grease or lard; and let the animal rest three weeks. The principle is to keep the horse quiet long enough to give time for exudate to be thrown out and unite the parts in- volved, and this requires from three to five or eight weeks, and in some obstinate cases possibly even longer, depending upon age; the younger, the more easily and quickly this will be done, while the older the horse, and the less constitution, the slower and more difficult it will be to do. In any event, it must be continued or repeated, until the lameness disappears, after which work mod- erately for a while. If, after a couple of months or so, there is any perceptible lameness or soreness, an ordinary biniodide of mercury blister may be applied once or twice, as the case requires, or the firing may be repeated, as before stated. The point is to keep up sufficient counter irritation to make the cure complete. It will also aid in removing any enlargement that may remain. 49 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. RING-BONE. The treatment for ring-bone, splints, curbs, and spavins is practically the same. If there is inflammation, the result of recent FIG. 670. Joint anchylosed in ring- bone, without enlargement. The roughened appearance of the FIG. 671. Ring-bone. The joint anchy- bone the result of inflamma- losed and enlarged, tion of the periosteum. strain, use cooling applications, and give the horse rest until it passes off, when counter irritation by blister- ing or firing must be resorted to. A ring-bone is a bony excrescence, or en- largement, about the pastern, most frequently occurring in the hind leg. Sometimes it does not cause much lameness, while again the lameness may be very severe, and perhaps in- curable. This will depend much upon the lo- cation of the enlargement upon the joint. Should it be upon the center of the bone, it may not occasion any trouble ; but if upon the margin of the joint, it is liable to cause much lameness. Fig. 671, taken from a pho- tograph, is a front view of an enlarged an- FIG. 672. Longitudinal , , , . . . , --,. eection of joint after chylofied joint, or ring-bone ; Fig. 672 is a anchylosis. view of another specimen cut through the DISEASES OF THE BONES. 771 center, showing the joint grown solid. I include an illustration of quite a bad ring-bone, and the same clipped, lined, and also dotted to show how the firing should be done by the pyro-puncturing process. At first there may be a somewhat tender and yielding enlarge- ment, which, in the course of time, becomes a hard bony formation. FIG. 673. Ring-bone as it usually appears. FIG. 674. As a ring-bone should be fired by the first method. Second, the horse may make an effort to relieve the pressure from the heels or toe, according to the location of the inflammation. Should he raise the heels, then raise the heel-calks and round the toe. If on the other hand he seems to throw pressure upon the heels, then lower the heel and round the toe. In the fore feet, at any rate, it will be necessary to round the toe sharply, which will greatly relieve the strain upon the joint by enabling the foot to roll easily, or turn upon the toe. The best method of doing this is by the Roburg shoe, illustrations of which are given in " Shoeing," and " Navicular- Joint Lameness/' Clip the parts, as shown in Fig. 675, then blister or fire, as explained for spavin There should be no blistering or firing around the heel under the FIG. 675. Method of firing by the Pyro-puncturing process. 772 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. fetlock, as this would cause breaking, or an irritation of the skin, which would be very annoying and difficult to heal. SIDE-BONE OK FALSE RING-BONE. Side-bone, properly speaking, is not exostosis, but ossification of an already existing structure, it being ossification of the lateral cartilages of the ospedis, or bone of the foot. It is most common in the fore feet, especially where the pas- terns are short and straight. Symptoms. The lateral cartilages, which in health are soft and flexible, become en- larged, project above the hoof, and are hard and bony. While the inflammatory process is going on, there is heat and pain in the part, and consequently lameness, which in most cases ceases when the ossification is completed; but there is always a degree of stiffness observable, and the lameness is apt to return if the horse is much used on the road. Causes. Short, upright pasterns predis- pose to them ; they are most common in heavy FIG. 676.-A well-defined draught horses, used for teaming on the road. Sometimes it arises from a tread from another horse, which causes inflammation of those structures, which is followed by ossification of the cartilage. Treatment The same principles must be observed in all these cases. Rest is most essential ; continued cold applications, by mak- ing him stand up to the fetlocks in soft clay, with cold water fre- quently applied, would be the proper treatment until the acute stage has passed, after which repeated blistering, or, if thought necessary, firing would be advisable. CURB. This is a swelling upon the back part of the hock about five or six inches from the point (an illustration of which is given in Figs. 676, 678). If there is heat and tenderness, with more or less lameness, use cooling applications. The quickest way to reduce inflammation of this kind is to direct a stream of cold water against DISEASES OF THE BONES. 773 the part for ten or fifteen minutes, and repeat at intervals. It would relieve considerably to raise the heels of the shoe, and when the inflammation subsides, blister repeatedly. If this does not suc- ceed, fire the part. Curbs are not usually difficult to manage. I include a remedy which is very effective in removing chronic enlargements of this kind. It was first brought to my notice by being used upon one of my baggage-horses during one of my campaigns in Ohio. I purchased this horse cheap on account of his having a large curb, FIG. 677. An ordinary curb. FIG. 678. A very bad curb. which, though it did not cause lameness, blemished the leg badly. I noticed my manager, Dr. Williams, occasionally rubbing on some medicine. It seemed to me like a waste of time to attempt doing anything for it, and so expressed myself. He said, " Wait, and I will show you the effect." He simply applied the remedy two or three times a week, and in two or three months, to my surprise, the enlargement had almost entirely disappeared. Since then several cases of morbid joint enlargement have been cured by applying this remedy occasionally for two or three months, one especially bad, caused by an injury down near the hoof. The fol- lowing is the remedy: 1 ounce each of oil origanum, oil of spike, oil of amber, spirits of tur- pentine, and camphor. Mix thoroughly, and nib on the enlargement two or three times a \veek. 774 DISEASES AND THEIR TKEATMENT. The following is the treatment used by one of the most suc- cessful veterinary surgeons in this country: First, put on a high-heeled shoe, then take boiling water, and with a sponge have the curb well bathed for about ten minutes. Then apply the following liniment: 1 ounce aqua amonia, 2 ounces tincture of iodine, 3 ounces glycerine. Apply to the part two or three times a day, until quite sore. Then stop for a few days, when repeat the medicine as before, and so continue until again sore. BOG SPAVINS AND THOROUGH-PINS. This disease may be called wind-galls of the hock, caused usually by strain and overwork, but principally by lunging back upon the hind legs. When the swelling is inside and front of the hock, it is called a bog or blood spavin. This is caused by a distension or rupturing of the membranes which cover the synovial cavity of the joint. The swelling is soft, and yields to the press- ure of the finger. Thorough-pin is of the same character an enlargement on the back, inside of the upper part of the joint, where in its natural condition is a hollow. This swelling extends across under the tendon, forming a tumor between the calcis and thigh bone. It is simply a rupture of the synovial membrane allowing the synovia to escape. By press- ing upon one side, the swelling is pushed through to the other side; and sometimes there is connection with swelling in front. These enlargements rarely cause lameness, though sometimes they may cause inflam- mation of the parts involved. There is no satisfactory treatment for these difficulties. Blister- ing sharply is the treatment usually pursued. If this fails, firing is the last resort. There is no difficulty in bringing down an en- largement of an ordinary bog spavin by blistering, but as soon as the horse is put to work or strained in the least, it is liable to come FIG. 679, Bog or blood spavin. DISEASES OF THE BONES. 775 back again. There is a remedy I have found to work with great success in the removal of these synovial enlargements during their acute stage. In making a campaign through Wisconsin, in 1867, one of my trained horses acted so rebellious oneday that I was compelled to force him back sharply with a whip, throwing him upon his haunches. Soon after the drive, when cool, he acted quite sore and stiff, showing quite an enlargement of the hock. I supposed the horse was spoiled. During the day a half drunken fellow, in looking at the horses, said that he could " remove that enlargement, and cure it." Considering the case incurable, I paid no attention to him at the time. The man feeling annoyed at the indiffer- ence with which he was treated, said, " I suppose you think I don't know anything about horses, but if you will take some soft soap and salt, rub on the part thor- oughly at night and wash off in the morn- ing for two or three times, I'll warrant you that will be cured." It occurred to me that it would do no harm to try the experiment, so I directed the man who had charge of my horses to apply the soft soap as directed. He did so, and next morning the swelling was greatly reduced ; and after repeat- ing two or three times, it entirely disappeared. In consequence of hard driving and strains, the parts became puffed to a greater or less degree several times afterward, but always yielded to a few applications of soft soap well rubbed in. While this remedy will work well on acute cases, its effect is not satisfactory upon old, confirmed cases ; for if the enlargement is brought down, sharp driving or straining of the parts will usu- ally bring back the trouble. I consider trusses and all that sort of thing of no special account in this difficulty. I have been told repeatedly of parties who punctured these enlargements to allow the secretions to run out, that in each case so much inflammation was excited in the joint as to cause the loss of the horse. Blood spavin is supposed to be caused by a distension of the FIG. 080. Thorough-pin. 776 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. large vein which passes through the integuments involved in spavin. I do not know any distinction between them worthy of mention, especially as there is no treatment given other than that named. CAPPED HOCK. This is an injury or bruise at the point of the hock, and is usually caused by striking the parts against some hard object. If the inflammation is acute, use cooling applications. When the inflam- mation has subsided, use any ordinary stimulant or blister recommended for the purpose. WIND-GALLS. FIG. 681. Capped hock. Wind-gall is the name given to those soft, puffy swellings found at the back part of the fetlock-joint, from a supposition that they con tabled air. They consist of enlargement of the little sacs, or bags, which are always found to contain a mucous fluid wherever tendons pass over joints, as at the back of the fetlock. This form may be called simple wind-gall. In other cases, the distension is caused by an increased secretion and bulging of the capsular ligament of the joint itself. This form may be distinguished as compli- cated wind-gall. Few horses that have done any work are free from them, and unless dependent on some more serious lesion than simple distension of these bursce mucosce, they are of no conse- quence. Causes. Hard work is the well-known cause of wind-gall. In rapid motion, or heavy draught, the friction of the tendons is greatly increased; consequently an increased secretion of synovia is required, and takes place in all synovial sacs during exercise ; but if the action be not so violent as to strain the parts, it is speed- ily re-absorbed. On the other hand, if the exertion be inordinate, FIG. 682. An ordinary capped hock. NAVICULAK-JOINT LAMENESS. these little burscv mucosce become injured, inflammation is set up, and they become permanently enlarged. Again, the exertion may be so violent as to cause sprain of the tendon, which extends to the capsule, or the joint itself may suffer, and cause distension of the capsular ligament constituting compli- cated wind-gall, which is more serious. Symptoms. Simple wind-galls are little puffy swellings, seen at the sides of the tendons as they pass over the fetlock-joint, most common on the hind leg. They are soft even when the weight is thrown on them. It is very important to be able to distinguish between simple and complicated, or between the harm- FIG. 683. A natural, FIG. 684. Showing healthy joint. two enlargements. FIG. 685. Clearly marked con- dition of wind-gall. less and what is not harmless. If situated between the tendon and the suspensory ligament, it depends on distension of the bursse through which the tendon passes ; if it feels hard when the other leg is held up, and is accompanied with slight lameness, the tendon is implicated. When placed in front of the suspensory ligament, between it and the bone, it is accompanied with increase of synovia in the joint itself. Wind-galls generally appear suddenly. Treatment. There are three methods of treatment: First. During the acute stage they can be easily removed by any firm but even pressure by pads and bandages, with cold water fre- quently applied. Second. When it has been long neglected, or the case is com- plicated, counter irritation, or any good stimulating liniment or light 778 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMEOT. blister may be used. The biniodide of mercury ointment may be well rubbed in several times, or a cantharides blister may be used. Third. Letting the synovial fluid out. This is done with an instrument called "the aspirator," which is a bottle attached to a small suction pump, or, more properly, a syringe attached to a bottle, and worked so as to draw out the fluid. The method of operating is as follows : Force the needle of the aspirator into the wind-gall and draw off the fluid. When it is all drawn, inject a little of the following solution into the part : ounce tincture iodine. 20 grains iodide of potassium. 3 ounces water. Bandage well and keep the parts wet with cold water. The FIG. 686. Graduated hypodermic syringe. bandages to remain on from three to five days. This produces an adhesive inflammation of the part. This treatment can be used with safety in all cases where there is enlargement of the sheaths of the tendons. It cannot be safely used in what is called a blood spavin, because there is danger of puncturing the vein, and secondly, may extend into the true hock-joint, which would in- duce so much inflammation as to produce a stiff joint, or even sup- puration of the coverings of the bone, which would finally destroy life. The hypodermic syringe, shown above, may be used. NAVICULAR-JOINT LAMENESS. It is estimated that this is the cause of fully nine-tenths of all serious and obscure cases of lameness in the fore-feet. I refer to it at the commencement of the Medical Department, page 745, as one of the principal causes of trouble, which it is important to know how to treat. If neglected, or not treated properly, in from three to six months, such changes of structure, or degeneration, take place in the parts as to make cure impossible; when it is termed "groggy, or chronic lameness," which of course spoils the horse; and when it is seen that it is the best horses, usually favor- NAY1CULAH-JOINT LAMENESS. 779 ites, that are perhaps worked irregularly, that are most subject to this lameness, the importance of being able to treat it successfully when it arises, can be seen; and the treatment, too, is so simple, and easily applied, during its early or acute stage, that it cer- tainly cannot be difficult or impossible, by the directions hereafter given, for any one to apply it. On this account I have made a special effort not only to make the treatment of this difficulty so full and comprehensive that such cases when they arise may be easily understood and attend- ed to promptly, but to add such explanations and illus- trations from the best author- ities, as will show the serious effect that may follow when neglected or not treated prop- erly. In reference to this, a very able author says: " This is a strain that does more mischief than any other, and entirely from the circum- stance of its producing scarce- ly any lameness in the walk. A horse, therefore, when strained in the coffin-joint, and having no lameness, or scarcely any. in the walk, is usually put to work, or what is nearly as bad, is turned to grass with- out any regard to the situation, where he is often liable to be driven about. If, instead of this, it were treated like other strains whose symptoms are more apparent, and which produce a greater degree of lameness, it would soon get well, and with greater cer- tainty than a strain in the back sinews. But as it is a strain in the coffin-joint, it is the most intractable kind of lameness we meet with, because it is nearly always neglected at its first occasion." Symptoms. It sometimes occurs in an instant, as by a horse stepping on a round stone, running in the field, etc., when he may at once be quite lame ; at other times its progress is slow. Some peculiar formations of the foot are more subject to it than others. When the result of sudden strain, there will be considerable heat in the back part of the foot, with well-marked lameness. When it comes on gradually, a slight tenderness is observed, particularly at starting, which goes off with exercise. This gradually increases ; FIG. 687. As the horse usually rests his toe upon the ground. 780 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. the foot is found hot, and as a result of the increased heat, con- traction may set in, the hoof becoming dry and brittle. He steps on his toe, and when standing, points his foot, that is, places his foot in front, resting on the toe ; and if both feet are involved, which is not uncommon, alternating the feet. Contraction is not an invariable symptom, as feet are subject to it that are en- tirely free from contraction. Often the foot is found to be round and apparently healthy, the most careful examination by the owner, or smith, not enabling him to locate any cause for the trouble. In ordinary cases the horse will show no ap- parent lameness while on a walk ; but on a trot may flinch considerably, showing a great tendency to stumble.* Driving down-hill, or on a rough, cob- bly road, will greatly aggravate the lameness, because going down-hill increases the force of concussion; and a stony or un- even road so wrenches and FIG. 688. Usual appearance of foot with chronic coffin-joint lameness. strains the joint, or exposes the frog to such incidental pressure, as to greatly increase the pain and soreness. In some cases of acute strain, the lameness may be quite marked, the horse being scarcely able to walk, and when he does, keeping the foot flexed by walking upon the toe, and when standing, resting the toe upon the ground. As this acute stage passes off, which will usually be in one or two weeks, the animal will seem to have grown much better, at times perhaps appear quite well, then grow suddenly worse again, depending upon the part of the joint involved and the road he is traveling on. He will go better on hard, smooth, sanely roads, but on soft, yielding ground, is liable to grow lamer, if the * In some cases, usually fast trotters, the horse may at first only point, and gradually show a little soreness or stiffness at starting, or what is termed bobbing dropping the head. Irritation in these cases is induced very slowly, as hereafter explained. The principle of treatment is the same, prompt removal of the cause of irritation, developing healthy circulation in the parts, and aiding mobility. NAVICULAB-JOINT LAMENESS. 781 sole is thin and the frog prominent, because of the increased pres- sure upon the frog, and thence upon the parts involved, by the foot setting into the ground. As the lameness continues, more or less change of structure takes place in the foot, a gradual draw- ing in of the quarters, the foot becoming perceptibly smaller than the opposite one, the heels higher, the frog smaller, and the sole more concave, the hoof showing a more glossy, hard appearance. The shoe will invariably be worn round at the toe. A result that often follows is a shrinking or wasting of the muscles of the shoulder, called "sweeny," which is caused by a want of properly exercising them. The symptoms are about the same, so far as the FIG. 689. Back view of coffin-bone and navicular-bone attached in place. lameness goes, whether the mischief has extended to ulceration or not, the history of the case only guiding in enabling to deter- mine how far this has gone. Of course these conditions will vary in degree, as there may be only a slight extent of ulceration, or a high degree of simple inflammation. Yet, in the former case, the lameness will not be so marked as in the latter, notwithstanding the prospect for recovery will be much less. We will now presume a horse, without any apparent cause, to show a little lameness, and we desire to make a careful exam- ination. First, is there any possible cause from recent shoeing, such as a badly-fitted shoe, driving the nails too close, or prick- ing ? Let the shoe be taken off carefully, by raising each clinch in succession, and pulling the nails out. Now tap and examine all parts of the foot carefully, and especially if there is any bruise 782 DISEASES AND THE1E TEEATMENT. or corn at the inner heel, or at any part of the sole, which will be noticeable by being red and sensitive to light tappings of the ham- mer, or to squeezing of the pinchers. It is always best to make the most thorough and careful examination, so as to give assur- ance of being able to point with more certainty to the difficulty under consideration. Pressure with the thumb over the middle of the flexor tendon, on its inner side or its outer, as deeply as can be reached in the hollow of the heel, the foot being bent back, causes pain ; or catching the foot in one hand and the ankle in the other, and while twist- ing a little, pressing against the tendon will cause considerable flinching. Tap- ping lightly upon the bar or sole, on each side of the frog, will cause flinch- ing. Next, if the horse is taken by the head and turned short around, he will show increased lameness. Upon an examination of these cases by the owner or horse-doctor, if no cause of trouble is discovered in the foot, the lameness is supposed to be in the shoulder. Now there is no lameness that reveals itself more plainly than shoulder lameness; because when the muscles of the shoulder or arm are strained or in- jured, the mobility is so seriously im- paired that the limb is lifted and brought forward with a sort of dragging motion. It is easy to see if a man were to injure his shoulder or arm, that with the greatest effort he would be scarcely able to lift it to put on his coat. But were the trouble in his hand, or below the elbow, he could do it without the least difficulty. The effect is the same upon the horse. By moving him back and forward, if the trouble is in the foot, or below the knee, the foot will be raised and car- ried forward naturally, but put down tenderly, as if trying to protect it from the force of concussion ; whereas, if in the shoulder, as explained, the mobility of the limb is greatly impaired, which is shown by the difficulty with which it is raised and brought forward. FIG. 690. Posterior view of bones of the foot. NAVICULAB-JOINT LAMENESS. 783 I would call particular attention to these symptoms, from the fact that after an examination by persons who do not under- stand the nature of the difficulty, and finding no apparent trouble in the foot, the conclusion is arrived at that it must be in the shoulder, which is treated with liniments, blistering, etc., as ex- plained, without doing any good, not only punishing the horse un- necessarily, but occasioning a loss of valuable time. I would also remind, in this connection, that when the lame- ness continues in one foot for some time, on account of throwing the weight so much upon the opposite foot to relieve the lame one in standing or walking, there is liability to bring on the same FIG. 691. Position of bones of the foot too oblique. a. Pastern bone ; b. Coronary bone ; c. Os pedis, or coffin-bone ; d. Usual seat of the lameness; e. Perforans tendon. trouble in the welt one, a not uncommon occurrence, when the lameness will be equally marked in both fore-feet. The horse will go worse when the heel is lowered by putting on a thin shoe, or by losing the shoe, and will go better when the heel is raised, and especially so if the toe is rounded so as to aid mobility. Causes. The coffin-joint is composed of three bones; viz., the lower or pedal bone, and the navicular and pastern bones. By referring to Figs. 365 and 392, in chapter on Shoeing, and Figs. 679-688, which were copied and engraved from photographs of a manikin, and also from a natural foot, showing different views of the bones, ligaments, and tendons of the parts, a good idea 784 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. can be obtained of its location and character. By looking at Fig. 679, it will be seen that the navicular bone extends across the back edge of the coffin-joint; at Fig. 686, that the flexor tendon passes down under it, and inserts itself into the lower surface of the pedal bone. This supports the navicular bone when weight is thrown upon the limb, as the back part of the small pastern rests upon the navicular bone. Now, if from any cause irritation is set up in the synovial membrane of this small bone, or of the FIG. 692. Natural position of bones of the foot. sheath of the tendon which supports it, or of the surrounding parts, whether by sprain, concussion, injury, contraction, improper shoeing, changing the obliquity of the foot, that is, raising or low- ering the heel too much, allowing the toe to grow too long, or any cause of changing the proper adjustment of the foot, etc., the effect is practically the same in causing inflammation and lame- The best authorities agree that the most common indirect KAVICULAK-JOINT LAMENESS. 785 causes of this lameness are raising the frog from the ground and contraction. I copy the remarks of an old author of high stand- ing on this cause, who says: " When the foot is in its natural condition, the frog is its strong point of support; and if this support is removed by paring, or by the use of thick-heeled shoes, which raise the frog from all pos- sible contact with the ground, the support is weakened, and there is necessarily great strain thrown upon the tendon. This is caused by pushing the coronary against the navicular bone, and which, being repeated at every step or jump the horse takes, strains the tendons, or causes inflammation. By contraction, because in pro- portion to the drawing together of the heels, there will be a com- pressing or forcing upward of the arches of the commissures and horny frog against the tendon and navicular joint, impeding the action of the joint generally, and liable to cause inflammation of the synovial membrane, ulceration, and change of structure; it also destroys the natural position of the limb by making the pastern joint more perpendicular, which, as has been mentioned, increases the jar of the corona on the pedal bone. So that we have involved the lower surface of the navicular bone, its synovial membrane, the flexor tendon which plays over it, and sometimes the upper sur- face, when it is called coffin or navicular-joint lameness." Another author says: " Disease of the navicular joint is the chief danger to be appre- hended from a good-looking strong foot, just as the open, flat one is prone to laminitis, and is rarely subject to disease of the navicular joint. The reason of this immunity on the one hand, and the con- trary on the other, is this: The open foot, with a large spongy frog, exposes the navicular bone and the parts in contact with it to con- stant pressure in the stable, so that these parts are always prepared for work. On the other hand, the concave sole and well -formed frog are raised from the ground by our unfortunate mode of shoe- ing, and when the whole foot is exposed to injury from battering, find in addition to the tendon which plays over the navicular bone presses it against the os coronae, the unprepared state in which this part is alloAved to remain, is sure to produce inflammation, if the work is carried far enough." In 1816 an English veterinary surgeon, James Turner, was the first, after careful observations and numerous dissections, to call attention to the causes of this lameness and its treatment. His explanation is so good that I will include it also here, though experience has since proved, as explained, that contraction is only one of its causes: " The next deviation from nature is the passive state to which the foot is submitted, at least twenty- two or twenty-three hours 50 786 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. out of twenty-four, and sometimes for several consecutive days. Let this be compared with the few hours during which the feet of a horse at pasture are in a quiescent state, and there will be no cause of surprise in the change of form and position, and character, and the state of contraction which takes place in the foot deprived of its natural pressure and motion. " The first indication of contraction is the gradual displacement of the navicular and coffin-bones. They ascend" within the hoof. An unnatural arch is formed by the ascent of the frog, and the delicate synovial membrane lining the joint is crushed and bruised by the very material which nature has bestowed as a defense. This bruise of the synovial membrane lining the joint is the veritable source of the complaint, the actual cause of the whole not consisting in the wear and tear of the part, but having its origin in rest. It is en- gendered in the stable, but it becomes permanently established by sudden violence out of it. General contraction of the foot of the horse may take place to a great extent with comparative impunity; but it is a partial contraction or pressure which is the root of evil." Prof. Williams, our best modern authority, in relation to the cause, says: " I have stated my opinion that generally the alteration of the di- rection of the bony column by the shoe, or by a natural upright con- formation of pastern, is the great cause. In addition to this violent interference with the designs of nature, the elevation of the heels fur- nishes additional cause of concussion to those already stated, by removing the frog from the ground; the frog being elastic, tough, and strong, intended to touch the ground and diffuse concussion, as well as to prevent slipping at each step the animal takes. When left in its natural condition, it is a large, tough, softish body, giv- ing way to the pressure of the fingers when manipulated, expand- ing each time the foot is put to the ground, the commissures at its sides admitting of this expansion without the other parts of the foot being interfered with. So long as it touches the ground, the sen- sitive parts within, and particularly the navicular bursa, for which it furnishes a soft bed, rests upon a resilient body, free from con- cussive danger. Besides furnishing this soft bed, it performs another important function, being elastic within and without, it assists the flexors in the first act of elevating the foot from the ground, and it does this in virtue of its inherent power of assuming its original shape when the superincumbent weight is taken away from it. Thus, whilst on the ground, and bearing its proportion of weight, it is flattened from side to side, bulging into the commis- sures and cleft, ready at every movement, like a piece of india- rubber, to assume its proper form when the least portion of the weight is taken from it. When the flexors are acting, it becomes narrowed from side to side, and deeper from surface to surface, and during this assumption of its natural form, it gives an upward im- petus to the foot, which is of essential importance to its easy eleva- tion. The removal of this frog pressure during long periods of rest NAVICULAK-JOINT LAMENESS. 787 in the stable is also a fertile source of disease, because the frog be- comes hardened, and does not furnish a soft cushion for the bursa to rest upon." I may, in this connection, add that there may be cases of this disease, though somewhat rare, in feet that are weak and thin, which are entirely free from contraction. In such cases it is supposed the cause is owing to the ob- liquity of the joint being so great, that there is ex- cessive play upon the ten- don, the strain upon which produces irritation of the tendon at its connection with the navicular bone; or owing as well to the in- creased action of the joint, irritation of some of the soft structures is produced. It properly comes under the head of Cause of Irritation. But as there may be dan- ger of parties, especially of trotting men, causing di- rect strain and inflamma- tion of the part by lower- ing the heels too much, or suddenly, especially in the feet of horses that are exposed to much strain by being speeded, I will include the following explanations to show the impropriety and danger of doing so. It is stated in the chapter on shoeing, where thin shoes or tips are recommended, that this change must be brought about gradually. When traveling through Vermont, an intelligent trainer, who was a member of my class, wished to know the best method of keeping the feet of horses sound and free from contraction: "Keep the adjustment and condition of the feet as nearly natural as possible," I answered, " by using thin steel shoes that will give the frog natural contact with the ground." FIG. 693. Tendons and ligaments of the foot. 788 DISEASES AND THEIE TBEATMENT. 11 That is my idea/' said he, "but while in New York City, a man came along and persuaded the president of one of the horse railroad companies, where I was at the time employed, to put thin- heeled shoes on all his horses." I replied, " That would be all light, and an advantage for the average of horses; but there would be found an occasional one, perhaps one in every ten or twelve of them, that would grow decidedly lame by such shoeing; for if there was the least inflammation or weakness in the navicular joint or sur- rounding parts, giving such sud- den and violent contact of the frog upon hard-paved streets would aggravate the irritation and produce direct lameness. Certainly the heels of such horses should be kept somewhat raised until the irritation passed off, when the heels might be gradually lowered sufficiently to bring about a good condition of circulation." He stated in reply that about that proportion of the horses did become seriously lame; still they were worked right along without any regard to their condition. When in Buffalo, N. Y., I became owner of a horse that was very sore and lame, in con- sequence of excessive driving during the race week in that city, in conveying passengers to and from the track. He had been so shod as to let the frog come directly upon the ground. I found upon examination that the heels had been so bruised as to cause suppuration between the sensible and insensible frog, which was the cause of the trouble, and practically spoiled the horse. Now, putting on thin-heeled shoes would have been all right for ordin- FIG. 694. Attachment of perforans tendon to bottom of pedal-bone. From manikin of the foot. NAVICULAB-JOINT LAMENESS. 789 ary light driving on mud roads, but when subjected to such severe and continued concussion, they became a direct cause of irritation and disease. As a good illustration of this cause of danger, I copy the remarks of a very excellent author (White) on the danger of lowering the heels too suddenly and subject- ing them to severe strain: " It has appeared in a great num- ber of dissections of the feet of horses affected with chronic lameness, that the small bone of the foot, called navicular or nut-bone, is diseased either on the surface over which the great tendon of the foot passes, or on that which articulates with the small pastern and coffin bones." In speaking of the cause, he says: "I once knew an excellent trotting- horse that had won several matches. Thin-heeled shoes were put on his feet, but it was soon found that he could no longer trot; that when urged he would go into a can- ter. The shoes were therefore taken off, and a common shoe applied, but it was too late. He was no longer able to trot, caused by inflammation of the coffin-joint, or of the parts con- nected with it, in consequence of lowering the heels and throw- ing so much stress on the tendon and navicular bone." In talking with an intelligent veterinary surgeon on this sub- ject, he referred to a case in his own practice that had strained the perforans tendon. The owner called him in to treat it, and by proper management soon relieved the lameness; but in conse- quence of the horse's being driven and speeded too soon, there was a return of the lameness, which he again treated with success, FIG. 695. Excellent view of perforans tendon. From photograph of manikin of the foot. And this, I have no doubt, was 790 DISEASES AND THEIR TBEATMENT. FIG. 696. Inferior articulating surface of the navicular bone in a healthy condition. After nearly six months' rest, the horse was again put in training for a race, there being no indication of a return of lameness. At this point a new driver was employed, who took it into his head to put on thin-heeled shoes; the consequence was, the first time the horse was speeded, he again fell lame, when, notwithstanding all that could be done, the case became chronic and incurable. As the first stage is that of inflammation, the object should be to use such means as will arrest this most speedily, be- fore any alteration of structure takes place, which is usu- ally in from three to six months; for as before explained, if allowed to go on far enough to produce a change of struct- ure, or caries, the case will be past all cure. Treatment. The first and most im- portant condition of cure is rest; hence the horse must be at once taken from all work; he must not be, as is commonly the case, allowed to run even in pasture, or anywhere where there would be any freedom to run or walk around much; give him simply the limits of a large, level stall. Remove the shoe by rais- ing the clenches, and pull out the nails one by one; then cut off or hammer down the toe-calk, and partly turn up the toe like the ground surface of an old worn-out shoe. Next, raise the heel- calks from five-eighths to three-quarters of an inch, fit the shoe nicely to the foot, and nail on, being careful not to wrench or hammer it unnecessarily in doing so. Two important points arc FIG. 697. Indications of disease. FIG. J. Inflammation progressed so far as to cause caries of the bone. NAVICULAfUJOINT LAMENESS. 791 ga>?d by this: First. Raising the heels from the ground throws the articulation of the pastern bone well forward upon the pedal bone, relieving pressure of the navicular bone from the tendon sup- porting it. Second, the removal of all pressure of the frog from the ground, which aggravates the inflammation, and rounding the toe, *sids mobility, and thereby lessens the strain upon the joint. If there is much lameness and heat in the foot, provide a tub Dr box, in which put water as hot as can be borne with the hand, and sufficient to come up even with the ankle, and let the horse stand with the foot in it for about an hour, keeping the tempera- ture up to the point stated. Now take a bag, or cloth, into which put a sufficient quantity of bran to envelop the foot thoroughly, and tie loosely around the foot or ankle ; pour on hot water moderately, and then let the horse stand, allowing the poultice in the meantime to become cool. If there is much inflam- mation and lameness, this method of hot fomentation may be re- peated two or three times during the day, until all the inflamma- tion subsides. The usual method of applying hot fomentations is to take several thicknesses of blanket or rugs, and after wringing them out of water as hot as can be borne, bring them around the foot loosely, and repeating at short intervals as they become cool; or a lot of bran or mud can be put in a box, and hot water poured on until at the temperature desired, when the foot can be placed in it up to the ankle, as before explained. The general practice is to tie a poultice of bran around the foot, and keep wet with cold water until the inflammation subsides, which would be good treatment; but if there is much inflammation and lameness, I would certainly advise, as far preferable, hot fomentations con- tinued for about an hour, then alternating with cold, and repeated two or three times each day ; but letting the poultice or cloths re- main on until cool will be sufficient for reaction from the previous application of heat. If cold applications are used, it is important that there be suffi- cient bran or wet cloths tied around the foot and ankle to keep the parts thoroughly wet and cool, until inflammation subsides, in addition to which the bottom of the foot should be kept stuffed with flax-seed meal, or anything that will aid in keeping the foot moist and cool. If this is done, after about a week the attack will usually pass off. After the acute stage has passed off, and 792 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. the wet cloths should be kept on until that time, even if there is no lameness, it is good practice to apply a sharp blister around the heel and coronet. It is in any event necessary, and may be even repeated once or twice, should there still remain any lameness. In the meantime, as before stated, the horse should be kept quiet, and if there is much lameness, there should be given in the first place a small dose of physic, with laxative, cooling food. This is all that is necessary to do in any ordinary case, and especially at an early stage. It is next important not to expose the horse to conditions that would strain or inj ure the foot until fully over the effects of the injury. Consequently the horse at first should be driven very moderately for two or three months, or more. If the road is rough, frozen, or stony, there is such danger of straining, wrenching, or bruising the foot, and thereby causing a relapse, that the horse should not be driven, if it can possibly be avoided. If there is any contraction of either or both quarters, there should be a special effort to overcome this also during the treat- ment. (For full details of doing which, see " Shoeing," page 681.) In opening the foot with the spreaders, great care should be taken not to produce any irritation. The quarters should be opened gradually. When the lameness has entirely disappeared, bring the frog again slowly to the ground to the extent it will safely bear. If any soreness is indicated, raise the heel a little, keeping the foot moist to prevent contraction, and when the soreness passes off, again gradually lower it. Some authorities advise bleeding in the foot in connection with the treatment given; my judgment of this is that it is rarely necessary, and is advisable only when the horse is very fat and the lameness is very severe, or during its acute stage. The best practitioners with whom the writer has conversed on the subject do not bleed. If, after blistering, there is still lameness, it is evident that the case has been running some time, and has assumed a chronic stage. In this event, the next and last step of treatment for cure is a frog seton. Prof. Williams's instructions for doing this are so good that I cannot do better than to copy them : "If the near foot is to be operated upon, the needle should be introduced from the frog upwards; but if the off one, from the heel NAVICULAK-JOINT LAMENESS. 79S downwards, if the operator be not left-handed. It is seldom neces- sary to cast the animal. The horny frog must be well pared, and if the needle a sharp- pointed, sharp, curved one be passed quickly, the operation is generally completed before the animal knows much about it. It is necessary that care should be taken not to introduce the needle too deeply, as the tendon may be wounded; the point of the needle should be introduced into the frog about an inch from the toe and brought out midway between the bulbs of the frog and the anterior boundary of the hollow heel. The ends of the tape must be tied together, so as to form a loop, which is to be sufficiently long to admit of a little movement in dressing, but not so long as to extend to the boundary of the wall, or the horse, by treading upon it, will soon destroy it. Before the seton i* introduced, it is usual to put on the shoe for the purpose of removing weight from the irritated frog. About three weeks or a month is the usual time for keeping the seton^in the frog, dressing it daily and keeping the foot clean. After its removal, the frog must be examined, for usually it is i under-run ' between the two orifices by purulent matter; if such be the case, the detached horn must be removed and the exposed parts dressed with a little tar. If structural changes have not taken place, this plan of treatment will usually be found effective; but if the lameness continue after a month has elapsed after the removal of the seton, all treatment will be useless, and the animal should be put to slow work, or the pain removed by neurotomy." This, of course, should be done by a competent veterinary surgeon. I have been led to give particular attention to the study of this lameness, from the fact that many years ago one of my best horses, old Turco, became lame from this cause. First, there was noticed a slight flinching while moving on a trot. The feet being at the time very dry and hard, it caused a compression of the wall upon the soft parts. In the course of a couple of months I called in a veterinary surgeon, who was considered a good prac- titioner as well as good authority. He promised to cure the case in a month. His treatment consisted of simply applying a strong sweating blister to the coronet, keeping up a sharp counter-irrita- tion for eight or ten days, but with no good results. I am satis- fied that if at this stage of the case the foot had been thoroughly soaked by either hot or cold water, the quarters opened a little with the shoe well rounded at the toe, and the heels somewhat elevated, there would have been no difficulty in making a cure. But the surgeon did nothing more than apply a counter-irritant for a little more than a week. This seemed to be, and is yet, about 794 DISEASES AKD THEIR TREATMENT. the extent of treatment used by the average of practitioners, which in the writer's judgment is not sufficient. Mobility must be aided as much as possible, to assist in preventing and remov- ing any irritation caused by motion. In the course of time the foot became narrower and higher at the heels, the frog smaller, and the convexity of the sole greatly increased. Notwithstanding I had at various times during this period consulted with different veterinary sur- geons of consid- erable reputa- tion, the treat- ment recom- mended was merely pallia- tive, and prac- tically did no good. The near- est any of them came to giving any relief, was in putting on a convex shoe to relieve contrac- FIG. ). As the seton should be inserted into the foot. A, A. The seton; B. The sensitive frog ; C. Navicular bone : D. Insensitive frog. tion, and blistering the coronet, for which instruction the writer was charged twenty-five dollars, but the case had run too long, and the treatment did no good. Now, with the treatment here given, it would have been a very simple matter to have relieved this case, if taken in time. But not knowing anything about the proper treatment myself at the time, a valuable horse was ruined. In some simple cases the effect of raising the heels and rounding the toe is often quite remarkable. I will refer to one case in point: At a little town in the western part of New York, near Jamestown, a farmer who had attended my class, wished me to look at a young horse that had been lame for some time. I took the horse to the blacksmith shop and ordered the shoe removed, the toe hammered down and NAV1CULAR-JOINT LAMENESS. 795 rounded a little, the heels raised, and the shoe again put on. Years afterward, upon my return to that place, I heard the owner state publicly the facts concerning this horse. He said that it had been lame for over a month; that he was unable to find out the cause of the trouble, and did not know what to do for it; that 1 examined the horse and took it to the shop ; that he did not know what I did with the case ; he only knew that it never took a lame step afterward. He as much as inferred that the cure was made by some secret manipulation of my own which I did not divulge. The horse happened to be kept idle for about a week after the change in the shoeing, which gave the irritation time to pass off, so that when the horse was put to work and found not lame, it was regarded as a remarkable cure. At the Sanitarium, in Battle Creek, Mich., while engaged in writing and revising this work, I was requested to look at a very fine horse owned by the institution. It had been lame for three or four weeks, and upon examination I concluded it was a simple case of navicular-joint lameness. I ordered the shoe to be taken off and changed as before directed, and again put on. There being some slight inflammation in the foot, I directed that several thicknesses of blanket be wound around it, and kept wet for a week, at the expiration of which time the horse seemed to be all right ; but I told the manager that, to make a permanent cure, the horse must not be put to work yet for three or four weeks, and then to drive only on a walk upon a smooth road. My in- structions were followed, the horse put to work in due time, and the cure proved to be permanent. Soon after my visit to Cleveland, Ohio (referred to hi Personal Experience), " Gifford," one of my trained horses, sprained one of his feet so badly that he could scarcely walk upon it. I simply rounded the toe, raised the heels, and kept the foot wet for a week, when the soreness and inflammation entirely disappeared. Being compelled to move him, I drove him carefully on a walk for several weeks, after which the shoe was gradually lowered again at the heel. A year after this, he sprained the opposite foot in the same manner, showing great pain and lameness. It was treated in the same manner as the other, and with the same suc- cess. I could refer to a great many cases showing the good results of this simple treatment, which could be done by any one by the directions here given. 796 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. When the lameness has continued so long as to render cure impossible, it may be greatly helped by slightly rounding or turn- ina* up the toe so that the foot will roll a little on the ground, and slightly raising the heel-calks. The shoe should be fitted very carefully. A still better way in very sensitive cases, is to put leather or rubber between the shoe and foot. When this is done, the nails should not be driven or clinched tightly. Hard wrench- ing or hammering of the foot should never be permitted, as a very little carelessness in this way would be liable to cause considerable soreness and lameness. Since writing this chapter, I have incidentally obtained some points in the management of this lameness, which, notwithstand- ing the extreme length of this article, I will take the liberty to add. While in conversation with a well-known veterinary surgeon in New York City, he incidentally informed me of a case of navicular-joint lameness, which was diagnosed as such, and pro- nounced incurable by one of the leading veterinary authorities in that city. The animal was a fine mare, owned by Dr. Sayers, an eminent specialist, and valued highly as a gift. Discouraged at this decision from a high authority, he went immediately to Mr. Robert Bonner. whose general knowledge on everything pertaining to the horse he regarded as next to infallible, and in whom, as a personal friend, he had great confidence. Mr. Bonner assured him that the case could be easily cured, and directed him to take her to Mr. David Roburg for treatment, requesting him, as a matter of curiosity and as a proof of the success of the treat- ment, to give a daily report of the progress of the case. The result of the trial was the complete disappearance of the lameness in about two weeks, although the horse was driven daily. I called upon Mr. Roburg, who, as stated on page 630, is an expert shoer of remarkable skill, and stated to him what I had learned, and that I would like to have him give me such an explanation of his method of treatment as he could constistently do; that I wished to give the best points known on the subject, not only for the benefit of my readers generally, but for that of the veterinary profession. Mr. Roburg very kindly ex- plained to me the main points of his management. First: To remove all strain f rom the part involved by the most perfect ad- justment of a shoe that would aid mobility to the greatest extent; NAVICULAR-JOINT LAMENESS. 797 and when in the stable, keeping the foot cool by slightly packing the sole with wet oakum, and covering the coronet with wet cloths. If there was any contraction, he made it a particular point to relieve it and the compression of the wall at the same time, as quickly as he could, by the adjustment of his spring, which is explained and illus- trated in connection with his shoes on the pages referred to. His Fio 700 _ gide ^ of 6econd form of best shoe, he claimed, Roburg's shoe, for this purpose, is the one here shown, of which I give very accurate sectional drawings, with those of others made on the same principle, on pages 691, 692. In fitting the shoe to the condition of lameness, he is very particular to adjust it so as to ease the strain or cause of irritation to the greatest possible degree, frequently be- ing compelled to exper- iment, more or less, by moving the shoe a lit- tle to the right or left, then noticing the ef- fect upon the horse in traveling. When there is improvement, it is accepted as proof of the correctness of his adjustment; if, on the other hand, there is not what he regards as satisfactory progress, he changes the shoe according to the indications of the case until successful. The real point of this shoe is that, by its rounded form, it supplies the lack of mobility caused by the inflammation and soreness in the foot; that it acts, as it were, as "an extra joint to the foot," which is the necessary requisite; so that for all forms of acute or chronic lameness he tries to aid the freedom of the foot in motion by the conformation of the shoe and its adjustment. Mr. Roburg has had such remarkable success in the manage- ment of such cases by his treatment, the one referred to being FIG. 701. Roburg's shoe. 798 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. but an ordinary one in his practice, that it certainly seems worth while to study the matter with care, since it is evident there is much to learn on the management of this and other kinds of foot- lameness, and that Mr. Bonner is so thoroughly informed on this subject as to be far in advance of all accepted authority. In- deed, Dr. Going, formerly veterinary editor of the Spirit of the Times, who is himself one of the most successful practitioners and reliable authorities in the country, in an article published in the Turf, Field, and Farm, admits as much, as will be seen by his statement, which I copy, with the editor's comments on the same : " Dr. Going, who was for many years editor of the Veterinary Department of our Chambers street contemporary, writes as follows on the subject of Horse-Shoeing, in his ' Veterinary Dictionary ' : " ' It is said no man has ever yet reached perfection in any branch of art, science, literature, industry, etc. ; but while I am unprepared to join issue with the assertion, I can safely say that the nearest approach which has ever been made in this connection (horse- shoeing and the study of the horse's foot) has been made by Robert Bonner, Esq., of New York, who, had not the Ledger already made him famous, would undoubtedly have obtained widespread renown through his almost superhuman knowledge in this de- partment. I have had the pleasure of conversing with him on this subject, and am pleased to have an opportunity of stating the impression the conver- sation made upon me. * * * 709> tening, and more or less convexity at parts of the sole. Altogether a total abnormal state is observable. The horn fibres are seen in the illustration of the FIG. 708. 808 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. hoof to have attained an undue obliquity, and curve in their course from above downward. The engraving of the coffin-bone of the foot, of which the above- FIG. 710. described hoof forms part, is remarkable under the twofold aspect of deformity and diminution of substance. The space occupied by the bone within the hoof, and its weight, are reduced probably two- thirds the proportion of its primitive com- plete growth, while the hoof, viewed su- perficially, greatly ex- ceeds the normal size. I have mentioned the superficial aspect of the form, that is, the deceptive view, the one common to aged horses with defective and diseased feet. Surface and substance do not amount to the same thing; weakness and disease are com- mon to the first, but strength and perfec- tion are only com- patible with depth of cubical capacity, with proportionate sub- stance, and form of structure. The animal which supplied material for the above illustrations was sent to the New Veterinary College, when very lame, in 1859. With difficulty the horse had been led from his stable. Bar-shoes, with leather soles, hid from view surfaces of soles and frogs painful even to look on when exposed. FIG. 711. PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET 809 The coachman expressed surprise, and exhibited displeasure, when he saw me taking up the horse's foot, ordering the shoe to be FIG. 712. taken off, and a new pair of shoes to be made, while I proceeded to prepare the feet. It subsequently transpired that putting the horse out of his misery was contemplated, and that our opinion was ex- pected to be in accordance with advice tendered to that effect. We took pains, and employed the knowl- edge and skill at command, with the result that the horse which arrived in pain and difficulty walked from the forge two hours afterward, almost free from pain, and was put to work either on the next or second day, and went on rendering excellent ser- vice for three years after- wards, when, being then nineteen years old, and a casualty having happened to him, he was put away. Fig. 711 represents a coffin-bone, selected for the purpose of showing one in a more advanced stage of disease than any of those yet brought under notice. FIG. 713. 810 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. The differences in the degree of absorption of this bone which had taken place, and its consequent shortened form, will, it is pre- sumed, make impression on the minds of readers. I have to state, moreover, that such phenomena are not very uncommon, but often lie hidden from observation within a hoof excessively prolonged and turned up in front, with depressed sole. By looking at the bottom surface of this bone, it may be seen that at the center, which normally is the point of the deepest concavity of the arch, columns FIG. 714. of bone are formed which give attachment to the fibrous bands, tendons, etc., the natural bony crest and arch being destroyed. The three succeeding engravings represent distinct views of the same foot, one of the two fore feet of a cart-horse, both of which were in precisely the same abnormal state; the history of the sub- ject is known only to the extent that the limbs were obtained by the author at a tan-yard in Edinburgh, where the horse had been taken to be slaughtered. Figs. 713 and 714 show respectively a front and back view of the same parts the bones of the near foot in a complete state of anchylosis. I shall only attempt to give a brief description of these anomalous specimens; to treat fully the causes, the conditions, and the order of sequence of occurrences, would require more space than can be assigned here to a single specimen or a series. PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET 811 The hoof is drawn as if one were looking down into its cavity, showing the bulged form corresponding to the large bone formation on the outer aspect of the foot, occupying the space from the pastern joint downward, and rigidly fixing the joints involved, "in this case, so faithfully illus- trated by the figures produced, phenomena are exhibited that are rarely seen so well. In the back view, Fig. 714 of the spec- imen, is seen the wasted and irregularly flattened state of the coffin-bone, the extent to which cartilages and ligaments have FIG. 715. become replaced by bone, and also how some of the ligament- ous bands are developed, and their courses modified by attachment to strong spars of bone-substance, displayed to afford hold for these essential bands, without which no movement would be possible, strength would be wanting, and the bones would be crushed by muscular force exerted from above. I find the same order of sequence in this case as I have described in others; firstly external anomalous conditions, alterations of the sur- faces of the coffin-bone, and these succeeded by other compensating provisions. The case is typically illustrative of the two conditions to which I have referred as com- mon to these anomalous changes, destructive and reparative; the first of these in this case is ob- scured by the excess of the latter. I venture to submit that the lesser in appearance was the real diseased state, set up by artificial measures badly applied, and that the additions represent Nature's provisions of palliation, following as the necessary sequels. FIG. 716. 812 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT, Fig. 716 represents the last six bones of a near fore foot, and is another typical illustration of the waste and increase of substance, mostly of bone. These phenomena, so marvelous in their character, are more common to horses under adverse influences than to any other race of animals. But this figure, and the succeeding one, shows still further nature's provision; the elongations of bone, transformation of cartilages and ligaments into bone, and the sub- stance of one uniting with that of the other, to give strength, are brought about by the dragging of the periosteum. That which FIG. 717. modern surgery has accomplished by transposing the membrane of bone from one position over another, is done in the case of the horse by the dragging leverage of shaft bones upon pliable interme- diate structures, having their'fixed points upon the surface of bones below, which constitutes their base of action, and that failing, a new order of reparative construction ensues. Atrophy, in most instances, escapes notice, or from lack of knowledge is alluded to under the vague phrase of " Contraction of the foot." Then occur swellings, which are tortured with assumed remedies; that is beginning at the wrong end, and in the wrong manner to effect a cure or afford relief. The Fig. 716 was taken from one of the two fore feet, both of which were PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 813 in- affected with corns. The hoofs were reduced so as to be capable of performing their office; and while the drawing-knife was doing its scooping work, nature's fence of bone was closing the breach. Leather soles and bar-shoes hid the bottom of the mangled feet. Fig. 717. The pathological conditions represented by this engraving, which includes the bones of the foot corresponding to the last referred to, excepting the navicular bone, offer much in com- mon with the last for contemplative instruction. All that has been said about the urgent causes which induced such extensive substi- tutions of bone for ligaments and cartilages, the augmentations and complete anchylosis of joints, applies to this case. The history of FIG. 718. both subjects is alike unknown; the specimens were obtained at the Elacc of slaughter, to which the lame horses were taken at Edin- urgh, and the dissections and observations were carefully carried on by me, and much time was devoted to the work. The cause and origin of the disease in this instance differed from those of the former, and so, in the sequence and termination, obvious differences in external appearances and conditions were observable. The original and essential seat of disease in the case represented by Fig. 717 was curies of the pyramidal process of the coffin-bone, which the drawing admirably shows; the foot represented is the near one, and an enlargement and deep excavation of the bone is seen in the lateral aspeet of that projection. The disease had been of very long standing, as all the changes the foot had undergone 814 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. testify. The front of the lower surface of the coffin-bone, upon which alone the limb rested, had become absorbed, the object being to constitute a straight column, since the parts were incapable of performing any of the motive functions of the healthy foot, for leverage effect. The hoof necessa- rily took the vertical line of form with the whole region the heels were deep. All bearing was conveyed to the point at which part the shoe was worn, proving that the an- imal had been worked to the last in the state in which the foot was found after death, there being no signs of recent change in the case, nor any means of relief having been re- sorted to. This figure, No. 718, in some of its phases, is a repetition of the last (not included because not of sufficient interest to be desirable), for the deplorable barbarity practiced, of which it affords the most conclusive evidence. The specimens from which the drawing was taken, the hoof and navicular bone, are those of the fore foot of a fine mare, apparently thorough-bred, which I was in the habit of seeing with mingled feelings of pity, and admiration of her form, as she worked a cab in Edinburgh seven years ago. The navicular bone, as is plainly shown, was extensively wasted and ulcer- ated. The mare, long before her death, which, like that of the previous case, was caused by the torture she endured, had been the victim of inveterate chronic lame- ness, which could have been readily re- lieved, but progressively advanced from bad to worse. Eeduction of the hoof by cutting induced absorption of the lower surface of the coffin- bone, and also that of the navicular bone; until, as in the previous case, the knife repeatedly employed destroyed the hoof first, then the cartilage, and, lastly, reached to the navicular bone and the joint, the latter injury proving fatal to life. Fig. 719 shows the state of the lower surface of the coffin-bone j FIG. 719. FIG. 720. PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 815 the convex form of the plantar surface of that bone had, as is always the case, its counterpart in the form of the hoof, the sole of which was paumace after a French expression, literally, apple-shaped, or round instead of concave and arched. But the typical character of those coffin-bones, as represented by the single specimen, is that of both being fractured in a transverse direction across the bottom of the bone, at an inch from the point. Fig. 720 shows the foot, drawn as it was placed upon a table, and will help in this description the com- prehension of the state of the case. The point of the bone is turned up. The bone, which had become shallow and weak, at length, under the weight and exer- tion of the animal, gave way at the part indi- cated, i. e., it fractured, but was held together by the net-work of fi- iMkfcS*- ^K^SW * vj brous texture which laces and invests the bone. The lesion may be regarded as a partial fracture, associated with a bending upward of the loosened end of the bone, held in prox- imity chiefly by the fi- brous tissues, but sup- ported also by the hoof, which, though thinned and weak, took the form of the broken bone, and was bent upward in front. The other foot I prepared, differently from that used for these en- gravings, by sawing longitudinally through the hoof and the in- cluded parts while fresh; these, together, are remarkable specimens. Fig. 721 represents another form of fracture of a coffin-bone, but though differing in its appearance, and place of the occurrence of fracture, from the case previously described, the two help to eluci- date each other as to the cause and mode of occurrence. As shown by the engraving, this bone was flattened down by absorption until it became so attenuated as to be unequal in substance and strength to bear the burden imposed, and it therefore gave way under it. It will be observed that the bone broke where, from greatest pressure and absorption, it had become weakest, and, as in the former case, it broke where the greatest strain of lever action was brought to bear upon it. To explain, I must state that the coffin-bone is one of the most energetic levers in the whole system of animal-con- struction, in the line of its long axis from heel to point. The fract- 816 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. ure of the bone, represented by Fig. 720, happened near to the point of the lever, while being raised, under weight from behind, upon the point. In the case under consideration the bone had be- come weakest on its inner half, precisely at the center line of the foot, so depressed by its thinness that the foot tilted inward, and gave way immediately beneath the pivot, the mid-line of the coro- nary bone; this was also the fulcrum of the lever, the front of the bone being its point of resistance. As in the former case, the rais- ing of the foot from a plane toward a vertical line fractured the corresponding bone in the two cases in different positions, but through the same causes, weakened hoof, and the other adverse conditions which led to atrophy of the bones. Fig. 722 is a representation of a fractured navicular bone, a casualty of more frequent occurrence to horses in this country than FIG. 722. is commonly known, but which has scarcely been noticed. Fract- ures of this kind are effects due entirely to long-protracted ad- verse conditions of the feet, such as have been already dwelt upon. I have never met with a case of fracture of either coffin or navicular bone where previous long-prevailing diseased action of the foot was not manifest. In the instance represented above, the reader may see that the bone was extensively ulcerated and excavated like a decayed tooth, and at last the fracture occurred in two lines diverging from the excavated center to the anterior margin of the bone, where it is connected to the coffin-bone. But I must request the reader to go back with me to see the order and sequence of occurrence; the ex- cavation of the navicular bone is a secondary occurrence, an effect due to preceding and continuous deviations from health. The coffin-bone in Fig. 722 is wasted down to about two-thirds of its natural depth and substance. Its semi-lunar crest is gone; there is no sufficient concavity behind the plantar surface of the PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 817 coffin-bones; tendons and other strong bands, requiring strong, bony points for attachment, lack such hold, and the space between the navicular bone and the tendon'upon which it glides is diminished; the joint-capsule lacks space, all the functions are deranged, and the navicular bone, if in normal condition, would be too big for the lessened space; it becomes flattened, its substance is diminished, and is so much weakened, that at length it breaks down under less than ordinary exertion. Fig. 723 represents another case of fractured navicular bone, in which all the complications are still more manifestly extensive FIG. 723. than in the last. The foot that supplied this specimen was ob- tained after the horse was slaughtered, and nothing was learned of the history of the case. The fractures in both cases had occurred long before the horses were destroyed, and there was ample evidence to my mind that the horses had been made to work almost as long as they lived, judg- ing, as I did, by the appearance of the feet and shoes, and by the pathological conditions revealed by dissection. It may seem to some that there is not much to be learned from seeing these dried bones! still less from engravings from them! All depends upon the kind and extent of research which follows from the promptings of such incidents; and I cannot refrain from stating that all that is presented to the view, though it be as much as could be saved, is insignificant compared to what the explorer sees in the researches and dissection. Much more is removed than can be left, and each Jaye>* of structures unfolds its own tale. 52 818 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. All the subjects which supplied the specimens illustrated were selected on account of indications which led me to investigate them. When I first saw this animal after death, my whole "mind was absorbed in the case, and it would have been of no use if I had only detached the foot, strictly so called, for examination. "When trying to make out anything natural or unnatural about the foot, I always take a great part of the limb, so as to include the whole carpal region; and if a hind limb, then of the tarsal region. In this in- stance I divided the radius a little above the knee. I had per- ceived, in the condition of the leg, a rigidity induced by thickness and hardness of all the flexing apparatus of the foot, especially FIG. 724. from the fetlock-joint to the knee; the back sinews were as thick as the fore-arm of a man, and to the touch felt hard like a cable. I shall refrain from entering into a detailed description of the condi- tion of these parts, my object being now to show plainly how one may be drawn off the scent, and led to mistake an after-effect for the original state of the case an effect for a cause. I knew that the massive, hard bands were but symptoms of serious conditions below; that it was a coiling of these bands, with the design of shortening their track, by which the range of bones could be held firm, and in a vertical line. With such notions I proceeded to dis- sect the limb, first by disarticulatiori at the pastern-joint, and placing the foot in the maceration-tub for six weeks; meanwhile I dissected the parts above, confirming my views of the conditions, and greatly extending my knowledge. In due time, the hoof be- coming detached, I dissected the foot, with the result shown in Fig. PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 819 723. All practitioners, and horsemen of much experience, will have noticed that when horses begin to get uneasy on their fore-limbs and unsafe in action, in other words, when permanent lameness is threatening, a commonly prevalent characteristic anomaly is a tightness of the sinews just behind and below the knee. Atten- tion is usually fixed on that part, and all the rest overlooked. Very early in my career I noticed these conditions, and doubted in my own mind the conclusion that a sprain had happened locally, to account for what was observed. It was long, however, before 1 arrived at any exact knowledge in the matter, or succeeded in doing anything beyond following the ordinary injurious and useless practice. But it was a good be- ginning to get rid of all mischievous interference. I next made out that the state of the limb was in some way caused by that of the feet by the shoeing; for it never appeared in unshod horses if ever so severely exerted. Having determined that I had a foot- derangement to deal with, I then succeeded in curing cases, my remedy consisting in taking off the shoes, and taking measures for strengthening the hoofs. Nor did I find it necessary to keep the horses at rest, though it is not often practicable to find work that horses can do, and a ground surface congenial to their going bare- footed. But when the mind is awakened, and intent on the further- ance of an object, opportunities are made; and so it happened with me. I was in practice at Florence in those years, in a climate favorable for making some such trials as I aimed at prosecuting; I had the advantage of observing customs in other localities. I saw horses trained without shoes able to hold their own with those more systematically brought out on our plan, and perceived that their legs fltood sound. So far, I had achieved little more than negative results for all practical purposes, because a plan that prescribes that horses must go barefooted does not accomplish any .of the re- quirements of the art of farriery. The next stage in the inquiry was to determine the relative effects between good and bad shoe- ing, .an-d in what these respectively consisted. This I was able to do, though it was a work of much cost, labor, and years of time. Fig. 724 is a representation of the coffin and navicular bones of one of the fore feet of a horse similarly affected in both; with the difference in the one represented that a compound fracture of the navicular-bone had occurred, as is plainly exhibited. Firm reunion of the fragments was completed before the horse was destroyed. The subject was an aged grey, latterly white, gelding, in his time well known to horsemen of Edinburgh as an exceptionally good horse, a fast-goer in the field and on the road. In 1861 the pupils of the new Veterinary College bought the poor horse, in a miserable state of lameness, as a subject to dissect. On of the complications, which was a source of inconceivable agony, was a quittor. As it appeared that relief might soon be afforded, and the case made very instructive, the subject was taken up for treatment, with the most satisfactory result. Belief from pain was soon attained; and restoration ensued, and progressed as 820 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. rapidly as such complication admits of. It was subsequently ascer- tained that the horse had been unnerved two or three years previ- ously, had been for years lame, and for some time had worked in a cab. The recovery of the horse having been advanced, so that he was capable, under special care, of rendering some service, the question arose what should be done with him. We had no require- ment for such services as might have been rendered on a farm, and it was resolved not to part with him; the only alternative was taken of putting an end to his life; and finally of making the best possible use of the case for future instruction. FIG. 725. Dissection of the feet revealed more than we had made out during the life of the animal; the fractured bone was not predicted, nor was it possible, beyond guessing, that it could have been, amidst the mass of change and destruction of parts; but in the sequel it has been of inestimable value as a pathological specimen, unique, as far as I have seen, in character. I have seen no other instance, nor do collections contain one, of a navicular-bone, as the sequel to inveterate degeneracy, being broken into so many fragments, and then uniting so completely, the foot rendered painless, and the horse becoming, to a possible degree, useful. Fig. 725 represents another complicated case in which extensive disease and wasting of the coffin-bone was followed by fracture of the navicular-bone. The subject, a grey cart-horse, was taken to the New Veterinary College in 1864, when excessively lame, and left there for treatment. At the time no opinion was pronounced on the case; the horse had been under treatment. PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 821 The foot was mangled, and shod with a bar-shoe and interven- ing leather sole, all combining to augment and perpetuate the pain- ful condition of the animal. The limb of the afflicted foot was kept as much as possible flexed, obviously so at the knee, and the foot reposed upon the front of the hoof not the natural bearing-surface, but the anterior surface of the wall tilted over. The knee was swollen to twice its natural size. After the lapse of a few days, with persistence of pain and all the urgent symptoms unabated, the parties who left the horse were advised that an unfavorable issue of the case was prognosticated. I FIG. 726. had formed the opinion that either the coffin or navicular-bone was fractured, yet nothing could be made out to enable one to deter- mine the fact positively. Difficulty was encountered in discovering the real owner of the horse, and it was not until twenty-nine days had elapsed that consent was obtained to have it destroyed. Time and care being taken for the maceration of the parts, so that dis- section could be proceeded with, the ultimate revelations were the state of the two bones represented. The case is remarkable, for the presence of at least one phenomenon I have in no other instance met with, that is, fracture of the navicular-bone without the appear- ance of any antecedent excavation of its substance by ulceration . There were other more remarkable appearances, but which could not be kept for exhibition, and could only be observed by the eye and touch of the dissector; the fractured bone was held together by its investing ligamentous textures, and I could feel the bone yield 822 DISEASES AND THEIE TBEATMENT. at the broken part, under pressure of the thumb, while the line of fracture was scarcely to be seen. Neither was there any blush of marginal redness to indicate the commencement of reparatory vascular action. But, although that navicular-bone is exceptional among my morbid specimens of the kind, in regard to the absence of obvious excavation, I am not prepared to testify to its being in a normal state; on the contrary, I suspect for no analysis of the bone, still in my possession, has been performed that its constitu tion was defective, and that the bone was destitute of natura strength. The wasted, deformed, and weakened state of the coffin- bone is extraordinary, and quite accords with all my experience, gained by these investigations, that such casualties of the navicular FIG. 727. bone are secondary, and due to the partial destruction of both sub- stance and functions of the coffin-bone. Fig. 726 illustrates a typical case of advanced navicular disease, apart from the complications which commonly ensue as additional consequences. The never absent accompanying phenomenon, atrophy of the coffin-bone, is, however, well marked in this case. In the navicular bone itself, two openings into chambered cavities of the bone are seen about the middle of the hindmost and lower surface, and an oblong excavation is observable on the lower inner margin of the bone. The above figure represents a case of navicular disease, not essentially different in character from that last described; only that this was a worse case, with more complications and extensive ulceration. I adduce it, not to show the little difference, or to pro- duce a duplicate, but because the case has a history worth relating. PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 823 The subject was a grey mare of high courage and breeding, be- longing to Mr. James Stewart, cab -proprietor at Edinburgh. The mare had been, for an unascertained length of time, lame of both fore feet, when she was bought for a trifle by Mr. Stewart, who thereupon took her to the New Veterinary College shoeing-forge, to get her shod. This happened in the autumn 1858. I had charge of the shoeing; that is, did the chief part of the work in this as in similar cases prepared the feet and fitted the shoes. Mr. Stewart, being then a beginner in business, and driving the mare himself, procured abundance of work, so that in the space of seventeen days she wore out a strong set of shoes, and was brought back to the forge to be re-shod, which was done as before. At the expiration of about the same number of days as before, the mare was brought to be shod again for the third time; and this time the intelligent owner was elated at the way his mare was going, and at the manifest improvement that had taken place, notwithstanding the inordinate amount of work the animal was doing, in drawing a four-wheeled carriage over the hilly streets of Edinburgh. I may state that the progressive improvement in the action of the mare went on up to recovery to the extent of complete freedom from lameness. There was no delay in the effect following the cause, or rather, inversely, of effects ceasing when the causes that produced and kept them up were removed. The result was so much the more gratifying to the owner of the mare and all concerned, from the fact that she proved to be one of the best animals of her class in Edinburgh, and continued to work uninterruptedly for three years, thereby helping in no small degree to give the worthy owner a start in business. I shall not dwell on the termination of the mare's career, beyond stating that during the severe frost in 1862 she encountered an accident by falling on the frozen snow which encumbered the streets of Edinburgh that winter. One of the bones of the knee, the os magnum, was fractured transversely through its narrow axis, and the animal was consequently destroyed. On dissecting both the fore feet, it was found that their condi- tion was nearly the same; the degree of ulceration of the navicular bone, and diminution, with subsequent incrustation of the coffin- bone, was a little in excess in the specimen from which the illustra- tion was drawn. But most remarkable and instructive of all was the obviously improved state of those ulcerated bones that had taken place. As was seen by the mare's action, her feet revolved, if not fully, at least fairly upon the ground, and that was quite manifest by the appearance of the joints. The cartilage lining the navicular bone, Jess the breaches on the surface, was smooth and white, and the synovial capsule healthy, and in full secreting func- tion. In fact, the joint was amply lubricated and free. In anticipation of reasonable inquiries as to how the good result was brought about in this ease, I answer, By shoeing. What principle or mode of shoeing? Eational method, elaborated after long individual experience, founded on observation, and on the ex- 824 DISEASES AND THE1E TBEATMENT. perience of able men of all times and countries ; in other words, by means which are only acquired by application of mind and hands for years to the art. I used no differently made shoe for that mare from those I use for other horses of her class doing the same work; viz., shoes with calkins adapted to the pavement and hills of Edinburgh; nor was there anything special in the way I fitted her shoes; they were adapted to the mo- tion and requirement of the feet in the mare's particular case, according to the principles inculcated in this work. No other agencies were used beyond the ordinary measures I recommend for the feet of all horses, to be hereafter noticed. The two following and the last fig- ures of the series are representations of the different structures of the same foot; a section of the hoof, and the coifin and navicular bones of the off fore foot of a horse, whose case I am about to describe by the help of these illustrations. The subject was a five-year-old Cly- desdale stallion, for which a nobleman in the west of Scotland paid 300, and at whose instance, not many months after the purchase, I was called to at- tend the animal, not, however, until too late for my services to be of any avail. The horse died a few hours before 1 reached the place where he was, in Ayrshire. With the splendid carcass lying extended before me, I made in- quiries into the history of the case, and after receiving the necessary replies for my purpose, and obtaining permission to bring away the feet of the animal, 1 removed them and returned with them to Edinburgh. The disease from which the horse had suf- fered was inflammation of the feet, and death ensued through long-continued irritant fever, ending in a blood-contaminated system. Fig. 728 is that of the inner half of the hoof of the off fore foot; the section, made longitudinally, passes through the middle of the frog, sole, and wall. The bulging down of the sole and its thin state are apparent; the white^spot represents an opening through which an excrescence of the inflamed texture protruded. Fig. 729 represents the coffin arid navicular bones, upon the latter of which no further remarks are necessary than to state that that bone was found in perfect health. But to the coffin-bone and FIG. 728. PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 825 hoof together I must devote myself, with the view to make intel- ligible what I have to state. 1 must premise my description of the case by stating that all four of this horse's feet were alike affected, and almost in the same degree, the ravages sustained by the two fore feet somewhat pre- ponderating. My information obtained on the origin of the disease recompensed the journey to Ayrshire; I learned that one hind foot was first affected; a fissure appeared in the front of the hoof, always a painful affection until the cause is removed, and a cure effected. Lame of one hind foot, and all tho hoofs in a weak state, inflammation set up in the other hind and over-burdened one; then reaction, with inflammation of the other hind foot, and first one fore foot and then the other became affected; the result was that FIG. 729. the animal was doomed to lie suffering, because he had not a foot that he could stand upon. All this was endured for several weeks before the horse succumbed.* Reference again to Fig. 729 shows the flattened lower portion of the coffin-bone, and in some measure the extent to which it be- came reduced; not, as in chronic cases, slowly, but rapidly all in the space of a few weeks. (The drawing taken of the one must be regarded as representing the state of the coffin-bones and the hoofs of all four feet.) I devoted several months, at intervals, to the dissection and study of three out of the four feet, the two fore and the hind one first affected; and I never investigated such a case before. The ravages that disease had made were entirely confined to the lower *In reference to this special case, we should never allow the dissolution of the suspensary power to progress to an incurable extent, but relieve the laminae of the strain by taking off the weight either by slinging or throwing the horse, cooling the feet, poultice, bleeding, and as soon as the Inflammation subsides to blister the coronet thoroughly. Prof. Hamill. (See Laminitis.) 826 DISEASES AND THE1B TREATMENT. surface of the coffin-bone. I wish particularly to place this fact on record, for reasons that will hereafter appear. Beneath the bottom of the coffin-bones and the thin mutilated soles of the hoofs was deposited a dense layer of lymph, about one-eighth of an inch thick, in which were innumerable particles of bony deposit, imparting a feeling as if sand had been sprinkled over the inner surface of the hoof. Such had been the rapid destruction, partly by absorption and partly by casting oif of useless matter. As to the treatment to which the horse had been subjected, I have little to say. I saw that the current orthodox teaching had been complied with, in the form of cutting away the hoof, and soak- ing the feet with moisture; every one in attendance had doubtless done his best according to his intelligence, and was to be pitied rather than blamed for want of the right kind of knowledge of the pathological conditions. The specimens of disease, illustrated and briefly described in this section, offer material for much more lengthy comment. My purpose in publishing these is to prove the fundamental fact that lameness is a consequence of destructive causes, is associated with changes of structure in the foot, and that it is only by a patient and thorough inquiry into these anatomical changes, that what I maybe allowed to call the natural history of lameness can be under- stood, its causes prevented, and the proper remedial measures based on well-defined knowledge applied. This is a line of inquiry which I particularly commend to members of the veterinary profession, many if not the majority of whom have grown up in the habit of looking upon the hoof merely as the investing termination of the limb, and not taking cognizance of the whole digit as a complex organic structure, to understand which, in health and disease, dis- section of a large number of specimens is indispensable. LAMINITIS, OR FOUNDER. Laminitis, or Founder, may be described as simply congestion or inflammation in the feet. It may be severe or moderate according to the degree of disturbance. If inflammation runs high and is allowed to continue, it is liable to produce so much disorganization as to induce loss of the hoof, which is however rare, or so much change of structure in the feet as to make the horse ultimately so stiff and sore or so much of a cripple as to be- come practically worthless excepting for slow, easy work. There are two stages of this disease, acute and chronic. The first produces a high state of excitement and inflammation of the sensitive lamina, and more or less of the internal structure of the foot generally. The second, a morbid or insensitive feeling of the parts generally. The first or acute stage can be invariably LAM1NITIS, OB FOUNDER 827 cured, if treated properly, which is not at all difficult to do. The second or chronic stage is not curable ; but may be palliated to a limited extent. Symptoms. At first, if the result of exhaustion and chill, FIG. 730. Position of horse when suffering severe attack of Laminitis. there will be the marked effects of great disturbance of the circu- lation so that there may be a general stiffness and soreness, with FIG. 731. As the horse usually lies down when suffering from Laminitis. high, quick pulse, etc., which will be soon followed by tenderness, congestion, and inflammation in the feet. To relieve the pain in the feet he endeavors to throw his weight upon the hind ones. He advances them in front, resting principally on the heels^ 828 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. when the hind ones are drawn well under him, something like the position shown in Fig. 730. On backing him. he backs with evi- dent reluctance ; when forced back, he drags one foot after the other, evincing considerable pain in doing so. When moved forward, he walks on the heels, his move- ments being slow and difficult. He will often be found lying down, as removing weight from the feet gives relief ; and while down he will usually point with his nose toward the feet. Sometimes the inflamma- tion may be in but one of the fore feet, or sometimes in the hind feet, which is not common ; and in some isolated cases may have inflammation in all four feet ; but it is usually limited to the two fore feet. Causes. Laminitis is very apt to occur from overtasking the feet by pounding them FIG. 732 An ideal illus- tration of the arteries of the foot injected. over a hard or rough, frozen road, or leaving the horse standing while heated and exhausted, and especially where a current of cold air strikes him ; indirectly by prick or binding with nails, or continued injury from a badly applied shoe, or any cause of continued strain or injury to the feet ; driv- ing through a river while warm ; washing the feet while warm and neglecting to dry them ; frequently also from FIG. 733. An ideal drawing of the veins of the foot injected. LAMINITIS, OK FOUNDER 829 overloading the stomach by eating too freely of oats or other grains, as we often see when a horse gets loose during the night and gets to the oat-bin ; or drinking too freely of cold water when heated and exhausted. It may also be caused by inflam- mation passing from other parts of the body to the feet, but not often ; but by whatever cause, it is the same, namely, excess of blood in the feet. The better to convey an idea of the large amount of blood passing through the feet, I include a description of the same by an excellent old author : Fiu. 734. Bottom of foot with hoof removed. The trunk of the artery i i* " As the quantity of horn necessary for the defense of the foot is considera- ble, a large quantity of blood is dis- tributed to it for the purpose, and is supplied Toy two large arteries which pass down on each side of the pastern ; these give off considerable branches to the frog, cartilages, and coronary ring. enters at the inferior and posterior part of the coffin-bone, and di- vides into eight branches, which pass out at the circumference or angle of the toe, and give off innumerable branches about the in- ferior part of the laminated struct- ure, especially about the toe. The distribution of the blood to the frog is remarkable. Here we find several branches of considerable size without giving off other branches, as in the other parts of the foot, until they arrive near the surface, when they divide into innumerable branches, sup- plying the skin or secreting sur- face of the frog, and communi- cating with those of the skin of the sole, or sensitive sole, so that the frog and sole form one continuous surface of skin of great vascu- larity and sensibility ; but greatly inferior in both respects to the laminated substance which is more richly organized, both as to blood-vessels and nerves, than any other part of the body." White. I include a number of illustrations which give an excellent idea of the large amount of this circulation ; also of the hoof and pedal bone, showing that this sensitive structure is covered by an un- FIG. 735. Interior view of the hoof. 830 DISEASES AND THEIB TEEATME1STT. yielding shell of horn which makes the inflammation when very intense, extremely painful, and rapidly destructive in its effect. Treatment. It is evident when such a large volume of blood is obstructed, and active inflammation is set up, that there must not only be great local but general disturbance, and that it is of the greatest importance to relieve this as quickly as possible, if re- sults would be prevented, which would destroy the health and mobility of the foot. The inflammation is primarily limited to 1. Transverse section of the hoof. 2. Horny laminae. 3. Vascular laminae. 4. 5. Small cells be- tween the podophyllous and keraphyllous tissues. 6. Section of the tubes of the hoof. A As will be seen this beau- tiful structure is entirely destroyed in front part of foot as shown in Figs. 738 and 742. FIG. 736. Section of hoof laminaa largely magnified. the sensitive lamina and sole, which, if allowed to go on, seriously involves the periosteum and bone, when it is called peditis, which is of a more serious character, referred to hereafter. I will first give the treatment pursued by Dr. Summerville,* with whom I studied, which is practically the standard treatment used by all the old practitioners. I include it mainly because I know of its effectiveness from personal experience. If the case can be treated as soon as the disease begins to develop, bleed from the neck vein from four to ten quarts, according to the size and condition of the horse ; that is, if the horse is large and fat, and consequently full of blood, and the attack severe, then the larger quantity mentioned may be taken. Afterward give a purgative * Dr. William Suramerville, No. 127 Erie Street, Buffalo, N. Y. LAMINIT1S, OE FOUNDER. 831 ball, not enough to physic severely, but to open the bowels freely, which, as explained definitely under the head of " Physicing," for an average sized horse should be from 4 to 7 drachms aloes, 1 dr. ginger, barsoap enough to make a mass, and made into a ball. Af- ter the fore shoes have been removed, poultice the feet thoroughly with bran and cold water as follows : Fill two small bags, sufficiently large to hold three or four quarts, with bran, put a foot into each, FIG 737 ._ Front view of the pedal . bone ia a and tie loosely around healthy condition. See the great the top with a string. contrast with Fig. 740. Keep wet either by pouring on water, or by putting each poul- ticed foot into a bucket of water. This man- ner of poulticing should be kept up for four or five days, when the shoesmay be tacked on and the horse exer- cised a little. Cloths wet with cold water should be tied around the coronet, and the soles stuffed with flax- FIG. 738. Posterior view of a healthy pedal-bone. *, , ,-, seed meal, or any other means of keeping the feet wet for a week or two can be used. The horse should have tepid water to drink, and warm bran mashes during the operation of the medicine. If the disease is 832 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. stubborn, as is rarely the case, a second ball may be given after an interval of four or five days. All the cases coming under my observation in the Infirmary during the year in which I was con- nected with it, and all that have been treated under my super- vision since then, invariably yielded to this treatment. If the case has run two or three days without treatment, or not been treated properly, I would advise opening both toes by thinning out their soles, and the feet put into moderately hot water so as to extract a quart or more of blood from each. If this cannot be FIG. 739. Showing the great change of structure produced by severe inflammation. done, then open the veins freely at the coronet. If treated as di- rected it is rarely that the attack will not pass off in four or five days. Dr. Charles Meyer advises the following mode of treatment, which he has used with great success: " If the animal is taken within the past twenty-four hours, have the shoes removed, and put the feet into a tub of hot water. Wind flannel wrappings or bandages around both legs up to the elbows, and keep them constantly wet with hot water for from two to three hours. In the meantime have the horse well covered with blankets, and give the following remedy : 30 drops fluid extract aconite. 1 ounce oil of sassafras. 2 ounces salt-petre. 1 pint linseed oil, , OH FOUNDER. 833 " This is to bo given at once. There will be a profuse perspira- tion in from fifteen to twenty minutes. Keep the blankets on about six hours, then remove and put on dry ones. Keep wet swabs on the horse's feet, and stand him on wet clay. All stiffness and soreness in the feet will be removed in from thirty-six to FIG. 740. Internal view of Fig. 737, showing the great displacement of pedal bone. The dotted lines show the point to which the foot should be trimmed. seventy-two hours. In the meantime give one of the following powders :" 3 ounces bicarbonate of potash, 6 ounces nitrate of potash, Make into six powders, and give two every eight hours until well. Dr. William Shepherd, of Ottawa, Illinois, in an address before the State Veterinary As- sociation, advised treatment as follows :-<- " In the treatment of acute lam- initis, as soon as possible after having discovered that the animal has been foundered in the feet, or has acute laminitis, which is the same thing, have the shoes taken FIG. 741. Showing the direction of the bone-cells as thrown out from the podophyllous tissue. off, place the feet in a deep tub of warm water in which some hay hag been put to form a soft foundation for the tender feet to rest 53 834 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. on. Keep them there for about an hour, then take them, out and put them in warm poultices, composed of equal parts of slippery elm bark and linseed meal. Be sure the poultices envelop the whole hoof. Have a deep soft bed placed under the animal. Give a purgative, which should be one-half of the ordinary dose, as su- perpurgation is apt to follow otherwise. If Barbadoes aloes be the agent employed, four drachms will be found sufficient. Give a dose of aconite, say ten drops every twenty minutes, until the animal has been thrown into a profuse perspiration. Cover him with warm blankets. The poultices should be changed twice a day, and after taking them off put the feet in water, as above recommended. Continue this treatment for three or four days at least. Feed no grain, simply bran mashes, vegetables, and hay. When shoeing FIG. 742. Position of the bones of the foot in a healthy condition. the animal, see that the shoes are wide-webbed, the hoof-surface being convex, still leaving sufficient flat surface for the wall of the hoof to rest comfortably on. If it is a valuable beast, have him turned out on low land pasture in about two weeks after the com- mencement of the attack. Should he be stabled, keep damp swabs on while he is housed. This treatment is applicable to either acute or sub-acute, which I have here treated as one disease, and which, in fact, it is." DR. HAMILL ADVISES If there is simply a congestion of the extremities and fever, then treat as a fever locally and generally. Give as sedatives aconite and nitre internally, with cooling applications locally to the feet. If the inflammation is so extreme as to cause a de- struction of the suspensory power of the laminee, then it is advis- LAMI1SUTIS, OR FOUNDER 835 able to bleed quickly. If purgatives are advisable, give calomel and aloes in the proportion of 1 to 2 drachms of calomel to 4 to 7 of aloes. In a conversation with Dr. Walton (house surgeon of Co- lumbia Veterinary College) on this subject, he advised treatment as below, and the better to explain it, referred to treatment pur- sued in the management of a very bad case, as follows: " The horse had been driven through a rain-storm twenty miles ; was stiff in all four feet, and unable to stand. The shoes were re- moved, and poultices applied to the feet. At first, aconite 15 drops, then 10 drops an hour were given for the first 3 or 4 hours. At the came time, as the horse was in considerable pain, hypodermic in- FIG. 743. -Abnormal condition of foot caused by Laminitis. jections of about two grains morphine twice a day, oz. dose ni- trate of potass four times a day, were given. Water was given freely. Ho recovered in four or five days. His temperature was 105. As soon as the fever commenced to abate, the aconite was reduced to five drops about every three hours." Prof. Williams says : 'Should there be much fever, I know of no treatment so ef- fectual as aconite in repeated doses, giving 20 drops of the tincture of tho root every two hours in water, until the pulse decidedly falls. If the pain is veiy severe, I advise giving attention to this first by administering one or two full doses of opium or morphine. For local treatment to t'ae foot, I advise enveloping in large warm poultices, or wrap in numerous woolen cloths, and keep them wet with hot water. After the urgent symptoms have passed off, cold instead of hot applications will rovB mo'st effectual. 836 DISEASES AKD THEIE TBEATMENT. A country horse doctor of my acquaintance, who is a good, deal of a genius in his way, treated laminitis with decided success as follows : " First, put the feet of the horse, up to the knees or over, into as hot water as he can bear, to which add one pound of mustard, and have a man on each side with a sponge apply the water from the tub to the chest and shoulders for twenty-five or thirty minutes, adding more hot water as it cools. Next, take him from the bath to a close stall, and cover with three or four heavy blankets, and let the men rub his legs for half an hour, then bleed in plate-veins (the large veins running down the inside of the leg, above the knee), taking from a pint to a quart of blood from each leg ; after which FIG. 744. A sectional view of Pig. 741. An exact drawing of specimen showing grain of new growth of soft, spongy horn. apply some moderately stimulating liniment to the legs and shoul- ders to keep up the circulation, and give a dose of physic. .Remove one blanket after another as he cools off, leaving on the last one, and give some soft feed. On the second day exercise the horse a little, and usually on the fourth day ho is in a condition for work."* J have included this variety of treatment the better to give a clear understanding to stablemen and others as to what they can do in an emergency. The first method, which I will call Summer- ville's, I know to be entirely reliable ; at all events, I have not known of a single case out of a large number treated on this plan * The horse oil no account should be put to work so soon if it can be avoided. LAMINITIS, OK FOUNDER 837 that did not entirely recover, without, so far as I could see, any evidence of the sole dropping. But as few have the conveniences, or know how to bleed, it is very important to be able to treat such cases without bleeding. On this account, I have added the details from other leading practitioners, and, as will be seen, there is the best of assurance of other treat- ment being equally relia- ble. In any event, should the farmer or horse owner find his horse foundered, and no veterinary surgeon available, he can at least resort to the simplest meth- ods, such as putting the feet in a "tub of hot wa- ter, in which is a lot of hay or straw ; bathing the forward parts thoroughly, as di- rected by Dr. Meyer or the country horse-doctor. If there is much fever, and the fever medicine or aconite is available, give that. Give all the water the horse wants to drink, which should have the chill taken off ; open the bowels by enemas and back-raking ; give a lit- tle saltpetre in the water ; feed bran mashes and boiled oats, in addition to keeping the body com- Fio. 746. Inferior view of bones shown in Fig. fortably clothed, etc., or *45. Part to the right diseased. COVer the feet with poui- FIG. 745. Posterior sectional view of pedal bone showing changed and weakened condition from the effect of inflammation. 838 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. tices as directed. The important point is not to lose time in combating the difficulty from the start, but resort to all means available that will give relief, and thus a valuable horse may be saved, which under the ordinary circumstance of delay, indecis- ion, and ignorant bad treatment, would be inevitably ruined. I have forgotten to mention in place, that it is important, when there is extreme pain, to give relief for it by giving one to two drachms of powdered opium or five to ten grains of morphine, or, if available, by injecting under the skin one to two grains of morphine, as there is nothing that tells upon the strength of a horse so quickly as severe pain. CHRONIC FOUNDER. When the inflammation is very intense, and is allowed to con- tinue very long, there is an exudate or lymph thrown out that separates the wall from the sensible laminae at the toe. In time there are immorphus horn cells, grown from the sensitive laminae, or phodofilous tissues of the coffin-bone, making a soft, spongy horn, which, pressing against the wall in front, forces the anterior part of the bone downward against the sole, making it bulge downward, and in some cases perforating it, with a corresponding falling in of the wall above, producing what is termed a drop sole, which will be more or less marked according to the amount of disorganization. I give two very interesting specimens of ex- treme cases. The first was obtained by me of Prof. Cressy, of Hartford, Conn. ; the second from a specimen furnished by the Columbia Veterinary College, N. Y. They are drawn half size, and are exact reproductions of the originals. When there is in- flammation in the feet involving the bones, it is surprising to what degree the pedal bone is liable to become absorbed, changed in form, and have its texture weakened. Figs. 745 and 746, which were also obtained from Dr. Cressy, show the great amount of change and absorption that may be produced from this cause. They rep- resent the superior and inferior views of a bone that had been very much absorbed and turned up at the outer edge, cut in two, and united to sections of an ordinarily healthy bone, to show the extreme change produced in its form. The part outside the dotted lines was so porous that it could be looked through as CHRONIC FOUNDER. 839 plainly as through the texture of coarse cloth, and its fibre was so weak that it would crumble between the fingers. Fig. 747, also obtained from Prof. Cressy, is another interesting specimen show- ing the upper view of another bone of the same character. Fig. 748 is a side view of this bone, taken on an exact scale, showing the remarkable bending up of the edges, and its thinness, it being not over three-quarters of an inch at the pyra- midal process or front of the joint. Fig. 749 is a bottom view of the same kind of bone, and was obtained of Dr. Fi(} 747 ._ Showing absorption and change of form Walton of the Colum- in pedal-bone, the effect of inflammation. bia Veterinary College. Being engraved from a photograph, it did not work up so well. Instead of being flat as it appears, the outer edges were bent up- ward over a quarter of an inch, with the edges ragged and broken. I include also a specimen showing effect of inflamma- tion by the pressure of the toe-calk, and excessive rasp- ing of the wall. Fig. 750. These remarkable changes of structure in the foot gen- erally, especially in the ped- al-bone, when compared with that in a state of health, we see to be very great, and explain the destructive effect of inflammation when allowed to continue for any length of time. Reference can also be made to the many interesting specimens following the chapter on Navicular-Joint Lameness showing this. Many of these specimens will show not only the navicular but the outer edge of the pedal-bone to be fractured. FIG. 748. Side view of the above, showing bending up of the edges, etc. 840 DISEASES AND TtlEIR TREATMENT. In some extreme cases where inflammation runs high, and is allowed to continue very long, this separation of the wail from the internal structure may be continued so far as to cause ulceration of the coronet and loss of the entire hoof ; but this is rare. There is no cure for chronic founder. All that can be done is to palliate it to the best advantage. Some good practitioners, when they suspect any exuclate at the toe, and a separation of the lam- inae, open the toe, so as to give free vent to it. This I would regard good practice. When there is some dropping of the sole, the best way to produce a healthy condition of circulation and cell-growth is to put on tips or very thin shoes that will allow pressure upon the sole. (See Tip's, page 643) ; better still in addition would be allowing the horse to run on soft or gravelly ground. (See standing on ashes, etc., on next page). PEDITIS, OK INFLAMMATION OF THE Os PEDIS. When there is severe inflammation of the feet (laminitis) the Periosteum (membrane covering the bone) and the pedal bone sometimes become involved, when it is termed Peditis. This is indicated by the horse showing intense pain, getting up and lying down often. No local treatment seems to check the structural changes that go on ; it will run from one to two months; the horse has a ravenous appetite all the time, and as a rule does not lose flesh. If temperature rises, give sedative treatment, opium, aconite with nitrate of potassa in small doses FIG. 749. Inferior view of pedal bone, referred to in text. Last CATAKBH. 841 FIG. 750. Showing effect upon the bone of pressure of toe-calk and rasping hoof. (not over 1 ounce a day divided into two parts and given in water). When the temperature gets down to 102, stop internal treatment, and treat locally about as follows : It is nec- essary to have a stall with a soft bottom as saw-dust, ashes, etc. Occasionally it is best to dampen the ashes a little during the day, and rake them up so as to form a yielding body to the feet. Throw a little bedding over it at night, and also during the day to give the horse a chance to lie down. Treatment. Apply cool- ing applications, such as cold swabs ; that is, cover the feet with two or three thicknesses of blankets, and keep wet with cold water. After the acute symptoms subside, blister. The point is to lower the fever, and check the flow of blood to the feet. CATARRH. Catarrh, or "cold in the head," is an affection of the lining membrane of the nasal chambers and cavaties of the head. It consists in a congested or inflamed state of that membrane, giving rise to a glairy discharge from one or both nostrils, and when the head of the windpipe (larynx) is implicated, accompanied by a cough. Causes may be classed under predisposing and exciting, as the majority of young horses under five years of age may be said to be predisposed to this affection. The exciting causes are sud- den variations in the state of the temperature ; undue exposure to cold when an animal is in a heated state, especially after a hard day's work or drive ; standing in stables badly ventilated, or any place exposed to cold draughts. Perhaps the most common cause in young horses is placing them in warm stables in the fall of the year immediately on taking them off the pastures. A sudden 842 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. FIG. 751. Suffering from cold. change from a cold to a hot temperature is more likely to cause catarrh than a change from a hot to a cold one. Symptoms. If the horse is standing in the stable he will appear dull, and incline to hang his head in the manger ; the mouth is hot, and the pulse quickened and weak ; the coat is staring, and the lining membrane of the nose is reddened and injected. If the lar- ynx is involved, steady pressure on that re- gion will cause coughing. This is the con- gestive stage, which speedily passes off, and exudation takes place from the vessels, caus- ing a discharge from the nostrils, at first watery, gradually becoming thicker, and of a yellowish color. In some instances this matter becomes pent up within the sinuses of the head, and comes away in large quantities every of three or four hours. A watery discharge from the eye is also very often an accompaniment of catarrh. If these symp- toms become aggravated, the appetite is im- paired, the bowels are costive, and the fceces passed are of a clayey nature, the legs and ears are cold, and the breathing accelerated. Catarrh, if improperly treated, or the ani- mal kept at work and exposed to sudden changes of temperature, is very apt to de- scend to the chest, and is a prolific source of other and more serious diseases, as inflamma- tion of the lungs (pneumonia), or of the cov- ering of the lungs (pleurisy] , or of the bron- chial tubes (bronchitis). FlG - 752.-Nose-bag. In the majority of cases catarrh is but a simple affection indi- cated by a little increase of pulse, a slight discharge from the nose and eyes, the hair roughened, not much appetite, and some cough, which is sometimes severe, and if the patient gets anything like proper usage or treatment no very serious results generally follow. Treatment. At once place the animal in a comfortable, well-ventilated, loose box, as should be clone in all affections of the chest ; blanket warmly, give aconite or some of the fever LARYNGITIS, OE SORE THROAT. 843 medicine ; if the case is serious, as stated, it may run into general inflammation of the air passages, as bronchitis or laryngitis : also hand-rub and bandage the legs ; the clothing and bandages must be removed twice a day, and the body well rubbed over. Give one or two drachms of aloes in solution combined with half a drachm of powdered ginger. Steam the head by means of a nose bag partly filled with scalded bran, into which put an ounce or two of turpentine. Hang the bag on the head same as in cut, be- ing careful not to have it so tight around the nose as to heat or scald it, and be oppressive. Many cases have been suffocated by having the bag brought too tightly over the nose. A few repeti- tions of this will cause the nose to run freely. ' Nurse by giving bran mashes, boiled oats, etc. Rest and care will usually do the rest. In mild cases it is not necessary to use the nose bag. A few doses of tartar emetic and nitrate of potash may be given daily in a bran mash, and the throat rubbed with a stimulating liniment. If there is much inflammation of the throat and air passages, any good liniment may be applied on the throat and around the chest and bandaged as shown in cut. LARYNGITIS, OR "SORE THROAT," Consists in inflammation of the mucous membrane of the head of the windpipe (larynx). It is generally called "sore throat," and is a very common affection among horses, occurring in a variety of forms, being some- times of a very acute nature, and running its course with great rapidity ; in other cases of a milder type, and assuming what may be called a sub-acute form. Causes are similar to ca- tarrh, as undue exposure to Cold and variations in the FIG. 753. Simple method of covering temperature; but in some the throat, seasons it appears as an epizootic disease, large numbers of horses becoming affected with it about the same time. These cases are always of a typhoid nature, more especially when occurring in stables insufficiently ventilated. 844 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. Symptoms of " sore throat " are well marked. The horse holds his head stiff, with his nose poked out, showing the muscles of the neck prominently ; he has considerable difficulty in swal- lowing ; if he attempts to drink, part of the water is returned FIG. 754. Method of covering the throat and chest for laryngitis. From Mayhew. through his nostrils ; the throat is painful to the touch, and the least pressure excites a violent fit of coughing. At the com- mencement of the disease it is difficult to distinguish it from " dis- FIG. 755. Good method of covering the throat for fomenting, or applying stimulants, for laryngitis. temper" (strangles). By the third or fourth day the difference can be easily seen ; the usual tumor of distemper does not ap- pear. The pulse varies ; in some cases but little altered, in others very quick and weak. The coat is also staring, and the function of the kidneys partly arrested. In severe cases the breathing be- comes heavy and laborious. By the third or fourth day from the STRANGLES, OR HOESE DISTEMPEE. 845 beginning of the attack, a greenish yellow matter is discharged from the nostrils. Treatment. The general and local treatment should be very much the same as for cold or catarrh, with the addition of a free use of counter-irritants to the throat, as mustard well rubbed in, or any good stimulating liniment, or even a light liquid blister. Aim to keep up the strength by feeding soft, easily digested food; bran mashes with a little boiled oats in it, carrots, etc., any food that he can eat easily. When the bowels are constipated, as is often the case, clysters of soap and water must be freely used. When the cough is se- vere and hacking, the following ball may be given once or twice a day: 1 drachm camphor. 1 drachm powdered opium. 2 scruples extract belladonna. If the horse is threatened with suffocation, the windpipe should be opened, and a tubo inserted. (See description of opera- tion under head of Tracheotomy.) One of the leading practitioners of the country dictated to the writer the following as his best treatment: Counter irritation of the larynx. The best internal remedy would be, 2 drachms extract of belladonna, 1 ounce chlorate of potass, With a sufficient quantity of honey to be made into the form of an elec- tuary, and applied with a spoon to the back of the tongue. Also use one- half ounce doses of chlorate of potass put into a pail of water, and allowed to remain in front of the animal. STRANGLES, OR HORSE DISTEMPER. This is another form of sore throat occurring mostly in young horses from two to five years old, and which is* familiar to every one. Its design seems to be to throw some poisonous matter from the system, and the object should be to keep the strength of the animal up, and hasten suppuration. The exciting causes are similar to catarrh, transition from cold to heat, as from the pasture to the stable, change of stable from the country to the city. It occurs most commonly in spring, and is usually seen in cold, damp weather. 846 DISEASES AND THE1E TKEATMENT. The general symptoms are very much the same as explained in the previous difficulties, the distinguishing points are, the horse is out of sorts ; the neck be- come sore and stiff; an enlargements appears be- tween the branches of the jaw, which is hot and tender; there is some dis- charge from the nose. In ordinary cases the tumor goes on to suppuration ; a copious discharge of thick yellow matter takes place from the nostrils ; in about a week the tumor has matured, becomes soft, and points, and either bursts or should be opened ; continues to discharge for some time, and gradual recovery takes place. But if the case is very severe it will grow worse, often threaten- ing to cause suffocation. The horse is able to eat or drink but little, and strength is lost rapidly. Treatment Provide a com- fortable, well-ventilated stall ; clothe warmly ; rub and bandage the legs ; nurse by giving bran mashes, boiled oats, carrots, etc. Bowels should be opened by in- jections. Use freely a poultice made of wheat bran and warm vinegar, changing as often as the poultice becomes dry, using the eight-tailed bandage until the enlargement becomes soft and can be opened, when relief will be prompt. Or the following treat- ment may be adopted, which is very good and in some cases may be preferable : Take spirits of turpentine, two parts ; spirits of camphor, one part ; laudanum, one part. Put this on the neck with a brush, if convenient, or in any- way to apply it without exciting pain, hree or four times a day until soreness is caused. After each application, have ready three or four pieces FIG. 757. Simple method of covering the tumor when stimulated. STRANGLES, OE HOESE DISTEMPEE. 847 of flannel, which should be a good thick article ; put these over the parts, and bind on with the eight-tailed bandage. Or hot fomentations and poultices can be freely applied to the tumor FIG. 758. The eight-tail bandage. so as to encourage the formation of matter. When the tumor points, open it by cutting through the skin, and if necessary FIG. 759. The eight-tail bandage as adjusted. enlarge the orifice by pushing in the finger, also small doses of saltpetre should be given in the feed, or the following pow- ders night and morning: 1 ounces nitre. 6 drachms tartar emetic. Mix and make into six powders. Sometimes the in- flammation is so deep as to cause serious sore- ness and swelling of the throat. In this case the horse must be nursed carefully by feeding warm gruel ; the drink should be ^ ^-Opentog the abscess in .trungle, warm ; grass or anything that will tempt the appetite should be given. 848 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. GLANDERS AND FARCY. I consider these difficulties mainly to enable the detection of them to prevent their spreading, as they are extremely contagions to both men and horses. They are in- curable, and to guard against the possibility of danger when a case is suspected, the only safe way is to at once either isolate or de- stroy the animal. I depend mainly for my explanation of these diseases upon several old authors.* They fully agree with the statements of modern authors that it is practically useless to tamper with glanders. Farcy in its early stage can be controlled without difficulty, but the medicine injures the constitution seri- FIG. 761. An ordinary ously, and in addition, it is rarely that the case of farcy. disease will not soon break out again or develop glanders. " Symptoms. The distinctive appearances which glanders pre- sent may be slow in their development, and may continue for years, during which he may feed and work well, constituting chronic glanders ; or they may run on rapidly, and in two or three weeks are well marked and soon come to a fatal termination, when it is called acute glanders. " The coat is rough and staring ; he is usually hide-bound ; the belly drawn up, and constitutional disturbance exists, the pulse being easily excited ; the mem- brane lining tho nostrils is of a leaden hue ; the glands inside the lower jaw where the pulse is felt become enlarged, hard and nodular like a mass of peas or beans, especially on tho side from which the discharge takes place usually the left, sometimes tho right, or even from both ; the discharge is clear and watery at first, becoming thicker and sticky, accumulating around the nostril ; cough may bo present, but it is not an invariable symptom. As it advances, the discharge increases, be- comes purulent, of a greenish color, sometimes mixed with streaks of blood ; it is of a heavy specific gravity, and if dropped into water sinks to the bottom ; it has u very offensive Rmell ; the FIG. 762. A piece of farcied skin From Mayhew. * Turner, Youatt, M. Volpi, White, and other?. GLANDERS AND FARCY. 849 gland on the affected" side becomes hard and adherent to the side of the jaw ; ulcerating tubercles form on the nostrils, which have a mouse-eaten appearance, being raised and irregular at the edges, and depressed in the center ; they run into patches, and spread over the" whole nasal septum; weakness and emaciation set in. The ulceration in some cases extends to the cartilages, and even the bones are sometimes implicated, when occasional bleedings en- FIG. 763. A bad case of farcy. Photographed from life by Prof. Cressy. sue. Cough is troublesome ; farcy buds appear in some cases over the body, and he dies a disgusting and loathsome spectacle. " Farcy. Farcy and glanders are essentially the same disease, and depending on the same specific poison in the blood, but mani- festing itself in a different locality. It often occurs in connection with glanders, but is also seen independent of it, running into glan- ders as it progresses. " Symptoms. It usually affects the superficial absorbents of the hind limbs in the groin, extending downward on the inside of the thigh, following the line of the lymphatics, also along the absorb- ents of the neck and shoulders ; little tubercles, or farcy buds, form, which in some cases become indurated and lie dormant for a time, but in most cases they go on to ulceration, producing angry, irregu- lar ulcers similar to the ulceration in glanders ; the virus being con- veyed along the absorbents, the buds extend in knots ; lines of corded and inflamed absorbents are felt extending from below up- ward, the hair being rough and bristling along their course ; by and by swelling of the legs sets in ; as it goes on he becomes 54 850 DISEASES AND THEIE TBEATMENT. emaciated ; the ulceration attacks the nostrils, and glanders and farcy are combined, and death relieves him at last.* A disease called watery farcy must not be mistaken for genuine farcy." As there is liable to be considerable difficulty experienced in diagnosing glanders from common running of the nose from cold, strangles, or nasal gleet, I include the best description I can find of the symptoms as they progress. " The earliest symptom is an increased discharge from the nos- tril, small in quantity, constantly flowing, of a watery character and a little mucus mingling with it. Connected with this is an error too general, and highly mischievous with regard to the char- acter of this discharge in its earliest stage of this disease, when the mischief from contagion is most frequently produced. The discharge of glanders is not sticky when it may be first recognized. It is an aqueous or mucous, but small and constant, discharge, and is thus distinguished from catarrh, or nasal gleet, or any other defluxion from the nostril. It should be impressed on the mind of every horseman that this small and constant defluxion, overlooked by the groom and by the owner, and too often by the veterinary surgeon, is a most suspicious circumstance. "Mr. James Turner deserves much credit for having first or chiefly directed the attention of horsemen to this important but disregarded symptom. If a horse is in the highest condition, yet has this small aqueous constant discharge, and especially from one nostril, no time should be lost in separating him from his com- panions.! " This discharge, in cases of infection, may continue, and in so slight a degree as to be scarcely perceptible, for many months, or even two or three years, unattended by any other disease, even ul- ceration of the nostril, and yet the horse being decidedly glandered from the beginning, and capable of propagating the malady. In process of time, however, pus mingles with the discharge, and then another and a characteristic symptom appears. Some of this is absorbed, and the neighboring glands become affected. If there is * Fig. 762 is a very good illustration of a bad case of farcy photographed from life. t Mr. Turner, during his experiments, refers to a flue mare that had simply a slight running of mucus from one of the nostrils which he pronounced glanders, and highly contagious. Regardless of his advice, the mare was sold. Months afterward he found a number of horses in a stable suffering from glanders, all hav- ing undoubtedly taken the disease from this mare, she having been worked and stabled with them. A large number of cases are referred to by others, caused by being put into the stalls that had been occupied by horses showing the above symp- toms; in one case one horse was the means of inoculating a whole troop of army horses, making it necessary to destroy them all. So it is best to be on the safe side by taking the greatest possible precaution when a case is suspected. GLAUBERS AXD FARCY. 851 discharge from both nostrils, the glands within the under jaw will be on both sides enlarged. If the discharge is from one nostril only, the swelled gland will be on that side alone. Glanders, how- ever, will frequently exist at an early stage without these swelled glands, and some other diseases, as catarrh, will produce them. Then we must look out for some peculiarity about these glands, and we shall readily find it. The swelling may be at first some- what large and diffused, but the surrounding enlargement soon goes off, and one or two small distinct glands remain ; and they are not in the center of the channel, but adhere closely to the jaw on the affected side. " The membrane of the nose should now be examined, and will materially guide our opinion. It will either be of a dark purplish hue, or almost of a leaden color, or of any shade between the two ; or if there is some of the redness of inflammation, it will have a purple tinge j but there will never be the faint pink blush of health, or the intense and vivid red of usual inflammation. Spots of ulcer- ation will probably appear on the membrane covering the cartilage of the nose not mere sore places, or streaks of abrasion, and quite superficial, but small ulcers, usually approaching to a circular form, deep, and with the edges abrupt and prominent. When these appearances are observed there can be no doubt about the matter. " When ulcers begin to appear on the membrane of the nose, the constitution of the horse is soon evidently affected. The patient loses flesh ; his belly is tucked up ; his coat unthrifty, and readily comes off ; the appetite is impaired ; the strength fails ; cough, more or less urgent, may be heard ; the discharge from the nose will increase in quantity, it will be discolored, bloody, offensive to the smell ; the ulcers in the nose will become larger and more numerous, and the air-passages being obstructed, a grating, choking noise will be heard at every act of breathing. There is now a peculiar tenderness about the forehead. The mem- brane lining the frontal sinuses is inflamed and ulcerated, and the integument of the forehead becomes thickened and somewhat swelled. Farcy is now superadded to glanders, or glanders has de- generated into farcy and more of the absorbents are involved. " At or before this time little tumors appear about the muscles, and face, and neck, following the course of the veins and the ab- sorbents, for they run side by side, and these the tumors soon ulcerate. Tumors or buds, still pursuing the path of the absorbents, poon appear on the inside of the thighs. They are connected to- gether by a corded substance. This is the inflamed and enlarged lymphatic ; and ulceration quickly follows the appearance of these buds. The deeper-seated absorbents are next affected ; and one or both of the hind legs swell to a great size, and become stiff and hot, and tender. The loss of flesh and strength is more marked every day. The membrane of the nose becomes of a dirty, livid color, the membrane of the mouth is strangely pallid. The eye is infil- trated with a yellow fluid ; and the discharge from the nose becomes more profuse, and insufferably offensive. The animal sents one mass of p^tr'e'fa'ction, an'd at last dibs '' 852 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. As stated before, chronic catarrh is a discharge from the nose, affecting only the lining membrane of the nose ; and there may be also enlargement of the glands, staring coat, and debility, so that it is sometimes difficult to distinguish one from the other during the early stage of glanders. Then again, ulcerated teeth may produce the same symptoms of discharge from the nose of a very offensive character, which may be taken for glanders. So that, when there are the characteristic symptoms of glanders, it is very important to look closely to the condition of the teeth is there any enlargement or ulcerous secretions in their neighborhood, which may extend into the nasal cavity ? When the horse is val- uable, and there is any doubt about the case, the best way is to in- oculate some worthless horse with some of the virus ; if glanders, it will show itself very quickly. " The usual method of doing this is to first cut off the hair from the side of the neck or other part of the body about the size of a half dollar ; then take a lancet and pass it under the cuticle, or scarf-skin, only deep enough to bring a few drops of blood. The matter is to be introduced into this opening with a thin slip of wood of the form of the lancet. If the matter is glanderous, the part will become sore in two or three days, and a scab will form on it, which, in a few days will be thrown off, leaving a peculiar kind of ulcer, which will often spread rapidly, causing a painful swelling of the adjacent parts, with corded lymphatics and farcy buds. In about a fortnight the glanders will appear." Prof. Robert Jennings, of Detroit, an old veterinarian of much experience, speaks in the Veterinary Journal of Comparative Medicine of a number of cases supposed to be glanders, which proved to be caused by ulceration of the teeth, which he cured without difficulty. Could refer to a number of cases of this char- acter if necessary. The test of inoculation would of course be conclusive. Treatment. The following are favored prescriptions for farcy : 5 grains arsenic. 1 drachm extract of nux vomica. For a drench in a pint of water twice a day. Prof. Williams. 1 drachm sulphate of copper. 1 drachm iodine. This amount in a pint of water twice daily. Prof. Williams. GLANDERS AND FARCY. 853 drachm sulphate of copper. \ drachm sulphate of zinc. 3 drachms anise-seed. Make into a ball with common mass, and give once adiy. Prof. Gamgee. I drachm sulphate of copper. 1 scruple calomel. 3 drachms to ^ ounce common turpentine. Liquorice powder, enough to form the balL Prof. Coleman. 3 drachms of sulphate of copper given every night in the food until the animal refuses to eat. After a few days repeat ; but if the case is bad, give the medicine in water as a drench, if he will not take it in his food. An Old Practitioner. The following, which was obtained by the writer years ago in Ohio, was regarded very valuable for the cure of farcy. It was claimed to be a great secret, and was repeatedly sold for fifty dol- lars, as a specific for farcy : pound sulphur. pound saltpetre. 1 ounce black antimony. If acute, give one tablespoonf ul twice a day. If sub-acute, once or twice a week. Two parties who have used the above, assured the writer that they had cured farcy with it, and regarded it a very valuable prescription. The ulcers are to be opened and dressed with disinfectants, and treated as for an ordinary ulcer, great care being taken not to get any on the persons, as, should there be the least abrasion of the skin, it would inoculate the system. It is proper in this connection to state that glanders may be developed in consequence of being kept in low, damp, badly ven- tilated stables, when debilitated by hard work and insufficient nourishment ; also as a sequel of weakening complaints, such as neglected or improperly treated strangles, influenza, etc. When glanders is known to have existed in a stable, or is se- riously suspected, it is advisable to thoroughly cleanse the manger, etc., so as to prevent the possibility of contagion. The most care- ful experiments have proved that glanders can only be communi- cated by the virus ; and though it may be dried and lay for even a year, it has still sufficient vitality to impregnate with the 854 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. disease. It has been supposed that the only way to get rid of it would be to tear down the stable and build it anew an old vet- erinarian of much experience so stated to the author as his opinion. But the following precautions are now regarded to be entirely sufficient : The manger, rack, or whatever there has been within the reach of the horse, upon which matter could be thrown or could touch, and this will include partitions and every part or ob- ject in the vicinity, should be scraped, and scoured with soap and water and then thoroughly washed with a solution of chloride of lime, about a pint of the chloride to a pailful of water ; the walls should be whitewashed ; the pails newly painted, and the iron work exposed to a red heat ; the halters, clothing, etc., used upon the case should be burned. The only means of preventing the disease is to keep the stable cool and well-ventilated. Hot, close, badly- ventilated stables, it is claimed by all authors, are strong causes of the disease. There are many jockeys who make it a business to trade for horses of this character, fix them up by cleansing the nostrils, etc., and trade them off. As before stated, during the early stage it can only be detected by slight running from the nose. Such vil- lainous practice cannot be too severely condemned as a crime, which should be promptly punished to the extent of the law. CHKONIC COUGH Is often a sequel of sore throat (laryngitis), as also of distemper (strangles), and is a disease from which, when once fairly estab- lished, complete recovery seldom occurs. It consists in a chronic in- flammation of the many glands imbedded within the lining mem- brane of the larynx, causing an irritation of that highly sensitive organ. The cough is easily excited by pressure externally, and is of a deep hollow nature, differing materially from the loud sonorous sound of the healthy cough. It is often associated with other diseases of the chest, as broken wind, thick wind, etc. The cough is generally most severe in the morning or after meals, and is always aggravated by gross feed- ing. In many cases chronic cough interferes but little with a horse's usefulness, especially if he is used for ordinary farm work, but it must be considered an unsoundness. CHKONIC COUGH. 855 Treatment. If the horse has been affected for some time, treatment is generally very unsatisfactory, and must be more of a palliative than a remedial nature. If only recent, treatment may be undertaken with better chances of success. Give the cough ball as recommended for laryngitis, and apply the follow- ing liquid blister, or any good counter-irritant, externally, and in some cases great benefit will attend the use of setons. Olive oil. Oil of turpentine. Aqua ammonia, equal parts. To be shaken well and rubbed on with the hand. If occurring from intestinal disorder, the treatment of course must be directed to the proper seat. The medicinal treatment is greatly assisted by feeding the animal properly and regularly, giving small quantities of food at a time ; carrots in winter, and green food in summer should be given. Feeding nice clean corn- stalks is much better than hay ; if hay is fed, it should be bright and clean, or the dust shaken out of it, and dampened a little, and of this only a limited quantity should be given. If a greedy eater, either remove from his reach the bedding, which he will be likely to eat, or put on a muzzle. The following are also excel- lent cough remedies : 1 drachm camphor. 1 drachm powdered opium. 1 drachm powdered digitalis. 1 drachm calomel. Make into a ball and give every second morning until six doses ar* given. pint tar-water. i pint lime-water. 1 drachm powdered squills. This drink every morning in obstinate coughs. As a sedative to allay the violence of the cough, 4 drachms nitre. 2 drachms powdered opium. 1 drachm prussic acid (dilute). Mix in a pint of mucilage or linseed tea, and give half a tumblerful three times a day. 856 DISEASES AND THEIK TREATMENT An old writer says, "I. have known an obstinate cough cured by drenches composed of a sirup made of molasses arid vinegar ; also bv a decoction of garlic with linseed oil. Barbadoes tar and oil with balsam of sulphur, have also been employed as remedies for a cough." The following is also an excellent remedy : 2 to 3 dr. gum ammoniac. 1 dr. powdered squills. 1 dr. camphor. 1 dr. ginger. 2 dr. castile soap. 20 drops oil of anise- seed. Sirup and flour enough to form a ball. A favorite prescription for curing cough : Put into alcohol all the tar it will cut ; add one- third in quantity of tincture belladonna. Dose, from one to two teaspoonf uls once or twice a day. A simple remedy which will sometimes work very nicely is, Fluid extract belladonna 10 to 15 drops in a tablespoonful of water on the tongue three or four times a day. If there is swelling of the glands of the neck, rub on a sharp stimulant or mild blister. The writer has used this very successfully, and, in fact, mainly depended upon it when on the road for allaying attacks of coughing. HEAVES, OR BROKEN WIND. " Heaves are indicated by an increased action of the flanks The inspiration is natural, but the expiration requires two efforts to expel the air. There is at times a short cough or grunt while the air is being expelled from the lungs. Heaves are never found in the racing stable where the horses are properly fed. They are always found among cart or team horses which are fed upon large quantities of coarse food or hay. The seat of the disease is found in the air cells of the lungs in the form of enlargements and some- times ruptures of the cells. The cause of the disease is the immense quantity of hay forced into the stomach, the greedy animal, perhaps, not being satisfied with his allowance, eats the bedding. The bowels and stomach press hard against the diaphragm, and the lungs not having room to expand, the air cells are enlarged or rupt- ured, and the horse is said to have the heaves. Much has been said by different authors in relation to the curability of the heaves. Some advocate one means, some another, among which is feeding on the Western plains, or upon prairie hay which is said to contain a ' rosin weed;' but like many other remedies, it is only palliative. " In 1842 Capt. Squiers, of Buffalo, N. Y., who commanded on HEAVES, OR BBOKEN WIND. 857 the steamboat { Dewitt Clinton,' owned a valuable trotting mare called Caroline. She had the heaves badly. He took her, in the spring of that year, to Chicago, and turned her out to pasture on the prairie, for the purpose of curing the disease. In the fall he brought her back on his boat, with a quantity of prairie hay to keep her during the winter. During the time she ate the hay, she had no symptoms of heaves. But upon returning again to timothy hay, the heaves returned as bad as before being sent West. (The writer was personally acquainted with Captain Squiers, he being proprietor of the Courter House at that time, where the writer boarded with him.) "Prairie hay and grass is more laxative than timothy hay, and the animal cannot eat half as much in a given time of the former as of the latter. Consequently it promotes a condition favorable to respiration, by stimulating the bowels, and also prevents pressure upon the lungs. I think there are several other means of treatment equally as good as prairie grass or hay ; one is corn stalk fodder. My reason is founded on this basis, that it is by saccharine matter that most animals subsist, and the less compass occupied in the bowels the better. One quart of oats is equal to an armful of hay, and three pounds of corn leaves contain more sugar than six times the bulk of timothy hay. It will be seen, then, that the cause, treatment, and cure are marked in these few words ; that is, that heaves are produced by pressure upon the diaphragm by too much food in the stomach and bowels, and is cured by lessening the quantity of food to occupy the same space. Alter the horse is turned out to grass a few days, the heaves will usually disappear, from the fact that the bowels are generally relaxed by exercise and pure air. The only treatment which will prove to any degree effective, is to give one of the following remedies : % ounce powdered ginger. ^ ounce capsicum. Form into a ball and give three nights in succession; then omit two or three nights, and give again three nights in succession. "Or 8 or 10 drops tincture of phosphorus. Give in the drink several times a day for eight or ten days. " The horse should have regular exercise, and be watered often with a small quantity at a time, and have straw instead of hay to eat. Under this treatment heaves will disappear/' * Prof. Law, in his Veterinary Adviser, says : " Overfeeding on clover hay, sainfoin, lucern, and allied plants ; on chaff, cut straw, and other bulky and in nutritious food, is the main cause for heaves. In Arabia, in Spain, and in California, * The foregoing is a synopsis of Dr. Somerville's lecture to the writer on "Heaves." 858 DISEASES AND THE1E TBEATMENT. where there is no long winter feeding on hay, and in our Territories where clover is not used, heaves is a disease that is virtually unknown ; it has advanced westward just in proportion us clover hay has been introduced as a general fodder for horses, and it has disappeared in England and New England in proportion as the soil has become clover sick, and as other aliment had to be supplied. The worst conditions exist when a horse is left in the stable for days and weeks, eating clover hay, or even imperfectly cured, dusty hay of other kinds, to the extent of thirty pounds and upward daily, and then is suddenly taken out and driven at a rapid rate. Violent exertions of any kind, and diseases of the lungs, are also potent causes. It is mainly a disease of old horses, but may attack a colt two years old. Finally, horses with small chests are most liable, and thus the disease proves hereditary. " Treatment. Turning out on natural pastures, feeding cornstalks and other laxative food, will relieve, and even cure, mild and recent cases. Feeding on dry grain, with carrots, turnips, beets, or pota- toes, and a very limited supply of water, will enable many broken- winded horses to do a fair amount of work in comfort. Hay should never be allowed except at night, and then only a handful clean and sweet. " The bowels must be kept easy by laxatives, the stables well aired, and sedatives (digitalis, opium, belladonna, hyoscynamus, stramonium, lobelia) used to relieve the oppression. If a white discharge from the nose co-exists, tonics should be given as for chronic bronchitis, to which wild cherry bark may bo added. Tar water as an exclusive drink may be given, and a course of carmina- tives (ginger, caraway, cardamous, fennel) may be added with ad- vantage. But nerve tonics, and above all arsenic in five-grain doses daily, and continued daily for a month or two, are especially valua- ble. " No broken- winded horse should have food or water for from one to two hours before going to work." The usual method of treatment adopted by "jockeys," is to feed the horse on cut rye straw, to feed very little hay, and to feed all aliments dampened. Rye straw is cut as you would cut hay, then mixed with bran or middlings, into which a handful of salt is added, and dampened with water. This is fed every night. Oats and other grain is always dampened. Draught horses fed in this way seldom show any sign of heaves. Prof. Law regards the following as the best preparation for heaves: 1 ounce arsenic, Fowler's solution. 1 drachm belladonna extract. \ drachm tincture of ginger. Mix with a pint of water for a drench and give every morning for a month or two. EOAEING. A favorite remedy for heaves, used by Prof. Dick, principal of Edinburgh College, and undoubtedly of great value, is : Camphor. Digitalis. Opium. Calomel. Of each, 30 grains. Make into one powder or ball, and give once a day for a week. If no improve- ment is noticeable, omit the calomel, and give for a week or two longer. 2 ounces Spanish brown. 2 ounces tartar emetic. 4 ounces resin. 2 ounces ginger. Mix and give two teaspoonfuls twice a day in the feed. % ounce vegetable tar, in mass. ^ ounce gum camphor. 1 drachm tartar emetic. Form into a ball, one of which is to be given once a day. 1 ounce indigo. 1 ounce saltpetre. 1 gallon rain-water. Mix and give a pint twice a day in the feed. ROARING. This is a very annoying difficulty, for which there is no satis- factory treatment. Like chronic cough, it often follows an attack of laryngitis or of distemper (strangles), and in these cases we believe it is owing to a wasting (atrophy) of the muscles of the head of the windpipe (larynx), whereby its calibre is diminished, and when the air rushes in during violent exertion, a roaring sound is produced. The senseless and cruel method of tight- checking, in addition to the throat latch being often buckled so tightly as to obstruct the breathing, is also a very common excit- ing cause. Symptoms. When the horse is not excited, and so long as the air passes in a uniform rate through the larynx and windpipe, the animal does not feel any inconvenience ; whenever he is excited or galloped, causing a rush of air, the roaring noise is produced. The sound in ordinary circumstances is only produced on inspira- tion, but in very severe cases the sound is audible both on inspira- tion and expiration. 860 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. In some horses, roaring is difficult of detection. There are several tests which can be resorted to with the view of detecting it. It may often be readily detected by taking the horse firmly by the head and striking him suddenly on the side, causing him to start forward ; if a grunting noise is emitted, it is always a suspi- cious circumstance. But the better test would be to gallop the horse sharply for some distance, then pull him up quickly, and by applying the ear to the nostrils or 'to the windpipe, any abnormal sound will at once be noticed. A good test in the case of draught horses is to compel them to draw a heavy load. Treatment must be principally palliative ; much can be done by generous and regular feeding, and never allowing the animal to overload his stomach and bowels. Occasional doses of laxative and sedative medicines tend to relieve the more distressing symptoms. In the early stages, continued applications of tincture of iodine is beneficial when applied to the throat. With this the following mixture must be used internally : 4 ounces powdered prickly ash bark. 3 ounces powdered belladonna leaves. 6 ounces powdered licorice root. Mix the above with molasses into a soft mass, and give a piece as large as a black walnut on the back of the tongue, with a flat stick, twice a day. This must be continued for at least one week, after which give the remedy once a day for two weeks. Have the hay well dusted, and moisten all feed given the patient. The above treatment will always cure, or give relief, providing the disease is not too far advanced. Great relief is sometimes experienced by putting a seton on each side of the neck for some time. Sharp blistering may also be tried, but is not nearly so effective as setoning. The following treatment for the cure of roaring, or whistling, as it is termed, has been used by Mr. E. D. Conklin and others in Cleveland, Ohio, and they claim the most satisfactory results. Mr. Conklin, who is a large owner of horses, and perfectly reliable, states that he cured one very bad case ; could not pull a load two rods up hill without blowing and choking down ; was completely cured in six weeks. Has tried it in a number of cases, and always with satisfactory results. The treatment was introduced by Dr. BKONCHOCELE. 861 Johnson, of Cleveland, who claims he can cure any case. As there is no really satisfactory treatment for this difficulty in regular practice that I know of, I give this remedy and state my author- ity. It can be tried with safety. 1 ounce Fowler's solution. , 20 drops sulphuric acid. Give the horse in the evening 30 drops of the mixture in about a wine- glass of water, on the tongue. Spongia Tosta, first dilution (a homeopathic remedy), 10 drops in the morning, to be repeated alternately for from four to six weeks, giving more or less, and for a longer or shorter time, according to the severity of the case, until a cure is effected. Dr. Johnson also found that when the horse is choking with severe inflammation of the throat, called distemper, diphtheria, etc., that giving successively spongia, aconite, and belladonna, after intervals of fifteen minutes, and repeating, is very effective. This prescription was given the writer by Dr. Johnson. Since then Mr. Conklin, in conversation with the writer, stated that in relieving heaves he found it of decided value. Filling a sponge with the spongia preparation, and squeezing it into the nostrils and mouth a few times will give relief. He regarded it very effective and valuable for this purpose. BRONCHOCELE. Bronchocele, or morbid " enlargement of the thyroid gland or body." These are two small glands situated one on each side of the windpipe (trachea), about three inches from the head of the windpipe (larynx) ; they are ductless glands, having no excretory duct, and they are largely supplied with blood-vessels and nerves. Stallions seem to be the most affected by this. It is a tumor usually on one side of the windpipe, and the character of the swelling varies according to its duration. It may be soft or firm, and it may affect the whole gland, or only one side of it ; the tu- mor seldom causes pain, and the animal appears not inconvenienced by it, although very large. The tumor varies in size from that of a hickory nut to as large as a man's hand. It has been regarded by some as a cause of roaring, but it is evident that it has nothing to do with that difficulty. Treatment. Iodine and its compounds seem to have the best effect in removing this enlargement. One part of iodine to six or 862 DISEASES AND THEIK TEEATMEKT. seven of lard, to be applied daily ; and at the same time administer twice a day in solution 1 drachm of iodide of potassium. NASAL GLEET Is the name applied to a chronic glairy discharge from one or both nostrils, of a whitish muco-purulent matter, the result usually of neglected catarrh. The general health of the animal does not seem to suffer ; he looks well, feeds well, and works well. Nasal gleet is not an uncommon disease, and many horses have been destroyed, supposed to be affected with glanders, when in reality they were only suffering from nasal gleet. It is on this account that I have been so explicit in describing glanders. Causes. It is very often the result of catarrh in a chronic form, as stated, induced by further exposure to cold, and want of a proper supply of nutritive food. It may also occur in cases where it cannot be traced to a catarrhal attack of the air passages ; and it occurs oftener in aged than in young animals. Symptoms. The first noticeable symptom is a yellowish discharge from one or both nostrils. The lining membrane of the nose (schneiderian) is altered in color ; it becomes of a pale leaden hue, but does not exhibit ulcerative patches, as in glanders. The discharge may vary both in quantity and quality. It is often retained for some time within the sinuses, and comes away in considerable quantities. In other cases the discharge is continuous, and collects about the nostrils ; the sub-maxillary gland, in cases of long standing, becomes tumefied, but not adhering to the bone as in glanders ; the frontal and nasal bones are affected, and pre- sent an enlargment or bulging out over the seat of the disease. If tapped with the point of the finger, a dull, heavy sound is pro- duced, showing that matter has collected within the sinus. In ordinary cases it is a long time before it materially affects the horse in his working capacity. When the bones are greatly dis- eased, and the matter collects within the nasal sinuses, it interferes with respiration, causing laborious breathing, Treatment. Although a formidable disease, even the worst of cases may recover if properly treated. The successful treatment in all cases where this disorder has existed, has been on the tonic principle. Bteeding and pMiging are posativfely usurious. NASAL GLEET. 863 good food and moderate exercise, sponge the nostrils with tepid water, or steam the head, as described for catarrh, once or twice a day, and administer mineral or vegetable tonics, as 3 ounces sulphate of copper. 1 ounce powdered gentian. Make into twelve powders, and give one in the food morning and night ; or, the sulphate of iron in two-drachm doses twice a day. The nasal cavities may be injected with a weak solution of sulphate of zinc or of alum ; or of sulphate of copper, about five grains to an ounce of water. When the bone is diseased, and matter collected within the sinuses, it is necessary to trephine the bone. After operating, inject the sinus with tepid water twice or thrice a day, followed by injecting any of the astringents already recommended. The opened sinus sometimes fills up with a fungus growth, which must either be removed by the knife or by means of caustics. I include here treatment reported in the Journal of Compar- ative Medicine and Surgei^y for January, 1883, by John Lindsay, D. V. S., of Huntington, Long Island, which has been so effective that I think it worth while to copy his report in full : " July 5th, 1881, I was called to examine a horse at Clay Pits, Long Island. This animal was supposed to be suffering from glan- ders. As he was a valuable work horse, the owner did not wish to destroy him without my advice. " The horse was a bad case to look at. He was discharging very offensive matter from both nostrils, which had the odor of pus com- ing from a necrosed bone. The horse was much reduced in flesh and very weak. On examination I found him to be suffering from nasal catarrh, and on my stating this to the owner, he wished me to try to cure him. The disease was of three years' standing. At first I thought of trepanning, but having no instrument, I concluded to try injecting the nostrils, knowing from experience that if I could reach the necrosed bones with my solution I could make a cure. " Mixing up one ounce of Calvert's crystallized carbolic acid No. 2, to one pint of water, I injected two ounces ; nto each nostril twice daily. After three days of this treatment, there was a marked im- provement, which after this was less pronounced, but there was a gradual and steady change for the better. At the end of two weeks the animal had improved much in general health, and at the end of four months was entirely cured, and there has been no return of the trouble up to date. " July 24th, 1882, 1 was called to see a horse suffering from a very offensive discharge from his nostrils of one year's duration. At 864 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. times there was a marked subsidence of the discharge, followed by acute exacerbations. When 1 saw the case, it was in one of the acute attacks. Upon examination, I diagnosticated nasal catarrh. " I ordered the same treatment as used in the above case, and in two months a cure was effected, with no recurrence. "August 10th, 1882, 1 was called to see a horse which could not breathe easily, and the owner feared the animal was developing heaves. The breathing was labored, and there was marked evidence of obstruction in the nasal passages. There was not, however, the double action of the flanks commonly observed in horses. Upon inquiring, I found that two months previous to my visit the horse had suffered with a severe discharge from the nostrils, which had since ceased. But two weeks after the nasal discharge stopped, he had trouble in breathing. " I came to the conclusion that the horse had been afflicted with chronic nasal catarrh, and that the turbinated bones were plugged with thick pus. He was placed under the same treatment as the other two cases, and in three days began sneezing, and blew from his nose two large masses of thick and cheesy pus, followed by a return of the discharge. " The continued use of the injections, however, terminated in a complete cure of the case in one month." INFLUENZA EPIZOOTIC CATARKHAL FEVER, OR PINK-EYE. This disease has been so common since 1871, and it has caused such serious losses, that it may well be regarded with great appre- hension by owners. On this account I have been induced to make a special effort to obtain the most reliable and practical treatment for its successful management. So much depends, in the treat- ment of this disease, upon good conditions of care and nursing, that is, careful housing, keeping up the strength, etc., which in the country must be mainly dependent upon the owner, and it is so easy to cause the loss of a case by a little carelessness or bad treatment, that it is especially important to give such details as will enable a successful treatment of this disease. To accomplish this, I not only give the very best explanation of the difficulty and treatment directed by one of the most prominent veterinary surgeons of the country, but the treatment practiced by Dr. Meyer, who informed the writer that he had treated thousands of cases without losing a single one, complications excepted ; that of true pink-eye he never lost a case, and consequently must be ac- cepted as entirely reliable and of great value. Influenza, etc., belongs to the class of diseases called epizootic, which are distinguished by extending over a large tract of coun- INFLUENZA EPIZOOTIC. 865 try, and attacking a number of horses at the same time. In its nature it resembles an epidemic form of catarrh, but it is essentially different, and is easily distinguished from that complaint by its epizootic character, and the marked prostration, and low typhoid form of fever which always accompanies it. It does not affect ( horses alike in all seasons ; some years it is apt to involve the lungs principally, with a marked tendency to dropsical effusion, whereas in others the liver and digestive organs are chiefly im- plicated. Causes. It is usually supposed to arise from "atmospheric causes, ' some changes which are said to exist in the atmosphere which are not easily explained. It occurs mostly in spring or autumn, and is most commonly seen in over-crowded, badly-ven- tilated stables, situated in malarial districts. City horses are more liable to it than those in the country, and coarser breeds are more subject to it than the finer breeds. Poor and over- worked horses are especially subject to the fever. The disease at times comes on as an epizootic. While it is considered decidedly contagious, many veterinarians claim no in- fection. Dr. Meyer informed the writer that while the fever was at its height, in one stable where the sanitary conditions were ex- cellent, and containing one hundred and seventy horses, not an animal was taken with the fever ; while in badly ventilated stables, and under poor conditions, the disease was rampant. This is not, however, fully in harmony with the writer's experience. In 1871, when the fever was very prevalent in the East, to avoid the disease he shipped his horses from Central New York to Mansfield, Ohio. The horses were all in perfect health, and the conditions of care and stabling were the very best possible ; yet when the epizootic reached the town, the first day there were reported in different parts of the place fully fifty horses that were taken with the disease. The writer's horses, five in number, were all taken the same day ; one or two of them but slightly, two of them very severely. Country people, with the hope of avoiding the disease, would hitch their horses about a mile outside the city limits ; but it was soon found this made no difference, as horses running in the fields seemed to be equally subject to it, though not, as a rule, very severely. One farmer who left his horse as stated, far beyond the 55 866 DISEASES AND THEIE TBEATMENT. city limits, when he returned home found three of his horses that were running in the pasture, taken with the fever ; but experience proved that animals subjected to good conditions and care, had it most lightly and made the best recovery. Symptoms. It is early characterized by weakness, a quick, weak pulse, hot mouth, shivering, dullness, watery eyes. The lining membrane of the nose is reddened, accompanied by a watery discharge which soon becomes thick and purulent, accom- panied by sore throat and difficulty of swallowing ; the appetite is impaired, and the bowels costive. These symptoms, instead of abating, as in catarrh, increase, the breathing becomes hurried, and there is lifting of the flanks. The low form of fever is char- acteristic, as also its occurring in spring or fall, and attacking a number of animals in the same way, distinguish it from common catarrh. In some seasons the lungs are primarily affected, and there is great weakness, with a tendency to dropsical effusion ; water accumulates in the chest ; the heart and its coverings are seriously involved ; often the eyelids, lips, and whole head are greatly dis- tended with fluid. In other cases the liver and bowels seem to suffer most, causing great thirst, general uneasiness, costive bowels, and light-colored feces, sometimes covered by slimy mucus, and rapid prostration. " When unfavorable termination occurs, the dullness increases to stupor, the extremities get colder, the breath- ing more difficult and abdominal, the pulse quicker, weaker, and more irregular, until death supervenes." PINK-EYE. Symptoms as given by Dr. Meyer. " The symptoms are shown in a staggering gait, hanging head, trembling, shivering as from cold, loss of appetite ; watery discharge from the eyes, one eye closed, especially the left one. The pulse is quickened and weak, from 50 to 60 in the minute, and the breathing is hurried, tempera- ture 104 to 106. The bowels are bound and the urine scanty. The disease is often complicated with bronchitis, pneumonia, pleurisy, etc., etc. A pinkish color of the mucous membrane of the eye-lids is always present in this disease. There is a discharge from the nos- trils, swelling of the limbs, which are tender to the touch. The ani- mal is weak, lying down most of the time. The body seems to be hot all over. The head hangs low, and in fact seems to be suffering from pneumonia. The only difference between pink-eye and pneu- monia is, that in the former the pink eye is noticeable, and the horse lies down, while in the latter he does not." PINK-EYE. 867 Treatment. The general principles laid down for the treat- ment of common catarrh, are applicable to the treatment of influ- enza ; bleeding, purging, or any method of treatment that would tend to dimmish the strength, must be avoided, as the debilitating tendency is great from the first. He should be placed in a loose- box, the body clothed, and the legs bandaged. If noticed while the shivering fit lasts, one or two ounces of acetate of ammonia may be given with advantage. The bowels should be gently opened by a pint of castor oil and one or two drachms of calomel, supplemented by injections of soap and water. When the rigor has passed off, and the fever runs high, the fever medicine should be given in doses of fifteen to thirty drops, every hoar and a half, or tincture of aconite in doses of about ten or twelve drops, may be given. He should be encouraged to drink water holding small doses of nitre in solution ; should he not drink it, he may have a few mouthfuls of water every hour or two, which of itself is ex- cellent for reducing fever. He should have green food when pro- curable, or a little boiled oats, and bran mash, or anything else he will eat. When the throat is very sore, and the cough troublesoine } rub on the throat a counter-irritant as directed for sore throat, and give the following ball night and morning : 1 drachm camphor, 1 drachm opium, 2 drachms nitrate of potash. Make into a ball with linseed meal and molasses. Should the lungs or bronchial tubes become involved, indicated by the heaving flanks and careful breathing, use counter-irritants of mustard or good strong liniment, or hot fomentations to the sides until there is relief, as directed for pneumonia. From the first, tonic treatment will be found beneficial in counteracting the debilitating tendency of the disease. When all inflammatory symptoms have disappeared, tonics will greatly aid the recovery. Dr. Meyer's Treatment. " Good nursing is indispensable ; should be well blanketed, and fed ori anything the patient chooses to eat ; good air, and the stable should be purified by throwing air-slacked lime iu the stalls, etc.; and from the first, begin by giving the fol- lowing remedies every eisrht hours : 868 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. 1 ounce carbonate of ammonia, 2 ounces cinchona bark, powdered, v- ounce mix vomica, 2 drachms digitalis leaves, " 3 ounces gentian root, Mix and make into eight balls. " Give as much water as the patient chooses to drink, to which add some saltpetre. About two ounces a day should be used. The above balls should be used after the second day by giving one morning and night ; when feeding is resumed, discontinue the rem- edies, and continue with good nursing. Cure in six to eight days. Bathe with hot salt and water." It is also necessary to exercise quite slowly at first, as a very little over-doing or exposure is liable to bring on a relapse, which is almost sure to be fatal. CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS, PLEURISY, INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. It is explained in the article on Circulation (page 732), that when a horse is exposed to cold, or to conditions which derange the circulation, such as changes of temperature, especially after severe exertion or exhaustion, standing in a current of cold air, etc., by forcing the blood from the surface of the body to the internal organs, it will in most cases go to the lungs and surround- ing parts, when it would be termed pleurisy, pneumonia, or con- gestion of the lungs, with possible complications with other parts. This is so common and fatal in its effect, if neglected or not treated properly, that it is very important to have the nature and treatment made so simple and plain to owners and stable-keepers that, in the absence of competent professional aid, they may easily understand and combat it successfully during its insipiency, when it can as a general thing be easily managed. We will first briefly consider the structures involved in pul- monary affections. The windpipe (trachea), after entering the chest, divides into the bronchia or bronchial tubes. These divide and subdivide into smaller tubes, finally terminating in the air cells. The lungs are made up of clusters of those cells ; of a large mass of pulmonary texture called the parenchymatous structure or substance of the lungs ; of blood-vessels, both functional and for the nutrition of the organ ; of nerves and lymphatics ; and COXGESTIOX OF THE LUJSTGS. 869 the whole inclosed in a serous membrane called the pleura, which is made up of two portions, one portion being reflected over the lungs (pleura pulmonalis), while the other lines the inside of the ribs and diaphragm (pleura costalis). The lungs are exceedingly light in proportion to their size, and are very vascular organs ; consequently they are very liable to diseases of an inflammatory character, and the precursor of inflammation is congestion. A good idea of the circulation in these parts can be obtained by a f FIG, 764. Showing the respiratory organs. 8. Trachea; 9. Esophagus; 10. Section of left bronchus; 11. Ramifications of right bronchus ; 12. Right lung; 13. Left lung seen from above; 14. Sternum: 1C. Heart; 17. Posterior aorta; 18. Anterior aorta. study of Figs. 622-627 in Circulation, on pages 733-737, and the other cuts included there. Bronchitis is inflammation of the lining membrane of the tubes of the lungs and lung cells, which is considered in another part of this work ; but as it is frequently connected with lung difficulties, I refer to it again in this connection. Pleurisy is inflammation of the pleura, before referred to (or serous membrane which covers the lungs and thoracic cavity). Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lung tissues, or paren- chyma of the lungs. If we had bronchial-pneumonia, we would have an inflammation of the lining membrane of the tubes and 870 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. the parenchyma of the lungs; if we had pleuro-pneumonia, we would have an inflamma- tion of the pleura, or mem- brane, and the parenchyma or tissues of the lungs. Congestion of the lungs con- sists in an increased determi- nation of blood to the capilla- ries of the air-cells. When one or the other (right or left) lobe of the lungs is so en- gorged with blood forced into them, that they are unable to either receive or discharge blood in proper quantities, thereby interfering materially with the process of respiration ; and consequently, if allowed to go too far, it will cause di- rect suffocation and death. It may exist as an independent disease, or accompany other affections of the chest. The distinguishing symptoms of each, with treatment, will be given farther on. In order to simplify the treatment, I refer next to the nature and effect of inflammation. It is first an increased ac- tion of the blood-vessels. The consequence is an increased amount of blood to the part. The next change to take place is a collapsed condition of the FIG. 765.-Trachia and bronchial tubes. walls Q f the vesse ls. Now H, Trachia; I, Ramifications of bronchial there follows an enlargement tubes; L, Chobaic artery. of the blood- vessels : then the CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS. 871 blood passes the walls of the vessels through the tissues outside of the vessels. The next change is the breaking down of the cellular tissues normal cells ; next a rapid growth or proliferation of ab- normal cells. To go through symptoms : If an external injury, for example, there would be, first, pain caused by the pressure upon the nerves. The heat following would be caused by the chemical changes that are going on within the part. The redness FIG. 766. Bronchial tube, with its bronchules, and ultimate ramifications (natural size). is due to the passing of the blood from the vessels into the tissues; the swelling is due to the breaking down of normal cells and the rapid formation of abnormal cells. The object in all cases, whether internally or externally, is to equalize the circulation as quickly as possible. There are two methods of treatment : If wo know the cause? as, for example, the animal having stood in a draught of air or been exposed to cold, chilling weather, alcoholic stimulants would be the best treatment, not only giving alcohol internally, but rub- bing it on the legs, and cover the body with warm blankets. Rub elbows and hocks to feet, by hand-rubbing or brushes, rubbing quickly, and cover with warm flannels. If not successful, or if 872 DISEASES AND THEIR TBEATMENT. inflammation, before explained, sets in, there will now be a rapid rise in temperature, when there may be a strong stanic pulse ; in that case sedatives would be required. Tincture of aconite has stood the test for years. About ten drops Fleming's tincture four or five times a day, with from an ounce to an ounce and a half of nitrate of potass divided into two powders and given one in the morning and one at night, or the fe- ver medicine, hereafter given, can be used. In the early stage, external means of irrita- tion can be freely used with good results, but are not admissible when the disease has thoroughly set in, as they only aggravate the trouble. If the pulse is weak, stimulants arc re- quired, such as carbonate of am- monia, 2 drachms ; camphor, pulverized, 1 drachm ; and nitrate of potass (as before). Give in one dose three times a day the potass to be given in water separately. Walton. (See also arti- cle on Pulse.) The termination of inflammation will be either in resolution that is, a clearing of the lungs, what is known as a gray heppa- tized state or in a breaking down of lung tissue, which may develop into an abcess, or tubercles, or gangrene, or death of the lung tissues. If the horse is young, and strong, and vigorous, not as much stimulant should be used as for an old horse. If ammonia arises from bedding in stable ; it should be neutral - FIG. 767. Air-cells of lung, with intervening tissue. * , Epithelium; 6, elastic trabeculse; c, membranous wall, with fine elastic fibers. CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS. 873 ized by sprinkling on a little chloride of lime ; too much of it would have an aggravating effect upon the mucous membrane. CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS. Symptom*. It is first noticeable by the horse having a severe chill or shivering fit. He refuses his food, hangs his head between the fore legs or upon the manger, will not move or lie down, breathing quick, panting like. The nostrils are expanded, the head thrown forward ; the countenance expresses pain and great prostration. (See cut.") The pulse is sometimes full and quick, FIG. 768. Horse with congestion of the lungs. but generally quick and weak, scarcely perceptible ; the membrane of the nose and eyes bright red, tending to purple ; ears and legs are very cold, with a cold, clammy sweat at the extremities. When occurring after a hard ride or drive, the horse will become tired and sluggish in his action ; he will perspire profusely, and almost refuse to proceed, except with the greatest difficulty ; he will stand with his elbows turned outward, heaving violently at the flanks ; as before explained, the nostrils are dilated, and the ears and extremities cold ; the pulse is oppressed, or almost imperceptible at the jaw ; the mucous membranes of the nose and eyes are reddened. When of a milder nature, as often occurs in horses suffering from catarrh which have been subjected to a fast drive and exposed to cold draughts, he is seized with a trembling 874 DISEASES AND THEIE TBEATMENT. fit ; the ears are cold, and the respiration hurried, when the ear applied to the chest can plainly detect the imperfect breathing. The inability of the horse to take sufficient air into the lungs, causes great and rapid prostration, and the horse will often, from extreme pain, lie down and get up, resembling colic (Somerville) ; but the coldness of extremities, prostration, and condition of pulse, will, if carefully exam- ined, enable an under- standing of the real cause. A choking noise is some- times heard coming from the throat. In some cases a little blood may be thrown from one or both nostrils. Extreme pros- tration and laborious breathing, and bleeding from the nostrils, show a FIG. 769. Arrangement of the capillaries condition of severe COn- around the air-cells. gestion. Causes. The most common cause is violent exertion when the horse is in an unfit state for severe work ; as, for instance, a horse in high condition is taken out of his stable and driven rapidly for five or six miles ; this induces an increased quantity of blood to the lungs, more than they can dispose of in their weakened condi- tion from the want of regular exercise. It is also caused by impure air, in horses standing in crowded stables, and is often a sequel of catarrh. Treatment. In acute cases it must be energetic. Clothe the body well, and administer stimulants, as 2 ounces sulphuric ether, 1 ounce laudanum. To be given in half a pint of cold water ; or nitrous ether may be given in place of the sulphuric. If no medicinal agents can be conveniently procured, give a quart of warm ale, or a tumblerful of gin, whisky, or brandy, mixed up with hot water or sugar. Have him put into a warm place, with plenty of ventilation, as pure air is an indispensable adjunct in the treatment of all pulmonary diseases. If no relief PNEUMONIA. 875 follows, and there is danger of suffocation, take from four to six quarts of blood from the neck vein, rub alcohol or other stim- ulant on the legs, rubbing well with the hand, and apply hot cloths to the sides and loins, and cover up with dry blankets, so as to induce a free perspiration, and thereby assist in relieving the lungs. There is some difference of opinion among practitioners in relation to bleeding for congestion. Dr. Summerville, who is a very able and successful practitioner, instructed the writer as fol- lows : "If there is much congestion, it is necessary to give prompt relief, which can be done best by taking four to six quarts of blood quickly from the neck vein, stimulate the sides and legs, and give fever medicine as for pleurisy." While he condemns bleeding for pleurisy or inflammation of the lungs, he says, " In a severe attack of congestion, bleeding cannot only be resorted to with safety, but, as above stated, is indispensable ; but must not be carried too far, merely to assist the lungs to throw off the load of blood forced upon them, and to give the medicine prescribed a chance to operate." Prof. Williams also advises the same treat- ment. While he condemns bleeding as a general rule, he adviser., where congestion is so great as to endanger asphyxia, bleeding a little (from four to six quarts), promptly. PNEUMONIA INFLAMMATION or THE LUNGS, As before explained, is inflammation of the substance of the lungs. Causes. It is often a sequel of neglected or improperly treated catarrh. It may also, as stated, be accompanied by pleurisy. A frequent and we may say the most common cause, is exposing the horse while warm to a sudden change of temperature, by allowing him to stand in a cold draught of air, etc. ; getting chilled or wet; washing the belly and legs immediately after exercise and allow- ing the horse to get chilled; removing from a warm to a cold or from a cold to a warm stable, or cold applied to the surface of a heated animal, by which the blood is driven from the skin and extremities to the internal organs. Any slight cold or sore throat may run into pneumonia. Driving rapidly against a cold wind, especially after being confined to the stable for some time, is a common cause, and a horse should be watched carefully after such 876 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. an exposure ; also breathing impure air in overcrowded, badly ventilated stables, or standing in an open, draughty stable. "Any exposure to cold and wet, sudden chills, housing in very cold, draughty stables. Horses kept in ill-ventilated stables are undoubtedly rendered susceptible to many diseases, and to pneu- monia among the rest; but they will bear impure air even better than cold draughts blowing directly upon them. I have repeatedly observed that the slightest cold contracted by a horse kept in a draughty stable has almost invariably been succeeded by pneu- monia, and that if the animal was not removed to a more comfort- able situation, the disease tended to a fatal termination." Williams Symptoms. Pneumonia is almost invariably ushered in by shivering, and coldness of the surface of the body. The breathing becomes hard and full, pant- ing like. The pulse is full and oppressed, running up to from sixty to eighty beats per minute, differing in its char- acter from the pulse of pleu- risy, which is hard and wiry. The ears and legs are cold ; the membranes of the eyes FIG. 770. As the horse usually stands and nose are reddened ; the when suffering from inflammation of the lungs. From Mayhew. animal stands persistently with his elbows turned out, He stands with his nose to- to give more freedom to the lungs. ward the window or door, where he can get fresh air. A healthy horse breathes at an average of ten times in a min- ute, viz., ten inspirations and ten expirations ; and the time occu- pied by the inspiratory movement is longer than the expiratory. In pneumonia the expiration is as long, if not longer, than the in- spiration, and these movements are very much quickened, being an effort of nature to compensate for the impaired action of the lungs. When a cough is present, it is freer and less painful than the cough of pleurisy. By applying the ear to the sides of the chest, in the early stage a crepitating sound is heard, which becomes altered as the disease progresses ; but in a general sense it is easily distinguished by the horse standing with the legs spread, the head thrown forward, breathing quick and hard, and ears and legs cold. PNEUMONIA. 877 Treatment. Blanket warmly and put in a comfortable stall where there will be pure air, and give the following fever medi- cine : 1 ounce tincture of aconite, 2 drachms tincture of belladonna, 3 ounces water. Of this give from 15 to 30 drops on the tongue every 20 or 30 minutes, or about 10 drops tincture of aconite every two hours, more or less, accord- ing to the severity of the case. If the case is severe, apply strong stimu- lants to the legs, breast, and sides of the chest, as before explained, such as mustard made into a paste and rubbed in thoroughly, or a liniment com- posed of aqua ammonia reduced one-half with water, and rubbed in well so as to invite circulation to surface and extremities. Blankets wrung out of hot water applied to the sides in the early stage (for details see Fomentations), is preferred by many. If this is done at the time the fever sets in, either in pneumonia or pleu- risy (the treatment for which is practically the same), with a few doses of the fever medi- cine, it is rarely the horse will not be relieved next day ; but FlG 771. Horse in last stages of inflam- ./. M1 mation of the Jungs. Mayliew. if not, recovery will not com- monly take place before the fifth or sixth day. Give from 2 to 3 drachms nitrate of potass two or three times a day. When there is improvement, which will be denoted by the pulse becoming full and regular and the expression and actions being lively, give less fever medicine and at longer intervals. Should too much be given, it will be noticed by falling of the pulse, sweating, trem- bling, and anxious eye, when it should be discontinued, and stim- ulants would be indicated. Nurse by giving simple food, such as a little bran with boiled oats, linseed meal, cooked carrots, with a little good hay. If there is much weakness, give moderate doses of whisky or brandy, from 4 to 6 ounces two or three times a day, being governed by its effects. If the bowels are bound, move them by enemas. Re- covery will be greatly aided by the use of stimulants and tonics ; 878 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMEJST. liquor acetate of ammonia in 2 ounce doses three or four times a day, may be used. The best veterinary surgeons now all agree that bleeding is not only unnecessary but injurious in treating pneumonia and pleurisy. PLEURISY. As before stated, pleurisy is inflammation of the pleura. Symptoms. It may be sudden or gradual in its attack, the horse showing indispo- sition, sometimes for days previous. He will be dull and heavy in ac- tion for a day or two, unwilling to lie down, pulse not much dis- turbed, or there is a chill, or shivering fit, which FIG. 772. Usual appearance of a horse suffering l as t s from one to three in ; breathing at flanks a little accelerated, countenance is anxious, the head is sometimes turned toward the side, does not lie down. As the disease advances, the symptoms become more marked. The ears and legs become cold ; the pulse, from being a little accelerated, grows quicker, hard, and full ; the head is hung for- ward ; stands up persistently ; breathing hurried ; the membrane of the nose and eyes red. Turning the horse round, or hitting against the chest, back of the shoulder, will cause a kind of grunt. The ear applied to the chest will detect a rough, rasping noise, and there is generally present a short, painful, suppressed cough, easily excited by pressure on the larynx. Causes. Are similar to those of pneumonia, such as variations in temperature, exposure to cold while warm, standing in draught of cold air, impure air, etc. Pleurisy occurs as an independent disease, or, as before stated, may be accompanied by inflammation of the lungs. If neglected or not treated properly, is a very dan- gerous disease. PLEUKISY. 879 Treatment is practically the same as for pneumonia. Put give fever medicine ; blanket in a cool, well-ventilated stall the body, neck, and legs warmly ; if at all serious, using stimulants on the extremities, and hand- rubbing thoroughly, with hot fo- mentations to the sides ; the gen- eral treatment, in a word, is the same as for pneumonia. Should there be cough, or soreness of the throat, it is to be treated in connection, as directed for lar- yngitis. I wish now to call attention to what must not be done. First, give no physic nor oil for any form of inflammation of the lungs. Cathartic medicine is poisonous, such as aloes, oils, or tartar emetic. There is so much nau- sea during the operation of these medi- cines, and debility from their effect, that they do harm. There is such great sympathy between the bowels and the lungs, that they hasten the cause of in- flammation of the lungs, often caus- ing death within a few hours after ad- ministering them. Next, do not bleed FIG. 773. The pleura as it appears when inflamed, magnified. FIG. 774. Section of pleura showing blood-vessels greatly injected with blood. for pleurisy, as so doing will cause debility of the capil- laries of the part, \, r hich would induce hydrothorax, or dropsy of the chest. This will be somewhat puzzling to owners and sta- ble-keepers, and especially to those who may be guided by Youatt and other good old authorities who invaria- bly advised this treatment. FIG. 775. Showing adhesive inflammation of the pleura. The better to aid my readers, I include also the directions 880 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. given by Prof. W. W. Williams, president of the new Veterinary College of Edinburgh, Scotland, who is now recognized as being at the very head of the veterinary profession, and the most reliable authority : " 1. Place the animal in a well- ventilated loose-box, but where the air is not too cold. 11 2. Clothe and wrap the body, extremities, arid head in suitable but not too heavy cloths. " 3. Give it as much water as it will drink, adding to the water, if there is much fever, about an ounce of nitre, or 20 to 30 drops of tincture of aconite, to the bucket full. "4. If the bowels are bound, loosen them by injections of oil or warm water. "5. If there is much weakness, give two drachms each of car- bonate of ammonia and camphor, in the form of a ball, twice daily. " 6. Let the food be simple, laxative, cooling, and nutritious, as bran, boiled linseed meal, good hay, or cooked carrots or turnips. " 7. If moderate diarrhea or profuse staleing come on, they are on no account to be checked, as this is an effort of nature to throw off the disease. " 8. If there is great exhaustion, moderate doses of whisky may be given, but there is no use of pushing them, unless their good effects are soon seen." The attention of the writer has been particularly directed to the value of the fever medicine before recommended in the treat- ment of pleurisy and pneumonia. During the year of his stay in Buffalo with Dr. Somerville, it was invariably used for all cases of chills and fever with remarkable success. Indeed, the writer does not remember a single fatal case, even of those that had been caused by exposure, or from badly-ventilated stables, or of an epizootic character, when treated within a reasonable length of time. Tho usual course was blanketing the horse comfortably warm and giving this medicine, in about the proportion and at intervals stated ; the size and the condition of the case determining how much to give. A great many times while on the road the writer has had occasion to use this medicine for chills and fever, and always with success. Indeed, if this is given promptly, with anything like ordinary care, aided by other means as directed, there need be but little danger of failure. The point is, as repeat- edly stated, to take the case in hand promptly at the start ; watch closely the condition of the animal that has been exhausted, or hard-driven, and exposed to cold, especially during chilly, rainy weather, and if any indication of chill is noticeable, give a little of TREATMENT FOE PNEUMONIA. 881 the fever medicine once or twice, and blanket warmly, and it is rarely any serious trouble will follow. The medicine is put up by Dr. Somerville, as a specialty, for the use of stable-keepers, and is regarded of great value. The real point of its value, I believe, is in its dilution. Simple tincture of aconite reduced, so far as the writer is able to understand,, hav- ing all the beneficial effects claimed for the combination with bel- ladonna or veratrum. Dr. Somerville is a thoroughly educated practitioner of the old school, of great experience, and his success in the treatment of chest difficulties (pneumonia) has been remark- able ; and he has depended mainly upon this preparation, anti- fever medicine, for his success. The method cf his putting it up now may be somewhat different from the formula given ; but it will be found in every essential all that is required, by giving in addition, in cases of intermittent chills, quinine or other tonic medicine. The writer would in all cases, if available, prefer using that prepared by Dr. Somerville,* as he is very careful to have the qual- ity of the medicine reliable. It is put up in convenient form, and the extra expense is merely nominal, and he would advise his friends to obtain it of him or his agents, when available. DR. CHAS. A. MYER'S TREATMENT. In conversation with Dr. Myer on the treatment of pneumonia and pleurisy, he stated that he treated them with decided success without using aconite, which is recognized as the best sedative for fever. I requested the details of his method of treatment, which I here include as an important addition to what I have already given on the subject : Have the animal well blanketed and cared for in a roomy stall, where there is plenty of circulating air, and give one of the following balls every eight hours: 1 ounce carbonate of ammonia, 2i ounces pulv. chincona bark, ^ ounce pulv. iiux vomica, 3 drachms pulv. digitalis leaves, 2 ounces pulv. gentian. Make into eight balls. *Dr. Win. Somerville 127 Erie street, Buffalo, N. Y. 56 882 DISEASES AND THEIR TBEATMENT. Also give the following in water twice a day : 6 ounces nitrate of potash. 1 ounce bicarbonate of soda. Make into six powders. Have the animal's chest rubbed with alcohol two or three times a clay for the first two days. Feed nutritious food, or any- thing that may tempt the animal to eat. The medicine must be continued until the animal commences to lie down, which will be from the sixth to the eighth day. PLEUKISY. Symptoms rather obscure. Animal dull, dejected, oft* his food, sweats easily, pulsation from 60 to 80, small and weak, tempera- ture 102 J to 104; above this is sure death. Sometimes there is a cough from commencement, but often or in about half the cases there is no cough. During the first three or four days the extrem- ities and ears are alternately hot and cold, appetite almost wholly lost. The fecal and urinary secretions are considerably lessened. The membrane of nose and eyes are injected. Tongue is generally foul, belly tucked up, does not lie down. The thoracic walls are fixed, breathing almost wholly abdominal, and elbows turned. If made to move suddenly, especially turning short around, there is a groan or growl. Breathing quick or catching-like and short. Often the right side only is affected. Treatment. Hot applications to the chest. This can be done best by wringing blankets out of hot water and applying them to the chest, two or three blankets, one over another, and all cov- ered with oil cloth or other blankets so as to keep in the heat. Rub limbs with alcohol ; they may also be loosely bandaged. One of the following balls should be given every eight hours : -^ ounce powdered opium. l ounces muriate ammonia. 3 ounces powdered chincona bark. Mix, and make into six balls. Give the animal anything he will eat or drink. If the horse is taken during the early stages, this will cut it short in from 48 to CO hours. If in an after stage swelling begins to show itself below the chest walls, that is, between the fore legs, and extending back- ward, shows the least symptom of the trouble known as Hydro- thorax, give the following remedy : Fluid extract digitalis, from twenty to twenty-five drops, more or less according to the size of the horse, every four hours, and continue until the swelling begins to lessen, then the intervals of giving the drops should be length- HYDKOTHORAX 883 ened to eight hours. If the swelling is very large, the skin should be punctured in from twenty to thirty places, and the parts bathed with hot water three to four times a day. HYDROTHORAX, OR WATER IN THE CHEST. This is a sequel of pleurisy when neglected or not treated properly, and which can scarcely be said to be curable. When pleurisy is running into this difficulty, there may be some appear- ance of recovery ; the breathing and fever are not so intense ; the horse will perhaps eat a little ; the skin looks sleek and glossy ; these signs of improvement may continue for several days, but if the pulse is gradually increasing in frequency, and its strength diminishing, there is undoubtedly water forming in the chest. When this has taken place to any great extent, there is diffi- culty in breathing, and a flapping of the nostrils ; the eyes are clear and unnaturally prominent ; the intercostal spaces bulge out, and the ear applied to the chest can only detect the respira- tory murmur above the surface of the fluid ; the legs and breast will swell ; the circulation becomes more and more impaired, the pulse getting weak and indistinct. Prof. Williams states, in relation to the cause of hydrothorax : " Of the termination of pleuro-pneumonia in hydrothorax, I have only to say that since I have abandoned the heroic or counter- irritating treatment [he advises hot fomentations to the chest ; discards all blisters and irritants], hydrothorax has been almost unknown to me. For this the principle of treatment is stimulants, tonics, and diuretics." I give the treatment of a leading author- ity, who advises as follows : " Give a pint of warm ale combined with one ounce of nitrous ether three times a day ; blisters applied to the sides, and iodide of potassium in 1 drachm doses twice a day ; feed the animal on nutritious and easily digested food. "When a large accumulation of fluid takes place, it must be re- moved by tapping. The puncture is usually made in the intercostal space between the seventh and eleventh ribs, near their junction with the cartilages. The space between the eighth and ninth is usually recommended. An incision is first made with a lance through the skin, the trochar and canula is carefully pushed through the muscles and pleura, directed slightly upward and backward, keeping it close to the anterior border of the ninth rib, so as to avoid wounding the intercostal artery ; when the trochar is with- 884 DISEASES AND THEIK TEEATMENT. drawn, the fluid flows freely through the tube ; sometimes it gets obstructed by coagula of lymph, which should be cleared by insert- ing a small whalebone staff. Care must be taken not to allow air to enter the cavity, as death has often occurred from this cause during the operation. It is advised before making the incision to draw the skin aside so as to form a valvular wound, at the same time taking care to prevent the entrance of any air. The operation may be repeated in a day or two on the other side ; but in most cases the relief is but temporary. In any event tonic treatment, such as sulphate of iron, tincture of gentian, stimulants and diuretics, iodide of potassium, are to be depended upon if successful." Hydrothorax was a very common result of pleurisy, when treated by bleeding, blistering, etc. The congestion or inflamma- tion in the first place is due to debility, and bleeding only increases it ; and especially when the bleeding is repeated, though for a time there was apparent relief, fever and increased debility fol- lowed, resulting usually unfavorably. The treatment advised for pleurisy, if the case is attended to promptly, even though very severe, will be found so effective as to leave but little probability of any serious effusion taking place. TYPHOID PNEUMONIA. Cause is mainly attributed to those influences which inter- fere with the general health and vigor of the animal, among which stand pre-eminently overcrowding, improper ventilation, confinement in damp, filthy stables, drinking bad water, holding in solution decomposing organic matters, insufficient nourishment, and undue exposure, together with what may be termed, generally, atmospheric causes. Symptoms. The horse is off his feed, disinclination to move, appetite gone, pulse weak and low ; will sometimes eat a little, will not lie down, stands hanging his head, is listless and stupid, not much cough, rarely any discoloration of the membrane of the nose or eyes ; urine scanty and high colored ; feces hard and coated. After two or three days the membrane of the nose and eyes is a little discolored or red, pulse quicker, 65 or 70, breathes quicker. About the fourth or fifth day there is usually a discharge from the nostrils, of a blackish brandy colored cerum. Treatment. As the word typhoid means low, it is necessary to watch it carefully in that stage, which will last as described in BKOKCHIT1S. 885 the symptoms, the first four or five days, when in many cases the pulse may run down to thirty. Stimulants should be used at this stage, such as a little brandy and water or whisky and water. A gill or two of liquor to be given as a drench, or what is much bet- ter, is, take carbonate of ammonia, from one to two drachms ; powdered ginger root, one to two drachms, made into a ball with honey or molasses, and given twice a day. It should be remem- bered that this treatment alone is intended only for the low stage of the disease. When the pulse seems to rise to fifty or sixty about the fifth or sixth day, the patient should then be treated as for pleurisy, with fever medicine. Under the influence of the latter treatment, the pulse will recede and resume its natural number of beats (forty). In this form of disease the horse is extremely pros- trated at first, the whole system being inactive. The pulse may run up in time to seventy, or even eighty. The horse should be kept moderately warm, clothing thoroughly the head, neck, and extremities ; he should have a comfortable, well-ventilated stall ; open the bowels by enemas ; give tepid water to drink in which is a little nitrate of potash, as advised for pneumonia. Nurse the horse with anything he will eat, a hand- ful of wet hay, a carrot or two, an apple or a potato, or anything of an alterative nature. Be careful not to exercise too soon. BRONCHITIS. Bronchitis, or inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bronchial tubes, is often associated with inflammation of the lungs, but also occurs as a separate affection. Causes are similar to other pulmonary diseases. It is a result of laryngitis, or catarrh; or it may depend on atmospheric influ- ences, and in these cases it is always accompanied with great weak- ness and prostration. Symptoms. There is a short, dry, and husky cough, speedily becoming more prolonged. When a horse gives a natural cough, he opens his mouth a little; but when laboring under this disease, he keeps his mouth closed, trying to suppress the cough. As the disease advances, the mouth becomes hot and dry, the ears and extremities alternately hot and cold, the pulse not hard and wiry 886 DISEASES AND THEIE TBEATMENT. as in pleurisy, but soft and compressible, and the respirations are quick and hollow. If the ear be applied to the breast, a rattling sound can easily be detected; the bowels are inactive, and the ap- petite is gone. Death may occur in from three to five days. Treatment the same as for laryngitis, explained on page 845 ; counter-irritation to the throat, and if there is fever, give fever medicine or aconite, as for pneumonia. If the cough is very dis- tressing, give the following every night and morning : 1 drachm extract of belladonna. 2 scruples powdered digitalis. 1 drachm camphor. 1 scruple powdered opium. COLIC. Colic is so common as well as dangerous a difiiculty, often proving fatal in a few hours, that it is of the greatest importance to know what to do, and to be able to do it promptly when it oc- curs; since, if treated properly, it is rare that it cannot be re- lieved without difficulty; whereas, if neglected, or not treated properly, as stated, it frequently results in the death of a valuable horse. There is no disease about which there seems to be so much difference of opinion among horse-men. When the horse is taken sick suddenly, showing the symptoms of colic, the owner, or some neighbor called in who is presumed to know, assumes at once it is caused by bots; another supposes it is belly-ache; while a num- ber of others who may be present, are equally positive in stating what they believe to be the cause of the trouble. The treatment, too, is on the same principle, equally doubtful, if not ridiculous. The first and most common remedy is plunging a knife into the roof of the horse's mouth to bleed, so as to give blood to the bots, or relieve the colic, or "whatever it is" ; this hap-hazard cutting is lia- ble to sever the pallet artery, and endanger the horse's bleeding to death. I have several times, when traveling, been called to treat cases so gashed in the mouth that they would have bled to death if not stopped promptly. (See Bleeding further on.) The next resource is, running the horse up and down the street, or kicking him in the belly, giving sweet milk and molasses, including a variety of other remedies advised by friends. No one would pre- 888 DISEASES AND THEIE TBEATMENT. tend to be able to explain definitely the nature of the trouble ; but they believed it was this, that, or something else, and the conse- quence was that the poor horse was liable to be tortured for hours, often killed, by cruelty or repeated dosing with remedies that were not applicable to the case. While it is true a horse may show the symptoms of colic, from a variety of causes, which would mislead the judgment of even good practitioners, it is so exceptional as to be scarcely worth referring to here. It was stated in another part, by the writer, that he employed a veterinary surgeon of unusual skill and experience, to instruct him in his method of treatment for the cure of such diseases as are most common and dangerous to horses in this country, includ- ing the prescriptions used by him for the same. The first morning, while waiting in the ofiice for the com- mencement of this instruction, the doctor came in hurriedly, say- ing, "There is a horse here that has colic; I wish you to observe his condition carefully; notice what will be done for him; in the meantime read every authority in the library on the causes and symptoms of colic, but do not read the treatment, as the treatment given in books is not reliable, and would only mislead you." As directed, I noticed carefully the condition of the case and the effect of the treatment, which was favorable. In the mean- time I read up on the subject, and that evening I was given a lecture on colic, when the doctor informed the writer that he had killed hundreds of horses before he knew how to treat it success- fully; and that the treatment given in books, and generally ad- vised, could not be depended upon to cure colic with anything like certainty; that even veterinary surgeons of very high stand- ing could not feel any certainty of being able to cure colic ; that it was found especially difficult to cure flatulent colic, or tympan- ites. " Now," said he, "we can cure every case that comes into this stable, if we can have an opportunity of treating them within a reasonable length of time, or before there is a colapsed condition of the circulation." The opportunities for treating colic in the Infirmary were very many. The Erie Canal heads at that place, which necessarily con- centrated a large number of canal horses in the vicinity, which, with those of the city, brought to the Infirmary almost every day a number of horses suffering with colic ; and during my experi- COLIC. 889 ence there of a year, there was not a single death from this cause ; an< I since then, extending over a period of twelve years, I have used the same treatment in the cure of a great many cases, and had it used under my supervision, without the loss of a single case ; this treatment I give first, having the utmost confidence in its great value. There are two forms of this disease, namely, spasmodic and flatulent colic. The first is wholly of a spasmodic nature, and if not promptly relieved, will, in severe cases, run into inflammation of the bowels, causing speedy death. The second, while exhibit- ing the same general symptoms, shows marked enlargement of the belly, from generation of gas, which, if not checked and neu- tralized, results fatally by rupt- uring the diaphragm, causing suffocation and death. The ad- vantage of this treatment for colic was first, in making a fair trial of the best anti-spasmodic, laudanum; then, if it failed to give relief, or if there was re- lapse, bleeding promptly, which not only gave relief with more certainty, but prevented a tendency to inflammation, thereby making a cure when medicine proved unavailing. Secondly, in giving peppermint for flatulent colic. He found by experimenting that peppermint was the only remedy he could depend upon for neutralizing the distending gas ; and its combination with ether, as the best for giving relief. Causes. The common causes of colic are a sudden change in the feed : very often during the summer when running at pasture^ if taken up for a day, and a feed of oats or dry food given, it is apt to cause gripes ; feeding new oats or new corn is a common cause ; applications of cold water to the body; drinking freely of cold water when heated, especially if hard well-water, often gives rise to a severe attack; worms and other intestinal irritants may in- duce it; costiveness and unwholesome food often cause it; over- loading the stomach, or being put to work on a full stomach, will give rise to it. FIG. 777. First stage of Spasmodic Colic somewhat exaggerated. MayTiew. 890 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. J COLIC. 891 Symptoms. The animal is suddenly seized with pain in the bowels, becoming restless and uneasy, crouching, sometimes strik- ing up towards the belly with the hind foot, looking round to his flanks, evincing great distress; he gets down after several appar- ent efforts, rolls about, sometimes on his back, sometimes quite over.* (These symptoms I try to illustrate by Figs. 780 and 781, which of course are ideal, but will serve to give a good idea of the main symptoms. Fig. 777, which I copy from Mayhew, is con- Fio. 779. First stage of Spasmodic Colic. siderably exaggerated, head being held too high, showing too ex- cited and nervous an expression, and the hind leg brought too near the body. Fig. 779 shows a common symptom of the early stage, drawn under my own supervision, and is more natural.) Profuse perspiration breaks out over him. The paroxysm soon * He may also act as if he wanted to make water, which he cannot do, there be- ing a spasmodic contraction of the urethra. Hence the desire to give diuretic medicine. Straining in this way is usually prompted by a desire to relieve the mus- "cles of the belly. No diuretic medicine should be given, as the horse cannot pass urine until the attack of colic ceases, or it is taken from him with a catheter. It ie very seldom necessary to use a catheter. In fact, it is not necessary to pay any at- tention to this symptom. As soon as relieved of the colic, the horse will pass water freely. 892 DISEASES AND THEIE TEE ATM EN T. passes off, and he gets up, shakes himself, and begins feeding ; dur- ing the interval the pulse is unaltered ; the legs and ears are natural in temperature. After an interval of longer or shorter duration, FIG. Second stage of Spasmodic Colic. the attack returns, pernaps with increased violence, when he gathers himself, falls down and rolls about as before, vances, the symptoms become more severe. As the disease ad- FIG. 781. Third stage of Spasmodic Colic. Youatt, in his description of colic, contrasts its symptoms with those of inflammation of the bowels, and though not exactly ac- cording to modern authorities, it will materially aid the reader in determining the difference ; so I include it, I would also refer the COLIC. 893 reader to the description of each by Dr. Meyer, which follows on page 895. COLIC. INFLAMMATION. Sudden in its attack. Gradual in its approach, with previous indications of fever. Pulse rarely much quickened Pulse very much quickened, in the early stage of the disease but small, and often scarcely to and during the intervals of ease, be felt, but evidently fuller. Legs and ears of natural tern- Legs and ears cold, perature. Belief obtained from rubbing Belly exceedingly tender, and the belly. painful to the touch. Relief obtained from motion. Motion evidently increasing the pain. Intervals of rest. Constant pain. Strength scarcely affected. Rapid and great weakness. If not checked, or there is not relief, it runs into inflammation of the bowels, which is very fatal, and the point is to combat and overcome it before running so far as to resist treatment. This disease being wholly of a spasmodic character, it must be counteracted by anti-spasmodic treatment; and laudanum be- ing the most powerful and reliable anti-spasmodic, it is indicated. Treatment. Give from two to three ounces of laudanum and a pint of raw linseed oil.* If not better in an hour, give two ounces of laudanum and the same quantity of oil. If there is not relief in a reasonable time after the second dose is given, take from six to twelve quarts of blood from the neck vein, according to the size of the horse and the severity of the attack.-)- Always in bleeding make the orifice large, and extract the blood as quickly as possible. In the Infirmary the practice was, as stated, to try the medi- cine, and as soon as convinced it was not sufficient to relieve the case, no time was lost hi bleeding. Or, if a case was brought in that had been suffering some time, not only medicine was given, but bleeding was resorted to at once. * This is the dose advised for a large horse. For a medium or small sized, nervous tempered animal, two-thirds the quantity would be equally large. t It will be rarely found necessary to resort to bleeding if the case is attended to promptly, and *in only very serious cases, where the horse is fat and large, is so large a quantity of blood to be taken. In ordinary cases, six to eight quarts would be sufficient. 894 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. TYMPANITES, OR FLATULENT COLIC. Symptoms the same as in spasmodic colic, with the difference of there being so great an accu- mulation of gas in the stomach and intestines that the belly is swelled. This disease will often prove fatal in from one to three hours. It is generally very sudden in its attack, often oc- curring while the animal is at FIG. 782. Early stage of Flatulent Colic. , , . . , . . work, particularly during warm or changeable weather; but it is generally caused by indigestion, producing gases in the bowels or stomach.* FIG. 783. An advanced stage of Flatulent Colic, or Tympanites. * There are two locations for this disease, the stomach and the colon and coecum; but in either it requires the same treatment, as it is generally produced by the same causes. When in the stomach, it will be distinguished by eructations, or belchings of gas through the esophagus, or gullet. If in the colon or coecum, the horse is violently swollen along the belly, flanks, and sides. The pulse is rarely disturbed until the disease advances, when it will become quickened, running to its height quickly, and receding as rapidly, if fatal. If to terminate fatally, it will be- come weaker and slower until it is almost imperceptible. If the n.nimal is allowed to fall down suddenly, while the pressure of gas upon the walls of the stomach is very great, there is liability of rupturing the diaphragm, which would cause almost instant death from suffocation. TYMPANITES, OE FLATULENT COLIC. 895 Treatment Blanket comfortably, so as to keep up evapora- tion, and immediately give the following as a drench : 2 ounces peppermint. 2 ounces sulphuric ether. 1 pint water. Shake up thoroughly, and keep covered with the hand or cork before ad- ministering. If not relieved, it should be repeated in one-half to three-quar- ters of an hour. If the horse is small, and the attack not severe, less may be given ; while if very large, and the attack severe, even more may be given.* During my practice of late years, when I had a case of colic, I usually gave the following preparation: l to 2 ounces peppermint. 1^ to 2 ounces sulphuric ether. 1 ounce laudanum. 1 pint soft water. After shaking thoroughly, I gave this immediately. I have found it in all cases to give relief. It is particularly valuable to non-professional men who cannot, during the early stage, tell the difference between spasmodic and flatulent colic, and on this ac- count it is the preparation the writer would advise. Stable-keep- ers should always keep it on hand, in readiness for an emergency, as it is very important to be able to treat this disease promptly. If the horse is subject to attacks of colic, which are usually pro- duced by irritating matter in the bowels, it can usually be relieved by giving one or two sharp doses of physic. Dr. Myer's method of treatment is so good, explaining as it does some symptoms, with other points of treatment not given, that I include it in full : 11 First, there is a switching of the tail, followed by a pawing with the fore feet, and acting as if there were an inclination to lie do\vn. Usually gets down and rolls, looks at the belly, rolls, then up again, and seems at rest for a few minutes, when he goes through the same actions again. The pulsation x is full and strong, about natural. By looking at the inner surface of the eyelid there will be some sign of inflammation. When the attack is running into * The ether disturbs the breathing, making the horse apparently distressed, breathing laboriously, which will pass off in a few hours. 896 DISEASES AND THEIR TBEATMENT. inflammation of the bowels, or becomes seated, there will be an in- clination to sweat, an anxious expression in the eye, increased res- piration, the pulsation from 70 to 80, small and weak. The inner lining of the eyelid will be plainly injected or reddened, the animal at times looking toward the flanks; walks almost in a circle; makes attempts to lie down, coming down about half way, gets up and walks around again, which may be repeated a number of times ; finally succeeds in getting down, which he does very carefully, then will lie outstretched for a few moments ; will make an attempt to rise, and will sit up like a pig, as shown in Fig. 787, page 900. "In colic, the horse throws himself down carelessly, rolls around in a careless manner, and then jumps up, an important sign of death. After the case has been treated for some time, he may seem easier ; but if allowed to have his own way, and he wanders off to some unusual place, it is positive proof that he is beyond medical aid. ' ( Treatment for colic. 2 ounces laudanum, ^ ounce spirits of camphor or 1 drachm gum camphor, 2 ounces sweet spirits of nitre, 2 drachms fluid ex. belladonna. Mix with one-half pint of water, and give as a drench. If the patient is no better in one hour, repeat, and, if constipated, use warm water injections. FIG. 784. Trocar and canula. " Flatulent colic, treatment the same as above. In the early stage, if after about half an hour the patient seems no better, give two ounces of essential hartshorn in water, with warm water ene- mas. If by this time there is no flatus, or breaking of wind, and the animal's abdomen or belly is very much distended, and is belch- ing up air out of the nostrils, and commences to tremble in his legs, an operation will have to be performed. Take a lance or knife and make a slight incision through the skin on the right flank, (the ox is always punctured on the left flank, and the horse on the right), at a point where the tympanitic sound is most marked. As a rule, this point is midway between the edge of the hist rib and the hip bone; and about six inches from the lateral processes of the spine about where the cross mark is on Fig. 785. Take trocar and canula, put the point into the incision previously made with the knife. Direct the instrument inward, slightly downward and forward, and hit it a sharp blow with the flat of the hand to send the instrument through to the hilt. Now draw out the trocar, when the gas will escape. When the escape of the gas has ceased, put a finger over the opening of the canula to prevent the air from filling in, and withdraw. When withdrawn, rub slightly with the finger over the wound, and leave it alone. Before performing the operation, give TYMPANITES, OR FLATULENT COLIC. 897 four ounces of vegetable charcoal which has been kept dry, mixed with one quart of milk. The horse will have instant relief after the operation. If he remains quiet, feed nothing for about twelve hours. Give flaxseed tea to drink. After the expiration of this time, feed bran mashes, with oatmeal or ground oats, and continue from four to six days, when the animal will be well. When there is no hope by medicine, this opera- tion is the only treatment that promises success. Should the horse be uneasy after the operation, give one of the balls used for inflammation of the bowels, which should be repeated once in from four to six hours until quiet." During the warm months Dr. Meyer . . . J FIG. 785. The cross show- usually performs this operation from ing the location to be twenty- five to thirty times, to save life. punctured. His loss is about one in ten. I would add that during my experience in Buffalo, I had no occasion to perform this operation, the treatment given proving in every instance effective. This operation, according to standard authorities, has been regarded as seldom successful. I think the FIG. 786. Method of puncturing the cow or ox when bloated, reason is that the case has been allowed to go too long before re- sorting to it. In a conversation with Dr. Meyer in relation to it, he stated that he regarded it as very valuable treatment, enabling him to cure a large proportion of cases which otherwise would be beyond help. As it may in some cases be found necessary to per- 57 898 DISEASES AND THEIK TREATMENT. form this operation, I give a diagram of the body, showing the lo- cation of the point to be punctured, and also add an excellent il- lustration of the method of performing it upon cows or oxen that may become bloated, a very common occurrence in cattle that are turned into a clover-field, and eat too much ; and as most horse- owners are largely interested in cattle, I thought it of sufficient importance to give the illustration in connection with this arti- cle. I give other important remedies for colic those used by the leading colleges and experts under the head of Remedies, in the latter part of this work. When a horse is taken suddenly sick, especially after a drive, or after having been given cold water or a change of food, looking at Ms side, and acting as if he wanted to lie down, etc., simply catch him by the ear, and if it is warm, and the pulse is natural, it is always accepted as a proof of colic. Now, what can be done provided you have none of the medicine recommended ? Give about a tablespoonf ul of ginger in a pint of hot water, well stirred ; or giving as a drench from four to six ounces of good whisky or brandy, is sometimes very effective. Hot fomentations to the sides and belly are also very effective, using woolen blankets wrung out of water as hot as can be borne, and covered with two or three other cloths to retain the heat, and to be repeated as they cool. A hot bran poultice would be some- what better, as it would retain the heat longer. (Full directions for giving fomentations will be found under that head.) The fever medicine, given in doses of from a drachm to half an ounce, has also been found very efficient. INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. Enteritis, also sometimes called red colic, may occur as a pri- mary disease, but more often it is seen as a consequence of colic or constipation of the bowels. It generally proves fatal. As an idiopathic affection, that is, occurring independent of any other disease, it may occur from any of the causes of colic, particularly overloading the stomach. Symptoms. The animal is noticed to be unwell ; he is dull and stupid; refuses food; has shivering fits, the mouth becoming hot, and extremities alternately hot and cold, the pulse being INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 899 quick, small, and wiry. He looks toward his flanks; the bowels are costive ; after a time pain sets in, and is continuous and vio- lent ; he rolls about, the sweat pouring from him in streams ; the eyes are blood-shot ; the belly hot and tender. He does not throw himself violently down, as in colic, but lies down cautiously, and tries to steady himself on his back. As it goes on, the symptoms are augmented, the legs and ears get deathly cold, the pulse be- comes weaker, and soon is imperceptible ; the mouth gets cold and clammy; extravasation of blood is going on in the bowels; morti- FIG. 787. First stage of Inflammation of the Bowels. fication sets in, the pain ceases, and he may stand up. He is dull and stupid, surface of the body cold, mouth cold, twitching of the muscles, and retraction of the upper lip. He soon falls violently to the ground, endangering the lives and limbs of the attendants who happen to be near him, and after a few struggles expires. After death, the bowels are very much inflamed, and the inner surface black and clotted with extra vasated blood. Death some- times occurs in from six to eight hours, and even in shorter time. When occurring in consequence of colic or constipation, it is very difficult to determine the exact transition from spasm to inflam- mation. 900 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. Treatment. In the outset, especially when occurring as a primary affection, and not as a consequence of another disease, copi- ous blood-letting will be advisable from four to six quarts, or sufficient to make an impression on the pulse. He should be turned into a well-littered loose-box, and allowed to roll as he pleases. The bowels are obstinately constipated, but drastic pur- gatives are apt to increase the inflammation ; our utmost efforts must therefore be directed to open them by copious injections (of FIG. 788. A sure indication of Inflammation of the BoweJs. linseed-tea, soap and water, tobacco-smoke, or infusion of tobacco,) back-raking, etc. A quart of linseed-oil, with two ounces of laudanum, should be given, and repeated, in half the dose, every one or two hours, if required. Fomentations of hot water must be constantly applied to the belly, or bags wrung out of boil- ing water. Where, from the violent tossing of the animal, this is impracticable, blister the belly with tincture of cantharides or mustard, and turpentine. If the symptoms do not moderate in a few hours, the pulse continues full, and the legs and ears not very cold, a second bleed- ing may be advisable ; but this is seldom the case, as the prostra- tion is rapid, the pulse becoming small, wiry, and almost imper- INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 901 ceptible, and the legs and ears deathly cold. In this case bleeding but hastens the fatal termination. When it has continued eight or ten hours, if it takes a favor- able turn, the pulse becomes fuller, the surface warmer, and he will lie for some time stretched out, apparently asleep, being weakened from the disease and bleeding, and probably partially narcotized from the laudanum. In this stage he must be made comfortable, and covered up in straw or sheets. We usually "bury" him in straw. This restores the balance of the circula- tion, often causing him to sweat ; and after lying thus for one or two hours, he will get up relieved, and begin to feed. No hay must be given him. After a little, he should be encour- FIG. 789. A symptom of inflammation of the bowels, aged to drink or great internal pain. well-boiled gruel, or eat a thin bran mash. Injections must be con- tinued till the bowels are freely opened. For a few days he must be kept warm; a few mouthfuls of cold water may be given every hour; gentle walking exercise and sloppy diet must be continued for some time. About the fourth day, even though the bowels have become regular, he should have a purgative (from six to eight drachms of aloes, made into a ball), to remove ingesta, and restore the secretions to their natural condition. The following is the treatment advised by Dr. Somerville : " This disease is generally caused by constipation of the bowels, hard driving, over-purging or looseness of bowels, or drinking cold water when warm. Constipation is, however, the principal cause of the disease, and when this is the case, the first and most impor- tant condition of relief is to get an action of the bowels. "Symptoms. For the first few hours the horse is uneasy, paws, looks around at the side, the pulse is slightly accelerated and wiry. As the disease advances, the intermissions between the attacks be- come less, pulse quicker, running from seventy to eighty beats in a minute, in some instances even faster; lies down and gets up, shows much pain, no swelling of sides; now begins to exhibit fever, bowels constipated, urine highly colored and scanty. 902 DISEASES AND THEIK TBEATMENT. "Remedy. Give a quart of raw linseed oil. If constipation is very great, add from four to six drops of croton oil. " If scours or over-purging, give an ounce and a half of the tinct- ure of opium with six ounces of water. But in order to suppress the inflammation, it is necessary to bleed immediately from the neck vein from six to ten quarts of blood, according to the strength and size of the animal. In extreme cases bleeding may be repeated to the extent of four to six quarts in three or four hours. If much pain exists in constipation, give from one to three ounces tincture asafoetida. Feed lightly for a week at least, giving gruel, roots, grass, and bran mashes, and keep quiet. Do not exercise for several days if there is danger of a relapse. This is a dangerous disease, and requires prompt treatment." Treatment advised by Dr. Charles A. Meyer: "The first stage of inflammation of the bowels is when the ani- mal sits on his haunches like a pig, gradually gets up, and walks around as if in great agony ; makes attempts to lie down, and when he does, goes down very carefully ; may make a few rolls ; will gradually straighten out again, attempts to rise, and sits on his haunches again like a pig. This position is a sign of bowel inflam- mation, and to save the patient the treatment must begin in earnest. Should the patient be fat and plethoric, bleed from the neck from two to eight quarts, according to the size of the horse. Apply a strong rubifacient to the abdomen, of 1 lb of strong mus- tard, 2 oz. aqua ammonia, and water sufficient to make into plas- ter; rub in well, and cover with paper, to keep in the heat. Then give the following medicine: " 4 drachms opium, pulverized. 2 oz. subnitrate of bismuth. 4 drachms chloroform. 2j drachms mix vomica, pulverized. Q. S. licorice root. " Make into four balls, give one every 4 to G hours, according to the un- easiness of the patient, who must be kept quiet, and these balls will do it. Feed soft, nutritious food, warm water, and no hay, for about one week." SUPERPURGATION, DlARRHEA, ETC. An over-relaxed state of the bowels may arise from various causes. In some animals it is favored by peculiarities of confor- mation, as is seen in washy horses, animals with long legs, open ribs, and flat sides, with tucked-up bellies, such being liable to purge from the simplest cause. Change of feed, especially from dry to green, or unhealthful food, and sometimes through nervous excitement, is apt to produce scouring. It is usually the evidence of something wrong, and the FIG. 790. General view of the horse's intestines, showing the distribution of blood to them by the great mesen- teric artery. The animal is placed on its back, and the intestinal mass spread out. A. The duodenum as it passes behind the great mesentric artery; J?. Free portion of the small intes- tine: C. Heocaecal portion ; D. Cracum; E, F, O. Loop formed by the large colon ; G, Pelvic flexure; F, F. Point where the colic loop is doubled to constitute the suprasternal and dia- phragmatic flexures. 904- DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. effort of nature to remove it. Some irritant or indigested food being lodged in the bowels, the intestinal fluids arc poured out in superabundance to remove it. The incautious use cf purgative medicines is a common cause of superpurgation. It often occurs in the latter stages of debilitating diseases, when it is always an. untoward symptom, betokening a breaking-up of the vital powers. The presence of little white worms -(ascar ides) is occasionally the cause. It sometimes follows the drinking of cold water when an animal is in a heated state. Symptoms. The symptoms vary according to the nature of the case, and the causes that give rise to it. It may be simply an increased fluidity of the contents of the bowels, as is seen in washy or nervous animals, unaccompanied by pain or constitutional dis- turbance; or, on the other hand, it may be (as in superpurgation) attended by pain, expressed by the uneasiness, pawing, looking to the flanks, etc. He strains frequently, and the foeces are very watery; the pulse is small and hard. Rapid and increasing weak- ness and emaciation, loss of appetite, and unless means are speedily adopted to check it, inflammation of the bowels is apt to set in. Treatment. Great care must be exercised in feeding and wat- ering washy horses, dry feed being best suited to them. They should not be allowed to drink too freely of water, especially be- fore work. In many cases it may be necessary to give them some starch or chalk mixed up in the feed. In all cases, the main point is to discover the cause. If arising from improper food, it must be changed at once. If some irritant be suspected, nature must be assisted in her efforts by giving a quart cf linseed or castor oil, followed up by starch or well-boiled flour gruel, keeping the animal warm. If worms are suspected, or seen in the dung, one or two ounces of spirits of turpentine, or any of the vermifuges recommended, should be added to the oil. Should it not yield to this, neutralize the acids in the bowels by giving an ounce and a half of prepared chalk and a dram and a half of powdered catechu, mixed in a pint of water. Give once or twice a day until purging ceases. Keep the animal without exercise, and do not give much water to drink. If this disease should arise from nervous excitement, give a CONSTIPATION. 905 drachm of powdered opium in the food once a day for three or four days. Or give the following astringent drench : 1 drachm powdered opium, 4 oz. prepared chalk, 1 oz. gum acacia. Dissolve in warm water, and give in well-boiled flour or starch gruel. It may be given two or three times a day, the gruel being given frequently. If very severe, injections of solution of catechu and starch, with a little tincture of opium, should be given. The belly may be stimulated with liquid blister. He must be kept perfectly warm, and the legs bandaged. Care must be taken not to induce an opposite state of the bowels by the inj udicious use of astringents. An ounce each of carbonate of soda and gin- ger should be given daily for some time after recovery. Rest and good dry food are necessary for some time. CONSTIPATION. Constipation is a condition the very opposite of the above, in which we have a diminished action of the bowels, the dung being dry and voided with difficulty, leading to dangerous " stoppage of the bowels." It arises from various causes, especially from being fed on dry, fibrous food. If in pasture in the fall, when the grass is tough and fibrous, with perhaps a scarce supply of water, the fibrous ingesta are liable to become felted together, and impacted in the bowels. Want of exercise, and feeding too much grain, are also prominent causes. It is sometimes accompanied by inflammation of the bowels. Horses that are kept up, or not worked regularly, and especially if fed on dry food, should have an occasional bran mash with plenty of water to drink ; or small doses of laxatives, aloes is the simplest and best, from two to four drachm doses, with green food. If accompanied by colic, or inflammation of the bowels, back-rak- ing, etc., must be resorted to until relieved. Green grass is about the best laxative. All horses, especially those advanced in years, should be watched carefully, and when there is any tendency to constipa- tion, it should be prevented, as before stated, by giving bran mashes, carrots, and raw potatoes ; or, if thought advisable, a lit- tle oil or physic, with regular exercise and sufficient water, and 906 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. there will usually be no difficulty. It is very important to look to this condition ; neglecting it, colic, inflammation of the bowels, etc., may result. WORMS. Worms are most commonly found in the stomach and bowels; they are also sometimes met with in al- most every part of the body. Investiga- tion shows there are over thirty kinds of worms that infest the horse. Dr. Robert Jennings, about twenty years ago, at that time a resident of Borden Town, FIG. 791. Symptom of worms. -v T T i r? T\ x -j. n r- i New Jersey, and now of Detroit, Michi- gan, informed the writer that he had traced out thirty different kinds in the horse, and among others exhibited a piece of muscle that was perforated by a large number of little white worms from one to two inches long. Mr. White, an old author, says: ( ' I have found worms in the wind-pipe, in the mesenteric ar- tery, in an abscess in the substance of the abdominal muscles, and according to Lafosse, they have been found also in the pancreatic and salivary ducts." There are but three or four that are very common. First, the teres lumbrici, a large worm from four to ten inches long, that lives in the intestines. It looks like the common earth- worm, yellowish white and ta- pered at both ends. Second, the ascaris or ascarides, commonly called needle or thread- worm, of a dirty- white color, Usually from FlG - 793 - The appearance of a horse one to two inches long. They that is troubled with worms - are sometimes found in thousands. They have been observed chiefly inhabiting the mucous coat of the ccecum, on the surface of which, it is supposed, they are developed in little cells, which, when ma- tured, burst, producing considerable irritation, and often serious inflammation of the parts. They are also sometimes found to in- fest the rectum in large numbers, and to relieve the irritation they produce, the horse rubbing his tail. WOBMS. 907 Varieties of strongyli and oxyures also occur, and are sometimes mis- taken for ascaris. They are, how- ever, distinct species; the former is tapered, and terminates in a spine, whereas the latter is blunted, with a head like a leather sucker. The strongyli inhabit the ccecum, colon, and duodenum ; the oxyures, the mes- entery, spermatic cord, and in fact almost every organ in the body. The common whip-worm, or long thread- worm, technically called the tricho- cephalus dispar, are found in the cos- cum. They resemble a whip, the shank being about a third, and the thong two thirds of the length, usually about two inches. Sots, which in- habit the stomach, will be referred to especially following this article. There is also a small thread-like worm, called filaria, from a half inch to an inch and a half long, which travels all through the system. This is the worm that sometimes gets into the eye and grows there. The tape- worm is sometimes found in the horse, for which I give a specific remedy used by Dr. Meyer with great success. (I give illustrations of a few FIG. 793. Ascaria Lumbricorde. a, Female; ' rests the foot . . , . * when lame. of illustrations o f which I give. The surface of the coffin-bone is covered by lami- nae or thin plates, running from above downwards, fitting into corresponding plates on the inner surface of the hoof. The sole is also covered by a sensitive structure which is villous, that is, presenting elevations and depressions, which fit into reciprocal horny villae on the sole of the hoof. At the back part of the sole we have the sensitive or fatty frog, covered in a similar man- ner by the horny frog. These, with the coronary ligament (which occupies the groove in the upper margin of the wall of the hoof, and from which the hoof grows), and the coronary frog-band, blood-vessels, nerves, and lymphatics, constitute the foot of the horse. (To make this more plain, I include drawings of differ- ent views of the hoof ; reference can also be made to illustrations in Shoeing.) 942 DISEASES AND THEIR TKEATMENT. Accidents and injuries of the foot constitute the principal bruises from stepping on stones, sharp bodies, treads, etc., besides causes of lameness. It is liable to injury from various causes, as occasionally partici- pating in constitutional derangement ; but by far the greatest amount of injury arises, directly or indirectly, from shoeing. Sometimes, from carelessness, a nail pen- etrates the sensitive part of the foot (usually called the quick). Sometimes the nail itself does not penetrate, but is driven so close as to cause the wall, in its course, to press on and bruise the quick, (something like Fig. 807,) giving rise to inflammation, and usually terminating in suppuration. To illustrate, a fine horse that had been lame for a number of days was recently brought in from the . Showing coun t r y b e examined by the veterinary bones of the foot. surgeon here, who informed the Avriter that upon investigation, he found that the lameness was caused by three nails being driven too near or into the quick. Serious trouble is also liable to be caused by driving the nails deep and clinching them tightly, as this will bend the nails more or less inward upon the soft parts, causing a binding, uncomfortable pressure that produces a soreness, and sometimes very serious inflammation. Symptoms. Lameness may appear in a day or two, sometimes not for a week. The foot is found to be hot and tender, and the least tap with the hammer causes pain; in moving, the animal sets the foot down so as to throw the pressure off the FlG> 807< tender part, and when standing he will rest the foot. Sometimes, the leg swells considerably ; the swelling is sometimes painful, and is very apt to mislead the inexperienced. Treatment. Remove the shoe, and having with the hammer or pincers discovered the faulty nail, thin the sole around it, and THE FOOT. 943 with a fine drawing-knife follow the course of the nail till the mat- ter is evacuated; make a free vent for it, and immerse the foot in a warm poultice for a day or two. When the symptoms subside, the shoe may be applied, and the sole filled with tow and tar, or Friar's bal- sam, tincture of myrrh, etc., re- tained by cross slips or a leather sole, care being taken not to bruise the sole. The crust at the injured part should not rest on the shoe. (For farther details, see page 667 in FIG. 808. The frog removed from % the hoof (Fig. 809) by maceration. 809 A dried hoof with frog removed. From Gamge, on Lameness. 944 DISEASES AND THEIK TKEATMENT. If the nails are driven so deep as to bind, which, as before stated, is a very common occurrence, particularly in feet with thin hoofs, the first thing to do is to remove the nails; if much inflammation, poultice until relieved; then let the shoe extend farther out under the crust, and drive smaller nails, using care not to drive deep. If a nail has been driven into the foot, get the horse to the stable as quick as you can, and take off the shoe. If not done before, FIG. 810. A dried hoof from a diseased foot, with frog and half the sole removed. From Gamgee, on Lameness. remove the nail, glass, or whatever it is, from the foot carefully. See that no part remains, and remove a little of the hoof from around the opening. Drop a few drops of Friar's balsam or com- pound tincture of benzoin into the orifice, both of which can be obtained in almost any drug store. If this is not obtainable, use the simple digestive ointment (given under head of Cuts), and cover the foot with a large flax-seed poultice. If the injury is at all severe, give a sharp dose of physic, and let the animal stand quiet. The object is to keep down inflammation. No hot oils or anything stirnnltitincj its to he applied. If there is much in- FOOT-LAMENESS. 945 flammation, omit digestive dressing until after it is reduced by poulticing, when dress with digestives. There is liable to be tenderness if the sole should strike the ground afterwards, as there may be inflammation of the perios- teum, to relieve which, put on a high-heeled shoe, and blister around the coronet. The sole is sometimes bruised by the shoe pressing upon it, causing much inflammation and lameness. Take off the shoe, poultice for twenty-four hours or more; fit the shoe so as to remove all pressure from the sole; if sore yet, continue the poultice; if matter is formed, treat as you would any simple ulcer, with a healing astringent. Several good preparations are given in another part of this work. FOOT-LAMENESS.* " Symptoms. Horse goes gradually sore, walking tender either behind or before. As a rule comes in one foot ; if in the hind foot, tries to put the heel down first. Kot much fever in the feet. No apparent cause, hard to locate the trouble. The only diagnosis is by tapping the wall of the foot which will give a hollow sound. It is all duo to want of cell-growth or nutrition of horn-cells which will cause tho wall or hoof to separate from the true foot. At the start the horse may travel sore or tender, grow- ing worse gradually for two or three months ; finally the horse be- comes very lame. There is no fever; no pain by pressure or hammering. The only point noticeable is by the hollow sound of the wall when hammered upon. "By examining the sole of the foot at the point where the sole and wall are united, by pricking there with a probo a granulating substance will be found little dry fibers of horn, which are the dead horn-cells. These can be found and pricked clear up to the coronary band, without causing any feeling to the horse. " Treatment. Clean out the foot properly, and pour nitric acid into the crevice made until all the dead part is cleaned out. Then put on a plain shoe so as to protect the sole and wall ; fill out the bottom with oakum and hot tar; next fire all around the coro- nary band, the same as for ring-bone, and apply a sharp blister, and allow the horse to stand five or six weeks. If by the third week there is no sign of healthy horn, the blister may again be applied. But there is usually after three or four weeks a good noticeable growth of healthy horn. " After this, but little more can be done than to exercise the horse moderately, until the new growth of horn-structure has grown down." Dictated by Dr. Charles A. Meyer. OQ 946 DISEASES AND THEIK TREATMENT. SEEDY TOE. This is the name given to a dry, mealy secretion of horn, which is sometimes seen to take place between the horny and sensitive sole at the toe. It is seldom seen in this country, owing to clips being not much used. Causes- It is generally caused by large clips being ham- mered firmly on the toe, bending in the hoof, and bruising the part. Symptoms. Pain and lameness, with heat and tenderness, on pressure at the toe. The horn is dry and mealy, and matter is generally found at the bottom of it. In bad cases, horny processes are found pressing inward, pro- ducing absorption of the coffin-bone, with a tendency for fungus growths to shoot up, producing a very troublesome disease. Treatment. In a simple case, open it up, cut down to the bottom, and poultice for a few days, when the shoe may be ap- plied, removing the pressure by cutting down the crust, and nil it up with tow and hot tar, when it well soon get well. In bad cases, with fungus and bony absorption going on, free incisions must be made ; sometimes it will be necessary to cut through the wall. Caustics must be freely used, such as muriato of antimony, dilute hydrochloric acid, etc., with pressure judic- iously applied ; the process may be arrested, and the part healed. When there is want of cell-growth, with a separation of the wall from the inner structure, which is very common in horses that have been driven hard, or been partially foundered, an- other high author advises the following, which is practically the same as that given for foot-lameness: ''Treatment. Thorough and repeated blistering around the coronet. Next pour boiling hot tar or even corrosive substance, such as muriatic acid, butter of antimony, spirits of salts, etc., into the cavity formed. " Whenever there is a separation of the wall from the sole, with weak or slow growth of horn, this is effectual if there is any life in the parts." In severe cases, as first explained, the firing iron is necessary, first cleaning out the dead part and filling in with hot tar, etc. This is added in order to give a little more extended idea of the method of treatment. (TRAVELLING. 947 GKAVELLING. A small stone, gravel, or dirt becoming imbedded under the shoe at the point of the heel between the bar and frog, usually the inner heel, and working through the sole into the quick, is called gravelling. If not removed, it will in time work up through the coronet, or cause matter to form which will burrow between the wall and sensible sole. The horse shows more or less lameness on the trot; is aggra- vated when driven over hard ground or trotted fast. If not in- terfered with, the lameness continues for about three months, when the gravel usually works through the coronet, making a small break in the skin, after which the lameness disappears; but should the matter be confined to the sole and surrounding parts, it is liable to cause considerable disturbance and injury to the foot. When a horse shows lameness without any apparent cause, this part should be carefully examined, 1st, to discover if the solo is broken at the point of the heel; 2nd, by slight tapping against the wall of the part with a small stone or hammer, to find if there is any unusual sensibility ; 3d, by resting the hand gently upon the part, to see if there is any increased heat, which would of course point to the seat of trouble. Sometimes gravel works into the sensitive part in consequence of the sole being denuded to relieve a bruise or corn. The point is to remove the cause of irri- tation. If much inflammation and pain, poultice; this will lower inflammation, and aid in soaking out and removing any foreign matter accumulated. When this has been done, saturate a pledget of tow with tincture of myrrh, or tar ointment, or Friar's balsam, and insert into the part, covering it completely. Next, fit a shoe so there will be no pressure upon this part, and nail on. It will usually be found necessary to put on a bar shoe until the heel is grown down again and will bear pressure. BRUISE OF THE SOLE. The sole is liable to bruise from the shoo being improperly seated, sometimes from sand or gravel being impacted in the web of the shoe, or by "picking up" a stone, which, getting wedged in the foot, bruises the sole. Symptoms, Lameness first attracts attention to it; in re- 948 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. moving the shoe, the sole is found tender, and the foot hot; on paring the sole, it is found discolored at the bruised part. Treatment. A few days' rest may be necessary, with the foot immersed in a poultice, or stopped with some emollient dress- ing; and by using a leather sole or felt pads for a short time, it disappears. TREADS, OR CALKS. Injuries to the coronet are very common, especially in the Northern States during the winter months, when horses with sharp calks are driven or worked on rough, icy roads or deep snow, par- Em. 811. The coronet as it IG. 812. As the hair should usually appears when be clipped from the edges badly calked. of the injury. ticularly in the woods. Treads, or calks, usually happen on the hind foot, by the horse accidentally setting one foot on the other, or another horse stepping on it. In ordinary cases, if not cut very deep, all that is necessary to do is to cut the hair from the edges, sponge or clean out any hair or dirt that may be driven in, and pour on a little kerosene oil, followed by a little hot tar, or the parts covered with hot tar will be sufficient. But if the cut is deep, it will sometimes prove to be a very serious difficulty, and require prompt attention to prevent serious inflammation of the parts. The first thing to be done in such a case is to carefully remove any dirt, or other foreign matter. When thoroughly clean, it may be bound up with a pledget of TBEADS, OR CALKS. 949 tow dipped in tincture of myrrh, or compound tincture of benzoin, or Friar's balsam, which, if available, will be found an excellent remedy. The point is now to prevent any excessive inflammation. Keep the horse quiet, feed bran-mashes, etc., no grain; and if there is enough inflammation to cause much soreness, cover the foot with a large hot poultice. If the soreness becomes at all ex- cessive, at once use hot fomentations, following up for at least one or two hours three or four times a day; after which keep the leg tied up with wet cloths, or poultice. If there is extreme pain, give an anodyne, or inject a lit- tle morphine under the skin, as a horse cannot endure pain very long, and continue fomentations industriously ; this, ah all events, must not be neglected. In very severe cases it may be necessary to put the horse in slings, if he will nob lie down. When the inflammation sub- sides, but little more is necessary to be done than to let the parts alone, dressed with any of the preparations before given. FIG. 813. The usual appearance of a To illustrate the seriousness foot badly calked, and neglected of these Cases sometimes, I will or improperly treated, refer to an accident of the kind to one of my own horses. One of my men, who had special charge of and drove a favorite pony, took it into his head during the winter to have the calks pointed with steel and made very sharp. While the pony was standing in his stall, with one foot resting against the opposite, he was sud- denly startled by some one approaching, when, throwing his weight upon the elevated foot, the inside calk was driven well into the coronet of the opposite foot. I was kept ignorant of the accident for several days, when it was made known to me by discovering the horse to be lame. The injury at the surface did not seem to be serious, but it was deep. In consequence of being driven on the road, the inflammation soon became so serious that it was nec- essary, at great inconvenience, to leave the horse behind a couple of weeks, the part in the meantime being thoroughly poulticed DISEASES AND THEIH TREATMENT. and fomented. The inflam- mation passing off, and be- ing entirely free from lame- ness, lie was again put to his work on the road, when the roads were break- ing up. Driving him through the deep mud for a few miles, again brought on such serious inflammation of the parts as to necessitate a constant ap- plication of fomentations for hours at a time, night and day, for several days, to over- come it. Fig. 814 is an illus- tration of how he stood when he suffered most severely. I also give specimens of the usual method of sharpening the calks in winter, and as they should be rounded or filed Fro. 814. As the foot was held during the greatest inflammation. FIG. 815. Calks as they are usually sharpened in winter. to prevent serious injury. Owners should not neglect to look to this matter very carefully. The toe and inside calk especially FIG. 816. As the calks should be blunted or rounded to prevent cutting, should be rounded sufficiently to prevent any serious cutting. Concave shoes should be used in winter; with such, calks need OVEEEEACH. 951 not be long or sharp to give sufficient hold. Particular care should be taken not to have any calks or sharp shoes on when there is an effort to subdue a horse. This caution must not be disregarded, as a horse under such circumstances is liable to cut himself dan- gerously. OVERREACH. When a horse, i:i a fast pace, overreaches the fore with the hind foot, the inner rim of the shoe cutting a semi-circular flap on FIG. 817 A good rep- resentation of an in- jury by over- reach. FIG. 818. As the edges of the wound should be trimmed before dressing. the heel or quarter, it is called an "overreach." It should be treated as a tread; but when practicable, the edges should be brought together by a wire suture, and bound up with Friar's bal- sam or compound tincture of benzoin. QUITTOR. In all cases hi which matter forms in the foot, whether from pricks, corns, bruises, or treads, unless it has free openings to es- cape by, it acts as an irritant, extending in every direction, form- 952 DISEASES AND THEIK TREATMENT. tissues, and at last working its way to the coronet, where it bursts, producing a very troublesome disease, and requiring both patience and perseverance to effect a cure. Symptoms. It is recognized by the small aperture at the coronet, which seems almost overgrown with " proud flesh." The discharge is glary and constant. On examining* it with a probe, sinuses are found running in all directions. The quarter is en- larged and bulging, and the lameness severe and protracted. As I cannot do better than give the treatment used by Mr. Gamgee,* which is recognized as the very best, I will give it in full : " After taking off tho shoe, and doing all that is necessary to the hoof, I prepare to inject a mixture, for the pharmaceutical combination of which I say noth- ing, though I can say a great deal for its practical efficiency. To prepare the mixture, take bichloride of mercury, one drachm ; rectified spirit, one ounce; after rubbing and dissolv- ing the sublimate in the spirit, add half a drachm of liquor plumbi acetatis. By means of a FIG. 819.-An ideal representation of a ^ h ^J^ Qr foot showing bad condition pe nter, with email tube two in- of quitter. cheg in length, and bulbous end, I inject the mixture down the sinus. This requires to be carefully but very effectually done. The direction of the syringe must there- fore be Changed from the vertical to the oblique, in both a forward and backward direction, the object being to infiltrate the mass as far as it can be penetrated by the innumerable small sinuses converging to the outer channel. To do this part well, one strong man is better than several hands, if the horse's head be held steady, and an assist- ant hand the instruments, etc. I take the horse's foot forward upon my knee, and, as a rule, succeed in performing the operation with- out giving much pain to cause the horse to resist; though difficulty, requiring a little exceptional care, may occasionally occur when previous treatment and torture have been resorted to. Uow for the effect that follows: The foot is released and placed on the ground, and once or twice the animal stamps, indicating that a * Joseph Gamgee, formerly professor in the new Veterinary College, Edin- burgh, Scotland. QUITTOK. 95S smarting is produced by the caustic agent ; but in a brief space of time that passes, and* signs of ease are manifest. On examining the foot in as shori a time as four hours after the operation, I have found the tumor sensibly subsided, and all the symptoms favorable. We have been in the habit (members of my family used this excel- lent remedy before me) of repeating the injection of the prepara- tion a second time after the lapse of twelve to twenty-four hours, and again, after a similar interval, a third time. And this general rule seems to me to recommend itself, and admit of explanation in this way: At first all the structures are so engorged that the agent cannot be forced through the morbid deposit; but, in proportion as the diseased structures are reached, they are destroyed, and shrink, and in each succeeding application the fluid caustic is pressed round the withered, wasted substance, until the whole comes away in the space of a week or little more, when the cure is far ad- vanced, and thereafter rapidly effected. This represents the prog- ress of a good cure. Sometimes the application has to be repeated several times, at intervals of two or three days ; but where delay is essential, I diminish the activity of the preparation by adding a double portion of spirit." The following treatment for quittor, was given the writer by one of the most successful practitioners in the country, who claims it will cure any case, in fact, leaving nothing to be desired when used properly : "In the first stage of quittor inject into every part carefully two or three times a day the following lotion: ounce corosive sublimate, 2 drachms Goulard's extract, 4 ounces alcohol. " After the fourth day inject twice a day equal parts of the following mixture: 2 ounces potassa chloras, 1 ounce potassa permanganas, ^ ounce acid hydrochloric, 8 ounces water. " This is a splendid thing for quittor, and also fistulas withers. Of late, 1 have great success with it." A bar or three-quarter bar shoe, should be used for some time, and the diseased quarter cut down to keep it from pressure ; and in the course of time the foot will become useful, if not sound. 954 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. THRUSH. Copying the language of a standard authority, " Thrush is inflammation of the lower structure of the sensible frog, during which pus is secreted with or instead of horn." It is most com- mon in the hind feet, and also occurs in the fore. It occurs at all ages, and is frequently seen in the colt running in the straw-yard, arising from the acrid moisture of urine, dung, etc., softening and corroding the frog, and extending to the sensible structures above. It is also seen in roadsters whose feet are not exposed to acrid moisture. In them it is caused by contraction, or the insinuation of sand and dirt into the cleft of the frog, producing irritation, followed by suppuration of the sensitive frog, causing it to secrete unhealthy horn, and discharge offensive matters. It may sometimes be constitutional, as we often observe it ap- pear just as the coat is being changed, and other constitutional changes are taking place in the system. Symptoms. There is seldom much lameness, unless the ani- mal steps on a stone, or sand or gravel gets into the cleft ; but it is always attended by a tender, gingerly action. The cleft of the frog is deeper than in health, and a thin acrid discharge oozes from its sides and bottom, emitting a characteristic and foetid odor. If not checked, it extends, and the frog becomes loose and ragged ; scales fall off in layers, exposing the sensitive parts, which are tender and contracted. If neglected, the entire foot may be in- volved, and it may degenerate into canker. Treatment. No time should be lost, and no case, however slight, should be neglected. The foot must be thoroughly cleaned, and all loose, detached parts freely removed. The secreting sur- face should be exposed, and calomel dusted on, and pressed with a spatula or thin slip of wood into every crevice. Keep the foot thoroughly dry, and more than one or two dressings will seldom be required. Sometimes it readily yields to cleanliness and sim- ple dressings, with hot tar placed in the cleft with tow, and re- tained with cross slips, or applications of sugar of lead or sulphate of zinc. Or, after the parts have been washed, and the diseased part removed as directed, apply powdered sulphate of copper to the parts, and fill up all parts with cotton packed in so as to keep out all dirt. If necessary, this should be repeated in a few days. CANKER. 955 It is generally advisable to give some opening medicine, and attend to the general health and exercise. CANKER. Canker of the foot is apt to supervene in cases of neglected or badly treated thrush, quittor, or puncture, and often follows bad cases of grease. It is most common in heavy draught-horses, that are kept in damp, filthy stables, and is most prevalent about large cities. Symptoms. In this disease we find a morbid state of the sensitive sole and frog, and instead of sound, healthy horn, fun- gus-excrescences are thrown out, with an offensive acrid discharge. "When aggravated, the whole becomes cov- ered with a growth of fungus, which are like shreds of leather in appearance, with a great tendency to spread over or underrun the sole, separating the horny from the sen- sitive parts. It is very difficult to get the horn to grow again. Treatment. In no case is so much pa- tience required as in canker, in fact, it is FIG. 820. The foot, generally considered as incurable, from the Bowing canker, difficulty experienced in suppressing the fungus, and getting the horn to grow again. All loose and detached horn must be care- fully removed, so as to give free vent to the irritating matter. As much of the fungus as may seem practicable, without much bleeding, should be removed by the knife or cautery, and followed up by some escharotic, such as acetate or sulphate of copper, ni- trate of silver, butter of antimony, or sulphuric acid. Whatever caustic is used, it must be applied every day ; for if neglected for one day, it is apt to underrun the sole, and may lose more than it will regain in a week. Firm pressure is very beneficial, and should be constantly applied by means of tow, firmly impacted, and retained by means of slips of wood or hoop-iron slid under the shoe, and the foot must be kept perfectly dry. The caustic may be occasionally changed. To destroy the fcetor, chloride of zinc or chloride of lime may be dusted on, or even occasional dressings of dry lime will be useful. With a dressing of tar, in which verdigris and nitric acid, two drachms 956 DISEASES AND THEIE TBEATMEM. of each to one pound of tar, are well mixed, and applied with a degree of firm pressure, at least every second day, the worst cases can be cured. Moderate work, if it can be done without the foot getting wet, will expedite the cure. The following is highly recom- mended as a dressing : Take equal parts of pine tar and lard, melt over a slow fire, and add sulphuric acid very slowly until ebuli- tion (boiling) ceases. Apply this to the parts. SPRAINS, BRUISES, ETC. Sprains are so common, and so liable to spoil a horse when neglected or not treated properly, and in addition the treatment is so simple and easily applied, that the subject is worthy of more than ordinarv attention. On this account I have introduced several illustrations, showing the parts involved in the fore legs, the parts most liable to such injury. Sprain may be said to consist in an overstretching of the part (be it muscle, tendon, or ligament) to such a degree as to cause rupture of some of the fibres of which it is composed, in consequence of which inflammation is set up, and effusion takes place, producing enlargement around the part. The reason why sprains take so long to recover is, the lacer- ated fibres have to be absorbed, and new ones formed in their place, or, as is often the case in repeated sprain of the same part, their place is filled up by organized lymph, leaving a permanent thickening. Causes. Natural weakness of the part sometimes predisposes to it. It may arise from whatever exposes the part to inordinate exertion, as, for instance, slipping on ice or on a rolling stone, awkward stepping, galloping on rough or uneven ground, and a common cause is, allowing the feet to grow too long. Symptoms. In severe cases the part is swollen, hot, and tender, the limb is thrown into a position that relaxes the sprained part. If extensive, we have symptomatic fever, and he refuses his food, has the mouth hot, pulse accelerated, etc., which passes off when the more acute symptoms subside. Lameness, of course, is continuous, thus differing from disease of the joint, in which he is always lamest at starting, getting less lame as he gets warmed up. Treatment. No matter where the location of the sprain is, SPBAIN OF THE BACK TENDONS. 957 or what part is injured, the principle of treatment is the same, when we have three indications presented : First, to allay the in- flammatory process ; secondly, to promote absorption of the decayed fibres; and thirdly, to hasten the production of new ones. Most authors recommend either local or general depletion by bleeding from one of the large veins near the seat of injury, or from the jugular vein of the neck. This, however, I think is now-a-days very wisely dispensed with, and in my opinion is altogether unnecessary. The bowels must be freely opened, and kept open by laxative and easily digested food, such as bran mash, linseed tea, roots, etc. The continued application of heat or cold to the part aids greatly in checking the inflammatory action. If pain and swell- ing are excessive, hot fomentations continued for an hour or two, alternated with cold water, will be found to give most relief. (For particulars in fomenting, see Fomentation.) Gentle and equable pressure, by means of a judiciously applied bandage, is very beneficial in sprains of the leg. Rest must be given from the first, and the patient must be turned into a loose-box. Having by these means succeeded in subduing the inflammation, one or two applications of an absorb- ing blister will generally remove any enlargement that may re- main. Should the thickening and lameness prove obstinate, the firing-iron may be resorted to. (An explanation of the method of doing which, see Firing in Spavins.) SPRAIN OF THE BACK TENDONS. The principal seat of sprain in the fore limb is in the tendons at the back part of the leg, usually called sprain of the back ten- dons, or back sinews. As these tendon (flexor perforans and perforatus) are the chief agents in producing the motions of the limbs, acting like levers over the pulley-like surfaces on the ends of the bones in their passage down to the foot, they are conse- quently very liable to be overstretched and strained, sometimes in a very slight degree, and sometimes to a considerable extent. It may be necessary here to notice the arrangement of these two tendons. The muscles (perforans and perforatus) arise from be- low the elbow-joint, pass down through a theca at the back of the knee ; below the knee they become tendinous ; the first is one 958 DISEASES AND THEIK TKEATMENT. of great strength, nearly round, and is inclosed in the other, which forms what is termed a sheath for it ; half-way down the cannon, the perforans is joined by a strong liga- ment (the metacarpal) ; the two tendons pass down together through a sheath formed for them at the back of the fetlock ; the latter splits into two divis- ions, having the perforans passing between them ; they are inserted one into each side of the lower pas- tern bone (or coronse), the perforans, passing down, is inserted into the sole of the coffin-bone, just in front of the navicular joint, over which it passes. A good illustration of these different parts is given in Fig. 821. A, Flexor perforatus. B, Flexor perforans. C, Metacarpa ligament. D, Superior sesamoidal liga- ment. d, Bifurcation of the sesamoid- al ligament. y, Continuation forward of branch of the sesamoidal liga- ment. F, Continuation of the flexor perforans tendon, afterwards in- sented into the lower side of the os pedis. E, Extensor tendon. M, Great metacarpal, or can- non shank bone. 8, Splint bone. . FIG. 821. Tendons and ligaments of the fore leg. SPRAIN OF THE BACK TENDONS. 959 Fig. 822 will be found an especially fine illustration of the perforatus and perforans tendons above the fetlock, an explan- ation of which is also included. A point here which is very nicely explained by White, who says: ' Between these two tendons, there are in two parts thin vas- cular membranes by which they are joined together; these mem- branes appear to serve as bridles, allowing the perforans tendon to move a little way within the perforatus, and then preventing any further motion. The situation of those membranes is about mid- way in the pastern. If the coffin joint happens to be extended in a way the animal was not prepared for, both these membranes are ruptured. The consequence is an effusion of blood between the two tendons, whereby all motion between them would be effect- ually prevented, were the animal left to obey his own instinctive feelings." In most of the so-called cases of clap, or sprain of the back tendons, the ligament, and not the tendons, is the seat of the injury. Causes- Whatever tends to throw unusual stress upon these parts may produce it, such as galloping on uneven ground, allow- ing the hoofs to grow too long, thereby increasing the leverage on the tendon; sometimes it occurs in leaping, often while jumping around in play. Symptoms. The animal is very lame, the part is hot, swol- len, and tender ; the limb is held forward, so as to relax the part ; in some cases he can hardly touch the ground. On taking up the foot and pinching with the fingers, he evinces the pain he feels. If the outer tendon (perforatus) is injured, we have a bulging out behind, interrupting the evenness of the line which characterizes the tendons. If the perforans, it is felt between the ligament and the perforatus ; and if the metacarpal ligament, as is most gener- ally the case, it can be felt between the bone and the tendon. Treatment. As before stated, the first condition of cure is rest. The animal must be turned into a loose-box, and if the in- jury is severe, the swollen limb must be well fomented with hot water , cold may be preferable, if slight. This must be kept up for move than an hour, when the following cooling lotion may be well rubbed in, and a thick woolen bandage applied, well satu- rated with it, and kept wet with cold water: 960 DISEASES AND THEIE TBEATMEJST. FIG. 822. 2 ounces, nitre (saltpetre), 2 ounces sal-ammoniac, 4 ounces common salt, 1 pint spring water. Or, the following: 4 ounces saltpetre, 1 ounce sugar of lead, 1 ounce muriate of ammonia, 1 pint common salt, 2 gallons cold water. Perhaps the simplest and best home treatment would be about as follows: Make a bag as long as the limb an old trowsers leg of good size, sufficiently long to extend from the hoof to above the knee would be the thing. Tie a string rather loosely around the foot below the fet- lock. To keep it in place, secure a wide tape or strip A, The outside nerve, or that part of it where the branch H communi- cates. B, The suspensory ligament. C, The great ligament of the back sinew. D, The two back sinews, or flexor tendons. E, E, The extensor tendon. F, The cannon or shank bone. G, The splint bone. H, The back sinews and their great suspensory lig- ament, apparently joined together. This, however, is not the case ; it in- corporates only with the perforans tendon, marked figure 2, and so inti- mately that they form one and the same substance, at the part marked by the letter i. The perforatus, marked figure 3, forms a sheath for the perforans, as already described in the article on Strains. 5, The fetlock- joint. SPEAIN OF THE BACK TENDONS. 961 of cloth to the upper edge of the bag, pass it over the shoulder and fasten to the opposite edge; next take bran, to which add a little salt, and pour on it as much boiling water as will bring it to a thin consist- ence. While hot as the horse can bear, fill the bag with it. This will form a poultice around the part and keep it moist and sweat- ing. It can be kept hot by pouring on hot water occasionally, and should be renewed, if necessary, in twenty-four hours, and so con- tinue until the inflammation subsides. In all cases of severe sprain, a purgative should be given ; it reduces the fever, and acts as a coun- ter-irritant. In any event give opening, easily digested food. Having in this way reduced the inflamma- FIG. 323. Showing tion, if the swelling still remains, apply a good the back tendons strong liniment or blister. The biniodide of considerably thick- mercury ointment is best in these cases, and should be repeated: enedin consequence of repeated injury or strain. 1^ drachms biniodide of mercury, 1 ounce lard. Fis. 824. Showing the effect of hard driving. A run at pasture will generally complete the cure. Sometimes, by re- peated sprains, the tendons become considerably thick- ened (as shown in Fig. 823), in which case firing is preferable. Sometimes, from repeated sprains, the tendons become contracted, causing the animal to go on his toe; in thase cases, the operation of tenotomy, or FIG. 825. Enlargement cu tting the tendons, is ad- of the tendons from ^^ interfering or banging. The following treatment 61 962 DISEASES AND THE1E TKEATMENT. for sprains, which is given for insertion by a leading practitioner, will be found good: First wash with very hot water five or ten minutes at a tiint, then apply the following mixture : 2 ounces tincture opium. 1 ounce chloroform, 1 ounce fluid extract aconite, 7^ ounces soap liniment. To be applied two or three times a day after bathing the parts with hot water. If constipated and feverish, it should be given a slight purging ball. If the case has run two or three days, and is assuming a subacute stage, then stimulating liniment must be used. The following may be used: 2 ounces aqua ammonia, 1\ ounces spirits of camphor, 7| ounces alcohol. To be rubbed on two or three times a day until the skin becomes sore. BREAKING DOWN. The suspensory ligament is one of the strongest in the body; it is placed immediately behind the cannon-bone, from the head of which it rises ; passing down it divides, one division going to each of the small bones at the back of the fetlock (ossa sessa- moides.) (See Fig. 821.) This ligament is the great main-stay of the fetlock-joint, and sustains the most of the weight at this part, consequently we frequently find it snaps asunder under the great weight thrown upon it in leaping, galloping, etc. It is sometimes broken above the division ; but more commonly, one or both bifurcations are torn. Causes. Violent exertion, or sudden jerks, as is the case in leaping, galloping, or jumping from a height. Symptoms. It is sometimes mistaken for rupture of the flexor tendons ; but this is so improbable an occurrence, that we are almost skeptical of its occurrence at all. If it does occur, it is extremely rare. In rupture of the ligaments, the fetlock de- scends to the ground ; but when raised, the animal can flex the foot, which he could not do were the tendons ruptured. It usually occurs near the sessamoides when we have swelling, heat, and pain. SPKAI2T OF THE FETLOCK. 963 Treatment. Slinging is almost indispensable to keep the limb steady, the judicious application of splints and bandages, and a high-heeled shoe should be put on so as to keep the parts in situ ; and the inflammation must be regulated by the constant application of cold, laxative medicine, and cooling, easily-digested food, sparingly supplied, .when re-union will take place, but a permanent thickening is generally left. When the animal is able to use the limb, the slings and splints may be dispensed with, and it may be fired or blistered to consolidate the new fibres, and form a permanent bandage to the part. The horse can never afterward be passed as sound, nor will he stand much hard work. FIG. 826. Method of applying the bandage. FIG. 837. Showing the leg bandaged. SPRAIN OF THE FETLOCK. The ligaments of the fetlock-joint are sometimes sprained, giving rise to swelling of the joint, pain, and lameness. Its nature, causes, symptoms, and treatment differ so little from those of other parts that it is only necessary to state that the treatment is the same. But suppose we have a strain of the extensor tendon or of the ligaments of the fetlock-joint, and the horse must be moved. In that case it would be necessary to apply a woolen bandage over the part carefully, drawing it tightly, and holding it in place by 964 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. sewing it on. But as soon as the stable is reached, this bandage must be taken off, and a loose one put on. If there is not very much inflammation, simply lameness and weakness, good treat- ment would be keeping the bandage thoroughly wet with hot vinegar and salt, by pouring it on. In one instance, one of my horses, Turco, was so seriously sprained that he could scarcely step, the joint knuckling forward as shown in Fig. 828. It was absolutely necessary to drive him eight or ten miles. By bandag- ing the leg tightly as described, he went along quite well ; but as soon as the stable was reached, this bandage was taken off, and a loose one put on, which was kept wet as explained; and be- ing compelled to drive him every day, this treat- ment was repeated; and though he was driven over one hundred miles in two weeks, he was at the end of that time entirely over the effects of the sprain. At another time, when in Maine, Tommy sprained the tendons of one of his forward legs, so that he could scarcely step. We simply raised the heel-calks of his shoe, rounded the toe, and bandaged the parts loosely, and kept wet as ex- plained. Next morning the ankle was tightly bandaged, when he was able to do considerable 828. Turco's work in the ring, and walk through to the next leg as it knuckled town, ten miles. This course was repeated, and forward. & ^ ^ ne CX piration of about two weeks, he was all right, though in the time driven about one hundred miles. SPRAIN OF THE PERFORANS TENDON, OR NAVICULAR- JOINT LAMENESS. The symptoms are very fully explained under that head, but would here state again, that in an acute stage, the principle is rest, with hot fomentations or cooling applications ; next aiding mobility of the parts involved to prevent irritation, by the con- struction of the shoe, etc. SHOULDER LAMENESS. This i:i not very common, but is liable to happen from the SHOULDER LAMENESS. 965 limb slipping sideways while running in a pasture, or slipping in- cidentally on a wet plank, or ice, etc. To guard against error in diagnosing affections of the shoulder, it must be borne in mind that all muscular tissue is apt to waste if it is deprived of its usual amount of exercise, as we frequently see in the shoulder; the shoulder shrink- FlG - 829. As a horse will travel with ing on one or both sides, while lame shoulder - the real seat of the disease is in the feet ; therefore it is very necessary to be able to distinguish shoulder-lameness from many other affections with which it is apt to be confounded. Many horse doctors and those about horses are apt to attribute every lameness they do not understand, and whose seat is not self-evi- dent, to an affection of the shoulder. We have seldom any recognizable tumefaction, nor much heat, unless it be recent and violent. When the horse has strained the shoulder, the limb is brought forward with a peculiar dragging motion, as shown in Fig. 829; whereas if the trouble is in the foot, the limb will be raised and brought forward without much difficulty, but put down tenderly to lighten the concussion. While standing, the joints will be somewhat relaxed, the heel raised, with the toe resting upon the ground. In moving, the head will be carried low, the limb brought forward with a good deal of difficulty and pain, and with- out ability to bring it in front of the other. Treatment. Give a dose of FIG. 830. Distribution of capillaries physic, foment the shoulder and in muscle. ingide of the arm dose ^ the cnegt with hot water, which is to be continued for at least one hour, and to be repeated as long as there is inflammation; give fever medi- cine three times a day ; give food of a light opening nature, such as grass, bran mashes, etc., and keep him quiet in a box stall un- til the lameness disappears. One of the liniments for sprains, etc., DISEASES AtfD THEIE TKEATMENT. may be used after the acute stage passes off. This is about all that can be done, though some bleed from the inner plate vein during the acute stage. This method is not now often practiced, however. When the case becomes chronic, blisters and setons may be employed with good success. LTNIMENT FOB SHOULDER-LAME- NESS. 2 ounces aqua ammonia, 2^ ounces spirits of camphorae, 7-| ounces rectified spirits of vini. First, foment the part with hot water; then rub as near dry as possible, and apply the liniment twice a day un- til the skin is quite sore, and then stop for a few days ; if the lameness is not gone by this time, renew the treatment r ,. FIG. 831. Internal aspect of the left fore leg. SWEENEY. " This is a sprain of the muscle which fills up the posterior cavity on the outer side of the shoulder-joint (outer tubercle of the head of the humerous). It occurs mainly in young horses when first put to plow, or in others going on uneven ground, and stepping unexpectedly into holes. In the endeavor to recover the equilib- rium on stepping into a furrow or hole, this muscle which forms the outer support of the joint is injured, and there results heat, swelling, and tenderness on the outside of the joint, and a most characteristic gait. The horse may walk, or even trot, without much apparent lameness ; but standing directly in front of him the affected shoulder is seen to roll outward from the body to a far greater extent than the sound one. Soon the muscle begins to waste rapidly, and in bad cases the shoulder-blade may be denuded until it appears to be covered by nothing but skin." Law. SWEANEY. 967 A badly fitting collar often gives rise to it. A prominent cause also is some injury to the foot, which would prevent a proper use of the muscles of the shoulder, and thereby cause an atrophied or wasted condition of them. So that when there is wasting of the part, the foot should be carefully examined to see if there is any cause for it, and if so, removing it will of itself be sufficient to make a cure. Symptoms. At first, though it is seldom noticed, the muscles swell up, are hot and tender ; in the course of a few days, the swelling has disappeared, and the muscles are becoming fast ab- sorbed. In many cases this goes on till the bone can be felt. There is little or no pain on pressure in this stage, and no positive lameness; but there is a peculiar rotary motion of the limb, from the other muscles having no counterbalancing power. This is sometimes mis- taken by non-professional men for dislocation of the shoulder- joint. This, however, cannot occur, unless it is accompanied by severe laceration, or even fracture. Treatment. In the first in- stance, rest and hot fomentations are indicated, which, as the process of reproduction begins, should be followed by stimulant embrocations or mild blisters, frequently repeated, with moderate walking exercise. In this case, we must trust more to nature than medicine ; and in time the muscles will be reproduced, and by gentle work and well-fitting harness he will become as sound as ever. Many do nothing for them, but turn them to pasture, and in most cases they come up all right. The simplest and most effective treatment for filling up the shoulder is the rubbing on thoroughly with the hand of soft soap, to which a little salt has been added. This do four or five times in the course of a week. This simple remedy, which is very effectual for this purpose, has been kept as a great secret by a FIG. 832. An ideal representation of the shoulder with sweaney. 968 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMBNT. leading horseman in Toledo, Ohio, who has repeatedly sold it for five dollars, first showing its effect in filling up the shoulder, when he could easily sell the prescription. HIP-LAMENESS. Sprain of the whirl, or round bone, as it is commonly called, consists of a sprain of the round ligament of the femur, which holds the ball in the socket. Sometimes it is almost torn asunder; but so strong is this articulation, that dislocation cannot occur, except as an accompaniment of fracture. Symptoms. Very seldom any external swelling unless it is very se- vere, and the mus- c 1 e s surrounding the joint arc in- volved; when by making him stand square on his hind legs, and standing directly behind him, and compar- 833. Deep muscles of the hip and thigh. m g ono ^ip w ifch the other, any enlargement can be easily detected. Sometimes we have heat and tenderness ; but in most cases these are absent. One characteristic symptom is stepping short, the lame leg is not brought as far forward as the other one, and he drops on that quarter. The tendon of the gluteus maximus, as it passes over the trochanter, is frequently the seat of the lameness. In this case we have swelling, heat, and pain on pressure, with short stepping. When the horse stands in stable, he will stand square on both hind feet ; and when moved, the lame side is elevated and dragged along for want of muscular action. Treatment. The first condition, as in all cases of lameness, is rest, with fomentations, alternated by cooling lotions, etc., until the inflammation is subdued, followed by repeated blisters, which must be freely used, as the disease is deep-seated. Apply hot fomentations to the part two or three times a day, HIP-LAMENESS. 969 which should be continued an hour or more each time, alternated FIG. 834, Showing the superficial muscles of the hip and thigh. with the pouring on of cold water. When the acute stage passes off, clip the hair closely from a large surface ten or twelve niches in diameter over the part, and apply a sharp blister; a better condition of counter irritation will be pro- duced by applying at the same time two setons, Y/hich are to be ex- tended under the skin about six inches each, something of the form as shown in Fig. 835. (For special instruction, see Setons.) If need be, repeat the blisters. Recovery usually takes place in from one to two weeks ; but is sometimes a very serious lameness, and must be at- FIG. 835, tended to thoroughly and promptly. 970 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. The following is the treatment advised by very able practi- tioners: " Give a laxative, and apply hot fomentations to the part two or three times a day. After each fomentation apply a strong stimulating liniment. Continue this treatment until the skin is sore, then cease the treatment, and apply the following for a few days: " G ounces soft soap. 12 ounces alcohol. " Apply twice a day until well." KNUCKLING OVER. Knuckling, or standing over, is very common in cab and stage horses. It gives the animal an ungainly, worn-out appearance. It may occur on one or both knees, which are bent forward, and arc very shaky, or the fetlocks may be knuckled forward. Veterinarians differ as to the real nature of this condition, or as to tho part really at fault. Some suppose that it is from " a relaxed and lengthened state of the extensor muscles; " others " of tho lig- amentous tissue at the anterior part of the joint; " others " an inordinate contraction of the flexors, to such a degree that the equi- librium of the flexors and extensors is de- stroyed. Dissection, however, fails to con- firm these views. It appears to us to depend on contraction of the ligaments at the back FIG. 836. An ordinary o f fa G joint. case of sprang knees. Causes. It is generally caused by too hard work when young, particularly continued road-work, which causes the joints to start forward, as shown in Fig. 836; and if it is continued, it becomes habitual. Symptoms. It requires but to bo seen to be recognized. In- stead of the beautiful, symmetrical form of the limb, the joint is thrown forward, throwing the shank-bone more oblique and the pastern- bones more straight, giving the animal a jaded, tottering appearance. Treatment. Some blister, or fire and blister; but we think BROKEX KNEES, OH OPEK JOINT. 071 these do no good whatever. All we can do is to give rest; leave the rest to nature. Turn him into a large loose-box or small pad- dock, and feed him well, and it is astonishing how the patient will sometimes improve. Drs. Hamiil and Meyer treat ordinary cases of sprung knees with very marked success, by lowering the heels and lengthening out the toes somewhat; this can be done both by paring the heels down some, and using thin-heeled shoes; then rubbing on the legs once or twice a day alcohol, or any good stimulant. The case seems to improve even under moderate work. Very bad cases are incurable. BROKEN KNEES, on OPEN JOINT. It is a very common occurrence in the horse, generally arising FIG. 837. Broken FIG. 838. The same with knee. hair clipped from the edges of the wound. from accidents, kicks, blows, stabs, etc. It is most common in the knee and hock; but all the joints of the limbs are liable to be punctured or laid open by some accident or injury. Open joints are generally divided into lacerated and punct- ured. In the former we have the skin, ligaments, etc., cut through, and the joint laid open, as is often seen in the knee. In the latter we have merely a small opening (it may be only suffi- cient to admit the probe) into the joint, from which trickles the synovia, or joint-oil. All cases are alike dangerous, and are characterized by the same general symptoms, and are liable to be attended by the same consequences. They differ only in degree, according only to the importance and extent of the cavity exposed. 972 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. Causes. The causes of open joint are almost invariably ex- ternal injury in the knee from falling. The horse stumbles; falls upon his knees ; and should the ground happen to be gravelly, hard, or stony, the knees are liable to be lacerated, or cut through. In other joints the injury is usually caused by -being inciden- tally stabbed or cut. Symptoms. In giving an opinion in these cases, we must bear in mind that the joint is not always open, although we have a discharge of synovia from the wound; we may have it from the theca or sheath of some tendon, and it requires close examination in some cases to say which it comes from. What we imply by the term open joint, is where the skin, ligaments, tendons, etc., have been cut through, and the articulation laid open. In the first place, the animal is very lame. On examining the wound with the probe or finger, it is found to penetrate the joint; we have a clear, oily fluid, which is very smooth and slippery to the touch. The discharge may be very trifling, still it is not the less dangerous. In most cases we have symptomatic fever, which often runs so high as to cut the animal off. It is recognized by the quick pulse, hot mouth, irregular heat of the surface, costive bowels, and the excruciating pain the animal evinces. Treatment. This is the most important part of the subject. In the first place, the animal must be removed to a comfortable stall or loose-box with a high roof, and well ventilated; he must at once be placed in slings, which should be gradually tightened until his toes barely touch the ground. The wound must be washed out with tepid water, all gravel or dirt removed, and the real extent of the injury ascertained. The limb must then be placed in splints, well padded, and held to- gether by leather straps. A very convenient plan for the knee is to take three slips of wood, about three inches wide, and half an inch thick, reaching from the elbow to the foot, with the edges beveled and well padded, and nailed together with three straps, which buckle in front. This, placed one at each side, and one behind, prevents flexion or extension of the joint entirely, and leaves it open to be dressed at pleasure, without undoing the splints. A large poultice of linseed or oatmeal should be applied BKOKJSjST KNEES, OR OPEN JOINT. 973 cold, and continued until the granulations spring up from the bot- tom to close the wound. This simple plan of treatment is infi- nitely more soothing, and at, the same time more successful, than the former methods of plastering it up with lime, flour, powdered bluestone, oxide of zinc, white vitriol, etc. To some, these may seem very convenient and effectual methods of stopping the dis- charge, and, doubtless, in some cases they may succeed if circum- stances are favorable; but in many cases when an artificial plug is thus formed, it merely plugs it up for a little time. By and by, ulceration of the skin occurs, the plug falls out before the in- ternal parts have healed, and the consequence is, that we have a far larger and more dangerous wound than before. In changing the poultice, be sure not to remove any of the coagula of synovia that may have formed around the opening. The poultice must be simply removed and changed, without washing the wound. When the granulations become extuberant, they can be regu- lated by squeezing a sponge of cold water over it, or dust on a little oxide of zinc. Nothing, however, must be injected into the wound, as is sometimes done. Punctured wounds of joints must be treated on the same principle; the joint must be kept perfectly still, and the granulations encouraged by poultices, etc. Very often there are wounds in front of the knees, usually caused by falling or striking against some hard object, which may be more or less severe, according to circumstances. In a simple case of ebrasion, but little if any treatment will be necessary; if much bruised with skin broken, tie short to a high rack to pre- vent lying down. Bandage the part tightly and keep wet with a mild astringent, such as \ ounce sugar of lead, 50 or 60 drops carbolic acid, 3 pints to 2 quarts water. Keep the horse quiet until the inflammation is subdued. The best lotion in my j udgment for these bruises and superfi- cial cuts of the skin, is collendula. It has the best effect in re- ducing inflammation of a bruise and cut of this kind of anything I know of. (See Collendula in list of medicines used.) 974 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. FRACTURES. Owing to the difficulty experienced in keeping the bones of the leg of the horse in place to enable their reunion, with the ex- pense and trouble involved, in addition to the fact that if even treated successfully the horse is supposed to be of but little value afterwards, there is but little encouragement given by veterinary authorities for the successful treatment of such cases. But the success of Dr. Macbeth, of Battle Creek, Mich., in treating ordi- nary fractures, has been so marked, and by such simple treat- ment, too, which is, I believe, peculiar to himself, not being, so far as I know, laid down in veterinary works, that I am induced to give his method of treatment, which he kindly explained to me with permission to publish, as it may serve to occasionally save a valuable horse. He tells me that within the past two years he has treated three cases with perfect success. The first, a yearling, was a split of the ossaf raginis, or short coronary bone of the fore leg. The sec- ond, a four-year-old, a fracture three inches above the fetlock- joint of the off hind leg. Third, an oblique fracture, involving the fetlock joint one inch above the joint of the fore leg of a seven- year-old. His method of treatment is as follows: After providing himself with the best quality of plaster-of- Paris, he prepares from three to four splints made of strips of hickory- wood, about an inch and a half in width, and a fourth of an inch thick, of suitable length, or pieces of band iron about one- eighth of an inch in thickness, with the ends thinned down some- what, and if necessary, the edges and the bar bent to fit the form of the part; he next provides bandages of suitable strips of cotton cloth, about three inches and a half in width. While the horse is standing naturally, the limb is brought forward a little, resting easily and naturally upon the ground, when the bones are held gently in a proper position. The part is first covered with a ban- dage of one thickness of the cloth ; next, a little of the plaster^ after being prepared, is put on the cloth under the splints, so as to level off the inequalities of the surface, and give an even bearing to the splints. The bandage is now started from the bottom, with the aid of an assistant ; a little of the plaster is laid on quickly with the knife, in a layer of from one-fourth to three-eights of an FEACTUEES. 975 inch thick, when the bandage is brought quickly over it, and drawn tight enough to cause the water to ooze through the cloth ; this is continued, the bandage being lapped about one-half of an inch, until carried beyond the edges of the splints, when the pro- cess is reversed to the bottom, and then again to the top, making in all three layers, which forms a strong, unyielding cast about an inch, or a little more, thick around the part, when the horse is given freedom to take care of himself in a large comfortable stall. An important condition of success is in the preparation of the plaster. First, it should be of the very best quality ; next, as the plaster will set very quickly, not more than enough for one layer should be prepared or attempted to be put on at a time. Put in a tin dish about as much plaster as will be necessary for one coat or layer over the part. Pour on sufficient water to wet it well, and stir thoroughly for one minute. Being all ready, instantly commence putting on, laying on as stated, until the plaster be- comes too hard, when make another batch, and continue the pro- cess, and when that is used, making more, and continuing until finished. If the skin is broken, or there is a serious cut, as the splints are being put on, avoid covering the spot with wood or iron, and in the course of from six to ten hours, a hole should be made through the plaster to it, when it is to be treated as an ordinary wound. The point is to make the casing so long and tight as to thoroughly support the limb, without being too heavy or clumsy, yet not to obstruct the circulation. In each of the cases referred to, there was no swelling or other trouble, and consequently no after treatment. The horse was let alone, and in about eight weeks the cast was taken off, when there was found to be a complete union of the parts without any notic- able deformity. Dr. Macbeth tells me this method of management is original with himself so far as he knows, and certainly its simplicity in connection with his success, entitles him to considerable credit. Plaster has been employed, I understand, for this purpose, but was put on in such a way as to form a mass excessively heavy and clumsy, and consequently not favorable to success. Of course, when such an accident occurs, if a practitioner is 976 DISEASES AND THE1E TREATMENT. available, he should be at once called in. The treatment is in- cluded mainly for the benefit of practitioners. DISLOCATION OF THE PATELLA, OK "STIFLED." This is most common in colts, from the outer condyle not be- ing fully developed, allowing the patella to glide off and on at every step. Causes. It occurs generally in young animals, and is most common on hilly pasture when the soil is gravelly ; the feet be- coming worn and tender, causes him to relax the stifle in walk- ing, when the patella is apt to slide off. It sometimes occurs from external violence, or from interstitial absorption of the condyle. Symptoms. The limb is extended backward, the foot is bent up, and the animal drags the limb as if it were cramped and unable to draw it for- ward: Cramp of the muscles of the legs is not unfrequently mistaken for dislocation of the patella. But cramp is easily known from the suddenness of the attack, from there being no en- FIG. 889. The horse as he usual- largement at the stifle, and from the ly appears when stifled. bending up of the foot. Treatment. It must be returned to its place as soon as possi- ble, which can be easily done in the following way: Make one or two assistants pull the foot forward, while you push the stifle back, and at the same time push the patella forward, when it will slip into its place, and the animal will walk off almost as sound as if nothing had happened. If it is followed by lameness or swell- ing about the joint, rest must be given, and to prevent its recur- rence, the stifle may be blistered. A very good plan with colts, in which it frequently comes out, is to remove the patient to a loose-box, with a level, even floor; and to put a shoe on, with a tip projecting in front about two or three inches, slightly turned up, which will keep the muscles at- tached to it on the stretch, and so prevent its slipping out again. This may be worn for one or two months, as required. A good deal of a secret in relieving a horse when stifled, is to take short hold of the bridle or halter, so as to throw the head up STIFLE-JOINT LAMENESS 977 with a jerking motion, and quickly force the horse back upon his heels. It is rarely the peculiar exertion will not bring the patella back into place; when, by walking the horse back and forth a little, he will be found all light. STIFLE-JOINT LAMENESS. Besides dislocation of the patella or knee-cap, from laceration or extension of the lateral ligaments, we frequently find the stifle- joint itself diseased. The condyles may be diseased, or the semi- lunar cartilages may be displaced. Sometimes the tendinous ori- gin of the flexor metatarsimagnus (the principal muscle in bend- ing the hock-joint) is torn or strained. This is always a serious lameness, owing to the flexity of the part involved. CauS6S. The causes are the same as in other joint-slips, blows, wrenches, etc. Symptoms. In moving, the limb is held as straight as possi- ble; it is moved of a piece, as it were, the stifle is turned outward at every step, and the leg is swung around, and placed farther forward than in hip-lameness. In most cases we have heat and swelling. If made to stand on the limb, the capsular swelling can be felt, and pain is evinced on pressure. Treatment. Rest must be given. If the cartilages are dis- placed, they must be replaced by careful manipulation; hot fo- mentations, or continued cold applications, must be applied; and in the latter stages, repeated blisters or setons should be re- sorted to. CUTS OR WOUNDS. In ordinary cases they are easily managed. All that is neces- sary to do is to clip the hair from the edges of the wound, remove any hair or dirt from it by sponging the part with warm water, and dress it with any of the healing preparations or digestives hereafter given, which will cause a secretion of yellow matter, and a healthy granulating process. Each day following, to be cleansed by sponging out with a lather made of castile soap and warm water, and the application of the medicine repeated. In a very serious, deep or contused wound, if any large blood vessels are severed, they should be tied up. Arteries will throw the blood out in jets, and veins in a steady stream. If an artery 3 978 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. is cut, it must be stopped promptly ; if it cannot be tied up, it can usually be stopped by touching it with a hot iron, or applying any good styptic. (See Styptics.) Simply covering over with cob- webs will usually answer a good purpose. Clip the hair from the edges, also any bits of loose skin which would be liable to slough off; but it is always advisable to save every bit of skin that can be kept alive ; the part to be sponged out daily, and the dressing repeated. The injury will heal from the bottom, gradually filling up, by what is termed a granulating process. If there is serious inflammation, swelling and pain, poultice; but if poultices cannot be used to advantage, or if pain and swelling are very severe, hot fomentations must be applied and continued without intermis- sion until it subsides; then dress daily as directed. Care must also be taken to keep the horse quiet in a comfortable stall, free from the annoyance of flies, and fed with easily digested, laxative food; if much tendency to fever, give a small dose of physic. If the cut or wound is deep, dress with a tent, which is simply a wad of tow dipped in digestive ointment, which will be referred to farther on ; the cavity is not to be filled with the tent, but only the bottom, and then the wound will heal up as it ought; if the wound is merely syringed out, or dressed superficially, it is liable to close over at the surface, and appear healed, while at the bottom the matter is spreading and burrowing, forming a sinus ; in case there is too rapid granulation, or proud flesh, check it by touch- ing with a little caustic. When the wound fills up, and there is not skin enough to cover it, dusting over it a little of the magic healing powder, or any of the astringents given, will cicatrize it quickly. If a wound is indolent, or does not seem to granulate, simply use a stronger stimulant; if serious, using a caustic, which will remove the unhealthy parts, and set up a healthy condition of granulation. A very good, simple stimulant to rouse an indo- lent ulcer to action, is an ounce of blue vitriol, pulverized, to a pint of water ; and for a simple healing or granulating effect, a lighter preparation, or about 2 drachms to a pint of water: to be used as a dressing once a day. If the wound is deep so as to make a pouch of accumulated matter, it must be syringed out from the bottom every day, or better a dependent opening made from the bottom, and kept open by a piece of tape or string passed through it, to let the matter pass off. OUTS OK WOUNDS. 979 For deep, incised wounds, from pitch-fork, etc., the following is claimed to be excellent: 1 pound saltpetre, 1 gallon water, 1 quart best whisky. Inject into the wound with a syringe three times a day until a cure is effected. It prevents inflammation or a tendency to sloughing or morti- fication. A gun-shot wound, a foot deep, in the thigh of a horse (the ball could not be found, remaining in the leg) was perfectly cured in two weeks by this treatment. In any case of sinuses being formed, they must be opened up to the bottom, and made a simple wound, when it is to be treated as for a wound. Or, the pipes destroyed by a caustic introduced and repeated until the unhealthy part is sloughed out to the bot- tom. A very simple and effective caustic is that made of blue vitriol, either in strong solution, when it could be injected, or a lit- tle powdered fine in the form of a tent, which is simply a little rolled up in a strip of thin paper, twisted at the ends, and pushed to the bottom with a probe. Several parcels of this kind, one after another, can be pushed in until the sinuses are filled. In four or five days a core will be formed, which will usually destroy the sinuses to the bottom ; if any remain, it can be ascertained, and the dressing repeated upon that part, until it is all made a clean wound, when it can be treated as before described with a simple digestive preparation. If there is an injury to the bone, ligament, or tendon, and not treated properly, a small sinus is formed, from which matter will ooze. In such a case, a probe must be introduced, and its extent ascertained; if the sinus extends to the bone, which can be known by the probe striking it, a free opening should be made to the bottom, if the situation will admit, the diseased surface scraped off, when it can be treated as before explained, by the use of Friar's balsam, etc. If all dead matter is not removed, sinuses are again liable to form after the wound is healed, when the whole treatment must be repeated. Punctured wounds of the tendons, and the capsular ligaments of the joints, which often happen in the hind or fore legs, should be first touched with lunar caustic by making the stick pointed, 980 DISEASES AND THEIB TBEATMEJST. and insert into the wound an eighth of an inch or more ; then if necessary, poultice. This class of wounds, it is found, do not do well by the treatment pursued in other wounds. So long as there FIG. 840. FIG. 841. is freedom of the synovia! fluid in passing off, or any irritants are permitted to enter such a cavity, they seem only to aggravate it. The point is to first stop this, which can be done best as directed, or by touching lightly with a hot iron; keep the animal quiet, and use an astringent dressing ; if inflammation is excessive, poultice, and there will usually be no trouble. If clean cut, or the wound is of a character that will permit the edges being brought together, as in cases where the skin is widely separated, the point is, after sponging out the part so as to remove any foreign matter, to bring the edges together, and hold them in apposition, if it can be done without the skin slough- ing, until healing by first intention takes place ; but this seldom can be accomplished, excepting to a partial degree, in the horse, on account of the amount of muscular action of the skin ; but in many cases it must be resorted to, and will enable holding the FIG 842. FIG. 843. edges together sufficiently long to enaole the wound to heal with- out leaving much of a scar. The stitches, which should be from three-quarters to an inch apart, can be made by means of a curved flat needle, with silk or linen WB!! waxed, I ivfc illustrations of different methods of do- CUTS AKD WOUJSTDS. 981 ing this, which should make it sufficiently plain to be understood. First by stitches; or, by approximating the edges by stitches passed around a quill or small piece of round twig placed on each lip of the wound, termed quilled suture. Or, pins may be passed through the lips at suitable distances, and a little tow or thread twisted around each, like the figure eight, as shown, or the edges may be held together by strips of sticking-plaster. A good adhesive plaster can be made by melting about two parts of bur- gundy pitch to one of tallow, and spreading while hot upon cloth ; cut in strips of proper length and breadth, draw the edges of the FIG. 844. FIG. 845. skin together, and lay on while hot; the parts to be dressed with a weak solution of carbolic acid, about in the proportion of one part to twenty or thirty parts water. The writer has had excel- lent success by the use of calendula, tincture of the garden flower called marigold, this should be diluted with about one- fourth to one-third of water ; or any good antiseptic may be used. The following for this purpose, obtained from one of the best practitioners in the country, is included: " In wounds where the muscles are badly contused and lacer- ated, the following wash has taken the precedence above all other remedies, and by far supersedes carbolic acid. It acts as an anti- septic, and prevents excessive granulation. Take 1 oz. white vitriol or sulphate of lime, to 16 oz. water. Syringe the parts out well with the lotion, after being well cleansed, twice a day. By taking 1 oz. of white vitrol to 4 oz. of water, and penciled on the parts with a camel's-hair brush two or three times a day, it will cut down the excessive granulations commonly called "proud flesh. 3 ' 982 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. For a healing ointment, the following is unrivaled : 2^ pounds palm oil, 2 pounds lard, v* pound gum turpentine, pound beeswax, 1 pound calamine. Simmer all together over a slow fire, and it will be fit for use. Put a little in the wound once a day. Wash the wound with warm water and cas- tile soap before applying the ointment. This is the favorite prescription of one of the best practitioners in the country, and is among the very best for the cure of cuts, pricks, and incised wounds in the feet, etc. It sets the wound to running yellow matter quickly, and produces a healthy, granulat- ing process. Turpentine and hog's lard, equal parts, simmered together, with a small quantity of powdered verdigris stirred in, is also a fine healing preparation for cuts and wounds. The following is also a fine healing preparation, good for old sores or injuries in the feet, etc. : 1 oz. tincture of myrrh, 2 oz. tincture of aloes, 1 pint water. To be applied once a day. Healing ointment for cuts, galls, etc: 4 drachms oxide of zinc, pulverized fine, 6 grains carbolic acid, 1 ounce lard. Melt the lard and stir in the zinc. Add the carbolic acid and mix thor- oughly. Apply once a day. Will cause a healthy discharge from a foul ulcer. Magic healing powder: \ oz. burnt alum, 1 oz. prepared chalk, 1 drachm pulverized gum camphor, 2 drachms calamine, pulverized. Mix, sprinkle on the sore. When a wound will not heal, or there is not skin enough to cover it, dust on a little of this powder, and it will cicatrize it quickly. It is good for galls, saddle wounds, or other parts where the skin is thin or broken, providing there is no inflammation and condition requiring healing astringents. This is the original recipe INJUKIES OF THE TONGUE. 983 for the famous magic healing powder and has been sold, as a great secret, for ten dollars' or more. A good healing preparation, especially for cuts or incised wounds in the feet: Tar and hog's lard, equal parts, melted to- gether, removed from fire and stirred till cold. The following hoof ointment has been in use in the British army, and used by British farriers. It is highly recommended by our most eminent veterinaries of this country: 2 parts mutton tallow, 2 parts white resin, 2 parts barbadoes tar, 1 part yellow bees wax, 1 part castor oil, Melt the resin and bees wax together, then add the tallow. When melted, add the tar and castor oil, then remove from the fire and stir until cold. This ointment is mostly used for diseased conditions of the feet. It is also effectual for the cure of many of the most trouble- some skin diseases. Blotches and cracks of the heels, to which so many horses are liable in winter, is cured by nothing so readily as by this ointment, well rubbed in, after the parts have been thor- oughly washed with warm water and soap. This ointment is also good for cattle, sheep, and sporting dogs. INJURIES OF THE TONGUE. The tongue is often injured by violence, pulling it out in giv- ing medicines, either by the restlessness of the animal or clumsi- ness of the operator, often by being tied up with a " hitch " of the halter in his mouth ; by running back, he sometimes cuts it nearly through. A very common cause also is the use of a severe bit. Treatment. If not too much lacerated, the divided edges should be brought together by the metallic suture, and dressed fre- quently with the f ollowing lotion : 1 ounce alum, 1 ounces borax, 1 ounce honey, 1 quart water, If it is nearly cut across, it may be necessary to remove it, and tie the blood-vessels, and dress frequently with the above lotion. 984 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. Tincture of marigold, called colendula, is so good for bruises and cuts of this character, that I think it worth mentioning. When in Painsville, Ohio, a horse was brought in by a leading gentleman. He stated that the horse had the habit of pulling recklessly ahead against the bit, so much so that he could not be stopped, offering to wager that he would pull eight men with the bit. Upon trial, with a breaking bit on, he pulled eight men around the ring, causing his tongue to become caught under the bit, and was cut fully half off, and the mouth badly bruised, and became terribly swollen in a short time. I had a few ounces of colendula with me, which I had obtained to try its effect if op- portunity presented. I reduced some of it one-third to one-half with water, and bathed the mouth and tongue with it thoroughly, repeating two or three times in a couple of hours. Being compelled to leave for Madison the same evening, I di- rected the owner to bathe the parts with the colendula four or five times a day at least until my return. I remained at Madison one day, went to Geneva the next, when I again returned to Painsville to fill my engagement there, being absent three days. Upon examination, I found all swelling and inflammation gone, and the tongue entirely healed. A horse having lost part of the tongue, cannot drink without plunging the head deep in the water. To cure cuts or bruises of the cheeks, use inside 1 drachm tannin, to 1J ounces borax, and 3 or 4 parts water. Swab the inside of the wound once a day. For the outside dressing, use O' 1 ounce tincture myrrh, 2 ounces tincture aloes, i pint water. Mix, and swab the parts once a day. Wash or sponge the parts with warm water and castile soap be- fore each dressing. SORE MOUTH. The lips frequently become sore at the angles of the mouth, FISTULA OF THE WITHERS. 985 from cutting or bruising of the bit. Tincture of myrrh and aloes, equal parts, applied to the sore, will soon cause it to heal. FISTULA OF THE WITHERS. The principle of treating fistula of the withers and poll evil is the same as for treating other deep-seated ulcers explained; the only difference is that they are more complicated on account of their location, and require, if anything, more careful treat- ment. Fistula of the withers is caused by an injury to, or bruising the top of, the first vertebra of the neck, or the ligament covering it. At first there is simply inflam- mation, with some swelling, mak- ing the part very tender and sore ; if this is not arrested or dis- persed, matter will form and penetrate in different directions, around and between the dorsal vertebra, and under the shoulder blade, before it comes to the sur- face. Consequently the fistula may extend to both sides, and if neglected, may seriously involve the bones, in which case the cure will be proportionately more difficult. At its early stage, when there is simply inflammation and soreness, cooling appli- cations, such as pouring cold water upon it, or directing a small stream from a hose against it, and repeating, is good. The part can be kept wet by the following lotion, FIG. 847. Showing a bad case of fistula. and then ^ the inflammation does not abate, give a dose of physic and apply an iodine or sweating blister: FIG. 846. Shoulder in healthy con- dition. 986 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. FIG. 848. Festula of the withers, show- ing seton. 4 ounces salt petre, 1 ounce sugar of lead, 1 ounce muriate of ammonia, 1 pint common salt, 2 gallons cold water. Lay on a few thicknesses of cloth, and keep wet with it. Or the following may be used: 8 ounces tincture of arnica, 1 quart water. If, however, matter forms, the sooner the abscess is opened the better. When this is done, the extent of the injury, or of the sinus, if any have formed, must be carefully as- certained with a probe, or by introducing the finger. If this cannot be done to advantage, then the pipes must be destroyed by the introduction of caustic tents, as before explained for treating deep seated ulcers, so that it will make a clean sore ; then a de- pending opening for the matter to run off must be made by pass- ing a seton from the bottom outward, and sponge or syringe it out once a day with a strong suds of warm water and castile soap. It must be borne in mind that if allowed to heal over with pus, or any unhealthy mat- ter remaining at the bottom , matter will continue to form, and finally break out anew, making, if anything, a more complicated con- dition of ulcer. The ... , , ,, FIG. 849. Good method of covering the parts, point is to see that all foreign matter, sinuses, or unhealthy bone, is thoroughly removed. Sinuses can be removed either by cutting away or sloughing off POLL EVIL. 987 with caustics as explained, and the diseased bone by scraping. Syringe out the parts well, first with castile soap and water, then with a mild solution of blue vitriol, or carbolic acid and water; after which treat as before with digestive ointment, tincture of myrrh, etc., as may be found advisable. Soon after my leaving the road, one of my horses, Gifford, was threatened with fistula of the withers. When able to examine the case, I found there was severe inflammation and swelling of the parts, which was so painful that the horse would not allow it to be touched. The veterinary surgeon in charge had applied a sharp stimulant, the effect of which was intensified by covering the parts with a couple of thick blankets. The horse was very fat, and there were indications cf matter forming, which, as the horse was extremely sensitive, would cause great trouble in dress- ing the parts, which would be necessary for some time. I ex- pressed my fear of this result, but the doctor thought differently, assuring me that he had every reason to believe the inflammation would disperse in time. I left, giving him full liberty to manage the case in his own way, and was gratified on being informed shortly afterward that the inflammation was dispersed, and in this way a cure was affected. The serious condition of the case, and the success with which the cure was affected by dispersing the inflammation, induced me, for the benefit of my readers, to write to the doctor for the details of the treatment used, which I here include. " The treatment pursued in the management of Gilford was as follows: Take two pounds salts, four ounces cream of tartar, mix well, divide into nine doses, and give one dose once a day in his feed. For the local treatment, I took of the tincture of iodine and cantharides, equal parts, and applied to the shoulders every day for ten or twelve days ; after which, I used a stronger solution two or three times a day for three or four weeks. The case was a very bad one." POLL EVIL. Poll evil is caused by being clubbed back of the ear, striking back of the head against an obstruction, pulling hard upon the halter, or checking the head high, so as to bring undue pressure upon the ligaments of the parts, which will be shown by the in- flammation and swelling over the first vertebra of the neck. If this inflammation is allowed to continue, the posterior part of the 988 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. occipital bone, and sometimes the atlas bone, also the strong ten- don over them, will be involved, causing serious ulceration of the parts, unless taken in hand promptly. The principle of treatment is precisely that of fistula of the with- ers. First, cooling applications, a dose of physic, and a cooling, opening diet. A favorite prescription for dispers- ing inflammation of this kind, used by an old author, is, 2 drachms tartarized antimony, crys- alized and finely powdered, 2 drachms olive-oil, 1 ounce hog's lard. FIG. 850. Method of checking that is liable to cause Vaseline can be substituted for the P H evi1 ' oil and lard. When properly rubbed on the part, this will act as a powerful blister, but does not blem- ish. Should matter form, it must be opened to the bottom, and, after being cleansed out, ascertain how far matter has bur- rowed, or the degree to which sinuses have formed. It is not prudent to do any more cutting at this part than simply to make a sufficiently deep incision to give an opening for the matter to pass off. If sinuses have formed, caustic tents are to be intro- duced, as before explained, until a clean sore is made. If the bones are involved, they must be scraped. Next, a depending opening made by running a seton from the bottom outward. Sometimes the matter extends across the neck to the opposite side. In such a case, the best way is to run a needle across between the muscles, and out on the opposite side, making an outlet on both sides. The after treatment is the FIG. 851. The head as it should be given same as for fistula of the with- freedom in harness ' ers, being careful to remove all foreign growth, or diseased bone. Dress first with slightly caustic solution, then with digestive oint- ment, as explained. I will include here a remedy which is claimed to be very ef- POLL EVIL. 989 fectual in the cure of poll evil, fistula of the withers, etc. Burn corn cobs, and fill the cavity to the bottom with the ashes. It may be necessary to repeat two or three times, before a cure is effected. The ease with which this can be applied makes it worthy of trial. I obtained it under the following circumstances: When in Central New York, during my last tour through that country several years ago, a man said to me that he had a simple but sure cure for fistula of the withers, poll evil, etc., which was a secret, but which he would give me if I would pass him into my class. He claimed to be able to satisfy me as to the ef- fectiveness of the remedy, by indorsements from several well- known citizens who were pres- ent. I said, " Bring on your proofs." He brought for- ward,, among others, a man who stated that he had a horse which, for two years, had been doctored for fistula of the withers of the worst character, without doing any good, and at large expense. He finally treated the case as' this man directed, and after FIG. 852. Showing seaton. three applications the cure was complete. Others stated that the man had treated cases for them, with the same success. The writer would be greatly obliged to parties giving this remedy a trial, if they would report to him the results. Since writing the above, I requested a veterinary surgeon of my acquaintance to give this a trial, when he had a case offered for treatment. A very bad case of poll evil was brought in from the country; there were two deep cavities, and he directed the owner to fill them with the ashes. Some time afterward, the man reported that both ulcers w,ere healed over, but one of them had again broken out. Upon inquiry, it was found that instead of simply filling the cavities, and leaving them alone without further attention, the man kept adding more each day, causing them to heal too quickly. Th'erte is no dtfubt $iat, wh'en used as dirfec'ted, it will be found 990 DISEASES A^D THEIK TBEATMENT. a decidedly effective means of treatment. Its simplicity and safety make it deserving of a trial before resorting to regular treatment. The following remedy is used by veterinary surgeons of my acquaintance as a remedy of great value, and is kept a secret. The point in using it is, to saturate a little tow with it, and push it to the bottom of the ulcer, so that it will touch every part of it. In about twenty-four hours the diseased part can be separated from the healthy flesh with the finger, from the top to the bottom, and taken out, when it is to be dressed as a simple wound : 4 ounces accetate of copper (verdegris), 4 ounces sulphate of copper (blue vitriol), 4 ounces alum, 1 ounce \vhito precipitate (white mercury), 2 ounces nitric acid, 1 pound honey. DISEASES OF THE EYE. The eye, or organ of vision, is composed of three tunics, or coats, and of the same number of humors. To the external coat (sclerotic and cornea) it owes its form. The middle tunic is made up of the choroid, or vascular coat, of the iris, or the thin curtain suspended in the aqueous humor, and perforated in the center by an opening called the pupil, or pupillary opening, which in the horse is of an elliptical form ; in man it is round. The inner coat is called the retina, or nervous covering, and is the terminal ex- pansion of the optic nerve. The humors are three in number, and they serve as reflectors of the light. They are : The aqueous humor, crystalline lens, and vitreous humor. The last is the largest, and occupies about four-fifths of the whole interior of the globe or eyeball. The ap- pendages of the eye are the eyelids, eyelashes, and the membrana nictitans, generally called the haw, which is situated in the inner or lower angle of the eye. It is connected with the different mus- cles of the eyeball. By the contraction of the straight muscle of the eye, the haw is forced outward, and is one of the beautiful arrangements that nature has provided for the protection of so delicate and sensitive an organ. The eye is wholly covered by a thin membrane called, the conjunctiva. INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES. 991 STMPLE OPHTHALMIA, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES, Is a common disease among horses, and consists of inflammation of the conj unctival membrane covering the eye. Causes. It may be produced by many different causes, and perhaps the most common is from the introduction of a foreign substance into the eye, as a hay seed, or chaff pickle becoming FIG. 853. a, Optic nerve; 6, Sclerotic; c, Choroid; d, Retina; f, Cornea; /, Iris; g, h, Ciliary circle ; t, Insertion on crystalline lens ; j, Crystalline lens ; fc, Crystalline capsule ; 7, Vitreous body ; m, w, Anterior and posterior chamber ; o, Membrane of aqueous humor; p, p. Tarsi; 7, g, Fibrous membrane of eyelids; r, Elevator muscle of upper eyelid ; s, *, Orbicularis muscle of eyelids; f, f, Skin of eyelids; u, Conjunctiva; r, Membrane covering cornea ; a;, Posterior rectus muscle ; /, Superior rectus muscle ; 2, Inferior rectus muscle ; ic, Orbital membrane. lodged in the external covering (cornea), or by direct injury to the eyes, as from the blow of a whip, or something of the kind. When from a blow or direct cause of injury, but one eye will be affected, while if from cold, etc., both eyes will be involved. It is also caused by allowing horses to stand in foul stables, especially in the summer months, whereby ammeniaeal gases are generated. 992 DISEASES AND THEIK TREATMENT. proving very injurious to the eye-sight. It proceeds from exposure to cold, and is often an accompaniment of catarrh. Symptoms.- The e y es are weak; the con- "5 junctiva, or in- . 6 ner lining of the lids, inflamed ; water running from the eyes; the lids partly, if not wholly, closed, accord- ing to the se- FlG - 854 - verity of the 1, Sclerotic coat; 2, 4, Veins of the choroid; 3, Ciliary case. Bluish Or nerves; 5, Ciliary ligament; 6, Iris. white film, the result of inflammation, comes over the cornea, extending no deeper than the surface, and may vary from a slight cloudiness to entire opacity. Treatment. This must, in a great measure, depend upon the cause ; therefore it is of the greatest importance to make a careful examination, especially if but one eye is affected. If there is any foreign matter in the eye, remove it promptly, which can be done either by means of a feather or a pair of forceps. The eye should be fomented with tepid or warm wa- ter, and the horse kept in a darkened stable or loose-box; next, the eye may be kept constantly moist by means of a sponge or cloth, wet with tepid or cold water, and applied over the eye ; or better, Goulard^s extract, used in the proportion of 1 drachm to a pint of water. If accompanied by great pain, the following btion should be applied around the eye several times a day: 1 ounce watery infusion of opium, 4 ounces Goulard's extract, 12 ounc'es water. FIG. 855. Capillaries of the vascular layer of the retina. INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES. 993 When the cloudiness or opacity of the cornea is tardy in being removed, the eye should be stimulated daily with the following collyrium : 5 grains nitrate of silver, 1 ounce distilled water. Apply by means of a feather or camel's-hair brush. If he must be used or kept in the sunlight, the eye should be kept covered with a blue cloth tied loosely over it. It is very important to attend to any such form of local inflamma- tion promptly ; not only treating properly, but, if possible, take him from all work, since, if neglected, or the inflammation aggravated by heating the blood, the sight is liable to be de- stroyed, or run into periodic opthalmia. It is somewhat wonderful how much injury the eye will recover from, when treated with any kind O T f*l T** FIG. 856. -Good meth- Twenty years ago, when driving horses od of covering the eye. without reins was regarded as a great feat, in training them to drive in this way, it was sometimes necessary to use the whip very severely over the head, when the eye was lia- ble to be struck, and so seriously injured as to close it and make it entirely white from inflammation in a short time. Yet, in every case, by bathing with cold water, keeping in a dark place, and if moved, keeping the eye covered with a cloth, in a few days the eye entirely recovered. Once, while training Gifford, one of my old pair of trained horses, he ran incidentally against the corner of a stair, striking the eye so severely as to instantly destroy his power of sight; the eye was entirely closed, and red with inflammation. In this case I simply kept the eye covered with a cloth kept constantly wet with water, in which was tinct- ure of aconite in the proportion of about 40 drops to half a pint of water. There was entire recovery within a week. This mild FIG. 857. Reversed view of the above. DISEASES AND THEIK TKEATMENT. preparation has proved for me very efficient in reducing local inflammation. SPECIFIC, OR PERIODIC OPHTHALMIA, Is the most severe affection to which the horse's eye is liable, and is very common in this country. The parts principally and pri- marily involved are the internal structures of the eye, and the changes which occur vary in degree to the severity of the attack. Causes. The great cause of this affection can be traced to an hereditary predispo- sition, always ready to burst forth when exposed to certain ex- citing causes, such as injuries of any kind, as before explained, being kept in very dark and ill-venti- lated stables, and then suddenly exposed to the glare of a hot sun; and, like simple ophthalmia, it may fol- low continued expos- ure to cold. Symptoms. - Among the first symptoms is a watery discharge from one or both eyes, and on be- ing exposed to the sunlight he exhibits a peculiar uneasiness, with a partial closure of the affected eye. As the disease advances, the eyelids become swollen, and if turned upward, the conjunctiva appears reddened and injected; the eye looks smaller, and retracted into its socket; the interior of the eye reveals a peculiar muddy or turbid appearance, showing floating flakes, and a yellowish or whitish deposit at the bottom of the chamber. Fig. 860 is designed to show, on an enlarged scale, something of this change. The symptoms are very like those of simple ophthalmia, and often leads to the supposition that the eye has received a blow or other injury. The above symptoms become more and more aggravated, and FIG. 858. Physiological papillae, as seen with the ophthalmoscope. SPECIFIC, OE PEKIODIC OPHTHALMIA. 995 the patient becomes affected constitutionally; the circulation is increased, the mouth hot, and the appetite impaired. These symp- toms may continue for several days, and then gradually disap- pear, or they may be prolonged for weeks, and end only with the destruction of the eye. A prominent and well-marked symptom of this disease is its shifting from one eye to the other; in many cases, one eye has no sooner recovered than the other becomes af- fected. At other times, recovery is rapid, and to all appearances the eye looks per- fectly healthy ; in a short time, however, the dis- ease returns, and often with in- creased severity. These occur- rences o r shift- ings take place in from three weeks to a month or more. As the disease advances still farther, the eye begins to clear, the cornea becoming trans- FlG ' 859. -Inflammation of optic nerve. parent leaving a a ' ^* a P^ a * *^ e optic nerve conjested; &, Enlarged Y i i -ji- veins, connected by exhudation round the papilla ; e, rather diminished arteries. in the anterior part (chamber) of the eye; the pupil diminishes in size, and the disease gradually terminates in more or less opacity of the chrys- talline lens or its capsule, constituting cataract. Treatment. As a general rule, the treatment of specific ophthalmia is very unsatisfactory, but still medicinal remedies are found beneficial in palliating the disease. The horse should be placed in a comfortable and darkened loose-box, with a plentiful supply of pure air. A brisk dose of purgative medicine should be administered, and if much constitutional fever is present, ten drops of the tincture of aconite should be given every three hours, 996 DISEASES AND THEIK TKEATMENT. until six or eight doses are given. Bleed from the facial vein, and follow by fomentations of hot water to the eye. After the third or fourth day, cold applications are preferable to hot. The ex- tract of belladonna may be applied around the orbits, and also ad- ministered internally, in doses of two scruples, three times a day. When the acute inflammatory symptoms are somewhat abated, FIG. 860. Generalized atrophical choroidites. a, Papilla of the optic nerve, preserving its rosy color ; &, c, Atrophied choroid, showing the white tint of the uncovered sclerotic; d, , Blood-vessels of the retina; /, Pigmentary deposits of the choroid. the absorption of the effused products should be aided by a stimu- lating colly rium, as, 10 grains sulphate of zinc, 1 ounce distilled water, Or any of the eye waters advised under that head. The following simple treatment, used by a very successful practitioner, has by special request been written out for me : AMAUEOSIS, OE GLASS EYE. 997 " When the lids are swollen, and not due to any disease, such as Pink Eye, etc., but to a cold, and injuries of numerous descriptions, the eye should first be bathed off with hot salt water for a few min- utes, then turn the lower lid down and drop on the lid and eye- ball, with an eye-dropper, the following collyrium: " 10 grains sulphate of atropio, 1 drachm sulphate of zinc, 6 ounces aqua rosae, " Drop on the diseased eye 15 to 20 drops two to three times a day. This remedy is a certain cure in most all eye-troubles. " In diseases of the eye due to liver complaint, first give a strong cathartic combined with 1 to 2 drachms of calomel, and treat the eye as above." AMAUROSIS, OR GLASS EYE, Consists in either partial or complete paralysis of the optic nerve, or its terminal expansion, the retina. Causes. Injuries to the brain, causing an extravasation of blood upon the deep origin of the special nerve of sight (optic), from disease of the internal coat of the eye (retina). It occasion- ally occurs as a sequel of stomach staggers or indigestion. We have also known it to occur in pregnant mares. Percival men- tions several cases of amaurosis occurring in mares with foal, where vision was perfectly restored after parturition. Symptoms. The eye has a peculiar glassy appearance; the horse carries his head very high, and is continually moving his ears, and his action is high, lifting his feet as if he were stepping over some obstacle. He is easily alarmed by any noise. The pu- pil is dilated, and loses its natural elliptical form. If the glare of a lighted candle is brought to bear upon the eye, the pupil refuses to contract, thus showing that nervous influence is lost. Treatment. The horse should have rest, and a strong dose of purgative medicine given. If supposed to arise from effusion or pressure .on the nerve (optic), blisters and setons to the poll are recommended, and diuretics should be used. In some instances the powdered nux vomica, in doses of one scruple twice a day, has been used with advantage. If amaurosis has continued for a lengthened period, it is incurable, and treatment in such cases would be entirely useless. 998 DISEASES AND THEIK TKEATMENT. CATAKACT Is the name applied to a deposition of a pearly white substance within the eye, and is a very common affection in this country. It consists in an effusion of lymph, either on the middle humor (crystalline lens), or on its capsule, and is variable in size, some- times not larger than the head of a pin, while in other cases it covers the whole lens. Causes. It is generally a result of repeated attacks of specific ophthalmia, or it may even supervene upon a first attack; it may follow a severe injury to the eye. Symptoms. The eyesight is either partially or completely gone, and when covering the greater part of the lens, it is easily known by its pearly white appearance. When small, it is some- what difficult of detection ; the eye is smaller than in health, and the pupil becomes greatly contracted when exposed to light. It may be detected by placing the animal in a bright light, and care- fully examining the eye; if the eye appears smaller than the other, it indicates something amiss with it. He should then be placed in a darkened stable, and allowed to stand quietly for ten or fifteen minutes before being subjected to an examination. Stand in front of him, and bring a lighted candle close up to the front of his eye, when any alteration in the structure of the lens can be readily detected. Treatment on the horse is useless, as when permanently es- tablished, it cannot be removed. When the cataract is confined to one eye only, it interferes but little with the horse's usefulness for ordinary work. The cornea is frequently injured from the puncture of a nail, allowing the aqueous humor to escape, and perhaps injuring the crystalline lens, completely destroying vision. When the injury is confined to the cornea, the humor may be reproduced. The part should be diligently bathed, either with hot or cold water, and the fomentations must be applied several times a day ; and the eye supported by means of a wet sponge or cloth, which tends to sub- due the acute inflammation and allay the pain, and by keeping the eyelids closed, it supports the lacerated parts. After a few days it may be necessary to stimulate the part, DKOPSY OF THE BELLY. 999 when any of the stimulating applications recommended for simple ophthalmia may be used. The membrana nictitans, or haw, sometimes becomes enlarged, the result of an injury, or from being implicated in other diseased conditions of the eye. Even in its healthy state, we have known it mistaken (by ignorant persons) for an abnormal structure, and barbarously removed. It is not an unusual circumstance to hear persons boast of the rapidity with which they can remove this beautiful and most essential appendage to the eye. DROPSY OF THE BELLY (ASCITES). Ascites consists of a collection of serous fluid in the cavity of the belly. It is not very often seen, unless in connection with some other disease. Causes. It is usually the result of chronic peritoneal inflam- mation, or a sympathetic extension, or accompaniment of " water in the chest " (hydrothorax), chronic disease of some important or- gan contained in the belly, which it invests. Occasionally it oc- curs in conjunction with enlarged liver or spleen. Sometimes also from impeded circulation, consequent on abnormal tumors press- ing on some important vessels ; and, unquestionably, as in the hu- man subject, some animals have a dropsical tendency (diathesis). Symptoms. The animal is observed to be dull and inactive, the bowels are costive, and the urine scanty ; he is always thirsty, watery swelling appears between the fore legs, which soon extends backward along to the sheath or udder; the belly is large, and when struck, emits a dull, heavy sound. As it goes on, the breathing becomes rapid, and the pulse quick and small, the thirst intense, the appetite fails, the enlargement of the belly becomes more perceptible, the external swelling greater, and the breathing much increased ; as death approaches, the pulse becomes impercep- tible, and as Blaine remarks, " the peritoneal inflammation pro- duces colicky symptoms frequently, and in this way being occa- sionally but little disturbed, and at other times very ill, a few ac- tive symptoms carry off the poor beast." Treatment. When the watery effusion is extensive, few cases recover; however, much can be done to arrest it in the early stages; the prospects of recovery, of course, depend a good deal on the cause of the complaint: when accompanied by hydrothorax, 1000 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. it almost invariably proves fatal. The strength from the first must be harbored, stimulants must be given from the beginning ; open the bowels by an active purgative, smart friction being fre- quently applied to the belly, or if the swelling is considerable, it should be supported by bandages; should the state of the patient permit, walking exercise should be persevered in. The following ball should be given daily : 1 drachm iodine, 1 drachm iodide of potassium, Linseed meal and soft soap sufficient to form a ball. Occasional doses of sweet nitre and warm beer should be given. Free scarifications with a lancet or sharp knife should be made in the swelling. Tonics should be more early used than they generally are ; a very good tonic ball in these cases consists of 2 drachms sulphate of iron, 1 drachm iodine, Made into a ball with linseed meal and soft soap. Or, 2 drachms ginger, 2 drachms gentian, 2 drachms sulphate of iron, Molasses sufficient to make a ball. When medical treatment fails, temporary relief may be ob- tained by tapping, which consists in puncturing the belly, in the line between the navel and the sheath (or udder), taking care not to injure the bowels, or any important vessels, in doing which the belly must be tightly bandaged, and kept compressed. ANASARCA, OR SWELLED LEGS. If plethoric, fat legs and sheath swelled. When standing in stable without any of the usual symptoms, should first be given a strong cathartic, and twenty-four to thirty-six hours after give the following powders in the feed morning and night: 1| ounces sulphate of iron, 2 ounces powdered digitallis leaves, 6 ounces nitrate of potass. , J ounce powdered nux vomica. Make into twelve powders, and give in feed morning and night as above directed, until the animal's feces becomes of a blackish color, then stop. INFLAMMATION OF THE VEINS. 1001 By this time the horse should be well. If the case is weak and debilitated, omit the physic and powders, and give good, nu- tritious food. In the meantime the horse in either case should have gentle exercise. It is bad practice to bandage. The application of bandages with stimulating liniment prevents the free circulation of the FIG. 861. The leg in its natural condition. FIG. 862. The leg as it appears when "fill- ed" or swelled. blood, thereby causing not only debility of the capillaries, or small blood-vessels, but also irritates the skin. It in all cases gives temporary relief, but not a cure. The treatment before given is the only one to be depended upon. INFLAMMATION OF THE VEINS (PHLEBITIS). Owing to the practice of bleeding horses for all ailments, which is still very common among people through the country, phlebitis is not uncommon. It consists of inflammation of the coats of the vein, involving the surrounding cellular tissues also. Causes. When it occurs, it almost invariably follows the operation of bleeding, arising from some mismanagement in per- forming it, or securing the integuments after. Rusty fleams, care- 1002 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. lessness in pinning it up, as in pulling the skin out, allowing blood to filtrate the cellular tissues, bringing the edges unevenly together, or, as in cases we have known, pinning the vein itself to the skin. Certain states of constitutional predisposition of the veins to take on inflammatory action are said to exist. Symptoms. It is easily distinguished by the inverted edges of the wound, which are red and swollen, and discharge thin serum, which soon gives place to pus. The vein above the inci- sion is hard, hot, and tender, and considerably enlarged. The swelling extends upward to the head ; the inflammation extends to the surrounding tissues; the side of the neck is swollen; the neck is stiff, and the head extended. The systematic fever runs high. Treatment. The head should be tied up, and almost constant fomentations of hot water applied for several days. The lips of the wound should be touched with the cautery or lunar caustic. A full dose of purgative medicine should be given. When the acute fever has subsided, it should be blistered throughout its en- tire extent, and repeated if required, the head being kept elevated, and his feed placed within his reach. These cases often terminate in complete obliteration of the vein ; but in course of time the smaller vessels of the neck enlarge, and take the place of the lost jugular. He is not suited to be turned to pasture, as the head is apt to swell. He can never after be passed as a sound horse. THROMBUS. Thrombus is the name given to a round tumor which some- times occurs around the puncture made in bleeding. Causes. It is usually the result of pinning up the wound by drawing the skin out, allowing the blood to be extravasated into the cellular tissues; also from the opening in the skin not being opposite the opening in the vein, or too small to allow the blood to escape freely ; often from the tissues being irritated by repeated striking of the fleam, or " perhaps from spontaneous inflammation and serous effusion in the divided integuments and membranes themselves." Symptoms. It is easily recognized by the appearance of a round full swelling surrounding the opening a short time after bleeding. LAMPAS. 1003 Treatment. It should be re-opened, the coagula squeezed out, and the edges of the wound again brought together, and a pad, or sponge, saturated with a strong solution of Goulard's lotion, or cold water constantly applied for an hour at a time, the pad being supported by a broad bandage round the neck. The head must be tied up for at least twenty-four hours. It usually subsides in a day or two. Should swelling remain, it should be blistered and treated as in phlebitis. LAMPAS. Lampas is the name given to a slight enlargement of the bars or ridges on the palate behind the incisor teeth. It is mostly con- fined to young horses, and is a natural congestion of these parts, consequent on the shedding of the teeth. It is not so much a dis- ease as a natural and salutary process, which in general is best let alone, and in which cruel rem- FIG. 863. The barbarous method often edies, such as firing, should never resorted to, of burning out for a moment be thought of. If the lampas - much inflamed, a slight scarification, with sloppy feed for a few weeks, will suffice to remove it. In older animals, similar swell- ings are sometimes seen arising from indigestion ; a slight physick- ing will generally remove them, without resorting to such outrJ practices as " cutting out the lampas." DISEASES OF THE SKIN. The skin is a membrane of variable thickness, which covers the whole body, and is reflected inward by all the natural open- ings, so as to line, by its internal reflections, the eye, the nasal cavities, the mouth, etc., etc. Skin diseases in the lower animals generally do not prove so inveterate as in human beings. SURFEIT Is an affection of common occurrence among horses in the spring and summer months, and is an eruptive disease, showing itself in the form of small tumors, or pimples ; and extending along the neck, or over the whole body. 1004 DISEASES AND THE1K TREATMENT. Causes. It very often proves a sequel of some derangement of the digestive organs ; as from feeding for a lengthened period on one kind of food, and more particularly if it is of a stimulating or heating nature. It is also apt to occur in horses that are in high condition when subjected to violent exercise, causing them to sweat freely, and then being exposed to sudden chill ; in this form it is often met with in colts, when being first put to work. Symptoms. It appears suddenly; small pimples or tumors arise on different parts of the body and neck, and particularly un- derneath the mane ; in some instances they disappear rapidly by absorption, while in others they burst and discharge a thin fluid ; the hair comes out, and small scales form, which are easily pulled off. At times this affection proves very irksome and troublesome to the horse, causing him to rub violently against his stall, or bite at the parts affected with his teeth. In its simple form it appears to inconvenience the animal but little, and is generally easily re- moved. Treatment. In the first place the food should be changed, and a mild purgative given, as Barbadoes aloes, four to six drachms; the kidneys should be made to act freely, and for that purpose the following ball may be given daily for four or five days : 3 drachms nitrate of potass. , 1 scruple camphor, J drachm oil of juniper, With soft soap and linseed meal sufficient to form an ordinary sized ball. In inveterate cases, small doses of calomel and opium may be used with success. The eruptions should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water, and afterward dressed with a mild solution of the chloride of zinc, about twenty grains to a pint of water. He should have regular exercise and good grooming, using the wisp instead of the curry-comb. Surfeit differs from mange, in not being contagious. URTICARIA, NETTLE RASH, HINES, ETC., Shown by pimples, or elevations, on the skin, may go and come within twenty-four hours, generally due to a disturbance of the stomach, such as gastric derangement. In any case not serious, the symptoms are as follows: The horse probably not having MANGE. 1005 taken well to his feed (apparently all right), a few hours later the whole body will be covered with little erruptions, or elevations, all over the skin. The treatment for it should be as follows: Give a cathartic, and have his body well bathed with strong salt and water. This bathing may be repeated two or three times within twenty-four hours ; feed lightly, and reduce the amount of grain feed. This disease is caused by over-feeding, and want of exercise. Is always common to fat horses, and makes its appearance dur- ing the spring and summer months. MANGE Is another eruptive disease, and is very contagious, and is caused by the repeated attacks of minute insects which burrow into the skin ; these insects are called acari, and can be easily seen by means of a magnifying glass. (I include il- lustrations of three varieties of mange parasites.) Causes. In the majority of cases it is the result of contagion, either from coming in direct con- tact with a mangy horse, or it may be carried by means of his harness or blankets. It is also generated by uncleanliness and in- FlG - 864.-Mange parasite, sufficient nourishment; the skin, from being allowed to become cov- ered with dirt, loses, in a great measure, its highly important func- tion in maintaining an animal in health. Symptoms. Generally, the first symptom observed is the an- imal rubbing his head and neck against the stall or manger; small pimples appear, and the hair falls off; the skin is dry and hard, and upon the hardened patches may be seen small red spots. A horse affected with mange is kept in a constant state cf irrita- tion, which soon reduces him in flesh. Treatment. He should be separated from other animals, and thoroughly washed with soap and water every second or third day, afterwards dressed with the following application : 1006 DISEASES AND THELR TKEATMENT, 4 ounces linseed oil, 4 ounces oil of tar, 3 ounces sulphur. Mix, and rub well into the affected parts. No. 2. 4 ounces oil turpentine, 4 ounces oil tar, 6 ounces linseed oil. Mix. Alternately with the above application mercurial ointment may be used. The horse should have a generous diet, and moder- Fio. 865. FIG. gfitf. Mange parasites. ate and regular exercise. In inveterate cases arsenical solutions are beneficial, but must be used with caution. All clothing, har- FIG. 867. One of the tests for mange. ness, etc., which has been used on a horse affected with mange, should be thoroughly cleansed before they are used again. The following is recommended by a very successful veterinary surgeon : " Take the horse in the sun, and scrub him thoroughly all over with castile soap and water, then wash him well from head to tail with gas water, in which put 2 drachms white hellebore to the gal- HEN-LICE. 1007 Ion. He must now be put in another stall, distant from the one in which he has been standing. Thus treated, it rarely requires more than one washing to effect a permanent cure. The harness should be thoroughly scrubbed, and put away for six or eight weeks. These precautions are necessary to success in this otherwise trouble- some disease." HEN LICE. It is not known to many that hen lice and common human body lice grow on horses with great rapidity. Hen lice especially are sometimes very troublesome. Prof. Bouley, in 1851, first called attention to them. Symptoms. When a horse is taken suddenly with irresistible itching, sometimes acting half frantic in his efforts to relieve him- self by scratching, biting, striking up with his hind feet, and stamping, examine him carefully for hen lice. This trouble is to be particularly looked for where hens have access to, or roost in, the stable. There is liable to be an eruption of very small vesicles under the skin, the hair falling off in small, circular spots. In a few days these spots are liable to extend. When neglected, or not attended to, the horse is liable to lose his appetite, grow thin and weak, on account of the constant an- noyance and irritation to which he is made subject. Treatment. Remove the cause. Hens should never be kept near a horse stable, nor allowed to roost in it. Wash the animal with a decoction of tobacco, or staphysgia; whitewash the stable, and observe cleanliness. If subject to human lice, and the animal is poor, with long hair, clip it off, and wash the animal with a de- coction of stavesacre, one ounce of the powdered seeds to a pint of water, taking care that the animal does not lick himself for some time after the remedy has been applied. WUliaTns. An ounce of arsenic to a pail of soft water, with which wash the horse thoroughly in a warm place, is claimed to be a sure remedy for destroying either kind of lice. Somerville. RING -WORM. This is not a common disease among horses. It consists in a parasitic growth of organic cells in the surface of the skin. Ring- worm is a common affection in man, and is said to be communica- ble from him to the lower animals. Like other diseases of the skin, it is also generated by uncleanliness. 1008 DISEASES AND THEIB TREATMENT. Symptoms. The hair falls off on various parts of the body, especially about the face, eyelids, cheeks, neck, and thighs, leav- ing small and apparently ulcerated patches, which appear white and scaly, and have a peculiar tendency to spread; the animal loses flesh, and his coat becomes dry and dirty looking. Treatment. Ring-worm, if attended to in the early stage, is easily cured. The affected parts should be well cleansed, and touched with a mild caustic, and dressed daily with the following ointment: 1 drachm iodine, 1 ounce lard. Or, in place of the ointment, a liniment composed of 1 ounce sulphur, 6 drachms iodide of potassium, 3 drachms iodine, 10 ounces oil of tar ; May be used daily. SCRATCHES, MUD FEVER, AND CRACKED HEELS Are very common occurrences among horses, especially in the spring and autumn months, and the hind legs are of tener affected than the fore ones. Causes. They are very often the result of keeping horses standing in damp or filthy stables. Clipping the hair from off the legs is regarded as a very serious cause of scratches, as it leaves the skin so bare that it cannot as readily resist the effects of irritants of any kind as when protected by its natural covering; but the most common cause is the habit of washing the legs with cold water, and not drying them thoroughly afterwards. The sebaceous glands in the hollow of the pasterns become inflamed, their secretion is increased, the skin cracks and discharges an ichorous matter. Symptoms, They usually cause lameness, more or less severe, according to the severity of the attack, always most painful for the first few steps. The hollow of the pasterns are swollen, red, hot, and tender, with transverse cracks which open at every step, and often bleed, especially in cold weather. (A good illustration of this is shown by Figs. 868 and 869. Treatment must be regulated according to the extent and CBACKED HEELS. 1009 duration of the disease. In all cases the horse should be kept in a dry place, with an abundance of clean litter; the heels should be thoroughly cleansed, and if painful, poultices of linseed meal applied for several days. If the horse is in high condition, and the legs much swollen, a full dose of purgative medicine must be given, followed by two or three doses of diuretic medicine, as, 3 drachma nitrate of potash, 3 drachms resin, With soft soap sufficient to make an ordinary sized ball. FIG. 868. A very bad FIG. 869. An ordinary case of scratches. case of scratches. After poulticing, the parts should be dressed once or twice a day with the following lotion : 6 drachms sulphate of zinc, 1 ounce acetate of lead, 1 pint water. Occasionally scratches prove very troublesome and difficult to cure; if the ulcerations extend, it will be necessary to change the dressing, and dry powders, such as oxide of zinc, calomel, etc., should be tried. The following is included from a very successful practitioner, as his favorite treatment: li First wash the parts off well with warm water and soap, dry thoroughly, and apply the following ointment twice a day: 64 1010 DISEASES AND THE1E TEEATMENT. " 3 ounces oxide of zinc, 2 drachms carbolic acid, 10 ounces lard. Mix. " If the case is serious, internal remedies must be resorted to. First give a laxative, then feed twice a day one of the following powders: ' ' l^r ounces sulphate of iron, 3 ounces gentian root, pulverized. " Make into eight powders." The prescription given below was obtained by the writer un- der the following circumstances, which will illustrate its value: When traveling through Ohio, dur- ing the winter of 1866, in conse- quence of deep mud, Turco's feet became badly affected with scratches, or cracked heels. In spite of all that could be done, the ulcerations con- tinued to spread, in connection with deep cracks across the heels, which would bleed whenever he was moved. Persons who had been in the army who saw him, stated that his feet were affected as were those in the army, when they lost their hoofs. While trying to drive him one morn- ing, a drunken fellow, who intro- duced himself as the local horse doc- tor, claimed that he had a remedy that would cure the horse completely in two weeks. Having no confidence whatever in the fellow, I paid no attention to him, but was finally induced, mainly to free myself from his annoy- ance, to buy the prescription. Next day he followed me to the adjoining town, when he again assured me, if I would try the medicine, he would warrant it to cure the case. To get rid of him, I finally told him he might go and make as much medicine as he pleased, and I would pay him for it. He prepared the med- icine, and it was applied by the groom to the horse, as directed, that night. Next morning there was such a decided improvement that I was encouraged to persevere in its use, and in two weeks both legs were entirely cured. FIG. 870. Showing the legs in healthy condition. CEACKED HEELS. 10H I regard the prescription very valuable, and mention this fact as proof of its effectiveness : 2 ounces resin, 2 ounces copperas, 2 ounces alum, 1 ounce beeswax, 1 pint tar, Tallow, size of hen's egg. Boil over a slow fire, skim off the filth, and add a handful of the scrap- ings of sweet elder. When cool, it is fit for use. Another remedy, for which much is claimed, is the follow- ing: 6 ounces sweet oil, 2 ounces borax, 2 ounces sugar of lead. Mix First wash clean with soft water and castile soap. When dry, apply once a day. Sometimes a horse will irritate or break the skin by getting a rope or strap around the leg, which, if neglected, will cause a great deal of trouble by inducing scratches or cracking of the skin. The leg should be immediately poulticed with flax seed meal, until all inflammation subsides. The horse in the meantime should have bran mashes, with a small dose of physic. If, however, it has been neglected, and scratches or ulceration of the skin follow, it must be treated the same as for an ordinary case of scratches. I have found that tying a thickness or two of flannel loosely around the part for a few days after treatment, is very beneficial. Mr. J. F. Beaver, of the firm of Beaver & Williams Livery, Bat- tle Creek, Mich., gave me the remedy below, which he claims to be the best thing he ever used for cracked heels. That, twelve years ago, he bought a very fast trotter that was regarded worth- less on account of his heels cracking so badly that he could not be speeded. Every effort to cure him previously having failed, a careful application of this remedy cured him perfectly. He has used it on a number of bad cases since then, always with success. He thinks it the best ever used for the cure of cracked heels, and would not be without it for one hundred dollars. The prescription was obtained of one of the best known and successful veterinary surgeons in the country. Mr. B.'s statement was fully corrobo- rated by friends who were acquainted with all the facts, and is un- 1012 DISEASES AND THEIK TBEATMENT. doubtedly a remedy of great value. I include the prescription, with directions, as given me : " The immediate causes of cracked heels, though various, may be summed up under the general heads of neglect and mismanage- ment. Any very sudden change from heat to cold, or from cold to heat, is very likely to derange the secretions of the skin. Hence washing the legs, especially with hot water, is very apt to induce cracked heels. The use of caustics and active astringents fre- quently does irreparable mischief. " Gummy-legged" horses, i. ., those whose legs are disposed to fill, are predisposed to cracked heels. Though this affection is usually associated with neglect or mismanagement, we occasionally find it in animals receiving the best of care. Horses well groomed and regularly exercised some- times suffer from cracked heels. The process of sweating induces the affection. The sweat runs down into the hollow of the heels, and the evaporation of the perspiration, strongly impregnated as it is with the salts of the blood, may possibly lead to disease. Jn regard to treatment, first, the cause, if it can be discovered, must be removed. The heels should be washed every night with warm water, and carefully enveloped in flannel bandages. Soap, though commonly used along with the water, is injurious, because the al- kali contained in it spoils the material thrown out for the repara- tive process. Ointments of various kinds are used. The following, if properly prepared, is an excellent remedy: Take of oxide of zinc, one drachm ; Veterinary Cosmoline, one ounce j powdered gum benzoin, ten grains ; camphorated spirits, one drachm ; mix thoroughly. The mode of application is a matter for attention. It should be gently rubbed upon the cracks with the finger, so as to distribute it in a moderately thick layer over the whole of the af- fected part, and to insinuate it as much as possible under any crusts that may be formed in the disease. Once properly applied, it will prevent further crust from collecting, while it serves the several purposes of a new cuticle to the abraded skin, a water-dressing, and a barrier to the oxidizing action always present in inflammation. The heels must not be washed after the application of the oint- ment ; they may be wiped with a soft napkin as much as may seem necessary, but when the ointment is once applied, it should not be removed by washing without good reason. Or the following lini- ment may be successfully applied : Take of Goulard's extract, En- glish glycerine, and skunk oil, two parts each ; liquor ammonia, half a part ; mix. Agitate before using, and apply with a soft brush twice a day." See also hoof ointment on page 983, which Prof. Gamgee, of Edinburgh, Scotland, says is one of the very best remedies for scratches or cracked heels. GREASE. This may be considered as an aggravated condition of scratches, and is induced by the same general causes. In the early stage, it GEEASE. 1013 consists in inflammation of the sweat glands, followed by an of- fensive, white, oily discharge from the heels. The acrid character of the discharge often causes large portions of the skin to slough away, leaving ugly sores behind. Symptoms. There is generally more or less swelling of the legs, which, if not speedily relieved, is followed by a discharge; the hair falls off, and the skin is reddened and inflamed. The parts are very painful and hot, and in many cases the least press- ure of the hand will make the horse twitch up his leg, and con- tinue to hold it up for some time. In other cases, when made to move about in his stall, or when taken out of his stable in the morning, he will keep twitching up his legs as if he were affected with string- halt. Exercise appears to relieve the pain, as after being walked for ten or fifteen minutes, he goes quite free. As the disease ad- vances, the skin cracks, and the discharge increases, becoming more and more purulent and offensive. (A good illustration of its appear- ance at this stage is given in Fig. 871.) The swelling increases, not being confined to the heels, but in- FlG - 871. A bad condition of grease, volving the front of the fetlock joint, and in some cases extending upwards to the hock. The cracked condition of the legs and heels undergoes a change of structure, and fungoid granulations spring up similar in form to a bunch of keys; this is called the "grapy stage," which may vary considerably in structure, at one time be- ing very vascular, bleeding readily when touched, in other in- stances it loses its vascularity, and becomes hard and horny ; from between the crevices of the grapes an ichorous, glairy discharge continues. There is a small parasite, called sarcoptes hippopodus, which is sometimes found in chronic grease, an illustration of which I here give largely magnified, from Williams, who says this class of insect may be also common to mange. The disease induced by it is called 1014 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. foot mange. Attention is drawn to a horse with this disease by his rubbing his fore legs, or striking constantly with the hind ones during the night. The seat of the disease, and the ready detec- tion of numerous parasites in clusters where crusts or scabs form about the horse's heels, suffice to enable us to diagnose the malady. Treatment. Without cleanliness, all medicinal remedies are useless. The heels should be washed with soap and water every day, and the general comfort of the animal attended to. If the patient is in high condition, a dose of purgative medicine must be given, and the animal restricted to a cooling diet, as carrots, bran, etc. ; or, if in sum- mer, green food is preferable. The following lotion may be applied daily, which, in mild cases, will generally suffice: 30 grains chloride of zinc, 1 pint water. In cases of long standing, the hair must be cut off, and the parts softened with linseed meal poultices; to which may be added charcoal, yeast, or bleach- ing powder. After removing the poultices, dust the parts over with oxide of zinc powder, or apply the following ointment every morning, to be washed off at night: 1 scruple acetate of lead, 4 drachms soft soap, 4 drachms lard. As in other skin diseases, small doses of Fowler's solution of arsenic is generally attended with beneficial results. TUMOR ON THE SHOULDER. Very often, in consequence of continued chafing of the collar, which may be neglected, serious inflammation is caused, some- times followed by a deep cyst of matter, beneath the large flat FIG. 872. Sarcoptes hippopodus. TUMOE ON THE SHOULDER 1015 muscle which covers the front of the shoulder. The tissues around the part become thickened and indurated so that it is frequently difficult to detect any fluctu- ation of matter, yet it may be assumed, when there is con- siderable swelling, that has continued for some time, and matter exists, there will not be recovery until it has been removed. In slight cases only, a little nut-like induration usually forms without matter. Treatment.-In cases where injury is recent, if the horse must be used, change the col- lar, so that, if possible, no chaf- ing or pressure will be brought FIG. 873. Showing tumor on elbow and shoulder. upon the part. Bathe the shoulder with hot and cold water ac- cording to the severity of the case, or two or three thicknesses of wet blanket may be slung over the shoulder. Bathing the part thor- oughly with arn- ica which has been reduced about one- third with water, is a favorite rem- edy for chaffs and bruises. The fol- lowing liniments for external in- fl am mation are very good: 2 ounces worm- wood, 1 quart New England mm. FIG. 874. A good method of covering shoulder with wet cloths or poultices, when seriously chaffed or inflamed. Steep the worm-wood in the liquor, and apply the preparation thor- oughly to the shoulder. Or, 1016 DISEASES AND THEIE TBEATMENT. 1 ounce Goulard's extract, 2 ounces vinegar, 3 ounces spirits of wine, 1^ pints water. Cover the part with two or three thicknesses of cloth kept wet with this. An excellent remedy for bruises and soreness, caused by kicks, etc., is made by putting all the camphor into whisky which it will cut or dissolve. Bathe the part thoroughly with this. If a tumor forms, open it with a knife, and treat like an or- dinary wound ; or the matter can be drawn off with a trochar and canula, until the sac is reduced, when it can be opened. If a solid tumor forms, a straight verticle incision is to be made through the skin over the mass, and dissected out, when the skin is to be brought together with stitches, and treated as a simple wound. TUMOR ON POINT OF THE ELBOW These are, in most cases, caused by the heels of the shoe when the horse lies with his fore limbs bent under him. Treatment. If in its acute hot or cold applica- tions may be used; if very much swol- len, bathing with hot water will be best. When the acute stage passes off, apply an iodine or biniodide of mercury blister ; if serum is secreted, it is recommended as the simplest treat- ment, to draw it off 875. A good method of covering or poultic- . ,, ing the elbow when injured. Wlth a Canula and trochar, and inject the sac with compound tincture of iodine, diluted with twice the quantity of water. Or, open the sac freely at the lower part, and SALLENDEBS. 1017 heal like a common wound. If a hard mass is left beneath the skin, it is to be dissected out, and the skin brought together with a couple of stitches, and treat as a simple wound. SALLENDERS Is a name given to an eruption on the front of the hock joint, con- sisting in a scurfiness of the skin, accompanied by an ichorous dis- charge and falling out of the hair. Causes. High feeding without exercise, disorder of the di- gestive system, uncleanliness, and bad grooming. In stallions of the heavy draught breed they are a very common affection, and prove difficult to remove. Treatment. Dress the parts with mercurial or iodine oint- ments, keep the legs dry and clean, and give regular but not se- vere exercise, and occasionally a dose of laxative medicine. When only slight, the following lotion may remove them : 20 grains corrosive sublimate, 1 pint water. Apply twice a day. MALLENDERS Is the name given to a similar affection located at the back of the knee. The treatment must be the same as for sallenders. SADDLE AND COLLAR GALLS, A very common occurrence among horses, are caused by uneven pressure of the saddle or collar; the skin becomes excoriated, and the hair falls off. Large inflammatory swellings appear, which may form into abscesses, or the skin may become indurated and thickened. Treatment. The parts should be fomented with warm water, and some simple or cooling lotion applied, as, 1 ounce acetate of lead, 1 pint water. If abscesses form, they must be freely opened, and well fo- mented or poulticed. When the skin becomes indurated, forming what are called sitfasts, they must be dissected out. The following is said to be an excellent healing lotion for sad- dle or collar galls: 1018 DISEASES AJSTD THEIE TBEATMEXT. 1 ounces sulphate copper, 1 ounce sulphate zinc, 1^ ounces sugar of lea. Put in three pints of water. Swab on the parts two or three times a day. Reduces inflammation, and sets up healing granulation of parts. TENOTOMY. As the name indicates, it consists in division of the tendons in cases of morbid contraction, giving rise to knuckling over the fet- lock, causing the whole weight to be thrown on the toe. It is only applicable to cases in which we have no anchylosis of the joints. The horse being cast and properly secured, the leg is taken out of the hobbles, and a rope attached to the foot, which is held by assistants. A longitudinal incision is made about an inch in length, a little in front of the tendons, and below any point of thickening that may exist. A common, small bladed scalpel, or the curved tenotomy knife, is passed in, care being taken to avoid the artery vein and nerve, and the tendons are divided ; the skin behind must not be cut, as the ends of the tendon may protrude, giving rise to fungus growths. The foot should now be easily brought into its natural position ; if not, some force should be used to bring it back " by placing the knee against the front or pro- jecting part of it, at the same time laying hold of the foot with one hand, and the upper part of the leg with the other, and using considerable force." This is sometimes necessary to break up ad- hesions which may have formed. A stitch or two should be put in the wound, and a thick woolen bandage kept constantly wet with cold water should be applied for some days. If much in- flammation ensues, a poultice should be applied, and some purga- tive medicine given. If the fetlock descends too much, the heels should be raised. If adhesions take place during recovery, a tipped shoe should be put on the foot. In from two to three months he will be fit for work. In a conversation with Dr. Hamill about this operation, in ex- plaining the simplicity and success of the operation, he referred to a case in point. To make the matter more clear to the general reader, I made the request that he would write out a statement of TENOTOMY. 1019 the method of treatment used by him, with a drawing showing the position of the foot before being operated upon ; also drawings of his method of adjustment for holding the foot in position after the operation, which are here given : " TENOTOMY, OR DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. " This is one of the simplest, as well as one of the most useful operations in equine surgery, as it will restore to normal position and strength a limb which has been so much deformed by contraction of the great flexor tendon of the foot, as to leave an otherwise good horse utterly useless. This con- traction causes what is known as knuckling, or descending forward and downward of the fetlock joint towards the ground. " The operation is as follows : The horse is secured (in some cases throwing down is unnec- essary), the leg is flexed or bent at the knee, a very small incision is made through the skin on the inside of the leg, at the inner border of the tendon, where it stands out freest from the ' can- non bone.' (See Pig. 876.") Then insert a probe pointed tenotomy knife, keeping it pressed as FJ(J 876 ._ ghowi close to the tendon as possible to avoid cutting the artery, which may be better protected by the positlon f the pressing with the fingers of the left hand towards thebone,allthe operated upon ' soft tissues ly- a, Point to enter ing in front of the knife for cutting the tendon, the tendons. Press the knife in until the skin is reached, but not cut on the opposite side; turn the edge towards the ten- don, cut carefully backward, while an attendant straightens the limb, until both tendons are severed, if necessary, to let the limb out straight. But a small wound is best for the healing process. And where adhesions have taken place, force is re- quired to straighten out the foot, FIG. 8. Drawing of the shoe and bar j*... Jf . with the brace or stay shoe, (bee Fig. 878.) With a little antisep- tic dressing occasionally to the wound, recovery will take place early. As a much better 'set' limb can be had with use of stay shoe, it may be added that one can be easily made by welding a bar of the desired length on the old used for the treatment of the case referred to. 1020 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. shoe, setting it to the position of the sound limb, then packing and bandaging all together just above the point of operation. (See il- lustrations below.) " The adjustable brace shoe, shown in Fig. 877, is also simple, which is taken from the very shoe actually in use on one of the worst cases of contraction of the flexor tendon ever in ISTew York City. A horse belong- ing to Messrs. Smith & McWiliiam, Manhat- tan Gas Works, K Y., was a large, powerful draught horse, be- tween fourteen and fifteen hundred weight, used at very heavy work. Through some sprain to the off hind limb, he kept walking on the toe for about five or six months. Every known remedy was tried to prevent knuckling, both as regards medi- cal treatment and FIG. 878,-Drawing of model shoe and bar designed shoeing. Heavyplatcs of steel were welded in for this purpose, and its adjustment. & ,1 .. ,1 front of the toe ot the shoe. During another six months, he kept going over, until finally he walked on the anterior face of the hoof, with the fetlock joint resting on the ground. Fig. 876 shows the position in which the foot was carried. The limb appeared to be paralyzed above the joint. When he was down, he was quite helpless, had to be helped up, and in the end could hardly be made to stand alone. The own- ers decided to have him destroyed, although only eight years old, but first acquainted their veterinary surgeon. He advised tenot- omy, which was performed in the month of March, 1878. In a few weeks the horse worked on Mr. Smith's farm at heavy plough- ing, and other farm work. Shortly after, he was taken back to the city, put to the same heavy work again, when he worked for two years, and never afterward showed the slightest lameness, or even weakness in that leg." In 1865, I purchased a pair of finely matched stallions. After being trained carefully, the first time exhibited they were driven to a new wagon. In turning short around, the wheel caught into the rub-iron, and being on sideling ground, it caused the wagon to upset, when the horses got away and ran into their stable close by. Upon examination, it was found that the sharp corner of TENOTOMY. 1021 the tire on the fore wheel, in striking one of the horse's hind legs, entirely severed the tendons about three and a half to four inches above the point of the fetlock, allowing the foot to turn up, and the ankle to rest upon the ground. I supposed, of course, the horse was ruined, and beyond help. At that time I knew noth- ing at all about the treatment of sickness or lameness, and there being no veterinary surgeon in all that region of country, was consequently thrown upon my own resources. The horse being a valuable one, and the injury to him breaking up a fine team, I was bound to save him if I could, and succeeded in doing so as follows: I had the horse put in slings ; next had the shoe taken off the foot, to which I had a piece of strong iron welded on at the toe. I then took a piece of leather, drew it around the fetlock, and fast- ened through a loop in the iron, as shown in Fig. 879. The part was simply dressed as an ordinary wound. Excessive inflammation was kept down by showering with cold water. In about five weeks the parts seemed to be entirely healed, leaving considerable enlargement; but FIG. 879. The foot as fearing that by giving him entire freedom, the ifc was supported, tendons might be torn apart, I kept him in slings a little over seven weeks. I kept a man with this horse night and day, with instructions to let him stand upon his feet easily an hour or so at a time, then alternating by shortening the slings, so as to rest his weight prin- cipally upon them. It was also so arranged, by an extra strap behind, as to pull forward and upward like a breeching. Every precaution was taken to nurse, by giving nourishing and easily digested food. Indeed, without this precaution, I think he could not have been saved, as the weather was very warm, and very trying for a horse to stand so long in a warm stable. As it was, he was very much emaciated when taken out of the slings, though he soon regained his strength and flesh, and seemed to be as well as ever. The enlargement gradually subsided, so that at the end of a year it was scarcely noticeable. There was at first a little want of mobility in the limb, but it soon disappeared. I would here add that it would have facilitated the absorption 1022 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. of the enlargement, to have used a slight absorbant, with moder- ate pressure of a light woolen bandage. CASTKATION. The following article was, by special request, written by Dr. Chas. A. Meyer, who is an expert in the performance of this oper- ation : " CASTRATION BY THE LATEST METHOD. " Advances and progress have been made in all branches, of the sciences and arts, and the art and science of surgery has been one of them. The nature, temperament, and disposition of the horse is better understood, and the educated veterinarian often risks his life for the benefit of stock raisers. "We T7ill, therefore, speak of FIG. 880. Miles' Ecraseure. the most improved method of castrating the stallion, as it is now, and will in the future be performed, with more ease and success. The old method of castrating the stallion, which so often injures tho animal by breaking his back, injuring his limbs, spraining his muscles, and frequently disabling him for life, is now prevented. Tho method as now performed is to castrate the animal standing, using no ropes to tie his legs, no hard usage, no clamps, and less lia- ble to cause tetanus, eryseplas, sclerous cord, etc. The operation is as follows : " Put a halter on the animal, speak to him kindly, lead him to a corner, and quietly back him into it. Have the groom hold the halter-rope with the right hand, rather short, and place his left hand or arm over the face of the horse, and turn the animal's head to the left, or nigh side. The operator should have a sharp castrat- ing knife, a pair of scissors, and, the most important instrument of all, the ecraseure (as shown in Fig. 880), called Miles' Ecraseure. Tho operator should stand on the nigh side, midway between the fore and hind legs (say nothing to the horse), grasp tho scrotum gently in the left hand above the testicles, now with the knife held about 8 to 10 inches from the scrotum, make a slash into, and throng the coverings of the testicles, cutting into them proper. While the cut is made with the fore fingers at the back of the scro- CASTBATION. 1023 turn, raise the severed coverings, and the testicles pop out. This must be done quickly. Then step back, apply the chain of the ec- raseure about an inch above the testicle, and quickly tighten the chain. When a firm tortion is on the chain, gradually tighten the same, when a peculiar grating sensation will be felt. Do not cut clear through the cord with the chain. Then take your scissors and cut below the chain, when the testicle will fall to the ground. Gradually loosen the chain, which should require about half a min- ute, and repeat the same operation on the second testicle. You will not have any bleeding, and the animal will stand perfectly quiet. " This was at one time performed by a few men, who traveled through the country castrating, and who captivated the stock rais- ers by their clever way of operating, and who look upon it as a se- cret, of which there is no such thing. The whole secret lies in this : The testicles are endowed with a profuse plexus of nerves, and is a highly sensitive organ. By making a sharp, quick incis- ion in the testicle, the pain is so intense that the animal becomes unnerved, and is under complete control of the operator. In this lies the whole secret. In some cases, the stallion makes a few sharp, quick kicks with one leg, but they are so as not to get in close proximity with the operator, being straight out behind. There is no danger to either the operator or the horse. Nothing is applied to the wounded part, which is to be left alone, and a slight swelling will be visible for a few days, which is natural, and must be to produce a healing of the parts. The percentage of loss is very slight, and only then due to complications, such as colds, etc. I have never yet seen an animal die from being operated upon by this^method." THE OLD METHOD, As practiced by an old man named Gould, who is a resident near Bath, Steuben Co., N. Y. He is known in that and surrounding counties for his success in castrating horses, claiming to have never lost a case, and that there was but little swelling after the opera- tion. The writer took particular pains to see the old man operate, and learn his secret. The horse was laid down, and tied in the usual manner. He washed the parts thoroughly with warm water, and then greased with lard. The clamps were of the usual kind. It is the prepa- ration he put on the clamps that made his success, he said. He put on the clamp, first rye flour paste; on this, sifted on equal portions of red precipitate and corrosive sublimate, mixed together in powder. In 24 hours the clamps were taken off. This method of treatment has been pursued for many years by a 1024 DISEASES AND THEIK TEEATMENT. friend of the author, and he claims, with unfailing success, never having lost a case, and is followed by no appreciable swell- ing. INJURIES AND DISEASES OF THE PENIS. Causes. The penis or yard of the stallion more particularly is liable to injury, from being kicked in covering, or sometimes it gets injured by awkwardness of the groom in serving mares; also from being cruelly struck with a whip or stick while in a state of erection. Warts and excrescences frequently cover the surface of the organ. Symptoms. We may have injuries of more or less severity from a slight scratch to deep and severe laceration of its sub- stance; or, on the other hand, the blow may have merely bruised, without breaking, the skin, producing want of power to retract it> and often accompanied by enormous swelling of the organ. When long out, the glans assumes a reddish-brown color, and the sur- face is cold, with very little sensibility. This is known as para- phymosis. Sometimes these swellings subside, but thickening and enlargement of the lower part remains, preventing retraction within the sheath, proving very troublesome and unsightly. Warty excrescences are easily recognized, and may occur on any part of the organ. Treatment. Injuries from kicks and blows must be treated on the general principles of subduing inflammation. If it hangs pendulous, it must be supported by a broad bandage round the body, and copious affusion with cold water, or iced water in sum- mer, constantly applied ; if very hot and tender, accompanied by fever and constitutional disturbance, hot fomentations may be more applicable ; whichever is employed must be persevered in for some length of time. Purgatives should be given, and low diet, for some time. Unless there is extensive laceration of the substance of the or- gan, nothing more than cold applications are required; should it prove tardy in healing, Goulard lotion, or a mild solution of sul- phate of zinc will prove beneficial. When it continues, and the tumefaction increases, free and deep longitudinal scarification must be made on its surface, and repeated in a few days, if neces- sary. Sometimes charcoal poultices are required to cleanse the wounds and soothe the part. SHEATH AND YAEB. 1025 FOULNESS OF THE SHEATH AND YAKD. In geldings the penis becomes diminished considerably in size, and, from want of the sexual desire, seldom protrude it without its covering, the sheath, consequently the sebaceous secretion of tiie glands in the prepuce accumulate, forming a black soft foetid substance, with a strong persistent uric odour. This sometimes becomes irritating, and gives rise to uneasiness, and should be oc- casionally washed out with warm water, and a soft sponge, tak- ing care not to scratch or bruise the inner surface, as troublesome swellings sometimes ensue. More trouble, however, arises from the accumulation of little round "beans," (as horsemen call them,) of a soft clayish appear- ance, in the cavity in the head of the penis, surrounding the end of the urethra; sometimes obstructing the passage of the urine, by pressing on the urethra, or even stopping up the orifice itself, giv- ing rise to difficulty in staling, and uneasiness. The sheath should be washed out with soap and water, and the hand, well oiled, should be passed up, and the penis drawn out, when the accumulation should be removed, taking care not to scratch or bruise the parts. PARTUBITION OR FOALING. The period of gestation in the mare varies from eleven to thir- teen months. Usually about ten days before foaling she begins to " make bag," the udder enlarges, and a thin milky fluid can be drawn from the teats, and a glairy discharge escapes from the vagina, giving warning that the foal is about to be dropped. When the time approaches, she becomes uneasy, getting up and down frequently. Presently the true labour pains begin, the womb contracts on its contents, assisted by the diaphragm and abdominal muscles; the whole body is convulsed with the effort; the mouth of the womb becomes dilated; the water-bag appears and bursts; and when the presentation is natural, a few efforts force it out sometimes enclosed in the membranes, which must be immediately removed ; and if the cord does not give way itself, it being sometimes thick and strong, a ligature should be put on it about four inches from the belly, and the remainder cut away. In general, mares are best left to themselves at this important 65 1026 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. period, but care should be taken that they do not get into awk- ward positions, as against a wall, or the sides of the box. ABNORMAL PRESENTATIONS. The natural position of the foal at birth is with the head rest- ing on the two fore-legs. When in this position, and the parts natural, it soon comes away without very much exertion. In many cases, however, the foal is found in such positions as to pre- vent its escape without assistance. In all cases of protracted la- bour, where the pains continue without effect, assistance may be required. The hand being raised in temperature by washing in warm water, should be introduced to ascertain the cause. In some cases the neck of the womb will be found not sufficiently dilated, but the foal is found in its natural position. In such cases, it may be gently dilated with the hand, or left alone, when nature will often overcome it herself. In cases of natural presen- tion, we must not be in too much hurry to deliver ; harm is often done by injudicious interference. One or both fore-legs may be doubled back, with the head presenting. In this case, push it back, and pass the hand down the leg if possible ; get them up into the passage, either by the hand or looped cords passed round the fetlock, when, by slight traction, it will generally be brought away. The legs may be presented in the passage, and the head either doubled down under the brim of the pelvis, or turned over the shoulder down on the flank. In this case, it should be pushed bodily back, and the head sought for, when a loop must be placed, if possible, on the lower jaw; it must now be pushed back, while the head is to be pulled forward, and brought into the passage. This case is often very troublesome, from the difficulty sometimes experienced in reaching the head. It is sometimes necessary to remove one of the legs by cutting the skin round the fetlock, and with the embryotomy knife dividing the skin of the leg as far as the shoulder, and separating it with the fingers, when it can be removed. A cord should be attached to the loose skin to aid in traction, when the head can in most cases be reached. We have had occasion to remove both legs in the same manner before de- livery could be effected. Sometimes the buttocks and tail are only to be felt ; this is often a troublesome case, especially when the legs dip under the BLISTEES. 1027 pelvis. It must be pushed well in, and the hind feet, if possible, secured and brought into the passage. Often, however, it is very difficult to do, when, as recommended by Prof! Dick, "the con- tents of the abdomen must be removed at the rectum ; the pelvis divided at the symphysis, when a cord being attached, and force used, the hind legs will get into the place of the viscera, and the quarters collapse so as to allow of extraction." The whole four feet may be presented in the passage ; the simplest way of deliver- ing in this case is to feel for the hocks, and slip loops -on the hind feet ; and by pushing back the fore ones, it may be removed by the hind legs. It is impossible to describe minutely the details of procedure in these cases, as, from difference in collateral circumstances, such as size, age, length of time she has been in labour, swelling of the parts, etc., etc., different plans of treatment must suggest them- selves to the operator. The principles to be observed are these: endeavor to get it into its natural position, in which position it is easiest delivered ; failing in that, to get it into the next easiest, viz., the hind legs first that impracticable, to remove those parts of the foal which offer most resistance, care being taken in so do- ing not to bruise or lacerate the mare. In no circumstances are tact, coolness, and steady perseverance more required than in a protracted case of labour; however, the dictates of humanity no less than professional duty demand that we shrink not from the most difficult. BLISTERS. Before a blister is applied, the hair must be cut off from the part as closely as possible. The blistering ointment is then to be well rubbed into the part with the hand ; and after this has been continued about ten minutes, some of the ointment may be smeared on the part. In blistering the legs, the tender part of the heel, under the fetlock joint, is to be avoided; it may be better to rub a little hog's lard or vaseline on it, in order to defend it from any of the blisters that may accidentally run down from the leg. When the legs are blistered, v all the litter should be removed from the stall, and the horse's head should be carefully secured, to prevent his rubbing the blistered parts with his nose. On the third day he may have a cradle put around his neck, and be 1028 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. turned loose into a large box, or a paddock, or an orchard. In a field he would be apt to take too much exercise. About a week or ten days after the blister has been applied, the parts should be oiled with some olive-oil or vaseline. If flies are troublesome, and make the horse restless, they may be kept off by the tar ointment, or tar and train oil mixed. COUNTER IRRITANTS. THEIR USES, How TO EMPLOY THEM, ETC., FROM WILLIAMS. " In all painful aifections, warm fomentations or poultices must as a rule be prescribed. In the course of some days, however, if the pain is subsiding, and the parts seemingly relaxed, much bene- fit will be obtained by making a change to cold, mild astringents and bandages, to promote absorption of the exudate. " The congested capillaries may be relieved by local bleeding, but the parts upon which such an operation is performed are very few, except about the coronet or the foot. An incision into the coronary plexus will reach the vessels at once; the utility of this is, however, very doubtful, except in rare cases. Bleeding at the toe, although much practiced by many, is not to be commended. " Purgatives are very useful during the first stages of lameness, reducing the inflammation. A full dose of aloes may be given with advantage, the diet being properly regulated and restricted to bran mashes, a little hay, and the water to be chilled. " After the acute signs of inflammation have subsided, if the lameness still remains, the application of the so-called counter irri- tants will be rendered necessary. These consist of rubefacients, blisters, setons, and the actual cautery. The actions of these reme- dies differ only in degree, in rapidity, and in performance, not in the nature of the exudation which they produce. Without enter- ing into any speculative discussion upon the question, superficial ir- ritants are beneficial in all cases of chronic lameness, whether it be caused by disease in bone, cartilage, ligament, tendon, or any other structure; and they are often more decidedly beneficial when ap- plied to the diseased structure itself than to the skin covering it. For example, a lameness arises from bone spavin; its eradication is much more certain and rapid when a pointed cauter}^ is applied to the diseased bones than when the hock is fired in the ordinary way. Again, a spavin has been fired and blistered repeatedly without benefit; the bones are " punched " (a barbarous operation, and only to be performed in extreme cases), violent inflammation is excited in the diseased bones, which for a time increases tlio lameness; but this gradually subsides, and the original lameness is found to be removed. " I am of the opinion that the curative action of external irri- tants is not due to their producing metastasis or counter irritation; but that they excite within the originally diseased structure a re- COUNTEK IRRITANTS. 1029 parative inflammation, partaking in its nature of what is described by Virchow as the "secretory inflammation," which, superseding the original diseased process (whether that be inflammation pure and simple or its effects, ulceration, caries, or a formation of a low form of fibrous tissues), excites the formation of reparative material by which the breaches are united, ulcers healed, and diseased action removed. " To illustrate this view, I will bring forward two familiar ex- amples: 1. The healing of a sinus or fistula, after the application of a blister, or of the actual cautery to the skin contingent to it; and 2. The removal of phlebitis (inflammation of the vein in the neck after bleeding) by a blister. " In the first instance, we find that a sinus heals after a blister or cautery, by the formation of an or- ganizable exudate, which completely fills up the cavity of the sinus; and, in the second, we find that a blister assists in the obliteration of the in- flamed vein, not by removing the inflam- mation from it, but by promoting the formation of a largo quantity of repara- tive lymph, and hast- ening its further de- velopment into fi- Fia. 881.-The Aspirator.* brous tissues, by which the vessel is transformed at the inflamed part into a fibrous cord. Now if the curative action were due to the removal of inflammation, we should find that in the first case the relief would be only of a temporary nature, the sinus would still remain, being generally the cause, and not the effect of the morbid action; and in the second, that the inflammation being removed from the coats of the veins, the vessel would, upon removal of the clot, become pervious. But such is not the case. Let the clot be removed ever so often, it is sure to form again, and nothing has the power of overcoming the inflammation of the ves- sel until it has been transformed into an organized cord, a process most materially hastened by the application of a blister. " I think it may therefore be accepted that external irritants whether they be simply rubefacients, producing a mere redness * This cut belongs in article on windgalls, page 773 ; but on account of not be- ing available when the matter for that article was put in type, it is inserted here. It was furnished by John Reynders & Co., Manufacturers of Surgical and Veterinary Instruments, etc., 303 Fourth Avenue, N. T. 1030 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. of the skin, vesicants or blisters, which cause elevations of the cuti- cle by fluid underneath it, or cauterization and setons, which pro- mote the suppurative action remove lameness by assisting nature in a process of repair. " Eubefacients may be employed in the less severe forms of lameness, in sprains of tendons, or in slight affection of joints, along with rest and fomentations, after the more acute symptoms have passed away. " It is usual to apply blisters in all cases of some standing, when organic changes in the parts involved are suspected. Before a blis- ter is applied, the hair should bo clipped from the part, which, if dirty, ought to bo washed, and when dry, the blister to be applied with smart friction for about ten minutes. To obtain the full effect of a blister, a quantity of ointment is to be thickly laid on after the rubbing in is completed. " The best agent is cantharides, in the form of acetate, tincture, or ointment, to the limbs, the ointment in preference ; one part of cantharidea to twelve parts of lard or palm-oil. If prepared with a temperature equal to tho boiling point of water (212), it will be sufficiently strong and will never blemish. It is a mistake to think that the powdered flies should be mixed with tho vehicle when it is nearly cold. An ointment so prepared will require three times the quantity of cantharides. The heat melts the cantharidiue. " Hints upon blistering generally. No more than two legs are to be blistered at one time, and three weeks at least must bo allowed to elapse before tho others are blistered, and between each re-ap- plication. It is bad practice to blister extensively in very hot weather ; and it is a mistake to suppose that blisters to the loins and back are more apt to irritate the urinary organs than when applied to any other part of the body, provided that it be carefully and properly done. "The evil results of blistering are: 1st. The production of strangury, by the absorbed cantharidine irritating the urinary passes. This is a very rare occurrence, provided the blister has been applied to a moderate extent of surface; but if four legs, or even two, be extensively blistered at one time, the occurrence of such may be laid down to the indiscretion of the practitioner. In some cases, however, very moderate blistering may be followed by strangury, and when it does occur, it is best treated thus: First wash the blistered surface with warm water, in which a little alkali has been dissolved; dress it with oil, give the animal demulcents to drink, such as cold linseed tea, and administer a few doses of opium and bicarbonate of soda. " 2d. The production of a considerable amount of nervous irri- tability, fidgetiness, quickened pulse, and injected mucous mem- branes, with loss of appetite. These symptoms are duo to a nerv- ous temperament; and if not very severe, had better not be inter- fered with. Should they become alarming, the animal must be treated as in the first instance; the fomentations being continued COTJNTEK IEEITANTS. 1031 for a longer period to the legs. It may be here mentioned that fo- mentations should not be hot, but soothingly warm. " Sometimes blisters, no matter how carefully applied, produce excessive swellings of the limb or limbs, with a tendency to sup- puration and sloughing of the skin. These results are generally due to the animal's being in bad health, and in a condition tending to anasarca or to erysipelatous disease. The treatment must con- sist of purgatives or diuretics, as the case may be ; fomentations, astringent lotions, and gentle exercise, as soon as the pain is suffi- ciently subsided to admit of the animal's being moved about. In many cases the swellings involve the sheath of the penis, and the under surface of the abdomen. Punctures are very useful in such parts, by allowing the escape of the contained fluid. I have seen tetanus arise from a very limited blister to one fore leg. " If the effects are not sufficiently apparent in about thirty hours after the blister has been applied, a very little more, or what is remaining on the skin, which may be sufficient, should be gently rubbed in ; and in about forty-eight hours after the application the part is to be washed, and every trace of the blister removed ; a lit- tle oil being now applied, or, what suits perhaps better, an emulsion of sweet-oil, carbonate of potash, and water. It is a mistake to keep the parts soft too long ; the eschars should be allowed to ac- cumulate, and to desquamate gradually. " Firing, or the application of the actual cautery, is a much more severe irritant than a blister, and often removes pain very rapidly when repeated blisters have failed to do so. In bone dis- eases, and in all cases of chronic lameness, it is of great benefit, and seems to act by powerfully exciting the healing process in the part diseased. The firing may be in lines, and superficial, the transverse method being the least calculated to blemish ; or it may be in points, and deep, by pyro-puncture (see treatment for spavins, ring-bones, etc.) into the diseased structure. This latter method is the more easily performed, and the more effective. "Nothing is more calculated to dispel the idea of the correct- ness of the counter-irritation theory than the dissection of a part which has been recently fired (say three days after the operation), when it will be found that the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and the bones, when they are superficially situated, such as those of the hock, pastern, etc., are involved 'in the inflammatory action so produced. Thus a bone spavin lameness is removed by the inflam- mation excited by the cautery in the diseased bones, providing a supply of material for the purpose of uniting them together into one immovable mass ; or as in caries of a ginglymoid joint, for the re- pair of destroyed structure, as already explained. " Setons act very satisfactorily in some cases of bone diseases, especially in those accompanied by external heat of the part ; they produce a discharge of pus, and their action can be continued for a much longer time than that of blistering or firing. In tendenous or ligamentous lamenesses, with much thickening of the integu- ments and subcutaneous structures, setons should not be employed, 1032 DISEASES AND THEIK TEEATMENT. as they leave much additional thickening, and are not so effectual as the actual cautery." HOT FOMENTATIONS. This is so often advised for acute inflammation, sprains, etc., notwithstanding the simplicity of its application, I think it advis- able to give such details as will serve to aid the owner in its use. The use of hot and cold water alone, intelligently applied, will be found a very safe, simple, and effective remedy for allaying in- flammation, pain, and congestion. The principle is to apply all the heat the animal will bear, but not enough to scald or burn. It is best accomplished by wring- ing through a common clothes wringer a woolen blanket (a com- mon horse-blanket will do) out of boiling hot water, fold it quickly into four or more thicknesses, and place it over the affected part. Cover the hot cloth well with dry blanket. If continued or re- peated long enough to relax the skin, cold is to be applied to tone it up, when, if necessary, the heat is to be again continued. For Acute Pleurisy. To relieve the pain, apply hot fomenta- tions over the seat of the pain, from one to three hours, or till the pain subsides. The fomentations should be renewed every five or ten minutes, and at the conclusion should be followed with a heavy, cold compress for about ten minutes. Ice compresses in- stead of the fomentations will sometimes afford relief when all other means fail. After ice-compresses have been applied for an hour, they should be followed by a hot fomentation, and then apply the cold compress again until the pain subsides. For Colic. Apply hot fomentations sufficiently large to cover the abdomen or belly of the horse, in quick succession, for an hour or so, till relief is obtained. And at the same time give a copious injection of hot water into the rectum, of from 110 to 118 F. A gallon or two of water should be used for this purpose. Any kind of a syringe will do, but the Fountain Syringe is much to be preferred above all others. Sometimes the fomentation is all that is necessary to give relief, and sometimes injections alone will give great relief. For Strains and Sprains. Apply hot fomentations vigor- ously, changing them every five or ten minutes till the pain and swelling subside. Apply a cold compress for the last application, HOT FOMENTATIONS. 1033 and the compress can be left on continuously, but it should be cov- ered with the woolen cloth. For a Cold. If the cold is located in the head, a fomentation can be applied to the head, and should be extensive enough to cover most of the neck. This can be done by folding a blanket lengthwise about four thicknesses, and just winding it spirally around the horse's head so as not to cover the eyes ; and if one blanket is not sufficient, another blanket can be wound around the head and down the neck in the same manner. The fomenta- tion should be well covered with a dry blanket, and if it is so hot that the horse cannot bear it, the hot folded blanket, after being wrung out of hot water, should be folded in a dry one, so as not to burn him. In this case, it is not necessary to add another dry blanket over the fomentation. If the cold seems to be settled all over the horse, several blan- kets may be joined at the edges, and thrown over the horse so that the edges hang down to the ground, forming a kind of tent for the horse to be under. The edges of the blanket behind and before the body can be pinned together. Then place a vessel with hot water under the horse, and a hot brick or hot flat-irons can be thrown into the water to produce a vapor, which should be continued until the horse is in a profuse sweat. Then he can be sponged off, beginning with cool water, and ending with cold wa- ter, or sprayed with cool water, then with cold; or the water can be poured over the body, if it is not convenient to spray. The an- imal should then be warmly blanketed, and in the course of 20 minutes if he does not sweat, or has ceased to sweat, should then be dried thoroughly by wiping with cloths and rubbing with the hand, until perfectly dry. Care should be taken that the tempera- ture of the room in which this treatment is given should not fall much below 50, and would be better to be about 65 or 70, and there should be no draught. The treatment can be made much more effective by placing the horse's feet into as hot water as he will bear, while the vapor is being given. Another method is a hot-blanket pack, which is sometimes more convenient, and is just as effectual. The hot-blanket pack can be given by wringing a heavy blanket out of hot water, and folding it; then folding it into a dry blanket and putting it around the body of the horse. It will require at least two such 1034 .DISEASES AND THEIK TREATMENT. blankets to reach over the body of the horse. He should then be very heavily blanketed, so as to keep the heat of the hot cloths in, and produce perspiration. The hot-blanket pack should be followed by cool sponging, spraying, or pouring, the same as after the vapor bath. The after treatment should be the same as after the vapor bath. POULTICES. The simplest and cheapest poultice can be made by pouring boiling "water on about a peck of bran, so as to make a very thin mash ; or linseed meal could be added to it. Boiled turnips make a good poultice, which would also be improved by the addition of a little linseed meal. Poultices are generally too small, confined, and dry. A poul- tice should be made large, so as to cover the parts thoroughly, and keep them moist. "When a horse gets a nail in the foot, or it is calked, or when there is any local inflammation from an injury, covering the parts with a warm poultice will be found a very sim- ple and good way of keeping down inflammation. If it is desired to poultice the leg for a sprain of the tendons, a flannel bag can be made for the purpose, or an old pant's leg, if convenient, can be pulled up over the leg; tie a string loosely around the foot below the fetlock, and fill the bag with the poultice above the knee } which can be kept up by tying a piece of listing, or a strip of flan- nel over the shoulder. Poultices are also useful applications for promoting suppuration in inflamed tumors; and when there is ir- ritation or inflammation in the heels, such as scratches, cracks, or grease. The poultices commonly employed for these purposes are of an emollient character. The following is a standard formula; 1 pound linseed meal, 2 quarts bran, 2 to 4 ounces hog's lard. Boiling water enough to make a soft poultice. Or, turnips thoroughly boiled and mashed, any quantity, lin- seed meal enough to form the poultice. A good poultice can be made of carrots, grated finely. Either of these simple poultices may be converted into an anodyne poultice by the addition of opium ; into a fermenting poultice by the addition of yeast, and by substituting oatmeal for linseed meal ; into an astringent poul- THE PULSE. 1035 tice by the addition of Goulard's extract, sugar of lead, or pow- dered alum ; and into a detergent poultice by the addition of white or blue vitriol. In obstinate cases of virulent grease, where there is much pain, and a stinking, dark colored discharge, and especially when emol- lients are found ineffectual, the detergent poultice has quickly cured the disease, and in such cases even a solution of corrosive sublimate has been used with the best effect. But emollients should always be fairly tried, and some diuretic medicine given. THE PULSE. The arteries are the vessels which convey the blood from the heart to the system. " The blood nowhere passes through an ar- tery so rapidly as it is forced into it by the ventricles of the heart, on account of the resistance offered by all the tubes against which it is forced. The consequence is, that when it receives the wave of blood, both the diameter and the length of t ie vessel is in- creased, and this is followed by a recoil and recovery of its previ- ous position, owing to the elasticity of the tube ; these operations constitute the pulse, which is felt when the finger slightly com- presses an artery." Bennett. Hence the pulsations of the artery correspond with the beatings of the heart, and consequently indi- cate the irritability of that organ, or the system generally. The average pulse of tho horse is from thirty-two to forty- two beats per minute. The smaller and more nervous the horse, the quicker the pulse; while the larger and coarser bred, the slower. The most convenient places to feel the pulse are at the arm, on the inside where the artery (radial) passes over the head of the bone, or on the under part of tho lower jaw. It can be felt easiest and best at the lower jaw, a little behind, where the sub- maxillary artery comes up and winds round to gain the cheek. (See No. 13, in Fig. 882.) Pass the finger down the jaw up near the neck on the inner edge, and a cord-like ridge will be felt, which, upon gently and firmly pressing it with the end of the fin- ger, will plainly be felt to throb and beat. (See Fig. 883.) '* Frequent reference is made to the state of the pulse in differ- ent diseases, such as colic, pneumonia, laminitis, etc., etc. Hence it should be studied carefully. For example, during the early stage of colic, the pulse will be hardly affected, and the ears and 1036 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. legs will be natural in temperature; while in inflammation of the bowels the pulse will be quick and wiry, ears and legs cold, etc. "In fever it is quick, wiry, and light, indicating the extreme or not of disturbance in the circulation." Youatt. There are four general principles, or points, which must in- fluence the course of treatment in all diseases. If there is high FIG. 882, Showing the pulse. 1 and 12, Carotid artery and its branches; 13, Submaxillary artery. temperature, 102 to 107 (107 to 108 is fatal), the first point is to reduce the fever. In first stage, aconite internally is best ; exter- nally, wrapping the body and extremities to equalize* the tem- perature. The heart's action is the next great point. 34 to 40 beats to a minute is normal ; below that indicates debility. If it is a quick, wiry, or thready pulse, it indicates inflammation of the intestines THE PULSE. 1037 or abdominal organs, which calls immediately for sedatives. Take, for example, general colic -treatment. Usual colic dose: 1 to 2 ozs. laudanum, * 1 to 2 ozs. sweet spirits nitre, 1 to 2 drachms tincture belladonna, | to a pint of linseed oil If tympanitis (flatulent colic), would add to the above one- half to one ounce tincture Jamaica ginger, and one-half to one ounce aromatic spirits of ammonia, with a few drops tincture nux vomica, every one-half hour, until relieved. Quick and feeble pulse indicates the lungs being involved. Moderately rapid, and throbbing or bounding pulse would in- dicate inflammation of the extremities, such as laminitis, and to be treated as such. "While an irregular pulse-beat, whether fast or slow, would indicate the heart itself being involved , , . , , FIG. 883. Feeling the pulse. which is to be treated by giving medicines that act upon the heart, such as alcoholic stimulants, belladonna, and digitallis. The first two stimu- late the heart, the last is a heart sedative. Of alcohol, brandy, etc., give 2 to 4 ounces, with same quantity of water, for a dose; tincture of belladonna, 10 to 12 drops > which may be given in small doses every hour for an unlimited time, or in 1 to 2 drachm doses twice a day, not to be longer than a few days. Digitallis being a heart sedative, must be used with greater caution ; from 15 to 60 drops of the tincture may be given twice a day for two to four days, or until the heart's action becomes slower. This drug has accumulative properties that is, it may not seem to act for some time; and then act with such great force as to be fatal, HamUl. 1038 DISEASES AKD THEIE TEEATMENT. GIVING BALLS. Medicine is most commonly given to horses in the form of a ball or bolas, the size of which should not exceed that of a hen's FIG. 884. Bad method of giving ball. egg. Though named a ball, it is generally rolled up in a cilindri- cal form, about one inch in diameter, and two and a half in length. In giving a ball, the horse's tongue is drawn out on the off or right side, and held firmly with the left hand, while with the right the FIG. 885. Approved method. ball is quickly passed over the tongue into the pharynx, or top of the gullet. The hand should be kept as near to the roof of the mouth as possible in giving the ball ; there will then be much less danger of being wo'imde'd by thfe tefeth. The moment the right BALLS. 1039 hand is withdrawn from the mouth, the tongue is let loose, and the ball generally swallowed. Balls cannot be conveniently given unless wrapped up in paper; but for this purpose the softest and thinnest should , i _ . FIG. 886. After giving ball, be chosen. In hold- ing the tongue with the left hand, while the ball is intro- duced, great care is required, as the rough and violent manner in FIG. 887. Giving a drench. which this is sometimes done often injures the tongue, or lacerates the under part of it. The mustdes by which swallowing is effected 1040 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. may also be seriously injured in this way. In violent colds, strangles, etc., there is often so much soreness of the throat as to render swallowing very painful and difficult; in such cases, neither balls nor drenches should be given, as they are sure to do mischief by irritating the throat, and may even suffocate the animal by getting into the windpipe. PHYSICKING. It is always best, if possible, to prepare the horse for physic by giving a bran mash twenty -four hours previously, as the medicine will act more favorably, and there is less danger of superpurga- tion. Five drachms of aloes (Barbadoes aloes are always used for horses) will act as forcibly after a mash as seven without. Again, the quantity of physic should be adapted to age and size. The rule is to give one drachm for each year up to seven. Eight drachms is the largest given at one dose. PHYSIC 1 BA.LL. 7 drachms Barbadoes aloes, pulverized, 4 drachms bar soap, 1 drachm ginger. The usual way is to mix the ingredients in this proportion, then reduce to the weight intended, and give. For Alternative Balls simply give from one to two or three drachms of mass, as above prepared, two or three times a week, for a week or two. The following are the details advised : The horse should be fed with bran mashes for two or three days, and have moderate but regular exercise, or be worked with moderation. He should be allowed only a moderate quantity of hay, especially if he has a voracious appetite; and if inclined to eat his litter, he should be prevented by a muzzle, or by being tied up to the rack in the day-time, or what is still better, by having his litter removed during the day, and by applying the muzzle at night after he has eaten his allowance of ha)?. If in low condi- tion, some oats may be mixed with the bran mashes ; but eight to ten pounds of good hay are a sufficient allowance for a day and night. On the morning when the physic is given, neither hay nor mashes should be allowed, until two or three hours after it has been taken. Some practitioners, however, direct a small, thin mash of bran only, to be given about an hour after, for the pur- PHYSICKING. 1041 pose of dissolving or mixing with the physic. This, however, is unnecessary, though supposed to render the effect milder and more expeditious. But this is not the case ; physic should be given fast- ing. During the day the horse may have walking exercise for about half an hour, and once only, and be fed with bran mashes, and have the chill taken off his water. Grooms generally con- sider exercise unnecessary or improper on the day the physic is given ; and on the following day, when the medicine generally operates, they are apt to give too much exercise. But as soon as the purging has taken place in a sufficient degree, which is gener- ally the case about the afternoon of the day after it is taken, ex- ercise is unnecessary and improper. And should the purging con- tinue, or be found to be going on the following morning (that is, on the morning of the third day, including that on which the medicine was given), it should be restrained by gruel made of ar- row-root or fine wheat flour, with which the horse should be drenched if he refuses to drink it. Should the purging continue after this, about half an ounce of tincture of opium may be given with a little gruel. Horses sometimes appear sick, and refuse their food, after tak- ing physic, either during the afternoon or evening of the same day, or the following morning. This is generally caused by a neg- lect of the preparation above directed, by the stomach being loaded at the time the physic is given, or by the horse feeding im- properly too soon afterwards; and not unfrequently by the physic being too strong. When this sickness is observed, the horse should have walking exercise ; and if it be on the same day the physic is taken, and the uneasiness be considerable, let a clyster be admin- istered ; nothing more is necessary. Should it continue, however, the following morning let him be again exercised, and have some water with the chill off ; and if the purging does not come on, and he appears to make fruitless efforts to dung, let the clyster be re- peated, which, with a repetition of the exercise, will generally produce the desired effect. A horse should be clothed, and not exposed to rain or cold wind during the operation of physic; and when its operation has ceased, he should be gradually brought back to his usual diet and work. Cathartics improve digestion and chylification by cleansing $ie intestines and unloading the liver, and if the animal is af ter- 1042 DISEASES AND THEIE TKEATMENT. wards properly fed, will improve his strength and condition in a remarkable degree. Diuretics carry off the excrementitious mat- ter of the blood by the kidneys, and thereby produce a similar ef- fect, but not in so essential or permanent a manner; for if the sys- tem of feeding, which renders the blood impure, be continued, it will soon return to its original state. Cathartics are always use- ful when the appetite and digestion are bad, and this is known by a voracious or depraved appetite, both for food and for water ; rumbling of the bowels, and a frequent discharge of wind from the anus. This is the case in a remarkable degree with broken- winded horses, and generally in such as have chronic cough, or are crib-biters. Cathartics should not be given too strong or too frequently, as they may thereby weaken instead of strengthen the digestive organs, and produce the effect they were intended to re- move. Cathartics should always be made with soap, in the fol- lowing manner, and then, if given upon an empty stomach, they will be carried off, and will not be dissolved until they get into the large bowels, where their .effect is intended to be produced : that is, carrying off all the excrementitious matter that may be lodged in them. When given in this way, they never produce sickness or pain in the stomach, but always operate without pain or dan- ger. CATHARTIC BALL. \ 4 drachms to 1 oz. Barbadoes aloes, powdered, 3 to 4 drachms hard soap, 1 drachm ginger, 1 drachm water, 10 drops oil of cloves. Beat the soap, oil of cloves, and water together in a mortar, so as to form a paste, and if necessary use more water. This being done, add the powdered aloes and ginger, and beat the whole into a ball. BLEEDING, OR PHLEBOTOMY. The operation of blood-letting is now almost discarded in mod- ern practice. It is simple, and can be performed by almost any one with a steady hand. For its performance a fleam and blood- stick are required; the star of the fleam should be large at the shoulder, to make a sufficient opening to allow a free flow of blood, and the blade should be broad, to prevent its sinking in when the vein is deep. The jugular vein of the neck is usually selected to BLEEDING. 1043 bleed from. The head should be moderately raised and slightly turned off, the eye next the operator being covered by the hand of FIG. 888. Raising the vein. the assistant holding the head. The left side is easiest operated on; the vein is raised by the pressure of the third and little fin- FIG. 889. Method of placing the fleam. gers of the left hand, which holds the fleam. It is most superfi- cial about two inches from the angle of the jaw, consequently this point is usually selected for the operation. The vein being raised, 1044 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. and the hair smoothed down by the moistened finger, the star of the fleam is placed in a line with the course of the vein, with one smart tap of the blood-stick the vein and coats of the vein are punctured, and the blood will flow. When sufficient has been abstracted, the edges of the wound should be carefully taken together, and hairs and clot carefully wiped away ; a small pin is passed through them, and a little tow wound round it, and the point of the pin cut off. The head should be FiG.890. The ^ e( j U p or a % QW nours ^o prevent his rubbing the orifice closed. . ,-f pin off. SETONS. Setons are similar in their action to rowels, and are used for much the same purposes. They are usually made of broad white tape. In inserting a seton, the skin is cut with the rowelling scissors as above. A seton needle, which should be large and well polished, is passed in and pushed under the skin as far as is neces- sary ; another cut is then made in the skin, through which it is passed out; the needle in its course should separate the skin on each side from its cellular attachments. The lower opening should always be so placed that the matter will have a dependent outlet. The ends of the seton should be tied to circular pieces of leather, so as to prevent its being pulled through. It is necessary to wash it frequently with warm water, and pull it up and down often, to keep it open, dressing it occasionally with digestive oint- ment to keep up the discharge. THE ROWEL. Rowels are used as counter-irritants in treating deep-seated inflammations ; and whenever any morbid disease is to be stopped, as in grease and in thrushes, they have long been favorite reme- dies among horsemen. In applying a rowel, the skin is to be taken up between the finger and thumb, and a cut is made in the skin with the rowel- ling scissors, and with the hook on the handle of the scissors it is separated from its cellular connections for about two inches, and a dossil of tow, or a circular piece of leather, with a hole in it, pre- viously dipped in digestive ointment, is inserted, which must be TRACHEOTOMY. 1045 cleaned and moved every day. A discharge is soon set up, which has a tendency to remove any deep-seated, morbid action. TRACHEOTOMY. It sometimes happens that from the tumefaction of strangles, the impaction of foreign bodies, and other sudden causes of ob- struction, the life of the patient is threatened from suffocation. It is found necessary to open the windpipe to avert the untoward re- sult, until the cause of the obstruction be removed. It consists in making an incision through the skin and muscles in the mesian line down on the trachea, or windpipe, cutting through two rings of this tube, and inserting a bent tube, which is usually made of block-tin, with a broad flange, to which tapes or straps are attached to tie it round the neck. It is usually em- ployed to give temporary relief ; but I have known horses to work with a tube in the windpipe for years. It must be frequently taken out and cleaned. When the cause of the obstruction is re- moved, the tube is withdrawn, and the edges of the skin being scarified, they are carefully brought together, and treated as a simple wound. DOCKING, NICKING, ETC. This was a very common operation thirty years ago, but has now gone into en- tire disuse. Like high checking, it is not only need- less, but cruel. There are, how- ever, some cases in which it may bo resorted to with advantage, and on this account I in- clude illustrations showing the method of doing it. The principal one is when the horse switches and becomes dangerous when the rein is caught under the tail. The action being involuntary, it cannot practic- ally be broken up by treatment In such a case raising the tail will be found effectual. FIG. 891. Showing the methods of severing the depressing ligaments, from the French. 1046 DISEASES AND THEIR TKEATMENT. In performing it, the joint at which it is to be amputated be- ing determined upon, the hair above it is shed back and tied with a cord, the part is clipped close, and the tail being held out by an assistant, with one cut of the docking shears it is severed. The bleeding is stopped by lightly searing with a hot iron with a hole in the center so as not to burn the bone. Some practitioners ampu- tate it so as to leave flaps to cover the bone; by this method the stump is entirely covered by hair, and though more troublesome, is preferable. Too much searing is to be avoided, as exfoliation FIG. 892. Ordinary method of putting the horse in pulleys to raise the tail. of the bone sometimes follows the injudicious use of the firing iron. Nicking and pricking are one and the same operation, the lat- ter being an improved method of performing it. The object is to cause the tail to be carried in an elevated position, which is much admired in road horses. It is also performed to set the tail straight when carried awry, which is a serious eyesore to a good-looking horse. Pricking is nothing more or less than tenotomy of the de- pressor muscles of the tail. It is best to secure him with a twitch and side line; the hair at the end of the tail is firmly tied, and a loop formed, to which the weight is to be attached. The only instrument used is a long- EMBKOCATIONS. 1047 bladed scalpel, or the common pricking knife. The tail is raised with the left hand, while with the right the center of the bone is felt for, and the knife is passed in (with its flat surface next the skin) to the opposite side, when the cutting edge is turned toward the bone, and the muscles carefully divided. When simply to straighten a wry tail, if the faulty tendons are discovered and divided, one incision may be sufficient; but in "setting up " a tail, FIG. 893. The French method of keeping the tail elevated. two, and sometimes three, are required. The muscles having been thoroughly divided, the tail is supported by means of the double pulley over the back part of the stall; the cord attached to the end of the tail is passed through the wheels of the pulley, and suf- ficient weight attached to keep the tail elevated, to prevent read- hesion of the divided muscles. He should be taken out of the pul- leys twice a day and gently exercised; but the pulleys must be continued until the parts have thoroughly healed, and he carries the tail in the manner desired. EMBROCATIONS Are external applications in a liquid form, that are rubbed on a diseased part, as in strains and indolent swellings, and as an aux- iliary in the treatment of internal inflammation. They are of a stimulating nature, and are greatly assisted by friction. Of this kind are opodeldoc, soap liniment, etc. BMBROCATONS FOB HAKI), INDOLENT TT7MOES. No. 1. 4 ounces olive-oil, 4 drachma camphor. Mix, 1048 DISEASES AND THEIK TKEATMENT. No. 2. 2 ounces mercurial ointment, 2 drachms each of olive-oil and camphor. Embrocations of a more stimulating kind are sometimes em- ployed in swellings of the joints, old strains, or other local affec- tions, such as soap liniment with liquid ammonia, olive-oil, oil of turpentine, and liquid ammonia; but blisters in such cases are generally more effectual. Embrocations are often improperly employed, as in recen strains, or inflamed tumors, and other cases where emollient or cooling applications are required. Both strains and bruises are at first attended with a degree of inflammation proportionate to the violence of the injury, and the susceptibility of the injured part; therefore they require, at first, such treatment as is calcu- lated to subdue inflammation, as explained under head of Sprains, etc. ANODYNE LINIMENT. 4 troy ounces castile soap, 2 troy ounces spirits camphor, ^ ounce oil rosemary, 2 pints alcohol, 4 ounces water. Good for sprains, bruises, rheumatic pains, etc. LINIMENT OP AMMONIA, OK VOLATILE LINIMENT. 1 ounce strong solution of ammonia, 2 ounces olive-oil, Mix. To this, camphor or oil of turpentine is sometimes added ; and the HO- lution of ammonia is, for some purposes, joined to the soap liniment. MUSTARD EMBROCATION. 4 ounces flour of mustard, 1^ ounces liquid ammonia, 1 ounce oil of turpentine, Water, a sufficient quantity to bring it to the consistency of cream. Flour of mustard mixed into a thin paste, with water only, is a powerful stimulant, and may be employed with good effect in cases of internal inflam- mation, either of the bowels or lungs. SOAP LINIMENT. 1 ounce hard soap, 1 ounce camphor, 1 ounce oil of rosemary, 1 pint rectified spirits. Cut up the soap, and let it stand with the spirits until dissolved, then add the rest. Good for sprains, bruises, etc. CAUSTICS. 1049 CAUSTICS Are substances which burn away the tissues of the body by de- composition of their elements, and are valuable to destroy fungous growth and set up healthy action. They are, consequently, often required to destroy proud flesh, kill the virus in poisoned wounds, stimulate old ulcers, excite healthy action in fistula, and remove warts, tumors, etc. Corrosive sublimate, in powder, acts energetically; nitrate of silver is excellent to lower granulation ; sulphate of copper is not so strong as the above, but good; chloride of zinc is a powerful caustic, and may be used in sinuses, in solution, 7 drachms in a pint of water; verdigris, either in powder or mixed with lard, is good as an ointment, in proportion of one to three parts. Carry- ing this treatment to extreme implies using a hot iron, the actual cautery. Vegetable Caustic. Make a strong lye of hickory or oak ashes, put into an iron kettle, and evaporate to the consistency of thin molasses; then remove into a sand bath, and continue the evaporation to the consistency of honey. Keep it in a ground stopped glass jar. This caustic is very valuable in fistulas, cancers, scrofulas, and indolent ulcers, particularly where there are sinuses, necrosis (or de- cay of bone), and in all cases where there is proud flesh ; and also to excite a healthy action of the parts. It removes fungous flesh without exciting inflammation, and acts but little except on spongy or soft flesh. CHAPTER XXXVII. FORMULA FOR RECIPES AND PRESCRIPTIONS. IN this chapter is given a list of prescriptions, proved by ex- perience to be most valuable. Many of them have been long used by the Veterinary Profession, and have also been recommended and used by the best authorities in Europe and this country. There are also included a large number of chance recipes, obtained by me in various ways, many of them during the past twenty years, taken from my old book, " New System," which have been proved valuable, and which I regard worthy of a place here. Among them are many recipes that have been kept great secrets, and sold at large prices. ALTERATIVES. POWDERS. No. 1. Tartar emetic, . . . . 2 ounces. Nitre (saltpetre), . . . . 4 " Mix. Divide into twelve powders, one to be given twice a day in the food. Useful in catarrh, influenza, and skin diseases. No. 2. Sulphur, 3 ounces. Nitre, 2 " Antimony, 1J " Mix. To be divided into six powders, one daily in the food. Useful in skin diseases. BALLS. No. 1. Barbadoes aloes, ... 10 drachms. Castile soap, . . . . 12 " Powdered carraway seed, . 12 " Powdered ginger, . . . 4 " Molasses or palm-oil sufficient to form a mass. Divide into six balls, one to be given every morning till the bowels are freely opened. Useful in hide-bound, costive bowels, and skin diseases. [1050] DIURETIC ALTERATIVES. 1051 No. 2. Barbadoes aloes, . . . 10 drachms. Calomel, . . . . 2 " Powdered fenugreek, . . 12 " Ginger, 4 " Oil of cloves, . . . .40 drops. Soft soap sufficient to form a mass. Divide into four parts, one every second day. While taking these, he must have mashes, chilled water, etc. , and be carefully preserved from cold and damp. Useful in hide-bound, grease, unthrifty condition, etc. No. 3. Tartar emetic, ; , . . 6 drachms. Calomel, . . ... 3 " Sublimated sulphur, . . .3 ounces. Common mass sufficient to form six balls of an ounce each ; one daily. Useful in mange, worms, and skin diseases. DIURETIC ALTERATIVES. POWDERS. No. 1. Resin, finely powdered, . . 2 ounces. Nitre, U " Linseed meal, ..... 3 " Mix. Divide into six balls ; one daily. Regulate the kidneys and improve the coat. BjLLLS. Xo. 1. Powdered resin, . . .4 ounces. Castile soap, . . . . 3 " Yenico turpentine, . . . . 2 " Powdered carraways sufficient to form tae mass. Divide into balls of a convenient size ; one daily, till diuresis is produced. Useful in swelled legs, dropsical effusion, weed, etc. ANTACIDS. No. 1. Prepared chalk, . .. -4 ounces. Powdered ginger, . . . .1 " Barbadoes aloes, . . . . 1 " Common mass sufficient to make six balls of convenient size ; one daily. Useful in acidity of the stomach and indigestion. No. 2. Carbonate (bicarbonate) soda, . 3 ounces. Gentian and ginger, of each, . . 1 " Molasses sufficient to make a mass. Divide into four parts ; one night and morning. ANTISPASMODICS. No. L Sulphuric ether, .... 1 ounce. Infusion of opium, . . . 2 t{ Peppermint water, . . . . 1 " Mix. To be given in a quart of cold water. Useful in flatulence, spasm, etc. 1052 EECIPES AND PBESCKIPTIONS. No. 2. Ether and chloroform, of each, . ounce. Tincture of opium, .. . . . 2 " Tincture of cardamoms, . . 1 " To be given in a quart of water. Useful in colic. No. 3. Spirits of ammonia (aromatic), . 2 ounces. Dilute hydrocyianic acid, . . .20 drops. Tincture of ginger, ... 2 ounces. To be given in a quart of beer, well shaken. Useful in spasmodic colic. ANODYNE DRAUGHT, OR DRENCH. No. 4. Tincture of opium, . . . J to 1 ounce. Spirits of nitrous ether, . . . 1 to 2 Essence of peppermint,* . . 1 to 2 drachms. Water, 1 pint. ANODYNE CARMINATIVE TINCTURE. No. 5. Best Turkey opium, ... 1 ounce. Cloves, bruised, . . . . 2 Jamaica ginger, bruised, . . 3 " Old Cognac brandy, .... 1 quart. (White.) Let them be digested together in a well corked bottle, and shaken sev- eral times a day, for three or four weeks. It is to be strained through blot- ting-paper, and it is fit for use. The medium dose is two ounces, which may be given in ale or warm water. Either of these recipes will be found a good remedy for flatulent or spasmodic colic. In the anodyne draught, warm beer may be substituted for water. It should be recollected that when the colic is attended with costiveness, clysters and oily and saline laxatives are necessary, either in addition to the anodyne, or after the ano- dyne is exhibited. For other prescriptions, see Colic, page 886. DRENCH FOR STOMACH STAGGERS. No. 1. Barbadoes aloes, . . . .5 drs. to 1 oz. Calomel, ..... 2 drachms. Oil of peppermint, . . . .20 drops. Warm water, .... 1 pint. Tincture of cardamoms, ... 2 ounces. Mix, and give at one dose. ASTRINGENTS. No. 1. Powdered opium, .... 1 drachm. Powdered catechu, . . . 2 " Powdered chalk, .... 1 ounce. To be given in arrow-root, starch, or thick flour gruel. Useful in diar- rhoea or superpurgation. * Essence of peppermint consists of the essential oil of peppermint dissolved in spirit of wine ; one part of the former to three of the latter. BLISTEES. 1053 No. 2. Powdered catechu and alum, of each, 2 drachms. Powdered opium, . . . 1 " Powdered ginger, . . . 2 " Oil of cloves, . 10 drops. Molasses to form a ball. Useful in superpurgation, diarrhoea, etc. No. 3. Opium and acacia gum, of each, . 1 drachm. Prepared chalk, ... 4 ounces. Carefully dissolved in warm water, and given in plenty of flour or starch gruel, which, alternated with linseed tea, is to be often repeated. DRYING POWDERS. No. 1. Prepared chalk, . . . .4 ounces. Sulphate of zinc, . . . 1 " Charcoal, . , . . . 1 " Armenian bole, . . . 2 " Mix. To be finely powdered, and dusted over raw surfaces. Useful for heal- ing wounds. No. 2. Powdered alum, .... 4 ounces. Armenian bole, . . . 1 " Mix. To be powdered, and used as above. No. 3. Sulphate of zinc, .... 2 ounces. Oxide of zinc, . . . . 1 " Mix, To be used as above. ASTRINGENT LOTION. No. 1. Sulphate of zinc, . . . 6 drachms. Sugar of lead, . . 1 ounce. Mix. To be dissolved in a quart of water. Wet the wound twice a day with the lotion, well shaken. Useful for wounds, bruises, etc. ASTRINGENT OINTMENT. No. 1. Resin ointment, .... 4 ounces. Oil of turpentine, . . . 1 " Powdered sulphate of copper, . . i " Mix, and make an ointment. Useful for tardy sores and fungus growths. BLISTERS. OINTMENTS. No. 1. Lard, 12 ounces. Canadian turpentine, . . . 2 " Powdered cantharides. . 3 " Melt the lard and turpentine, stir in the flies, keep stirring till cool. 1054 EECIPES AND PKESCKIPTIONS. No. 2. Lard, . . ... .3 pounds. Flies, 1 " Euphorbium, ... .4 drachms. Palm oil, ..... 1 pound. Melt the lard and oil over a slow fire, and when cooling, stir in the other ingredients. No. 3. Lard, 1 pound. Turpentine, ..... 4 ounces. Powdered flies, . . . 3 " Biniodide of mercury, . . 6 drachms. To be thoroughly incorporated. Useful for splints, spavins, ring-bones, and enlargement of glands. No. 4. Lard, 1 pound. Bee's wax, ..... 4 ounces. Biniodide of mercury, . . 2| " Melt the lard and wax, and the biniodide, and stir till cold. Useful for enlargement of bone or glandular tissues. LIQUID BLISTERS. No. 1. Rectified spirits of wine, . . 15 ounces. Powdered cantharides, . . 1 " Powdered camphor, . . . | " Macerate for ten days. To be used as a sweating blister. No. 2. Olive-oil, ^ Oil of turpentine, > equal parts. Aqua ammonia, j To be well shaken. Useful for sore throat, chronic swelling, and cal- lous enlargements. COLIC MIXTURES.* No. 1. Linseed oil, 1 quart. Tincture of opium, ... 2 ounces. Oil of turpentine, . . . 2 " Mix. To be given as a drench. No. 2. Linseed oil, .... 1 pint. Tincture of opium, .... 2 ounces. Sweet spirits of nitre, . . . 2 " Mix. As a drench. (Dick.) No. 3. Aromatic spirits of ammonia, . . 1 ounce. Whisky, 2 " Oil of peppermint, . . . .20 drops. Water, . . ... 1 quart. Mix. * See also Antispasmodics, page 1051. COLLYKIA (EYE-WATEBS). 1055 No. 4. Alkaline solution of aloes, . . 4 to 6 ounces. Oil of peppermint, ... 30 drops. Tincture of opium, . 2 ounces. Water, 1 quart. Mix. COLLYRIA (EYE- WATERS). No. 1. Nitrate of silver, . . . . 2 to 10 grains. Rain, or distilled water, . . 1 ounce. Infusion of opium, .... 5 drops. Mix. To be applied to the eye with a feather or camel's-hair pencil. Useful in opacity of the cornea, specific ophthalmia, etc. No. 2. Sulphate zinc, drachm. Acetate of lead, .... 1 drachm. Distilled water, .... 16 ounces. Mix To be used as above. COMMON MASS. Linseed meal, ) Molasses, } ^ part8 ' Very useful in making up balls. COMPOUND CAMPHOR LINIMENT. Camphor, 2 ounces. Spirits of lavender, . . . 1 pint. Liquor ammonia, .... 6 ounces. Mix. Useful in sprains, or as a mild blister. COMPOUND IODINE LINIMENT. Iodine, ..... 1 part. Soap liniment, .... 8 parts. Mix, and shake well. Useful in sprains, thickened tendons, enlarged glands, etc. CONDITION BALLS. No. 1. Powdered ginger, . . . .1 drachm. Powdered gentian, . . . 3 " Sulphate of iron, . . . . 2 " Molasses sufficient to form a mass. To be made into cne ball. Im- proves the appetite, and stimulates digestion. No. 2. Powdered ginger, .... 1 drachm. Allspice, 2 " Caraway seed, . . . 3 " Molasses to form a ball. As above. 1056 BEC1PES AND PKESCKIPTIONS. CORDIAL DRENCH. No. 1. Good old beer (warm), . . 1 quart. Powdered ginger, . i ounce. Shake well. To be given in exhaustion, and recovery from debilitating diseases. No. 2. Best brandy, . . . . 2 to 4 ounces. Molasses, . . . . 3 ounces. Warm water, . . 12 " As above. VETERINARY AROMATIC POWDER. Powdered caraway seeds, . . 6 ounces. Powdered allspice, . . . . 4 " Jamaica gingered, powdered, . 2 " Liquorice powder, . . . . 2 " Mix. This is a good cordial powder, and may be given in a dose of two or three drachms in warm ale, in such cases as require the use of cordials. If the form of a ball is preferred, it may be obtained by beating up a dose of the powders with a little molasses. COUGH BALLS. [See also Chronic Cough.] No. l.~Calomel, ^ Opium, * . ' W each, 1 drachm. Camphor, Digitalis, J Made into a ball, with molasses. One daily, till six are given, when a gentle laxative should be administered. (Dick.) No. 2. Digitalis, % drachm. Camphor, .... 1 " Tartar emetic, . . . . 1 " Linseed meal, .... 1 Nitrate of potass, . . . 3 " To be made into a mass, with Barbadoes tar. Useful in cnronic cough. Used as above. (Spooner.) No. 3. Gum ammon, . . . . 2 to 3 drachms. Powdered squills, .... 1 drachm. Camphor, . . . . 1 " Castile soap, 2 " Oil of anise, .... 20 minims. Sirup and flour sufficient to form a ball. (White. ) DECOCTION OF ALOES. 1057 No. 4. Barbadoes aloes, .... 3 ounces. Common mass, . - . . 13 " Powdered digitalis, . . 1 " Make into sixteen. One daily. (Gamgee.) DECOCTION OF ALOES. Barbadoes aloes, . . . 2j ounces. Bicarbonate potass, . . . 2 " Acacia gum, . . . . .2 " Boiling water, .... 1 pint. Mix. If required to keep, two ounces of alcohol may be added. (Percival.) DRENCH FOR A COUGH. Bruise 3 ounces of fresh squills in a mortar, or 4 to 5 ounces of garlic, and macerate them in 12 ounces of vinegar in a slow oven or on a hot plate for one hour ; strain off the liquid part, and add to it 1 pound of treacle, or honey. The dose in bad coughs is 3 to 4 ounces. If there exists much irri- tation, a tablespoonful of tincture of opium may be added to every 6 ounces. DIGESTIVES Are medicines which promote suppuration in ulcers, and cause them to discharge a white, healthy matter. This term is com- monly applied to ointments and other preparations which improve the state or condition of ulcers or sores, and cause them to dis- charge good matter. Medicines that promote the digestion of food are termed tonics, stomachics, and cordials. DIGESTIVE OINTMENTS. No. 1. Powdered resin, . . . . 1 pound. Lard, . ... . . 1 " Oil of turpentine, . . ... .2 " Mix. Dissolve the resin and lard, and stir in the turpentine. Usefnl for stim- ulating unhealthy wounds, keeping up the action of blisters, and smearing setons. No. 2. Hog's lard, ~ each 4 ounces. Common turpentine, . j Melt over a slow fire, and add 1 ounce powdered acetate of copper. Stir till cold, and use as above. No. 3. Vaseline and strained turpentine, of each, 4 ounces. Verdigris, 1 " Mix. C7 1058 RECIPES AND PRESCRIPTIONS. No. 4. Hog's-lard or vaseline, and Venice turpentine, of each, . . 4 ounces. Sulphate of copper (blue vitriol, pow- dered finely), . . . . 1 " Mix. No. 5. Ointment of yellow resin, . . 4 ounces. Oil of turpentine, . . . 1 " Nitric oxide of mercury (red precipi- tate), finely powdered, . . 1 " Mix. FRIAR'S BALSAM. Friar's Balsam, or compound tincture benzoin, is made in the following manner: Benzoin, 3 ounces. Storax Balsam, strained, . . 2 " Balsam of tolu, . . . 1 " Extract of spiked aloes, . . . ^ " Rectified spirit, .... 2 pints. Macerate for fourteen days (seven days, dub.), and filter or strain through blotting paper. The properties of this tincture are stimulating and expectorant, and it is therefore prescribed by some in combination with other remedies, in cases of old chronic cough or broken wind. As it is de- composed by water, it should first be amalgamated with mucilage or yolk of egg, in order to suspend it in aqueous liquids, when given internally. How- ever, its principle use is that of a stimulant external application to indolent sores or wounds. DIURETIC OR URINE BALLS. No. 1. Soap, . . ") Resin, . . > of each, ^ ounce. Nitre, . . _) One every second day till two or three are given. Useful in swelled legs, grease, etc. No. 2. Nitre, 3 drachms. Powdered resin, . . . . 4 " Oil of juniper, fluid drachm. Powdered ginger, ... 1 scruple. Soft soap sufficient to form a ball. No. 3. Powdered resin, .... 4 drachms. Powdered nitre, . . . . 3 " Powdered ginger. . . . . 1 " Palm-oil sufficient to form a ball. FBYEK MLX.TUEES. 1059 LINIMENT FOR BAD THRUSH AND CANKER. No. 1. Tar, . ... 4 ounces ; melt, and add Muriatic acid, 6 drachms. Verdigris, 4 " Mix. Continue stirring until it is cold, No. 2. Tar melted, 1 pound. Strong sulphuric acid, by weight, 2 ounces. Stir them well together for some time, and immediately before the mixt- ure is used. DIURETIC MASS. Common resin, . . . .3 pounds. Soft soap, . . . .-.. . 2 " Melt over a slow fire, and when cool add Nitre (powdered finely), . 2 " Venice turpentine, ... 10 ounces. To be made into balls as required. Dose, 1 ounce. FEVER MIXTURES. No. 1. Nitre, 1 pound. Tartar emetic, . . . . | " Camphor, . . . . .4 ounces. Common mass as much as is sufficient to form a mass. Dose, 1 ounce, made into a ball. One every three hours, while fever lasts. No. 2. Tincture of aconite, . . . 10 to 15 drops. To be given every two hours in a little water till fever subsides. No. 3. Calomel and opium, of each, . . 1 drachm. Common mass, . . . . 6 " Made into a ball as above. Useful in inflammation of the lungs, etc. HOOF OINTMENT. Archangel tar, ... . 1 pound. Tallow, . . \. . . . J " Bee's wax, . . . . 4 ounces. Melt together, and stir till cool. Useful dressing for weak feet, keep- ing the hoof soft, and stimulating the growth of horn. GOULARD'S EXTRACT. Sugar of lead, 6 ounces and 6 drachms. Litharge (powdered), . . . 4 " Water, 1| pint. Boil for half an hour, and when cool, if required, add water to make a pint and a half ; filter, and keep in well-stoppered bottles. Useful in bruises, inflammation of the eyes, skin eruptions, etc. 1060 .RECIPES AND PEESCRIPTIONS. IODINE OINTMENT. Iodine, . . . . . .1 drachm. Iodide of potassium, ^ drachm. Lard, . ..... 1 ounce. Mix. Useful in glandular and bony enlargements, mallendera, sallenders, ring-worm, etc. LICK MIXTURE. Olive-oil, 1 quart. Oil of tar, 3 ounces. Mix. To be well shaken. Wash well with soap and water, rub dry, and rufc well in. At the same time feed well. MANGE OINTMENT. Linseed, or train oil. ... 8 ounces. Oil of tar, . . . . 2 " Sulphur, 4 " Mix. Shake well, and wash with soap and water ; then rub the mixture well in, washing every second day. PURGATIVES. PUROATIVK DRENCH. No. 1. Linseed or castor oil, ... 1 quart. PURGATIVE DRENCH FOR OBSTINATE CONSTIPATION. No. 2. Linseed oil, .... 1 quart. Croton oil, .... 20 drops. Mix. TONIC POWDERS. No. 1. Sulphate of iron, . . . . 3 ounces. Arsenious acid, .... 1 drachm. Mix. Powder the iron finely, and divide into twelve powders ; then add the arsenic (five grains) to each. One night and morning in the feed. Useful in loss of appetite and recovery from debilitating diseases. No. 2. Sulphate of copper, ... 2 ounces. Ginger, 1 " Powder and divide into twelve ; one night and morning. Useful in farcy, nasal gleet, and chronic discharges. TONIC MASS. No. 1. Ginger (powdered) gentian, ) ~ , '. . > equal parts. Carraway seed and anise seed, \ Molasses sufficient to form a mass. Dose, one ounce in a ball night and morning. WORM POW:DEtt 1061 Ko. 2. Ginger, gentian, and sulphate of iron, of each, .... 2 pounds. Lard, . 1 " Molasses, 5 " Mix. The sulphate of iron to be finely powdered, and thoroughly incorporated with the other ingredients ; the lard and molasses to be dissolved, and the nixed powder to be stirred in. Dose, one ounce night and morning. WORM POWDERS. Tartar emetic, .... 2 drachma. Linseed meal, . . . . . 1 ounce. To be given night and morning in a little bran, or on an empty stomach. WORM BALLS. Ko. ]. Gentian quassia, camphor, sulphate of iron, of each, ... 2 drachm*. Made into a ball with common mass. (Dun.) Ko. 2. Assafoetida, . . . . .2 drachms. Calomel and savin, of each, . . l " Oil of male fern, ... 30 drops. Common mass sufficient to form a ball gireii at night, and a purge ia tike morning. (Gamgee.) WORM DRENCH. Linseed oil, ... .1 quart. Oil of turpentine, .... 2 ounces. To be prepared by bran mashes for two days ; allowed to fast for at least eight hours, when the drench is to be carefully given ; and, if thought ecessary, repeated next morning, and followed by a purgatire. 1062 RECIPES AND PRESCRIPT JONS. RECIPES FROM THE AUTHOR'S OLD BOOK (THE NEW SYSTEM), AND OTHER SOURCES, Which have not been included in previous chapters. Among these are many recipes valued highly by persons having the old book. For the benefit of such I give them a place here. CHARGES. Adhesive plasters which are softened or liquefied in a ladle by a gentle heat, and then applied to the legs, from the knee and hock joints to the foot, as a remedy for win 1 galls and old lame- nesses, arising from strains or hard work, or to the back in strains of that part. As soon as the plaster is applied, the part is cov- ered with short tow, and the horse sent to grass. A. CHARGE. No. 1. 2 ounces yellow resin, 4 ounces burgundy pitch, 2 ounces Barba- does tar, 3 ounces bee's wax, 4 ounces red lead. The first three are to be melted together, and then the latter is to be added. The mixture is to be constantly stirred until sufficiently cold to be applied ; and if it proves too thick when cold, it may be softened with a little oil or lard. GRAIN FOUNDER. Take three pints of vinegar, into which put six red pepper pods, and boil until reduced to one quart. When cool, give as a drench. Blanket the horse warmly. This will put the horse in a profuse perspiration, and perform a perfect cure. The gentle- man of whom I got this cured a valuable horse that got into his granary and ate so much grain that he was in the morning per- fectly stiff. One dose made a perfect cure. He said he would not be without it for one hundred dollars. CONDITION POWDER. | S>. grains paradise (ground), J Ib. ground ginger, f Ib. powdered gen- tian, 6 ounces cumin seed (ground), 6 ounces fenugreek (ground), 6 ounces carbonate soda, 6 Ibs. common brown sugar, 1^ Ibs. salt. Put in one hun- dred pounds of meal. Dose : one pint to be given with the usual food. This is considered one of the best tonic condition powders ever used. It is sold in the Eastern cities at a large price, under the name of Condition Food, and is held as a secret of great value. I have known $50 to be refused for the recipe. FOE STKALN OR linfLAMMATIOB. 1063 A VERY FINE HEALING PREPARATION FOR CUTS. Equal parts tincture myrrh and balsam copiaba. To be used once a day. This is the favorite remedy of one of the most suc- cessful horsemen in the country. It is one of the best of healing remedies. A GOOD APPLICATION TO A PUTRID ULCER. To remove foetid smell of fistulous withers, poll evil, canker, and wounds, dilute chloride of lime, with twenty times its quan- tity of water, and dress with it whenever there is an offensive dis- charge. Mix a poultice with this preparation, and put it on. It will remove all smell, and cleanse by its action. FOR STRAIN OR INFLAMMATION. Whenever there is much inflammation from strain or wounds, take 1 pound saltpetre, 1 gallon hot water. When cool, add 1 quart best whisky. Saturate a sponge or cloth with the preparation, and keep the part thoroughly wet with it. To CURE CUTS OR BRUISES OF THE CHEEKS.* They are liable to occur in some peculiar cases when using third method of subjection. Use inside, 1 drachm tannin to \ oz. borax, 3 to 4 parts water. Swab once a day in- slJe the wound. For outside dressing use 1 ounce tincture of myrrh, 2 ounces tincture aloes, \ pint water. If the horse is troublesome, liable to strike, tie with a strong halter, rather short, to the manger; then tie a rope or strong strap around the neck, bring back between the fore legs, around the near hind leg, and back through the loop around the neck ; pull short enough to raise the foot from the ground to make fast. The horse is now unable to rear, and will stand quietly to have the parts dressed. Repeat dressing once a day, until cured. A great deal of trouble will ba prevented when there is bruis- ing of the cheeks, as stated, by bathing with hot water, and dress- ing with calendula. The bathing must be continued until the in- flammation is reduced, then dress with the calendula ; but if neg- lected, suppuration is liable to follow, making holes in the cheeks, when the treatment must be as above. * This prescription was given the writer by Dr. Braily, chief veterinary surgeon Of the U. S. Cavalry during the Rebellion. It will be found all that can be desired for healing all wounds inside cheeks or mouth. 1064 EEC1PES AND PKESCEiPTlONS. To GROW HAIR ON THE MANE OR TAIL. Add as much sulphur to castor oil as will make it thick as cream, and rub into the roots of the hair two or three times a week. This was obtained by the writer nearly twenty years ago in Maine. From some cause ; one of my horses (Turco) rubbed the hair off his tail so as to spoil it. The skin was smooth and glossy, and apparently beyond hope of new hair growing in. Some one told me to apply the above, and in a short time a heavy growth of hair started, and grew to full length. In 1873, in defiance of all that could be done, Gifford (one of my pair of trained horses) lost all the hair from his tail. The above was well rubbed into the dock two or three times a week, and a heavy growth of hair was soon started, which, in time, made a fine tail. ASTRINGENT OINTMENTS. No. 1. 4 ounces Venice turpentine, 1 ounce bee's wax, 4 ounces vase- line. Melt over a slow fire ; and when rather cool, but when it is liquid, add 1 ounce sugar of lead, or 2 ounces alum, finely powdered. Stir the mixt- ure until it is cold. No. 2. 1 drachm red nitrated mercury, commonly named red precipi- tate, rubbed down to a very fine powder ; 2 ounces calmine cerate, com- monly named Turner's cerate. Mix. Remark. The astringent powders and ointments are designed chiefly as remedies for the grease, after the inflammation of the part has been in a great measure removed by proper poultices ; but the ointment is applicable only to those ulcerations or cracks which are sometimes an effect of that disease ; and often occurring from other causes. GOULARD'S EXTRACT, This is made from litharge and vinegar, by simmering them together over a gentle fire, until the vinegar has dissolved as much as it is capable of doing. It is a very useful application in cases of external inflammation, and may be used either as a lotion or in the form of a poultice. Goulard lotion is made by mixing half an ounce of the extract in a pint of soft water. Some add to this a little camphorated spirit, or some distilled vinegar; but when the lotion is intended for the eyes, there must be a much larger portion of water, not less than a quart, and the lotion should be filtered. Goulard poultice is made by mixing as much of the lotion with bran, linseed meal, or any proper materials for a poultice, as will give them a proper consistence. Goulard is never used undiluted, nor is it given internally. White. COUGH POWDEES. 1065 * FISSURE, OR SAND CRACK, IN FRONT OF HOOF Is most common in the hind feet of draught horses. It is caused by disease of the coffin-bone ; the pyra-medal process, or front of the bone, being affected. Save all horn in toe possible, espe- cially the bottom clips, to be taken up on each side of toe ; but must not be hammered down tightly when the shoe is on. They must simply be tight, without giving constraint. For treatment, take 1 ounce each of tar and resin, J ounce tallow ; melt together. Apply this, while warm, to the fissure of FIG. 894. Fissure, or FIG. 895. An old quai- toe crack. ter crack. the hoof and coronet, then place a layer of tow over the dressing, and bind the ball of the foot with a broad, coarse tape, rather tight. All that can usually be done is to palliate, a cure can rarely be accomplished. Mr. Gamgee has given a great deal of attention to this diffi- culty, dissecting a large number, and in all cases found the bone diseased. He advises the above treatment, which is all that can be done. To CURE WEAKNESS AND WEEPING OF THE EYES THE LIDS SWOLLEN AND THE EYES WEAK. FOR HORSES. An old man's remedy. Claimed that he never failed in curing with it. Take saltpetre, 1 \ oz. ; sulphate of zinc, 1 oz. ; sugar of lead, 1 oz. Mix all with a pint of vinegar and a quart of soft water. Take a small sponge ; fill with it and squeeze in the hollow over the eye once a day until a cure is effected. COUGH POWDERS. An excellent remedy: Licorice root (powdered), fenugreek, lobelia, blood-root, camphor gum, equal parts. Dose tablespoon- ful two or three times a day in feed. In all cases of acute or * This was intended to follow Quarter Crack, page 691, but was passed over when that matter was put in type. 1066 RECIPES AND PRESCRIPTIONS. chronic cough, if thickening of glands of neck, stimulate outside neck sharply. FOR REMOVING CALLOUSES OR THICKENING, CURBS OR BUNCHES or ANY KIND. Oil origanum, oil spike, oil amber, spirits turpentine and cam- phor, 1 ounce each. Rub on thoroughly two or three times a week. When in Ohio, the writer bought a fine work horse very FIG. 896. Thickening of the tendons, caused by bang- ing or striking the part. (Belongs to article on p. 1001.) FIG. 897. Front view of bones of the fore foot. (Belongs to article on Foot- Lameness, on page 945.) cheap, on account of having a very bad curb on one of his legs, making a very disagreeable blemish. He was purchased late in June and kept constantly to the hardest pulling as a wheel horse. A little of the above medicine was rubbed on about once a week, sometimes oftener, and again would frequently neglect doing so for more than that time. By fall the enlargement was all gone, and the leg was as smooth and well as the one opposite. COBDIAL FOR A HOESB. 1067 MAGIC LINIMENT. Two oz. oil of spike, 2 oz. origanum, 2 oz. hemlock, 2 oz. worm-wood, 4s oz. sweet oil, 2 oz. spirits ammonia, 2 oz. gum cam- phor, 2 oz. spirits turpentine, and 1 quart proof spirits 90 per cent. Mix well together, and bottle tight. For sprains, bruises, lameness, etc., in man, this liniment, without turpentine, is un- rivaled. This prescription was obtained by the writer twelve years ago, in Onondaga Co., N. Y. Much was claimed for it; that it would cure lame back, bruises, sprains, etc., and with the turpentine worked well upon horse flesh. My attention has been particularly called to it during the past two years by parties who used it. In Niag- ara Co., N. Y., a gentleman, in looking over his book after the school, pointed to it, saying: " There is a receipt I would not take $50 for." He said a very fine horse in that neighborhood a few years ago got strained in the back so badly that he could not get up in consequence. A negro from Syracuse took the horse in charge, made and applied a liniment to the back, bathing it in thoroughly twice daily. There was rapid improvement ; the animal being soon able to get up, and got entirely well. He offered the negro $10 for the recipe, without avail; that he made the nigger drunk and stole the recipe from him ; "and," said he, "that's it exactly." He took down a bottle from a shelf in the sitting-room (in Charlotte, Niagara Co., N. Y.), saying: "Here is some of it; they could not keep house with- out it here. For toothache, neuralgic pains, sprains, etc., the landlady said it was indispensable; that they kept it always in the house." This was corroborated by others. At Clifton Springs, Ontario Co., N, Y., during my last tour through that sec- tion in 1874, a gentleman pointed out the same prescription taken from my old book, and eaid he would not take $100 for it; that he had cured 40 cases of neu- ralgia with it; that he put up the medicine as a specialty for that purpose, at $1.00 a botth-; first making it up for his wife, who was troubled with neuralgia, curing he-. It was used by others with the same result. The demand becoming so great that he put it up as a specialty, and had thus secured a large local sale of it. A GOOD APPLICATION TO A PUTRID ULCER. To remove fetid smell of nstulous withers, poll evil, canker, and wounds, dilute chloride of lime with twenty times its quantity of water, and dress with it whenever there is an offensive discharge; mix a poultice with this preparation, and put it on. It will remove all smell, and cleanse by its action. BEST CORDIAL FOR A HORSE. The following is the best cordial for a horse that is old. has lost his appetite, and is recovering slowly from sickness, or for an old horse that has been worked too hard: Four parts each of carraway powder and bruised raisins, and two each of ginger and palm oil. beaten into a mass. This is harm- less, and is one of the very best. To CURE WEAK BACK. O. J. Madison, livery keeper and large dealer in horses, of JVlas- sillon, Ohio, a few years ago, cured several very bad cases. One horse was BO weak that he would fall down and could not get up: 1068 EECIPES AND PEESCEIPTIOJSTS. said it would cure any case of weak back, and that he never knew it to fail. Give one grain of strychnine night and morning; next take equal parts of pine tar and pitch, warm until it spreads easily, and spread over the small of the back, from the hip forward ten inches, and across to almost the points of the hips; then spread on can- tharides (should be well pulverized) until the pitch is thoroughly covered; then cover with two thicknesses of cotton flannel. A stiff sticking plaster of this nature is called a charge, and the following is one of the best formulas: Burgundy pitch or common pitch, 5 ounces; tar, 6 ounces; yel- low wax, 1 ounce, melted together, and when they are becoming cool, half a drachm of powdered cantharides well stirred in. This must be partially melted afresh when applied, and put on the part with a large spatula as hot as it can be without giving too much pain. Tow or cotton should be scattered over it while it is warm, which forms a thick, adhesive covering, that cannot be separated from the skin for months. Youatt. DR. SHELDON'S TREATMENT FOR WORMS. Dr. Sheldon says it never fails to clean the worms out of a horse. 1st. Bran mash. In 24 hours give 1 drachm of santomine, which should be dissolved in water; then mix in a quart of starch, and give as a drench; in 30 minutes give aloes in solution sufficient to move the bowels promptly. FOR BRUISE AND CUT ON MAN OR HORSE. A favorite prescription of great value. Laudanum, 1 oz. ; arnica tinct., 1 oz. ; sassafras oil, 1 oz. Mix, bandage lightly, when possible, and keep wet. Said the gentleman who gave the above prescription, I bruised one of my fingers terri- bly, literally smashing nail and flesh. 1 was in the greatest pain. When, after hours of suffering, a gentleman from New York ac- costed me, and learning my trouble, said for thirty cents I can re- lieve and cure you. He gave me this prescription. I had it put up, kept my fingers wet with it during the night, and next day there was no pain, and in two days my finger was well. It re- moves all fire and pain and heals by first intention. To RECRUIT A HORSE HIDE-BOUND OR OTHERWISE OUT OF SORTS. Nitrate potassa (or Saltpetre), 4 oz.; crude antimony, 1 oz.; sul- phur, 3 oz. Nitrate of potassa and antimony should be finely pul- verized, then add the sulphur, and mix the whole well together. Dose: A tablespoonful of the mixture in a bran mash daily, for a week or two. This is the favorite prescription used by one of the best horse- men I ever knew, who was also a leading physician. He kept it GEE AT TANNING PREPARATION. 1060 a secret, but gave it to the writer on condition it should not be made known in his neighborhood. THE GREAT TANNING PREPARATION. THIS is THE GREAT SECRET SOLD A FEW YEARS AGO for tanning all kinds of skins with the hair on. The secret and right to use it were sold through the country at large prices: To two pails of water add 2 Ibs. alum; 2 qts. salt; 2 Ibs. Epsom salts; 2 oz. oil vitriol. Wet and scrape the meat and oil out; then put the skins into the liquid, and let stand from eighteen to twenty-four hours. FOR SCRATCHES, A VALUABLE REMEDY. Sweet-oil, 6 oz.; borax, 2 oz.: sugar of lead, 2 oz. First wash FIG. 898. Showing bronchial tubes. (Belongs to Bron- chitis, page 885.) FIG. 899. Showing parasites burrowing in the skin, magnified. (This cut belongs to the article on Mange, but could not be found when making up.) clean with soft water and castile soap; when dry, apply once a day. This is a good thing. FOR INFLAMED LEG, GALLED SHOULDERS OR BACK. Sal ammoniac, 1 oz.; vinegar, 4 oz.; spirits of wine, 2 oz.; tinct- ure arnica, 2 drachms; water, J pint. Mix, and bathe with it often and thoroughly. WASH FOR REDUCING AN INFLAMED WOUND. One oz. sulphate of zinc, 1 oz. crotus martes, oz. sugar of lead, 1 pint water. A sore will not smell bad when this wash is used. 1070 KEC1PES AND PRESCRIPTIONS. FOR FRESH STRAINS, ETC. Carbonate ammomite, 2 ounces; apple vinegar, gill. Rub in well. A FINE SIMPLE LINIMENT. Two parts ammonia to 4 parts of soft water. Good for strains, etc. To REDUCE SWELLING OF THE LEGS AND STRENGTHEN THE TENDONS AFTER HARD DRIVING. A favorite remedy on Long Island. One pint alcohol, 1 ordi- nary sized beef gall, 1 ounce organum, 1 ounce oil of spike, 1 ounce gum myrrh, ounce camphor gum. First wash and rub clean and dry. Then bathe with the liniment and rub dry. Then apply again and bandage the leg, being careful not to bandage too tight. This is the best liniment for the purpose recommended I have ever used. It should be kept in every stable. CONDITION POWDERS. Take 1 pound of ginger, 1 ounce of anise seed, pulverized, 1 ounce of fenugreek seed, 2 ounces of ginseng root, pulverized, 1 ounce of the seed of sumach berries, pulverized, 1 ounce of anti- mony; mix it with one pound of brown sugar. This is excellent for coughs, colds, or to give a horse an appetite. To CURE COUGH. Put into alcohol all the tar it will cut, and add one-third in quantity of tincture belladonna. Dose: from one to two teaspoon- fuls once or twice a day. Yery good. COUGH POWDER. Fenugreek, ginger, licorice and blood-root, equal parts. Half proportion lobelia and camphor may be added. Dose: tablespoon- ful twice a day. For heaves, add more camphor. DIURETIC DROPS That are reliable for stoppage of water, foul water, or inflammation of the kidneys, in all cases: Take of sweet spirits of nitre, 4 oz.; balsam copaiba, 2 oz.; oil of juniper, 2 oz.; spirits of turpentine, 2 oz.; gum camphor, pulver- ized, 1 oz. Mix all together, and shake well, bottle, and it is fit for use for man or beast, under all circumstances where a diuretic is required. Dose: for a horse, 1 oz. in half a pint of milk once in six hours; for a man, 1 teaspoonful in a tablespoonful of milk once in six FOE DIABETES. 1071 hours. Be sure to shake the ingredients up well before turning out for use. DRENCHES TO PROMOTE PARTURITION. .Ergot of rye in fine powder, 2 or 3 drachms; pennyroyal water or infusion of rue, 1 quart. FOR DIABETES. Opium, 1 drachm; ginger, 2 drachms; oak bark (peeled), 1 oz.; decoction of oak bark, 1 pint. CORDIAL AND ANODYNE BALL. Castile soap, 3 drachms; camphor, 2 drachms; ginger, 1 drachms, and Venice turpentine, 6 drs. made into 1 ball. AROMATIC POWDER. Caraway, 6 oz.; pimento, 4 oz.; ginger, 2 oz.; licorice, 2 oz. Mix. Dose, 6 to 8 drachms. COOLING AND DIURETIC DRINK. Dissolve 1 ounce of nitre in a pail of water. TONIC BALL (VEGETABLE TONIC). Peruvian bark, 1 ounce; opium, J drachm; gin- ger, 1 drachms; oil of caraway, 20 drops. Treacle to form a ball. DIURETIC ALTERATIVE BALLS. Dried common soda, 1 oz.; castile soap, 6 drs.; resin, 2 oz.; licorice powder, oz. ; Barbadoes tar, to form six balls. One daily. LAXATIVE ALTERATIVE BALLS. FIG. 900. Show- Aloes, 4 oz. ; soft soap, 4 oz.; common moss, 2 ing the Theca, or oz. Mix. Dose, one ounce. channel, of the perforans tendon at the ankle and heel, (This cut article of the BALLS FOR APPETITE. Equal weights of assafoetida, saffron, bay ber- ries, and aloes, made into a mass with extract of Back^Tendons, on gentian. Dose, 1 oz. page 957.) ANODYNE BALL. Opium, drachm to 1 drachm; camphor, 1 drachm: anise seed, oz.; soft extract of licorice. 1072 RECIPES AND PRESCRIPTIONS. CORDIAL BALLS. Ginger and gentian, equal parts; treacle to form, a mass. Dose, 1 oz. to H oz. Ginger and caraway, each, 4 Ibs.; gentian. 1 Ib. ; palm-oil, 4J Ibs. Beat together. Dose, 1 to 1 oz. MIXED BALLS, CORDIAL ASTRINGENT BALLS. Catechu, 1 drachm; opium, 10 grains. To wash horses before or after a journey. DIURETIC BALLS. Resin, soap, and nitre, of each, equal parts; beaten together into a mass. Dose, 1 oz. to 1} oz. White soap, 8 oz.; nitre, 3 oz.; resin, 3 oz.; camphor, 3 drachms; oil of juniper, 3 drachms. For 6 balls, one every morning or every other morning. TONIC DIURETIC BALL. Gentian, 1 drachm ; ginger, J drachm ; sulphate of iron, 2 drachms; nitre, | oz.; resin, oz. Mix with molasses. FEVER BALLS. Emetic tartar, f drachm; camphor, J drachm; nitre, 2 drachms; ginger, 3 drachms. Mix, and make into balls. FOR DIABETES. Catechu, j- oz.; alum, J drachm; sugar of lead, 10 grains; with conserve of roses to form a ball. ANODYNE DRENCHES. Opium, 1 drachm, dissolved in warm water, i pint; add 1 quart of starch gruel. Mix tincture of opium, 1 oz. with sweet spirits of nitre, 1J oz.; essence peppermint, 1 drachm, and water, 1 pint. To CURE COLLAR OR SADDLE GALLS. Fill a fruit can about a third full with litharge, or 11. Fill bal- ance with lard, and mix thoroughly. The litharge should be well prolonged. In twenty-four hours ready for use. To HEAL CUTS OR BRUISES. A favorite remedy, by C. H. Smith, a practical livery man in Eureka Springs, Ark. Exceedingly good for saddle sores or galls. 2 oz. gum camphor; 6 oz. castile soap; 6 oz. spirits ammonia. Mix, and let stand until dissolved; then add 2 oz. sal ammoniac, 16 oz. spirits turpentine, 1 quart soft water. STIMULATING LINIMENT. 2 ounces aquae ammonia; 4 drachms organum; 1J ounces raw linseed oil. CUKE FOE HEADACHE. 1073 HUMAN REMEDIES. THE prescriptions here following, among which will be found several of great value, have been obtained at considerable expense and trouble. The great value with which my old book, The New System, is held, is chiefly owing to the recipes given in it, all of which will be found under the various heads in this. This ap- preciation has induced me to add the recipes here following. Those for headache, hydrophobia, tape- worm, etc., are specially valuable. These recipes are worth more than the cost of the book. " CUBE FOR TAPE- WORM. * " My symptoms while harboring a tape-worm were most notice- ably a depression of mind, caused, I suppose, by weakness for which I could see no cause (not then knowing its existence). Had a good appetite not at all inordinate, only 1 would havo a desire to eat within two hours after a good meal. I grew weaker daily, it seemed to me ; in fact, I was starving. " Cure. I bought about two quarts of pumpkin seeds, peeled them, pounded the meats fine in a mortar ; took a teacup half full, added water to make it tbo consistency of a thick gruel, and ate it with my breakfast and dinner. The third dose brought the " varmint," though I persisted in taking three more doses, BO as to be sure and get away the head and neck, which are about tho size of a darning-needle. Unless tbab comes away, it will grow again. The dose above named will cause Bomo pain, as a physic, but it is in no way dangerous. It is a poison only to the worms. "SAMUEL B. MORSE, " 6th Aud. Office, Treas. Dep't., " Washington, D. C." See top page 911, where another modification of the remedy is given, as used by a well known veterinary surgeon of New York City. Would particularly call attention to how to use it, espe- cially so far as the fasting before taking it ; next the taking of a brisk cathartic afterwards. CURE FOR HEADACHE. Ferocyannate of quinine, 60 grains; valerinate zinc, 20 grains; solid extract hyoscyamius, 20 grains. Make into 20 pills. Take one pill three times a day, before meals, for three days; then stop three days, unless it is about time for the return of the headache; 68 1074 EEC1PES A1STD PRESCRIPTIONS. in that case, keep right on with the pills. These pills are harmless, and are both tonic and nervine. This recipe is from Dr. Johnson, Atlanta, Ga., who gave it to Mr. Wm. An- drus, and he to Grandine & Hinman, druggists in Battle Creek, Mich., his succes- sors in business, who have used it among their friends and customers with univer- sal success. It is undoubtedly the best remedy for headache known to the profes- sion. During a chance conversation with one of the above firm in relation to the prescriptions for tape-worm and hydrophobia, given in other pages of this book, he referred to this recipe as invaluable for cure of headache, and referred to a large number of cases he knew to have been cured by it. Assured of its value, with the hope of being able to help those so unfortunate as to be subject to sick-headache, I made a special request for a copy of it, which was kindly granted. As this pre- scription cannot be put up by small country druggists, we would advise having it put up by the above firm. They are perfect gentlemen, and stand very high for integrity. This is not an advertisement, and is mentioned for the special benefit of friends who may need the medicine. It will cost $1.50 to fill the prescription. To CURE FITS. Put as much valerian root, and the castor or wart from a horse's leg, which is to be cleaned and cut into small pieces, as will be digested in a pint of whisky. Dose three teaspoonfuls a day, and repeated until a cure is effected. A son of Mr. Hoyer's, of Shelby, Niagara County, N. Y., twelve years old, was subject to fits terribly, being in a fit sometimes, Mr. Hoyer stated, for two hours. Dr. Failing, of Royalton, next town, obtained the above remedy in Canada, which cured the boy in six months. Mr. Hen- derson, hotel keeper of Otisco, N. Y., claimed to have been cured by this prescription, also three others met by the writer in Central New York. CUKE OF CARBUNCLE. Take a cow's horn, scrape off about a handful of fine shavings, and apply to the enlargement. Continue repeating until there is relief. This is regarded specific, and gives relief in two or three days. Mr. McCombs, of Hot Springs, Ark., who gave it to me, referred to a number of bad cases cured. One especial case was that of a man who had a very bad carbuncle, of week's duration. He was recommended to use this. His doctor found it on, and took it off; but the patient had another poultice put on. The effect was so good, that the doctor, next time, said he might keep it on. The experiment was so marked a success that he adopted it as hi method of treatment. SURE CURE FOR BITE OF RATTLESNAKE. The leaves of boneset herb boiled down in milk to a strong de- coction, which is to be given freely as a drink ; also keep the bit- ten part well poulticed with the same, changing frequently until CUKE OF DIPHTHERIA. 1075 all dangerous symptoms disappear. Edward Comfort, of German- town, Pa., a Quaker, sixty years of age, of much intelligence and experience, gave me the above and the following statement in relation to this herb. He stated first that he knew by undoubted statements of neighbors and personally, of its being used in various cases with entire success, both on man and beast. A young wo- man living at Mahomeny Creek, Jeff. Co., Pa., was bitten by a snake in the morning. Her father rode 20 miles to Red Bank for a physician, but returning toward evening met a neighbor, Win. Neil, who told him he knew how to cure her, and went home with him. Proceeding on a run across the meadow, gathering some boneset as he went along ; and, to save time, as he neared the house he chewed some of the leaves in his mouth to a pulp, and the moment he reached the girl, put the mass, as a poultice, on the wound. He then immediately made a milk decoction, as first ex- plained, and gave a spoonful at a time, as she was able to take it. At the time of his arrival, her tongue was so swollen as to pro- trude out of her mouth, and bleeding from the mouth and ears. He remained all night, frequently changing the poultice, and giv- ing a few tablespoonfuls at a time. By morning she was able to close her mouth, and ceased bleeding at the nose and ears, and by evening was quite comfortable, and was soon entirely restored. Mr. C. also stated that the father of his aunt, Mr. Brady, exten- sively employed in surveying different counties in Pennsylvania, spending much time in the woods, related to him various cases where the above remedy had been applied with entire success. FOR CURE OF DIPHTHERIA. Given by Mrs. J. Ogden Dorcenous, the eminent chemist of New York City. * Lime-water and carbolic acid. Spray the throat with it once an hour. To STOP HAIR FALLING OUT. The following has proved so valuable a remedy for preventing nair falling out, as well as growing in new hair, that it is given a place here: Fill a bottle with lobelia roots and stems, and cover well with good whisky, and let stand until digested ; then strain off the liq- uor and add any scent desirable. Wet the hair, rubbing well into the scalp with the fingers once a day for a week or two, repeating afterward as may be found necessary. Years ago the writer's hair was falling out rapidly; being no- ticed by a stranger, he advised the above dressing, saying his hair was falling out rapidly, and was not only stopped falling out, but had grown in thick by this remedy, and would warrant it to do 1076 EECIPES AND PEESCEIPTIONS. so in my case. It was immediately used as directed, with the most satisfactory results. Years afterward his hair commenced falling out again ; about what would be supposed an equivalent of the tincture of lobelia was used; a little castor oil was added, scented with bergamot, and used as a dressing; the effect seemed to be the same as before. The remedy has been given by the writer to a number of persons who used it with the same success. To TAKE OUT FIRE FROM A BURN. Take equal portions lime-water and raw linseed oil. Good for burns and scalds. Bathe the parts liberally with the liniment. This was given by W. Mansfield, of W. Eoxbury, Vt., and used by him for many years in his family; claimed it to be one of the best remedies ever used for these purposes. In the proportion of f lime-water and J linseed oil will cure the poisoning by ivy and dogwood. Wet a cloth and lay on the part, and keep con- stantly wet till well. A lady who had had much experience with these poisons, says this is the only thing that seems to take out the poison. CURE OF SCIATIC EHEUMATISM. A case of sciatic rheumatism of two years' standing, cured by taking decoction of poke berries, prepared as follows: Put a pint of the berries in a quart of whisky. After standing until fully digested, dose, one tablespoonful four times in twenty- four hours, or six hours apart. The case was very severe, resisting all regular treatment, and causing great suffering. Was cured in a few weeks. Given by Eev. Mr. Button, of Evansville, 111. He obtained it from the man who was cured. ITCH OINTMENT. 1 oz. red precipitate; 1 oz. spirits of turpentine ; 2 oz. Bur- gundy pitch; % Ib. fresh butter. Melt the butter and pitch, and add the other ingredients, stirring until cold. INFLAMMATION OF KIDNEYS AND BLADDER. This was given by a leading physician as his favorite remedy. Fluid extract, colchicum and digitallis, } ounce each. Dose, 10 drops in a tablespoonful of water every morning. To OPEN THE BOWELS. Given by Isaac Price, of Schuylkill, Chester Co., Pa. Take coarse cornmeal enough to make a pint, or pint and a half. Boil it about half, or parboil, to which add the size of a hick- ASTHMA. HOW CURED. 1077 ory nut of fresh made butter, or butter without salt. If agreeable, eat with it plenty of molasses. Make a meal of this, and repeat if necessary. FOR CATARRH, SORE THROAT, ETC. 2 oz. borax; 2 oz. burnt alum; 4 oz. camphor; 4 oz. Talcum. Use as snuff three or four times a day. Also good for headache and neuralgia. Used with great success in sore throat and diph- theria; taken as a gargle. Used by James Thompson, Chicago, for 20 years, for cure of catarrh and cold in head. FOR CONTROL OP NERVOUS IRRITABILITY, WANT OF SLEEP, ETC. Prescribed by Dr. Jewell, of Chicago. 19 grains sulphate of morphia; 1 grain atrophia (belladonna); 180 grains sugar of milk. To be put in a mortar, and worked thoroughly one hour. Dose for adult, 4 grains before going to bed, or repeated when necessary once in four hours. EYE WASH. A remedy of great value for inflammation of the eyes or sores of any kind. Crotus martes and white vitriol, equal parts ; dissolve in a half -pint of snow-water or pure soft-water. Dissolve thoroughly, and when settled, pour off and add half as much more water. If too sensitive, or much inflamma- tion, reduce. This has cured fever sores when all other treatment failed. Alzerah Williams, Mrs. Waite of Jamestown, N. Y., and John Woodford of West Hickory, Pa. , were cured by it. To CUBE BOILS. Two parts cream tartar, one part sulphur, one pint whisky. (About four cents' worth of each of the t^vo. ) Take one tablespoonf ul three mornings ; then skip three mornings, and so on, for nine mornings. Obtained from an old man, and claimed to be an infallible cure. ASTHMA. How CUBED. Take smart-weed, carefully dried. Fill an earthen bowl with smart- weed, pour in hot water, and cover until steeped Take half a glass three times a day until cured. Given by James Garcelon of Lewiston, Me. Mr. Garcelon for two years could not sleep, except by sitting hi a chair. Relief was immediate, and a cure was effected in a year. Another Remedy. A lady of intelligence in Western New York told the writer that her uncle was cured of asthma by taking a teaspoonful of salt hi half a tumbler of water before going to bed at night, and in the morning ; that he sat up to sleep for years ; that he had taken the salt and water for a year. He was entirely relieved of the asthma, but he kept taking the salt and water. 1078 RECIPES AND PRESCRIPTIONS. How TO GIVE RELIEF IN OBSTINATE CONSTIPATION. Cyrus W. King, of Brunswick, Me. , was relieved by this remedy after taking pills, etc. , and failing to get a passage of the bowels for seventeen days. Put a tablespoonful of coarse Indian meal into a cup, and wet thor- oughly with common molasses, and take it all. An old lady who happened to hear of the case, said she could relieve the man in a few hours, and ad- vised this. It was taken at night, and there was perfect relief by morning. To CUKE COLIC. Take at once a tumblerful of hot molasses. A sailor who was delirious from colic, and nearly dead from it, was relieved in five minutes. Calling my attention to it, and claiming it would cure every case, I was induced to make a note of it. The sailor said he took cold molasses with the same ef- fect. To CURE A FEVER- SORE. Take 3 ounces blue vitriol and 3 ounces gunpowder. Boil in a quart of soft water until thoroughly dissolved, and reduced to one-half the quantity. Pour on to the sore while hot as can be borne. Steven Johnson of Gouverneur, N. Y. , was cured of a fever- sore on his arm, of the worst character, of a year's standing. Doctors said he must lose his arm his own words. There was necrosis of the bones of the arm ; sores in three places ; was cured by one application. Mr. Olmstead, of Oxbow, N. Y. , had a bad sore below the knee ; went on crutches for six months ; was cured with one application. Several other cases were reported of an equally remarkable character. To CURE AN INDOLENT ULCER. A gentleman who had a fever-sore on his leg for seventeen years, had spent five thousand dollars in trying to get the sore cured, and had no hope of having it healed, was cured in three months by the following remedy : Take the green scum that gathers on the water in the frog ponds in spring and summer ; boil over a slow fire ; then add fresh butter to the con- sistence of an ointment. Dress the sore with it once a day. The man claimed to have given it to others who were afflicted with obstinate ulcers, and that it had made perfect cures, and wished, from humanity to others so afflicted, that I would give it an insertion in my book. FOR WEAK BACK, RHEUMATISM, AND CRICK IN THE BACK. British oil, 1 oz. ; oil of spike, 1 oz. ; origanum, 1 oz. ; camphor, 1 oz. ; alcohol, 1 pint. Put the British oil and camphor into the alcohol first ; shake well. T. H. Brown, of Madrid, N. Y. , was cured of rheumatism in the leg with this. His mother had a crick in the back ; was entirely disabled. A few applications cured her. Accounts of its valuable effects in the cure of other cases were reported. REMARKABLE CUEE. 1079 REMARKABLE CUKE. The following is a case of remarkable cure of bruise of thigh, from the use of hot salt. H. D. Johnson, of Pottsdam, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., fell from a build- ing, twelve feet, upon a pile of wood, injuring him seriously in different parts of the body the thigh very seriously bruised, causing him to faint away. He had a stiff leg for a month, the part swollen from the hip to the foot to twice its size, was treated with cold water by advice of three physicians. The limb was entirely stiff and disabled. As a matter of experiment he bound on a poultice of hot salt about an inch thick before going to bed. Next morning he could move and bend his leg, the swelling was all gone down, and he was perfectly cured. The simple facts, as stated above, were given to the writer six years after the injury of Mr. Johnson. FOR RHEUMATISM, LAME BACK, AND DIFFICULTY OF THE KID- NEYS (IN MAN). Digitallis, calcium, and aconite, equal parts. Take 10 to 15 drops in water, twice a day. This is a favorite prescription that is valued highly, worth, so claimed, many times the cost of this work. FOR INFANT COLIC, OR RESTLESSNESS. Homeopathic pellets, medicated with the third dilution of chamamilla. Also of great benefit in derangements of the bowels, during teething. Dose from 2 to 6 pellets. The above has been recommended so highly, and I am made to believe is so valuable a remedy, in addition to being entirely harmless, that I am in- duced to include it for the benefit of families. To CURE INSOMNIA (SLEEPLESSNESS). ALSO GOOD FOR COLD AND BILIOUSNESS. First get into a bath of a temperature of 98, into which had been put 1 pound sal soda and 4 ounces aquae ammonia. The head should be kept wet with cold water. Gradually increase the temperature as high as can be borne, or to 110 to 115, remaining in from 10 to 15 minutes. When there is nervousness, itching of the skin, causing disturbance and irritation after the bath, take 1 part aquae ammonia to 4 parts warm water, and apply to the skin with a sponge over the entire body. Prescribed by an eminent physician, of New York City ; given me by a gentleman well read in medicine, who used it with great success. Referred to a number of cases entirely relieved and cured by a few baths. The atten- tion of physicians is particularly directed to the value of the above. The bath should be taken before going to bed. 1080 KECIPES AND PKESCBIPTIONS. PSORIASIS AND ECZEMA. (PARTICULARLY PSORIASIS.) Arsenite soda, 5 grains ; powdered extract nux vomica, 4 grains. Make 100 pills ; take one after each meal. To insure a cure, should be used from 1 to 6 months. 2. Sulphur and cream tartar, each, 1 oz. ; calcined magnesia, oz ; pow- dered sugar milk, 1 oz. ; powdered anise seed, 3 drachms. Mix. Dose : 1 teaspoonful in water night and morning. 3. TAR OINTMENT. Pure tar, and beef suet, equal parts. Mix the tar with the suet, previously melted with a moderate heat. And having strained the mixture through muslin, stir it constantly while cooling. Apply 2 or 3 times daily, rubbing in thoroughly. 4. Particularly for psoriasis. Caustic potash, 2 drachms ; oil tar, ^ oz. Mix. Apply, externally, one part of the mixture to 4 parts rain-water. After using for 2 weeks, it may be used 1 part to 2 parts rain-water. A gentleman who had suffered terribly from psoriasis for years, though under treatment almost constantly by specialists at great expense, was given the above prescription by an eminent specialist, of New York City, which cured him in three months. Knows of its curing a number of bad cases to whom he gave the prescription. Regards it priceless in. value. It is included here with the hope of its helping persons so affected. The treatment given should be regularly followed. EYE WASH. Take three hen's eggs and break them into a quart of clear cold rain-wa- ter ; stir until a thorough mixture is effected ; boil over a slow fire, stirring every few minutes ; add half an ounce of sulphate of zinc (white vitriol) ; continue the boiling a short time, and the compound is ready for use. In this preparation a solid substance, or curd, is precipitated or thrown down, and a liquid solution rests upon the top. This is the best wash for sore eyes of either man or beast that was ever made. The curd applied to the in- flamed eye at night will draw the fever and soreness nearly all out by morn- ing. After two or three days the water should be strained from the curd, and put into a bottle for future use. This wash is invaluable. When ap- plied to the human eye, it should be diluted. A gentleman who had a copy of my old edition, having this remedy in it, informed me that he was offered $10 for the book on account of the value of this recipe, having used it in his neighborhood with great success, and that he would not sell it at any price. SPECIAL NOTICE TO FRIENDS AND INQUIRERS. IN consequence of many inquiries from persons who desire instructions from me, asking when and where I would next teach a class, etc. , I would state that for at least six months I desire to give myself entire rest. I will not, on any conditions, teach classes as done by me heretofore. In the first place, it is entirely unnecessary, as all the instruction I could give will be found in this book more clearly and fully explained than I could give to a class in a few hours' time. In addition, the condition of my health will not ad- mit my being exposed again to the strain and excitement of this kind of work. When suitable or specially interesting subjects are available, I will, as a means of amusement to myself and interest to friends, make experiments to show the effects of my treatment. These lectures, or test experiments, will, in all cases, be given without charge, all subscribers to the book being admitted. Gentlemen writing to me on any business, please be as brief and explicit as possible. In describing vicious horses of any character, give age, color, size, the kind of habit and action, long or short hair, kind of eye and head, etc. In making experiments, to be interesting it is necessary to have at least three cases, opposite in temperament and character, to show effects upon different kinds of character. I desire, so far as it is possible for me to do, to give leading horsemen an opportunity of witnessing test experiments made by the system of treatment given in this book. But I must, in all cases, be free to make such experiments in my own way, and to insure this, will make them on the condition of not taking pay. D. MAGNER, May 22, 1884. Battle Creek, Mich. CRIBBING. The following was omitted in its proper place on page 319. As it will, however, be found in the General Index, it will not make much difference: If regular treatment advised fails, try saturating the manger, neck-yoke, and straps, if inclined to bite them, with kerosene oil. Rubbing the parts bitten upon with strong fly blister, may next be tried ; or get cayenne or red pepper pods, boil down to a strong decoction, and wash the parts the horse may be induced to bite upon thoroughly with thj solution. To be re- peated at least once a week, for a month or more. The object is to make the lips and mouth so sore as to prevent the inclination to bite. This method will often work very satisfactorily ; but, like the treatment first advised, must be done thoroughly to be effective. Covering the parts with sheep skin will seldom do any good. W. D. Gross, of Kutztown, Pa. , advertises a device for the cure of crib- bing, for which he claims much. It is simply a thin plate of metal placed over the upper front teeth and fastened at each end by small bolts. This will, of course, make the gums sore, if pressed upon to any extent, and will undoubtedly work well ; but it seems objectionable, on account of the an- noyance such a plate must cause a sensitive horse, and the method of fasten- ing it to the teeth. Cribbing can in all cases be stopped by buckling a wide, flexible strap, moderately tight, around the neck. It should be from 3 to 3i inches wide. A narrow strap will not work well. (1081) GENERAL INDEX. A bad case, 303. Abnormal presentations, 1026. Absorption of coffin bone, 810, 814. A cold, 1033. Acidity of the stomach, 939. Acute indigestion, 940. Acute pleurisy, 1032. A dangerous case, 521. Adaptation to wants, 80. A desperate case, 482. Adjustable brace shoe, 1020. Advice to teamsters, 257. Afraid of railway car, 132. Afraid of robe, 129. Age, how to tell, 559. Allegan horse, 383. Allegan man-eater, 435. Almost a failure, 479. Amaurosis, 997. Ammonia liniment, 1048. Anasarca, 1000. Anchylosis of bones, 751, 752. An exciting incident, 344. Annoying difficulties, 527. Anodyne liniment, 1048. Antiphlogistics, 749. Application of subjective methods, 400. Approaching a vicious stallion, 301. Arabian secret, 403. Art of direct subjection, 457. Art of taming horses, 385. A runaway, 140. Ascaris, or ascarides, 906. Ascites, 999. A serious accident, 501. Atrophy, 812, 822. Autograph letter from Mr. Bonner, 513. Azotnria, 923. Backing, 274. In stall, 289. Back, teaching a colt to, 105. Back tendon, sprain of, 957. Treatment, 960. Bad case, 303. [1082] Bad shoeing, 627, 633. Effects of, 636, 648. Bad to bridle, 196. Bad to shoe, 55, 222. Confirmed in the habit, 229. Illustration, 468. Palliative treatment, 222-236. Subjective treatment, 237. Balking, 241. Double, 252. Illustrations of, 257-261. Restless, 250. Single, 241. Balking horses, 242. Simple treatment, 245. Balls, cathartic, 1042. Bar shoe, advantages of, 694. Bit, breaking, 70, 104. Four ring, 187, 271. Half moon, 75, 268. Spoon, 76, 269. Upper jaw, 72. Bitting, 107. Bleeding, 749, 1042. Blind Billy, 694. Blinders, custom of using, 112. Blistering, hints upon, 1030. Blisters, 1027. For spavin, 764. Bloody urine, 918. Bones, caries of, 752. Necrosis of, 753. Bones, diseases of, 751. Bones of the foot, 581. Bony enlargement, 754. Bots, 907, 912. Bowels, inflammation of, 898. Brace or stay shoe, 1019. Brain, influence on, 387. Brain, inflammation of, 919. Breaking down, 962. Breaking, or "W bit, 70, 104, 399, Breaking rig, 80. Breeding, 537. Bridle, war, 47, 61, 399. Double-draw-hitch form, 62, 69. Bridle, Patent, 76, 263, 272, 399. Broken knee, 971. GENERAL INDEX. 1083 Broken wind, 856. Bronchitis, 869, 885. Bronchocele, 861. Bruise of the sole of foot, 947. Bruises, 956. Buffalo Omnibus Co.'s horse, 415. o Calks, 948. Canker, 955. Capped hocks, 776. Carriage top, fear of, 469. Cast in the stall, 326. Castration, 1022. Cataract, 998. Catarrh, 841. Catarrhal fever, 864. Catch a horse, 316. Cathartic balls, 1042. Causes of lameness, 783. Causes of spavin, 760. Caustics, 1049. Character, contrasts of, 573-579. Checking head high, 184. Check, over draw, 183. Chronic cough, 854. Chronic founder, 838. Chronic lameness, stages of, 803 Circulation, 732. Derangement of, 742. Clenching down the nail, 665. Cleveland, success at, 500. Clicking and overreaching, 707. Coffin bone, absorption of, 810, 814. Coleman, Prof., 712. Colic, 740, 886, 1032. Flatulent, 894. Symptoms of, 891. Treatment for, 893. Collar and shoulder galls, 1017. Colt training, 91. 1o make gentle, 94. To subdue, 389. Committee report, 513, 515. Common cause of trouble, 466. Congestion of lungs, 868, 873. Conf>rned kickers, 171. Constipation, 901, 905. Contraction, 668. Condition for cure, 679. Classes of. 677. To cure, 688, 672, 675. Contrasts of chan^ct^r, 572-579. Control by eye, or will, 408. Control by whipping, 60. Control of man by will 4P9. Cooking food, 554. Corns, 695. Cough, chronic, 854. Counter irritants, 1028. Cows, kicking, 328. Cracks, heel, 1008. Quarter, 691. Toe, 694, 699. Cribbing, 319, 1081. Crupper, 187. Curb, 772. Curiosity, exciting, 491. Curling under of heels, 685. Cuts or wounds, 977. ID Dangerous case, 521. Description of foot, 586, 627, 633. Of interior hoof, 829. Description of teeth, 570. Dialogue between man and horse, 450. Diaphragm, rupture of, 807. Diaphragm, spasmodic action of, 935. Diarrhea, 902. Difficulties, 497, 527, 531. Diseases and their treatment, 746. Diseases of the bones, 751. Eye, 990. Feet, 826. Lungs, 868. Nervous system, 918. Skin, 1003. Dislocation of the patella, 976. Distemper, 845. Diuresis, 916. Diuretics, 749. Division of the nerve, 801. Division of tendons, 1019. Docking, 1045. Double balking, 252. Double-draw-hitch, 62, 69. Drench, giving, 1039. Driving double, 116. Driving in harness, 103. Driving to poles, 110. Driving without reins, 347. Dropsy of the belly, 999. IE Effect of bad shoeing, 636, 648. Of fear, 118. Elbow, tumor on, 1016. Embrocations, 1047. Epizootic, 864. Equestrianism, 350. Evil results of blistering, 1030. Eye, diseases of, 990. Eye, glass, 997. Excessive fear, 118. Exciting curiosity, 491. Exostosis, or bony enlargement, 754. Experience, personal, 472. 1084 GENEBAL INDEX. Experiments, 483. Special, 495. Test, 523, 529. Explanations, 535. External part of the foot, 583. Extracts from standard authors, 712. Coleman, Prof., 712. Fleming, Geo., 716. Freeman, 723. Lafosse, 722. Miles, 715. Moorcroft, 714. Osmer, 719. Touatt, 715. IF 1 Familiar talk with reader, 45T. Fancher, O. H. P., 368. Farcy, 849. Fear, its effects, 118. Illustrations, 119. Fear, of carriage top, 126, 469. Objects, 127. Hogs and dogs, 132. Railroad cars, 132. Rattle of wagon, 125. Robe, 83, 129, 145. Sound of gun, 131. Umbrella, 83, 130. Feeding and watering, 551. Feet, condition of, 803. How to keep in a natural position, 787, 792. Fistula of the withers, 985. Fever, catarrhal, 864. Fever, mud, 1008. Filaria, 907. Firing, 765, 1031. First attempts at horse taming, 473. First method of subjection, 30-38. First publications, 487. Flatulent colic, 894. Foaling, 1025. Follow, taught by whip, 101, 334. By rope halter, 97. Fomentations, 1032. Food, 552. Foot strap, 32, 79, 182. Force to trot, 330. Foulness of sheath and yard, 1025. Founder, or laminites, 826. Chronic, 838. Treatment for, 830. Four-ring bit, 72, 271. Fractures, 815, 974. Freeman, quotation from, 723. Frightened by a blanket, 141. Frog-pressure, 677. a- Gallopsville horse, 41-4. Galls, collar and saddle, 1017. Gamgee, Joseph, 653, 952. Gangrene, 747. General Knox Stallion, 215. Getting cast in the stall, 326. Giving balls, 1038. Giving drench, 1039. Glanders and farcy, 848. Glass eye, 997. Goodenough, Mr., 381. Goodman horse, 207. Gravelling, 947. Grease, 1012. Grooming, 196. Half-moon bit, 75, 268. Haltering, 92. Halter pulling, 71, 279. Hamill, Prof., 643. Hankey mare, 206. Hard pullers, 74. Harness, how to fit, 111. Harnessing, 193. Head, checking high, 184. Headstrong horses, 70. Health, preservation of, 743. Headstrong stallions, 296. Heaves, 856. Heels, weak, 700. Hen lice, 1007. Herman horse, 420. Hettrick horse, 203. Hints upon blistering, 1030. Hip lameness, 968. Hip strap, 186. Hitching a horse, 291. The colt, 116. Hitching to a wagon, 110. *Hoof lameness, 703. Horse-back riding, 350, 361. Horse distemper, 845. Horse doctors, 507. Hot fomentations, 1032. How to keep feet in natural condition, 787, 792. How to tell the age, 559. Hydrophobia, 933. Hydrothorax, 883. Hypertrophy, examples of, 804. Illustrations of balking, 257. Illustrations of fear, 119. Illustrations of kicking, 197-221, 520. General Knox stallion, 215. *Hoof Ointment, 983, 1059 GENEEAL INDEX. 1085 Goodman horse, 207. Haukey mare, 206. Hettrick horse, 203. Lima stallion, 220. Malcome horse, 198. McVay horse, 212. Putney horse, 197. Wild Ravenna colt, 218. Illustrative cases of runaway, 267, 463. Illustrative cases of subjection, 412-448. Allegan man-eater, 435. Buffalo Omnibus Co.'s horse. 415. Gallopsville horse, 414. Herman horse, 420. Jet" Hillman horse, 425. Mt. Vernon horse, 412. Mustang pony, 443. Norwalk horse, 434. Oxford horse, 418. Roberts horse, 440. Wilkins horse, 421. Illustrative effects of fear, 136. Afraid of a robe, 145. A runaway, 140. Colt, bad to break, 144. Eight-year-old sorrel, 136. Frightened by a blanket, 141. Pony, nine-year-old, 142. Wild Pete, 147. Inattention and carelessness, 460. Indigestion, 939. Inflammation, 746. Inflammation of bladder, 917. Bowels, 898. Brain, 919. Eyes, 991. Kidneys, 915, Lungs, 868, 875. Os-pedis, 840. Veins, 1001. Influence on brain, 387. Influenza, 864. Injuries and diseases of penis. 1024. Injury by shoeing, 686. Injuries of the tongue, 983. In New York, 509. Insanity, 135. Interfering, 705, 707. Internal parts of foot, 589. " Jet "Hillman horse, 425. Jumping fences, 327. Jumping out of shafts, 126. IEC Keeping engagements, 533. Kickers, details of treatment, 165. Confirmed, 171. Mustang, to illustrate, 176. Runaway, 160. Sulky, 173. Switching, 179. Kickers, illustrative cases of, 197-221, 520. Kicker, to break, 80, 158. Kicking, 152. In the stall, 190. When whipped, 188. Kicking cows, 328. Kicking strap, 179. Kidneys, inflammation of, 915. Kinds of shoes, 726. Knee, broken, 971. Knuckling over, 970. Ladies riding, 359. Lafosse, 722. Lameness, 704. Of the Shoulder, 964. Permanent, 819. Laminitis, or founder, 826. Lampas, 1003. Laryngitis, 843. Leg, Monday-morning, 937. Lie down, to teach to, 337. Lima stallion, 220. Liniment, anodyne, 1048. For the shoulder, 966. Of ammonia, 1048. Soap, 1048. Volatile, 1048. Lockjaw, 928. Lugging or pulling on rein, 27 J. Lungs, congestion of, 868, 873. Inflammation of, 875. Lymphangitis, 937. Madness, or rabies, 931. Mad staggers, 919. Maine, success in, 488, 493. Malcome horse, notable kicker, Mallenders, 1017. Mange, 1005. Manner of spreading foot, 683. Mastering vicious horses, 232. McVay horse, 212. Megrims, or vertigo, 921. Meningitis, spinal, 923. Methods of subjection, 20-30. First, 30-38, 397. Second, 38-48, 397. Third, 48, 397. Morgan Tiger horse, 484. Mouth, sore, 984. Mt. Veraon horse, 412. 108G GENEBAL INDEX. Mud fever, 1008. Mustang pony, 443. Mustang, wild and dangerous, 401. Mustard, embrocation, 1048. 2ST Nails, clinching down, 665. Nailing the shoe, 661, 680. Nasal gleet, 862. Nature of spavin, 758. Navicular bone, fracture of, 816. Navicular disease, 822. Navicular or coffin joint lameness, 778. Illustration of, 795. Mr. Roburg's treatment, 798. Necrosis, 751. Nerve, division of, 801. Nervous system, diseases of, 918. Nettle rash, 1004. Neurotomy, 799. Nicking, 1045. Norwalk horse, 434. Notices of the press, 500-505. Objections in stabling, 545. Objects, fear of, 127. Offutt, Denton, 368, 449. Opening quarters of the foot, 688. Open joint, 971. Operation in neurotomy, 800. Ophthalmia, periodic, 994. Simple, 991. Specific, 994. Os-pedis, inflammation of, 840. Osteosarcoma, 751. Over-draw check, 183. Overloading, 256. Overreach, 951. Overreaching and clicking, 707. Oxyures, 907. Pads for tender feet, 710. Paring the sole, 679. Partakes of owner's character, 387. Paralysis, 927. Partial, 923. Parturition, 1025. Patella, dislocation of, 976. Patent bridle, 76, 263, 272, 484. Pathological condition of feet, 803. Pawing in the stall, 325. Peditis, 840. Penis, injury and disease of, 1024. Perforans tendon, sprain of, 964. Peritonitis, 938. Periodic ophthalmia, 994. Permanent lameness, 819. Personal experience, 472. Phlebitis, 1001. Phlebotomy, 1042. Phrenitis, 919. Physicking, 1040. Pinkeye, 866. Pleurisy, 869, 878, 882. Pneumonia, 869, 875. Typhoid, 884. Poles, driving to, 110. Poll evil, 987. Poultices, 1034. Precautions to insure safety, 463. Preservation of health, 743. Pretended secrets, 459. Pricking in shoeing, 941, 666, 667. Principle of shoeing, 687. Profuse staling, 916. Pulling on halter, 279. Treatment, 286, 288. Pulse, 1035. Purgatives, 749. Putting tongue out of mouth, 323. Q, Quacks, 680. Quarter cracks, 691. Quittor, 951. Quotation from Prof. Hamill, 643. Gamgee, 653. McLellan, 644. Rabies, or madness, 931. Railway cars, fear of, 132. Rarey, John S, 368. Recipes, miscellaneous, 1050. Riding horseback, 350. Ring-bone, 770. Ring-worm, 1007. Roaring, 859. Robe, fear of, 83, 129. Roberts horse, 440. Rope rig for subjection, 31. Rowell, 1044. Rubefacients, 1030. Running away, 261. Running back in stall, 289. Rupture of diaphragm, 807. Saddle and collar galls, 1017. Sallenders, 1017. Scratches, 1008. Sheath, foulness of, 1025. Sedatives, 749. Seedy toe, 946. GENEBAL INDEX. 1087 Selection of stallions, 538. Setons, 1031, 1044. Shoeing, 388, 580, 631. Bad, 623, 626. For ordinary uses, 658. French method of, 689. Hind feet, 666. Mode of, 823. Nailing, 661, 680. Noted points, 635. Principle of, 687. Quotation, 643. Shoeing tender, sore feet, 708. Shoes, kinds of, 726. Thin heeled, 788. With spring, 689. Shoulder lameness, 964. Shoulder, tumor on, 1014. Side bone, 772. Side reiners, 74. Simple ophthalmia, 991. Single balking, 241. Sit up, to teach, 339. Skin, diseases of, 1003. Sling for foot, 1021. Snake's power to charm, 409. Soap liniment, 1048. Sole, bruise of, 947. Somerville, Mr., 908, 920. Sore footed, 670, 704. Sore Mouth, 984. Sore throat, 843. Sound of gun, fear of, 131. Spasmodic action of diaphragm, 935. Spavin, 756. Cause of, 760. Bog, 774. Nature of, 758. Symptoms of, 760. Treatment for, 762, 764. Special experiments. 495. Spinal Meningitis, 923. Splint, or splent, 754. Spoiled by fright, 139. Spoon bit, 76, 269. Sprain and bruises, 956. Sprain of back tendon, 957. Sprain of the fetlock, 963. Of perforans tendou, 964 Spreaders, 682. Stabling, 543. Ventilation, 547. Stages of chronic lameness, 803. Staggers, 919. Stallions, 292. A bad case, 303. Approaching, 301. Headstrong, 296. Vicious, 299. Stallions, illustrative cases, 305-317. Fred Arnd horse, 305. Godolphin Arabian, 308. Statement of facts, 531. Stepping on glass, nails, etc., 941. Stifled, 976. Stifle-joint lameness, 977. Stomach, 939. Acidity of, 939. Strangles, 845. Strap, kicking, 179. Foot, 32, 79, 182. Hip, 186. Tail, 181. String halt, 935. Structure of foot, 808. Stumbling, 708. Subdue by medicine, 402. Subjection, 362. Application of methods, 400. Condition in, 394. Methods of, 20-30. Of colt, 94, 389. Points of investigation, 372. Subjection, first method, 30-38, 397. Subjection, illustrative cases, 412-448. Allegan man-eater, 435. Buffalo Omnibus C'o.'s horse.415. Gallopsville horse, 414. Hermon horse, 420. " Jet," Hillman horse, 425. Mt. Vernon horse, 412. Mustang pony, 443. Norwalk horse, 434. Oxford horse, 418. Roberts horse, 440. Wilkins horse, 421. Subjection, second method, 38-48, :-J97. War bridle, 47. Subjection, third method, 48, 397. Bad to shoe, 55. Not adapted to some cases, 57. One trial, 60. Sign of submission, 55. War bridle, second form, 49. Success in Maine, 488, 493. In Michigan, 503. Success in subjection, 392. Sullen colts, 94, 389. Sullen horses taught to follow, 97. Sun stroke, 922. Superpurgation, 902. Suppuration, 747. Surfeit, 1003. Sweeney, 966. Sweeney, 781. Swelled" legs, 1000. Switching kickers. 179. Tail strap, 181. Talk with reader, 457. 1088 GENEBAL INDEX. Taming horses, 517. Tape-worm, 907, 911. Teaching by whip, objection to, 10:2. Teaching to back and whoa, 105. To follow, 96. Teeth, description of, 570. Tender feet, to shoe, 708. Pads for, 710. Tender bitted, 328. Tendons, division of, 1019. Teuotomy, 1018. Tercs lumbrici, 906. Test experiments, 523, 529. Tetanus, or lockjaw, 928. The pulse, 1035. The rowel, 1044. Thin-heeled shoes, 788. Thorough-pins, 774. Thrombus, 1002, Throwing over backward, 114. Thrush, 954. Thumps, 935. To break a runaway, 80. To catch a horse, 316. Toe crack, 694, 699. To prevent bitting, 107. To subdue a colt, 389. Tracheotomy, 1045. Training the colt, 91. Treacherous character, 123. Treads, or calks, 948. Treatment of foot diseases, 826. Trichocephalus desper, 907. Tricks, to teach, 332. Chase a man, 346. Drive without reins, 347. Follow by whip, 334. Kick up, 335. Sit down, 337. Nod and shake the head, 334. Sit up, 339. Tell the age, 334. Throw boys, 340. To kiss, 337. Walk upon hind feet, 345. Walk on knees, 346. Trimming for shoeing, 646. Trot, to force to, 330. Trouble, common cause of, 466. Tumor on the elbow, 1016. On the shoulder, 1014. Turner, James, 850. Turning a horse out, 319. Tying up one foot, 79. Tympanites, 894. TJ Ulceration, 823, 747. Umbrella, fear of, 83, 130. Uncontrollable resistance, 387, Upper jaw bit, 72. Urine, retention of, 918. Bloody, 918. Urticaria, 1004. Vascular system, division of, 734. Vaseline, 988. Vegetable caustics, 1049, Ventilation, 547, 743. Veterinary adviser, 857. Vertigo, or megrims, 921. Vicious horses, 232. Volatile liniment, 1048, "W War bridle, 47, 49, 61, 399. Double-draw-hitch form, 62, 60. Modification of, 66. Points of using, 64. Warren, Alexander, 934. Watering and feeding, 551, 557. Water in the chest, 883, Watson horse, 201. Weak heels, 700. Remedy for, 702. Weed, 937. Whipping to control, 60. White, Mr., 906, 909. Whoa, to teach a colt to, 105. Wild horses, 405. Wild Pete, 147. Wild Ravanna colt, 218. Wilkins horse, 421. Will not back, 274. Will not stand, 276. Wind sucking, 323. Winning treatment, 393. Wonderful exhibition, 512. " W " or breaking bit, 70, 104. Word of caution, 67. Worms, 906. Treatment, 908. Yard and sheath, foulness of, 1025. Youatt, Mr v 715. 7 DAY USE RETURN TO DESK FROM WHICH BORROWED ,C0 iue on the LAST DATE ped below. RB 17-60m-6,'59 (A2840slO)4188 General Library University of California Berkeley YD 04603 m :wsr HI