.0^ ,0o^ ': --0^ :^^V'^^ ^ ^. ^^ ■^^ .<^^ /^ ^ .# THE ABIERICAN Comprehending a description of THE VARIOUS DISEASES INCIDENT TO HORSES, AND PRESCRIPTIONS FOR THEIR CURE. With a few preliminary Rules necessary to be observed by Purchasers. TO WHICH IS ADDED Containing- directions for the management of those animals, i;i Breeding, Weaning, Castrating, Breaking, Docking, Shoe- ing, Mounting, Riding, Travelling, Driving-, Feeding, Soiling, Watering, Stabling, Trimming, Dressing, Choosing Ostlers, Fattening, Bleeding, Purging, Clystering, Blistering, Poulticing, Rowel- ling, Preventing infectious and other Diseases, Defending from flies, &c. :;arefully selected and compiled from the most approved Authors. Embellished with six appropriate Copper-plate Engravings. BY JOHN SIMMO rUILSD'^LPHLl , TRINTED FOR, AND SOLD BY THE COMPILER. S. W. corner of Third and Tammany Streets. 1835. Eastern District of Pennsylvania , to wit : , BE IT UEMEMREIIED, That on the fifteenth tlay o\ 5sKAL.? September, m the fiflif-lh year of the ines of Amnica, A. D. 1825, John Simmons, of il:t sai() idstrici, h^ih oepofited in this office the title of a book, tlie right wliereof he claims ss proprietor, in the words following, lo wit: " The American Pocket Farrier ; comprehending a description of the vt.rious Diseases incident to Horses, and Prescriptions for their Cure. With a few preliminary Rules necessary to be ob- served by Purchasers. To which is added an Appendix : Con- tairing directions for the management of those animals, in Breed- ing, Wesning, Castrating, Breaking, Docking, Shoeing, Mount- ing, Riding, Travelling, Driving, Feeding, Soiling, Watering, Stitbiing, Trimming, Dressing, Choosing Ostlers, Fattening, Bleeding, Purging, Clyslering, Blistering, Poulticing, Rowel- ling, Preventing infectious and other Diseases, Defending from flies, ke. Carefully selected and compiled from the most ap- proved Authors. Embellished with six appropriate Copper-plate Engravings. By John Simmons." In conformity lo the Act of the Congress of the United States, intitu- led. " An act tor the encouragement of lenroing, by secuiing the copies of mips, cliarls, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copi-9, during the tira^s therein mentioned;" — And also lo the act, eniiileil, " An act supplementary loan act, entitled, ' An act for the enak poultice — which will soon remove the in- lammation, cleanse the wound, and change its ippearauce. After which, any of the simples; 24 recommended for healing wounds, maybe used. See Wounds. COLICK OR GRIPES. Causes. — Improper feeding, watering, or ri- ding — sometimes, a want of energy in the stom. ach or bowels ; which occasions a spasmodic constriction of the intestines, and a confinement of air — and, sometimes, the colick is produced by costiveness. Symptojns, — The colick commences witl] restlessness, and uneasiness in the horse's mam ner of standing — frequently pawing — he voidi but small quantities of excrement — makes manj' fruitless attempts to stale — kicks his belly witlj his hind legs — often looks round to his flanki — expresses his pain by groans — lies down rolls, and gets up again — his ears are generally cold; while he frequently sweats about tht flanks and shoulders — his body swells — and b^ often manifests a disposition to lie down in haste REMEDIES. 1. Take from the neck vein half a gallon o blood. Then take of laudanum, one ounce— 25 mint tea, milk warm, one quart — mix them well in a bottle ; and drench with the mixture. Let the horse be well rubbed under the belly — and give him an injection ; consisting of meal, water, molasses, salt, and hog's lard, milk warm. See Clystering. 2. Take of mint tea, one pint and a half — gin, or any other spirituous liquor, half a pint — mix them well in a bottle ; and give it as a drench — taking care to give him a good rubbing. If this should not have the desired effect, in fif- teen minutes, repeat the dose. 3. Take of camphire, a quarter of an ounce — oil of turpentine, half an ounce — mint tea, one pint — mixed in a bottle ; and drench with them. Confine the horse in a close stable — cover him with three or four blankets — -and place two large tubs of boiling water under his belly ; which will throw him into a profuse sweat ; and relieve him from pain. In addition to the above ; clysters, consisting of the following ingredients, should be injected every half hour ; until his bowels are opened — water, half a gallon — salt one handful — oil, of any kind, and molasses, of each, one pint — » mixed well together. C 26 COLD AND CATARRH. Causes. Want of good rubbing, after violent exercise — being changed from a warm and com- fortable stable to a cold and open one — stand- ing out, late at nigbt, in the dew — plunging deep into cold water, while heated^ and in a profuse perspiration. Symptoms, A watery discharge from the eyes and nostrils — and a cough. IIEMEDIES. 1. On the first attack of this disease, bleeding will frequently be found an eft'ectual remedy — but, if neglected till a considerable discharge at the nostrils has taken place, it seldom proves beneficial. 2. The following laxative will be found use- ful ; and may be repeated, after a few days, if it should appear necessary. It will generally prevent those obstinate, and sometimes incura- ble coughs, which often remain after a cold; and which frequently terminate in broken wind. Take Barbadoes aloes, three or four drams — emetic tartar, one dram and a half — castile. 27 soap, two drams — anil syrup enough to form a ball,* for one dose. 3. The following dose of fever-powder should be given every morning and evening, until the symptoms abate ; or a considerable diuretic effect is produced ; and then, only every second or third day, as long as may appear necessary or proper. Fever jJowder. Mix powdered nitre, one ounce, with campliire and tartarized antimony, of each, two drams, for one dose. COUGH. Causes. A cough is frequently occasioned by a cold ; and sometimes by worms in the stomach and bowels. And when it has been of long continuance, and becomes settled, It often proves incurable. IIEMEDIES. 1. Take two or three quarts of blood from the neck — then give one of the following balls, every morning, till purging is produced — which, with a proper attention to exercise and ♦ A ball should be dipped in sweet oil, or melted butter, before given. 28 diet^ has sometimes effected a cure. The sta- bie should be properly ventilated, and kept clean. Take socotorine aloes, from one to two drams — castilc soap, two drams — and tartarized anti- mony, two drams — with syrup enough to form a ball, for one dose. If the disease should not submit to this, make use of the following — Gum ammoniac, three drams — powdered squills and opium, of each, one dram — camphire, two drams — with syrup enough to form a ball, for one dose. 2. Put three or four quarts of tar into a wide vessel, open at one end, capable of containing eight or ten gallons — keep a sufficent quantity of soft water on the tar for use — and let the horse drink plentifully of it without any other kind of drink. CURB. Description. The curb is a swelling on the back part of the hock, which sometimes occa- sions lameness. REMKDY. Blistering, with rest, is said to be the only remedy for this disease ; and it is frequently 29 necessary to apply two or three blisters, before the swelling will be entirely reduced. See Blistering. CORNS. Description. Hard and painful excrescences growing on the bottom of the foot. Causes. Unskilful shoeing, or some other improper management. REMEDIES. 1. Remove the corn with a drawing knife ; and place the shoe so that the tender part may not receive any pressure. 2. If the above remedy has been neglected, matter will sometimes be formed in the affected part, and break out at the coronet, or upper edge of the hoof. It will then be necessary to make an opening for it, in the angle between the bar and crust — dress the sore with com- pound tincture of benzoin — and loosely fill the cavity with the following digestive ointment — kept in by a bar- shoe. Olive oil, one pint — yellow wax and black rosin, of each, four ounces — Burgundy pitch and turpentine, of each, two ounces — melt the C2 30 wax, rosin and pitch in the oil, over a slow fire | and, when taken off, stir in the turpentine. For large wounds, where a plentiful discharge is required, stir into the above mixture three ounces of spirits of turpentine, that they may incorporate while getting cool. CANKER IN THE FOOT. Description. This dangerous disease fre- quently originates with a thrush ; and generally attacks the hind feet. It very often proves dif- ficult to cure, and sometimes incurable. The frog is the first part attacked ; which becomes soft and rotten ; discharging matter of a very offensive smell. The horny frog is at length totally destroyed ; and the sensible frog, instead of secreting horn, forms a substance somewhat resembling shreds of leather. The disease soon extends to the sole and other parts of the foot — even to the coffin bone — and is then considered incurable. REMEDY. The first thing to be done is to cut away all the diseased p»r s and v hen the bleeding is slopped, apply the following strong liniment ; 31 and renew it every morning — to be kept on by a bar-shoe. Pressure on the diseased part will materially assist in effecting a cure, if a cure be possible. Whenever the foot is dressed, such diseased parts as may again appear, must be carefully removed — and to such parts as are not sufficiently affected by the liniment, apply a little sulphuric or nitrous acid. When those places which were diseased begin to look red and healthy ; and the discharge loses the smell before noticed — becoming whiter, and of a thick- er consistence, there is a great probability of a cure being effected — and when these favourable symptoms take place, an application of the fol- lowing mild liniment will be proper ; except to such parts as have not lost their foul appear- ance. Strong Umment, Mix, very cautiously, oil of turpentine, one ounce — sulphuric acid, half an ounce — to which add tar, four ounces. Mild liniment, Crystalized verdigris, pow- dered, one ounce — honey, two ounces— pow- dered bole and alum, of each, half an ounce— and vinegar enougli to give it the consistence of a liniment—mixed over a gentle fire. 82 CANKER IN THE MOUTH. Cause, This troublesome complaint 2;ener- ally proceeds from an excoriation or wound in the mouth, when it becomes foul, and contains a corroding slough ; which must be brought away, or destroyed, before a cicatrice can be formed so as to effect a cure. REMEDY. Take borax and burnt alum, of each, half an ounce — reduce them to a very fine powder, and dissolve them in one gill of boiling water — when cold, add styptic tincture, one ounce — and let the affected part be touched with some of the solution, every day, till the slough comes away — the cure may then be completed by applying, occasionally, the tincture of myrrh and vinegar, equal parts. CUTTING. Definition, A horse is said to cut, when, in travelling, he wounds the inside of the fetlock joint, or knee, with the other foot. Causes. The most common cause is an im- proper position of the foot; the toe inclining either inward or outward. Cutting is, als(>^ frequently occasioned by weakness or fatigue ; and is very liable to happen to young horses, when travelling over deep and heavy grouud. REMEDIES. 1. When the toe inclines inward, and the horse is too much hurried, he is liable to cut inside of the knee, at the lower part of the joint; and may, therefore, be considered a dangerous sad- dle horse ; for the pain which the stroke occa- sions, sometimes causes him to fall suddenly. One remedy is to keep the toe as short as pos- sible ; and to alter the improper position of the foot, by proper shoeing. See Shoeivg. 2. When the toe inclines outward, the inner quarter of the hoof is generally lower than the other — to remedy which, the outer quarter must be lowered ; and l!ie inner one raised, by hav- ing the shoe thicker on that side. 3. In the last case, the best remedy is to avoid the cause, until the legs acquire more strength. When a horse cuts, endeavour to ascertain what part inflicts the wound, by applying tar to the wounded place ; for the tar will adhere 34 to the hoof, or shoe, that comes in contact with it; and the cause may be easily removed by the farrier. CRIB-BITING. Crib-biting, as it is called, is a pernicious habit of gnawing, a manger, post, tree, and al- most any thing else, within a horse's reach— and though not a disease itself; is yet, the cause of diseases — for, by sucking in too much air, and wasting his saliva, the stomach is ren- dered unable to perform its functions; and colick, and other distressing disorders, generally ensue. KEMKDY. The most effectual method of subduing the disagreeable habit of Crib-biting, is that of covering the edge of the manger, and every part that the horse can lay hold of, with sheepskin ; the wool outward. DIARRHOEA; PURGING, OR SCOURING. Causes. Taking cold-«-hard riding — over- feeding — eating unwholesome food, &c. — Some- times it is occasioned by a suppression of per- spiration — or by an increased secretion of bile. 85 REMEDIES. It requires considerable judgment to discover when to suppress a purging, and when to pro- mote it. If the disease should be produced by any of the four first-mentioned causes, attended with a slight fever, it should be encouraged, by an opening diet and plenty of warm gruel — but if it continue long, without gripings ; the mucus of the bowels coming away ; and the horse lose his flesh — if he void great quantities of slime and greasy matter — give him the following drench — and repeat it, every other day, three times. 1. Linitive electuary and cream of tartar, of each, four ounces — ^yellow rosin, finely powder- ed, one ounce — sweet oil, four ounces — mixed with a pint of water gruel. The following alterative ball, alone, has been found successful ; when given twice a week, with scalded bran and water gruel. S. Socotorine aloes, half an ounce — diapente, one ounce— made into a ball with the juice of Spanish liquorice, dissolved in water, and a ispoonful of oil of amber. To this may be added two drams of myrrh. 36 one dram of saifron, and half an ounce of rbu barb. 3. Take opium, one dram— antimony, three drams — powdered ginger, two drams — and syrup, of any kind, sufficient to make a ball — to be repeated, if necessary. The horse should be well covered — his drink temperately warm — and moderate excercise should not be neglected. DIABETES, OR EXCESSfVE STALING. I Causes. Old disorders — surfeits — excessive hard travelling, &c. A horse of a weak constitution is very diffi- cult to cure ; but if the following remedies are applied when the disease first appears ; and he be otherwise in tolerable health, the cure, by proper attention, will be almost certain. REMEDIES. 1. Take of opium, one dram — assafoetida, , two drams — powdered ginger, two drams — red I oak bark, powdered, one ounce — and syrup, ofl any kind, sufficient to make two balls, for one dose — which must be repeated three times with- in a week. The horse should not be allowed 37 to drink a great deal of water ; and a little salt may be put into the quantity given liim. 2. Take of red wine, one pint — water, one pint — gum arabie, one ounce — mix, and give them as a drench, three times a week. 3. Take salts of hartshorn, three drams — opium, one dram — powdered ginger, two drams — liquorice, half an ounce — and syrup, of any kind, sufficient to make the whole into two balls — to be given at two different times within a week. Nourisshingfood, moderate exeercise, and a clean stable, will be necessary. DISORDERS OF THE KIDNEYS AND BLADDER. Symptoms. A weakness in the back and loins — difficulty of staling — faintness — loss of appetite — dead appearance of the eyes — the urine thick, foul, and sometimes bloody; espe- cially after a violent strain. REMEDIES. 1. Plentiful bleeding is said to be the best remedy, in order to prevent inflammation ; and especially' if a fever attend a difficulty of sta- ling ; for then there is reason to suppose the kidneys to be already inflamed. D 38 a. A rowel in the belly has sometimes been found useful — and the following ball may be given twice or thrice a day, with a pint of marsh- mallow decoction ; in which half an ounce of gum arable is dissolved, with an ounce of honey. Take Locatellus balsam, one ounce — sper- maceti, six drams — sal prunella, half an ounce — mixed into a ball with honey — and, if the urine be bloody, add half an ounce of Japan earth. , 3. Should the fever continue, repeat the bleed- H ing ; and administer emollient clysters, and a cool, opening drink. If notwithstanding these means, the urine pass Avith difficulty and pain ; give the following ball ; and repeat it, two or three times a day, till the horse stales with more freedom, and without pain ; and his urine becomes of a proper con- sistence. Take balsam capivi, or Strasburg turpen- tine, and Venice soap, of each, one ounce — nitre, six drams — powdered myrrh, two drams — make them into a ball with honey; and wash it down with the marshmallow decoction. See Stranguary. 39 DISEASES OF THE EYES. Causes. External injuries — colds and fevers — lijgh feeding, without sufficient exercise — too violent exercise — a dark stable, not properly ventilated — foul litter, &c. REMEDIES. 1. If an external wound should be inconsid- erable ; and attended with only a slight inflam- mation, swelling of the eyelid, or a discharge of water from the eye — a mixture of cold spring water and vinegar, or molasses, frequently and gently applied, with a soft sponge, will gener- ally effect a cure. 2. But, in more violent cases, and when there is much swelling, it will be necessary to bleed moderately ; and give a laxative ball, made of socotorine aloes, four drams — and castile soap, half an ounce. And apply a poultice of the pulp of roasted or boiled apples, cleared from their seeds and husks — or, of conserve of roses and vinegar, with a little bole, and the white of an egg. When the swelling is abated, either of the following washes may be used. White vitriol, half an ounce — sugar of lead, two drams— dissolved in a pint of spring water. 40 To these may be added, when the inflammation is removed, and the saliva is abundant, half an ounce of tutty, or compound powder of cerus. Let the eye and eyelid be gently bathed with a clean, soft sponge, dipped in the above lotion, three or four times a day — or it may be applied with a feather, so as to leave a few drops of the liquid on the eye. Or ; Take of rose buds, two drams — infuse them in half a pint of boiliug water — when cold, pour oif the infusion — add twenty grains of sugar of lead — and apply it as the other. If the horse be fleshy, and of a gross consti- tution, bleeding may be repeated. His diet should be scalded bran or barley — and bis. drink cooling and laxative. When the veins under the eyes are turgid, opening them with a lancet is frequently useful. See Inflammation of the Eyes. There are other diseases to which the eyes of a horse are continually subject: and which fre- quently occasion defective vision ; and somcr times terminate in total blindness. Symptoms. When there is any suspicion that a horse's eyes are imperfect, some of the 41 following modes of examination will seldom fail to discover the fact. 1st. Confine him in a dark stable about fifteen minutes— then lead him hastily into a strong light— if he wink fast — wrinkle his brows- throw up his head, as if desirous of receiving more light— and move his ears, backward and forward slowly, his eyes are not good. 2d. If the ball of the eye appear covered with a film, or the corners with the remains of one — if the pupil be large, and light coloured ; without occasionally contracting — his eyes are diseased. 3d. If be can be driven against a tree, or any other object, which he should avoid ; and at which he should be alarmed — his eyes are im- perfect. 4:th. If, when travelling over rough ground, he blunder frequently — and require the con- stant attention of his rider, to manage him — his eyes are defective. 5th. When going, if he lift his feet high and awkwardly; and appear not to know where to place them— there is sufficient reason to suspect he is blind. D 2 42 REMEDY. To remove a film— mix roche alum and white vitriol, of each, one scruple, finely powdered, with a gill of spring water— and, with a feather, put one or two drops into the eye, morning and evening. EXCESSIVE PURGING. Causes. Too much purgative medicine — or ] an improper treatment, during the operation , of it. " UEMEDIES. 1. Drench with an ounce of Venice treacle, , in a pint of warm water — and repeat the dose, if necessary— keep the horse warmly clothed, and in a state of rest. 2. Mix eight ounces of the preparation of ar- rowroot with a little cold water — add this mix- ture to a gallon of boiling water — the whole well stirred— and, after boiling two minutes, remove it from the fire. About a quart should be given every hour, until the purging abates. A horse should never be suffered to drink cold water, during the operation of medicine — nor be exposed to wet or cold. See Injlamma- fion of the Boivels. 46 FEVERS. There are two kinds of fevers, to which the horse is subject— one, denominated simple^ and the other, symptomatic fever. SIMPLE FEVER. Cause. A collapsion of the vessels of per- spiration ; which compels the blood to accumu- late in the interior parts of the body ; and occa- sions a derangement in the whole system. Symptoms. Shivering; succeeded by loss of appetite — dejected countenance — quick pulse — hot mouth — debility — costiveness — difficulty of staling — and, sometimes, shortness of breath ; and pain in the bowels. REMEDIES. 1. As soon as a horse is attacked with this disease, he should be bled freely ; according to his strength and condition — and, if costiveness be one of the symptoms, give him a pint of cas- tor oil, or oil of olives — and inject a clyster of warm water-gruel, about two quarts. After the oil operates, one of the following fever powders should be given once in twelve 44 hours — and continued until its diuretic eifecfc becomes considerable. S. Powdered nitre, one ounce — camphire and tartarized antimony, of each, two drams — all mixed, for one dose. Or — Powdered nitre, one ounce — and un- washed calx of antimony, two drams — mixed, , for one dose. Or — Antimonial powder, three drams — and camphire, one dram — mixed for one dose. SYMPTOMATIC FEVER. Causes. High feeding — close stable — want, of proper exercise — sudden transition from a cold to a hot temperature — taken from grass, and suddenly confined in a warm stable — ex- cessive exertion, long continued*— extensive wounds — inflammation of the lungs, bowels, kidneys, bladder, &c. Symptoms. The symptomatic fever has many symptoms in common with the sim.ple fever — which are, loss of appetite — quick pulse — de- jected appearance — hot mouth — debility, &c. — But, if it be occasioned by an inflammation of the lungs, those symptoms will be attended with 45 difficulty of breathing — quick workins; of the flanks*— coldness of the ears and legs, &c. The most eff'ectual remedy is copious bleed- ing, at the commencement of the disease ; and repeated in six hours, if the symptoms do not abate — taking care to regulate the quantity of blood drawn off, by the effect produced. * Blis- tering the sides, and rowelling the chest, may also be found useful — and, afterward, give the following ball, morning and evening, until the staling is considerably increased — and then one ball, daily, will be sufficient. Take powdered nitre, six drams — camphire, one dram — with syrup and linseed oil, sufficient to make a ball. See Inflammations. FARCY. De8criptio7i, The Farcy is, perhaps, the ♦ To know whether bleeding' will be proper or not ; and to what extent it may be carried, with safety, it is essential to examine the state of the pulse ; and observe the appearance of the horse, when taken from the stable — for if much debility is indicated by his manner of walking, a corresponding weakness will be found In tlie pulse — and, under those circumstances, bleeding would certainly be injurious. See Bleeding. 46 most formidable and destrnctive disease (o which horses are subject ; and is so contagious tl;at, very frequently, every individual on a plantation are totally destroyed by it. The first appear- ance of this malady is in the veins, being full and hard ; and an eruption of small tumors, cal- led buds, about the legs, lips, face, neck, or any part of the body — which, in some cases, are so small, few in number, and occasion so little inconvenience to the animal, that, for a time, they escape observation — but in other cases, they are larger — more numerous — pain- ful — spread more rapidly — and a general swel- ling of the aifected part frequently takes place. These buds, which, at first, are hard, soon grow soft, and burst — discharge an oily or bloody ichor — and will, finally, become foul and spread- ing ulcers, of a peculiar appearance. And it may be observed, that this disease has an inva- riable direction to the heart — for, if it commence in the legs, it proceeds upwards — if in the neck, it advances towards the chest — ^and if in the lips or nose, its tendency is to the glands under the jaw. Sometimes, when the tumours suppurate, the disease spreads under the skia \ —and when this occurs on the hock joint, or on 47 the flexor tendons of the legs, it generally pro- duces lameness ; and is difficult to cure. When the disorder becomes extensive, it is usually accompanied with Glanders ; or very quickly succeeded by it. See Glanders. Symptoms. In some eases, the horse grad- ually loses flesh and strength — his coat becomes dry — the skin tight — and the hind legs swell. In other instances, he is attacked with lame- ness — and all without auy visible cause ; but, after a few days, the nature of the disease will be obvious. Causes. The most common cause appears to be contagion, from a horse already affected with the malady, or with Glanders — or it may be produced by a stagnation of the blood, in the capillary vessels, which becomes corrupt, and breaks out in tumors. Preventive. The free use of assafoetida, in he manger, watering vessel, and about the bridle bit, is recommended, as a certain antidote igainst the contagion of Farcy. REMEDIES. 1. In the first stage of the disease, bleed three 48 times a week ; taking half a gallon of bloodl at a time — feed chiefly on bran, oats, or any food easily digested — remove all filth from about the stable — give mashes of bran, three times a week,. Scalded with sassafras tea, with one table spoon- ful of powdered sulphur, and one tea spoonfull of nitre — not permitting the horse to drink fori six hours aflervvard. Wrap half an ounce ofj assafoetida in a clean linen rag, and fasten it ini] the bottom of his manger ; and the same quan- tity in the bottom of his drinking vessel — and let his drink be equal parts of water and a strong; decoction of sassafras. The buds, or ulcers^ should be washed, once a day, with blue stone orj copperas water — and, if the knees or ancles ard swelled, spread mercurial ointment on soft lea-j ther, and bind it on the part, as tightly as possi- ble, without giving pain. In the second week, bleed twice ; proportion- ing the quantity to the strength and condition of the horse — give him bran mashes, prepared as before — and renew the assafcetida, in bothi places, if necssary. Tn the third week, bleed but once — taking onet quart of blood — continuing the treatment before directed. He should be moderately exercised, 49 twice a day ; and have a little homony, occasion- ally, offered to him, to preserve his appetite. And, at the expiration of the third week, if the disease was only local, it will be removed. 2. AVhen the Farcy becomes epidemical, the cure is very difficult; and the aid of more active medicine will be required. To a horse thus diseased, give the following ball every night, for a week. Calomel, twenty. live grains — powdered fen- nel seed, a quarter of an ounce — syrup, of any kind, a small quantity — all mixed with as much crumb of loaf-bread as will make a ball about the size of an English walnut. All buds, or ulcers, must be washed clean with blue stone water — after which they should be well rubbed around with mercurial ointment, once a day — a narrow pitch plaster must be laid on at the junction of the head and neck, in the direction of the throat-latch ; for the purpose of taking off the hair : which it will do in two or three days. After which, a lump of mercurial oint- ment, about the size of a hickory nut, should be rubbed on the naked part, among the large glands of the throat, until it is intirely absorbed, every night and morning, during the week. ,The treatment, generally, may be similar to that E 50 recommended in the first stage of the disorder ; with these exceptions — the sulphur must be omitted in his mashes ; because it would coun- teract the effect of the calomel and ointment. His drink should be a little warm — he must not be bled — and great care should be observed to prevent his getting wet ; and catching cold, in any way, while going through the course of physic. At the expiration of the first week, suspend the use of the balls and ointment, for one week || — and add sulphur to the mashes, as before directed. At the close of the second week, omit the sulphur ; and recommence with the balls and ointment. Proceed in this manner, chang- ing the medicine, each week, until a cure is ef- fected. , Sometimes a horse's mouth may become sore, while the balls and ointment are used. When- ever this is discovered, omit giving the balls — , and use sulphur in his mashes, as before — ' which will soon remove the soreness from his mouth. FISTULA. Description, A Fistula is a sinuous ulcer on the withers of a horse ; which generally 51 proceeds from a iiiueh or bruise from the sad- dle. REMEDIES. 1. When the wound is recent, and not atten- ded with much swelling, bathe it, three or four times a day, with very warm vinegar. But, if that fail, mix either one ounce of the oil of vit- riol, or half an ounce of white vitriol, dissolved in a little water, with one quart of vinegar — and bathe, as before. Carefully guarding against a repetition of the injury already sus- tained. 2. If the above applications prove ineffectual, in repelling the disease ; a suppuration must be promoted ; by applying the following fomenta- tion, several times in a day, with a woollen cloth, as hot as the horse can bear, without pain. Take either wormwood, chamomile, bay leaves, mullen, life-everlasting, or some other bitter herb — boil it in water to a strong decoc- tion — and strain it for use. When matter is formed, let the tumour be opened, by a skilful hand ; and, after the con- tents are completely evacuated, wash the. sore perfectly clean, with strong soap-suds — and ap- ply the following ointment, once a day. Verdigris and copperas, of each, half an 52 ounce — oil of turpentine, one ounce — ointment of yellow resin, four ounces — well mixed. As soon as healthy matter is discharged, the ointment may discontinued — and nothing further will be necessary ; except keeping the affected part intirely clean, with strong soap-suds. 3. When a Fistula first appears, it may be removed, by placing a rowel, or seton, in each shoulder, just below the swelled part — which should be kept running two or three weeks. FOUNDER. Causes, Excessive hard travelling — plung- ing into deep and cold water, while hot and sweating — eating too much green corn — or too much bran, alone, while performing hard labour — drinking too freely of cold water, when very warm — eating too much strong food, after long fasting — violent exercise, when the belly is very full, &c. Symptoms. Great heat in the legs and pas- » terns — soreness in the feet — stiffness in all the limbs ; so that the horse frequently refuses to move, without compulsion — his flanks and lower part of his belly are drawn up — his hide be- comes bound — his feet placed a little more for- ward than usual or natural — a constant thirst — 1 53 and, very ofteu, a considerable swelling of the ancles. REMEDIES. 1, Take one gallon of blood from the neck vein — give a drench, consisting of one quart of sassafras tea, one tea spoonful of nitre, and a quarter of an ounce of assafoetida — and the horse must not be suftered to eat or drink for six hours afterward — when, if he should appear no better, the bleeding should be repeated ; by taking half a gallon more from the neck, and give him another similar drench. At night, offer hiui some bran or oats, scalded with sassafras tea— and if greeu food, fresh from the field, can be procured for him, it will open his bowels, and cool his sys- tem. His feet should be well cleaned out; and then filled with fresh cow dung ; which may be confined to the parts by pieces of leather. His drink must be equal quantities of sassafras tea and water, with a little salt added. Next morn- ing, if the horse appear much better, little fur- ther attention will be necessary ; except that of giving him food in small quantities. 2. If the above remedy has produced no favourable change, tie a small cord a little above the knees ; and, with a lancet or fleam, bleed in a vein that runs round the coronet, just above E 2 54 the hoof — take a pint of blood from each leg — give him one pound of salts, dissolved in a quart of water, in a drench — keep his feet stuffed with fresh cow dung — and bathe his legs with equal parts of sharp vinegar, spirits and sweet oil, or lard. A foundered horse will sometimes seek a dunghill to stand on — which should always be prevented ; as the heat of it will increase the fever. When horses have been once foundered, they are subject to it ever afterward. Large ridges on the hoofs, or a turning up of the toes, are strong indications of old founders, or other in- juries. GLANDERS. Causes. This fatal disorder is generally be- lieved to be the effect of contagion — but, in some cases, it is supposed to proceed from severe and repeated colds. Symptoms, A discharge of matter from one or both nostrils — and a hard swelling of the glands, between the bones of the lower jaw. In the early stage of the malady, the discharge is small ; and, commonly, from one nostril only ; in which case, the swelling is mostly confined 55 to that side. But, as the disease advances, the glands under the jaw will become enlarged — ulcerations in both nostrils generally succeed — the discharge of matter will increase; and fre- quently mixed willi blood. When the disorder has arrived at this stage, the ulcerated parts with- in the nostrils, with the accumulation of matter, render respiration extremely diflficult — and, very probably, the poor animal will soon be relieved from his misery by death. As soon as a horse is suspected of having the glanders, immediate care should be taken to keep him intirely by himself; in order to prevent others from becom- ing victims to the deadly disease. REMEDIES. 1. When the swelling under the jaw becomes very prominent, foment with the following de- coction, twice a day. Take chamomile, wormwood, marsh-mallow, and elder flowers, of each, one handful — boil them in three quarts of water, for a quarter of an hour — strain off the liquid — and, while hot, fo- ment the swelling with it, twice a day ; with a soft woollen cloth — confine the herbs on the af- fected part, as a poultice — and repeat the ap- plication two or three days. S. If, by the above means, the tumours tend 56 to suppuration; increasing in size, and becoming soft in the middle ; continue the fomentation — and apply the following poultice, morning and evening. Take of coarse bread, barley meal, and cha- momile or elder flowers, of each, one handful — boil them in a sufficient quantity of milk, or off the above decoction — into which stir white lily root, washed clean, and pounded to a paste ; ini quantity, about one third of the whole mass — adding thereto powdered linseed and foenugree, of each, one ounce — stirring in, while hot, ofl turpentine, two ounces — and lard, four ounces. Divide the mixture into two equal parts ; one ofl which must be applied to the swelling, moder- ately warm ; and confined with a firm bandage, during twelve hours — then remove it, and apply the other part in a similar manner. The poultice should be renewedj night and morning, until an opening in the swelling is eifected — and, after enlarging the orifice with a suitable instrument, apply the following ointment, spread on tow — repeating the poultices a day or two longer. Take of yellow basilicon. two ounces — tur- pentine and black basilicon, of each, one ouncei — red precipitate, finely powdered, half an ounce — melt the two basilicons together, over a 57 slow fire — when taken oflP, stir in tlie turpentine — and, lastly, when cool, add the precipitate — incorporating the whole together on a smooth stone. If the ahove remedies should not remove the disease ; the horse should be immediately put to death, and buried — and his stable, with all the appurtenances, be thoroughly cleansed and white-washed. GJIAVEL. Description. The gravel consists of small stones in the bladder; which prevent a free discharge of urine ; and often produces extreme pain. Symptoms. Frequent stretching — groaning — many fruitless attempts to stale ; discharging but a few drops at a time, with great difficulty — and, though clear of fever, yet his appearance is dull and sleepy. RExVIEDY. Take of marsh-mallow, watermelon seeds, and asparagus, of each, two large handfuls — boil them in three quarts of water, until reduced to one quart — add one tea spoonful of nitre — strain it well — and give it as a drench. Then, twith sweet oil, or fresh butter, anoint his sheath 58 ' — and, after gently drawing out the penis, anoint that also — next, grease the large seam exten- ding from the penis nearly to the anus — and, finally, with a little pressure of the hand, stroke the seam downward to the extreme end of the penis, for ten minutes, every hour; until the horse has a more free discharge of urine — which i may be expected in a short time, after his taking ; the drench. If, however, that should not take' place in three hours ; repeat the dose — and continue the external application. GREASE, OR gCRATCHES. Description. An inflammation and swelling; of the heels — succeeded by a discharge of mat- ter — and sometimes the fever and swelling ex- tend to the knees or hocks. Causes. Excessive hard travelling — stand- ing long in the stable on hot dung, or in mud — legs and feet left wet and dirty all night. REMEDIES. 1. Let the horse have a clean stable — take; half a gallon of blood from the neck vein — ^ wash his legs and ancles well, with strong soapi suds — clean his feet — and apply to the affected parts strong copperas water, twice a day ; until 59 a cure is effected. Give him, twice a week, a mash of bran, with a tea spoonful of nitre, and one table spoonful of flour of sulphur. 2. After tiie horse is placed in a clean stall; and his feet are well cleaned and washed with soap suds — take of blue stone, one ounce- alum, four ounces — strong decoction of red oak bark, half a gallon — stir them together until the alum and blue stone are dissolved — with this mixture, wash the sores and inflamed parts, twice a day. Give him light or green food if to be had. 3. After washing the legs and ancles with soap-suds ; and cleaning the feet ; take flour of sulphur and hog's lard, of each, one table spoon- ful — mix them well together — and anoint the sores, and parts inflamed, twice a day. A horse's legs will get well much sooner, when he is confined in a clean stable, than when he runs at liberty. HIDE-BOUND. description. In this complaint, the skin of a horse is so closely attached to his flesh and ribs, that it can hardly be moved over them ; or taken up with the thumb and fingers — the coat. 60 at the same time, has a rough and sickly appear- ^ ance. Causes. Excessive labour — poverty — feed- ing on musty hay, or bad food of any kind — i worms — want of attention in the groom — fever, j or some other disease. REMEDY. Furnish the horse with a clean stable, fresh i litter, and kind treatment — let him have plenty of good bran and oats — take half a gallon ofi blood from the neck vein — at night, give himi a mash, composed of four quarts of bran scald- ed with sassafras tea ; one table spoonful of flour of sulphur ; and one tea spoonful of nitre — not permitting him to drink for six hours after- ward. On the next day, at noon, give him ai drench ; consisting of warm sassafras tea, one quart — copperas, two table spoonfuls — and ni- tre, one tea spoonful. Let him have proper dressing, plenty of air,, moderate exercise, sound oats, sweet hay, and! clean soft water. HOOF-BOUNJ). JDescription. A contraction of the hoof — and, sometimes, an increased thickness of it — by 61 either of which the sensible parts of the foot become too much compressed. Causes. Keeping the horse's feet too dry — strait shoeing — or, cutting the frog so much as to prevent its touching the ground. See Shoeing. Symptoms. The bottom of the foot is chang- ed from a circular form to that of an oblong — inflammation and lameness — and, frequently, the frog becomes putrid ; and discharges a very offensive matter, t^ee Thrush. REMEDIES. 1. Carefully remove all the carious parts of the frog with a knife — apply tar to those parts which are sound — and pour a small quantity of the same, or oil of turpentine, into the cleft of the frog. This will promote the secretion of horny matter ; and, if assisted by pressure, will increase the solidity of that which is already formed. The quarters and heels must be trim- med with a rasp ; and all the superfluous parts of the sole and toe removed with a butteris ; so that the frog may come in moderate contact with the ground. If the crust at the heel be too deep, it must be taken off, but, if too shallow, the shoe should be made thicker at the heel than the toe ; and a little longer than usual. F 62 S. When the feet have been treated as above directed, care must be taken to keep them as moist as possible — and the frogs continually exposed to pressure. In a short time they will become so hard and solid, that, if the season will admit of it, the horse, unshod, may be turned out to grass in soft meadow ground — where proper attention must be given, both to him and his feet. See Shoeing. INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES. Causes, (^olds and fevers — high feeding, without sufficient exercise, &c. See Diseases of the Eyes. Symptoms. The transparent part of the eye has a film-like appearance — the lids are partly closed — and the haws are more visible than usual. REMEDIES. 1. When the eyes become inflamed in conse- quence of a cold or fever, care must be taken to remove the cause — and the effect will natu- rally cease. See Cold and Catarrh, 2. An inflammation of the eyes, occasioned by high feeding, violent exercise, a dark stable, &c. would, perhaps, be much easier prevented than cured — but, when they do become affected, 63 take two or three quarts of blood from the neck — or proportion the quantity to the violence of the disease, and condition of the horse. Then give him a laxative ball ; made of aloes and Castile soap, each, three drams. Or — give him a drench ; consisting of half a pound of Glauber's salts, dissolved in three quarts of water — and keep his bowels open with bran mashes. INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH. Causes. Poisons — strong medicines— or bots. Symptoms. When the inflammation is occa- sioned by poison, or strong medicine, incautious- ly administered, the disease will commence suddenly — the pulse will be quick and weak — the extremities cold — respiration disturbed — and the countenance will appear dejected. REMEDY. Give the horse plenty of oily or slimy liquids — such as decoction of linseed; or gum arable, dissolved in water — and inject clysters of a strong decoction of linseed, or water gruel. When the disease is the effect of bots, apply the remedies prescribed for that complaint. See Bots. 64 INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. Causes. High feeding on dry provision, without proper exercise— drinking too much cold water when heated by violent exercise — exposure to cold or rain, under similar circum- stances — flatulent colick — improper doses of purgative medicines, &c. Symptoms. An apparent disquietude in the disposition of the horse — frequently looking round to his flanks — his appetite diminished, or totally lost — urine scarce, and high-coloured — his dung will be dark, and very hard. And, as these symptoms increase, he will lie down and roll about — rise suddenly — lie down again, and roll as before — his breathing will become diffi- cult — pulse quick and small — violent sweats break out on his body — while his ears and legs are cold — sometimes delirium takes place ; and death soon ensues. REMEDY. As this disease is very rapid in its progress, it must be checked in its first appearance — or it will soon prove fatal. Copious bleeding is the prime remedy — and should be repeated, accor- ding to the strength of the horse — his sides should be blistered - his ears and legs kept warm, by frequent rubbing — and, in the inter- 65 yals, wrap them in woollen clotb. Give him one pint of castor oil—and repeat the dose in six hours ; unless the costiveness should be previ- ously removed. Clysters, composed of warm water and a little sweet oil, must be adminis- tered, every second or third hour, until the dung become soft. INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. Causes. This disease is frequently the ef- fect of improper management in the treatment of a horse — too sudden removal from a cold to a. comparatively hot temperature — or violent exercise ; which renders the circulation of the blood too rapid — and propels it to the smaller passages with so much velocity, as not only to produce immediate inflammation, but, some- times, to rupture some of the finer vessels—from which Broken Wind or Consumption frequent- I ly proceeds. Symptoms. At the commencement of the i disorder, the horse loses appetite — appears melancholy — holds his head low — frequently moves his feet, alternately. And, as the fever i increases, his breathing becomes difficult ; some- times attended with a short and painful cough — his countenance appears anxious and uneasy F2 66 — his breath hot — mouth dry — his ears, and other extremities, feel cold— and he seldom lies down, while able to stand. REMEDIES. 1. In the early stage of the disease, copious bleeding must be the first operation — drawing off as much blood as the strength of the animal will admit — let him stand in a clean stable ; pro- perly ventilated— mix very sweet hay, cut fine? and bran together — scald, and place the mix- ture in his manger, while hot— renew it every four or five hours — that, by inhaling the fumes, the glands may be relaxed ; and a discharge from the nostrils excited. Give him a pint of castor oil — inject a clyster of flaxseed tea, or warm gruel — and keep his legs warm, by rub- bing and clothing. S. If, in twelve hours after the above appli- cations, there appear no abatement of the dis- order; or, if it has become more violent — repeat the bleeding; in proportion to the strength of the horse, or severity of the symptoms — and give him a pint of the following decoction, with an ounce of nitre added, every five or six hours ; accending to the state of the disease. Take of pearl barley, split raisins, and Tur- key figs, sliced, each, six ounces— and stiqk 67 licorice, bruised, two ounces— boil them in a gallon of water ; until the liquid is reduced to three quarts — strain it oft^ — while hot, stir in one pound of honey — and, when cold, add one pint of distilled vinee;ar. And if plentiful evac- uations have not been produced by the clyster above described, it must be repeated. When the dangerous symptoms appear to subside, let the horse's food be mashes of scald- ed bran ; with four ounces of honey added to each mash — and, for his drink, give him thin gruel; with two ounces of cream of tartar dis- solved in each draught. But, if the above remedies should prove inef- fectual ; and a suppuration take place ; the loss of (he animal may be anticipated, almost with certainty. INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. Cause, An obstruction in the biliary ducts, or in the gall bladder ; situated between tJie two lobes of the liver. Sifmjotoms. Yellow eyes and mouth- dark coloured urine — fever — great weakness —lan- guid appearance — and almost continually lying down. Sometimes the disease is very rapid in its progress— and; at other times, it advances 68 gradually. In the latter case, it frequently ter minates in dropsy, or an inflammation of the bowels. IIEMEDIES. 1. At the commencement of the disease, mod- erate bleeding may be safe and useful ; but af- terward, it will, generally, be injurious ; by pro- ducing a dangerous degree of debilitj^ — If the horse should be costive, give him a ball, every twelve hours, composed of the following ingre- dients ; until they occasion moderate purging. Calomel, half a dram — aloes, one dram— Cas- tile soap, two drams — rhubarb, half an ounce — and syrup enough to form the ball, for one dose. But, if the bowels are already in a lax state, give the horse either of the following balls, in a similar manner, until relieved. Opium, three fourths of a dram — calomel, one dram — and Castile soap, two drams— with syr- up enough to form a ball, for one dose. Or — Opium and calomel, of each, one dram — emetic tartar, two drams — licorice powder, three drams — and syrup sufficient to form the ball, for one dose. INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. Causes. An improper use of diuretic med- 69 icines— blows on the loins— and, sometimes, too great a pressure of the saddle^ when placed over them. Symptoms. A weakness in the back and loins — almost continually endeavouring to stale; and frequently voiding a small quantity of high-coloured or bloody urine — and, as the inflammation increases, a total suppression of urine ; and a fever generally succeeds. REMEDY. Draw off three or four quarts of blood — give from sixteen to twenty ounces of castor oil — in- ject clysters of warm water— aud cover the loins with a sheepskin. If the oil should not operate in a few hours, and the horse not be relieved, repeat the bleeding — and give him another dose of oil. INi^XAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. Symptoms. Almost continual attempts to stale; but voiding only a few drops of urine at a time ; apparently with great pain — generally, a quick pulse ; and other symptoms of fever. REMEDIES. 1. Give the horse plenty of linseed decoction ; or any other mucilaginous liquid— and frequent- 70 ly inject clysters of the same. Moderate bleed- ing, and a dose of castor oil, will also be ne- cessary. After the oil has operated, give him the following ball, every sixth hour. Powdered nitre, half an ounce — eamphire, one dram — licorice powder, three drams — with honey sufficient to form the ball, for one dose. 2. If no relief should be obtained by the above means, give him one dram of opium, twice a day; and omit giving the ball. And, if the horse be costive, give him another dose of oil — and re- peat the clyster. JAUNDICE, OR YELLOWS. Cause. This disease is generally the effect; of an increased action of the liver ; whereby an unusual quantity of bile is secreted. Symptoms.*^ Yellowness of the eyes, mouth and tongue — loss of appetite — lassitude — urine of a reddish or dark colour — and, sometimes, the disorder is attended with costiveness ; but, generally, with purging. • Although some of the symptoms of Jaundice are similar to those of an Inflammation of the Liver -, yet the diseases are believ- ed to be essentially different — and may be distinguished by the fever, which always accompanies the latter complaint. 71 IIRMEDIES. 1. - When costiveness is one of tbe symptoms, give the horse a ball, composfd of the follow- ing ingredients, every morning, till moderate purging is produced. Calomel, half a dram — aloes, one dram — Castile soap, two drams — rhubarb, three drams — with syrup enough to make the ball, for one dose. 2. But, if the bowels are already open, or in a state of purging, give the following dose, every I morning, as long as may appear necessary. ! Calomel and opium, of each, one dram — Co- ilumbo root, powdered, three drams — powder- 1 ed ginger, half a dram — and syrup sufficient to form a ball. The horse's strength should be supported by an infusion of malt, or water gruel. LAJMPASS. Description. The Lam pass is a swelling of the inner gums of the upper jaw (particularly in * young horses) which frequently projects below the teeth ; and renders mastication very difficult. And the animal will soon become lean, weak and dejected. Cause. This troublesome complaint is sup- posed to be the effect of fever. 72 REMEDIES. 1. Remove the cause; by applying the rem- edies prescribed for fevers. Or, a mess or two \ of hard Indian corn will, generally abate the swelling. 2. The most effectual remedy is burning with a hot iron, made for the purpose — taking great care not to touch the teeth, or burn so deep as to injure the bone. After the operation is per- formed, wash the part, two or the times, with a mixture of honey of roses, and tincture of myrrh, each, one ounce — and feed with bran or meal^ and a little salt added. LAMENESS. Causes. Lameness is generally the effect of! strains — bruises — splents — spavins — ring-bones — windgalls — founder — grease — thrush — quittor — corns — canker — hoof-bound, &c. — improper shoeing — too constant labour, or want of suffici- ent rest, &c. I REMEDIES. When a horse becomes lame ; first ascertain th cause — and then apply the remedy prescri- bed for that particular complaint. LOCK-JAW. Description. The Lock-jaw commences withl 73 a diilicuUy of mastication ; and, shortly after, the jaws become so completely and immoveably closed, that neither medicine nor food can be administered — the muscles of the neck are much contracted — and the horse appears to suffer great pain. Causes. This complaint is occasioned, gen- erally, by wounds in some of the feet, nerves^ tendons, &c. REMEDIKS. 1. Cold water, suddenly applied, in large quantities. 2. Friction, with turpentine oil, or any kind of spirits — and a clyster administered, compo- sed of two ounces of spirits of hartshorn, four ounces of oil of turpentine, mixed with one quart of strong ale and whiskey. 3. Copious bleeding has, in some eases, been found useful. 4. Hartshorn, aether, opium, and brandy, have sometimes been used with success. MANGE. Causes. Unwholesome food — poverty — a filthy stable — and, sometimes, infection. Symptoms. The horse will be almost per» petually rubbing his neck or tail against a fence, G 74 or some other object that will suit bis purpose —until those parts become nearly bereft of hair — leaving a naked, thick, rough, and wrinkled skin. REMEDIES. 1. If the horse's strength will admit, draw off a small quantity of blood — keep him in a clean stable — wash the affected parts witli warm soap-suds ; and anoint them with a mixture of bog's lard and flour of sulpluir, equal parts, twice a day. And, every night and morning, give bim a mash of bran, or bran and oats ; mixing one ounce of the flour of sulphur with it — and let bim have a little dry corn, every day, at noon. His drink should have an ounce of nitre dissol- ved in it, twice a day. When a cure appears to be effected, the ap- jdication of ointment must be discontinued ; and the diet may soon be changed to good oats and sweet hay, without physic. 2. But if the disease should not be removed by the above means, in ten or twelve days, the bleeding may be repeated, in proportion to the I strength of the animal — wash, frequently, with the following lotion. White helebore, powdered, two drams ; boil- ed in three pints of water, till reduced to one . 75 quart — and muriate of quicksilver, dissolved iu three drams of muriatic acid, two drams. And take muriate of quicksilver, half an ounce— tartarized antimony, three ounces — powdered anniseeds, six ounces — powdered ginger, two ounces — and syrup sufficient to form the mass, for sixteen balls — one of which must be given every morning — but if they diminish the appe- tite, or produce purging, they must be discon- tinued two or three days. MOON-EYES. The eyes of a horse will sometimes vary in colour every month ; and are, therefore, called -*Moon-Kyes — from an opinion that the affection or disease increases and decreases with the course of that planet — for at the full moon, the eyes, generally one at a time, will have a mud- dy appearance ; and discharge an ichorous wa- ter, so sharp as to excoriate the skin — and at the new moon, become clear again. Symptoms. When the disease commences, one of the eyes will be much swelled — very •frequently shut — and the ball of a muddy, brown colour. The veins of the temple, and those , near the eye, will appear very full of blood. 76 REMP-DY. Copious bleedings, and repeatedly washing the eyes with cold water, will afford temporary relief — but, as the complaint is generally the harbinger of a cataract, it seldom admits of a permanent cure. MALLENDERS. Description. Mallenders are hard scabs on the inside of the knee joint, separated by cracks ; which generally discharge a glutinous kiud of matter — and, if long neglected, frequent- ly produce lameness. Cause. This complaint is commonly the effect of careless or improper management of the horse« REMEDIES. 1. Cut off the hair, and wash the parts affec- ted with warm soap-suds, night and morning — after washing, wipe them till dry ; and apply the following ointment, twice a day. Take ointment of wax or spermaceti, two ounces — olive oil, one ounce— camphire and oil of rosemary, of each, one dram — acetated water of litharge, two drams — and mix them together for use. ^. If the above treatment should not effect a 77 cure^ wash the parts well, twice a clay, with a mixture of vinegar, water, and soap-lees, equal parts — when dry, dress them with strong mercu- rial ointment — and, if it appear necessary, take a moderate quantity of blood from the neck — and give the animal an ounce of nitre in his drink, night and morning, two weeks. MOLTEN GREASE. Description. This complaint is, by some, supposed to be a rarefaction and solution of fat on the membranes, in various parts of the body — by others, it is not considered as a distinct disease ; but only a symptom of general inflam- mation, or fever. Causes. Sudden, violent, or long continued exercise ; when just taken from grass, too full of light and flatulent food, or when overloaded with fat. Symptoms. A mucus, resembling fat, is discharged with the dung — when the lungs are aifected, the breathing is difficult — the flanks move unusually quick, and the nostrils are much expanded — and when the blood is generally diseased, fever quickly ensues. G2 78 liEMEDIliS. 1. Copious bleeding, according to age, strength and attendant symptoms — and if tlie bowels are affected, accompanied with purging, promote the operation ; by frequently giving the horse a decoction of linseed — of powder of arrow-root — or gum arabic, dissolved in water. When he voids dung very often, and in small quanti- ties, with a mixture of hard lumps ; give him a pint of castor oil — and, if necessary, repeat the dose in about two days afterward. ' 2. If the above remedy should not be effec- tual 'y and the horse continues to eject small quantities of excrement, apparently with great pain, and considerable irritation about the anus — give him the following clyster — taking all possible care to avoid injuring the part, with the pipe. Mix opium, one dram and a half, with warm water, eight ounces — and add about a quart of water, in which starch has been boiled, until it is of a proper consistence for the purpose, 3. If the last application should fail to remove the irritation and pain ; repeat the dose of cas- tor oil — and gently inject a clyster, composed of water gruel and a little oil. 79 POLL-EVIL. Description, This disease is a swelling, or abscess, in the sinew of the poll, and nape of the neck. Causes. The poll-evil, like a fistula, gener- ally proceeds from a blow, bruise, or some other external injury. REMEDIES. 1. When the swelling first appears, bathe it, frequently, with hot vinegar — and, if the hair be fretted oif, and there is an oozing through the skin, use equal parts of vinegar and spirits of wine. But, if there be an itching, with heat and inflammation, bleed plentifully-— and apply the following poultice ; which will sometimes disperse the swelling; and put an end to the disease. Take one quart of a strong decoction of red oak bark, and stir in a sufficient quantity of Indian meal to form a poultice. 2. If the above applications are ineffectual ; and the swelling shows evident signs of matter ; the following poultice should be applied im- mediately ; in order to produce suppuration — Indian meal, marsh-mallow, oil of turpentine, and hog's lard. When the tumour becomes ripe, 80 or full of matter, and does not break voluntarily f it should be opened with a sharp instrument — taking great care not to wound the tendinous ligament that extends along the neck, under the mane. — If the matter appears to be on both sides, the tumors must both be carefully opened — so as to leave the ligament undivided and unhurt. — When the discharge is copious — resembles melted glue — is of an oily consistence — and any cavities are discovered by the finger or probe — the incision must be repeated — and the wound should be dressed with spirits of turpentine, honey, and tincture of myrrh ; until a thick and light coloured matter is discharged. Cleanse* the parts with strong soap-suds and a sponge — then take verdigris, half an ounce — oil of tur- pentine, four ounces — blue stone, two ounces — green copperas, half an ounce — mix them well together — and hold them over a fire until they are as hot as the horse can bear them — then pour them into the abscess ; and close the lips by' one or two stitches — this is to remain for several 1 days, without any other dressing ; except bath- ing with spirits of wine. If the discharge should be very abundant, and of thin consist- ence, the above application must be repeated 5; until the matter decreases in quantity, and be 81 comes of a whitish colour^ aud healtliy appear- ance. QUITTOR. Description. A quittor is a swelling, or an- ulcer, in the coronet; generally on the inside, quarter of the foot ; and, if neglected, will pen- etrate under the hoof; and become very difficult to cure. Causes. Bruises, treads, lacerations, or wounds of any kind. REMEDIES. 1. If the wound be only superficial, the cure may be eft'ected by cleansing it well, with a sponge and warm watef — then washing it fre- quently with spirit of wine — and applying a plaster of basilicon, mixed with a little precipi- late. S. lint when the disease has penetrated the. foot, within the hoof, it will be necessary, care- fully and skilfully, to take away part of the hoof. Let the affected part be properly cleaned — and dress it with either black or yellow basilicon, spread on lint, and placed under a pledget of tow, covered with the following ointment. Tak- ing care to keep the foot out of water and dirt. Olive oil, one pint — yellow wax and black 82 rosin, of each, foui' ounces — Burgundy pitch and turpentine, of each, two ounces — melt the wax, , rosin and pitch, in the oil, over a slow fire — when taken off, stir in the turpentine. — For large ulcers, where a plentiful discharge is re- quired, incorporate three ounces of the spirits of 1 turpentine with the above mixture, while warm., If fungus, called proud fleshy should appear,, touch it gently with a piece of unslaked lime. RINGBONE. i l}cscri})twn. The ringbone is a hard excres-- sence on the fore part of the pastern, near the coronet; which, like a ring, frequently extends5 half way round the ancle — and, very often, pro-, duces lameness. Causes. Bruises, strains, &c. REMEDY. When the disease is first discovered, blister ing with flies will generally effect a cure — bufci if suffered to continue long, any attempt to ic-l move it will be ineffectual. SPAVINS. Of this disease there are two kinds — denomi- nated Blood-Spavin and Bone-Spavin. BLOOD-SPAYIN. Descrijjilon. The Blood-spavin is a soft tu- mor on the inside of the hock — whicl), if long neglected, will occasion lameness. Cause. A preternatural enlargement of the vein. . IIEMEDIES. P d. Hub in about two table spoonfuls of the following embrocation, twice a day — and con- fine a bandage of flannel, wet with the same |liquid, on the part affected. j Mix of strong vinegar, four ounces — cam- Ipborated spirits of wine, three ounces — extract 'of saturn, one ounce — and shake them well to- gether immediately before using. 2. But if the disease has been of long contin- uance ; and will not yield to the above treat- ment ; apply the following composition, every forty. eight hours, during a week — gradually nibbing it in with the hand — and keep a flannel bandage over it, as before. Take of powdered cantharides, one dram — olive oil, two ounces — and mix them together. BONE-SPAVIN. Description. The bone spavin is a callous eivcrcssence about the hoek joint — which, if loug 84 neglected, will adhere to the bone — and incura- ble hinieness is generally the cousequeiiiee. Causes. If. is suppoised, sometimes^ to be the effect of excessive labour — but, more frequently, a hereditary complaint — descending from either sire or dam. REMEDIES. 1. When a bone-spavin appears on the inside of the hock, of a young horse, and is produced by violent exercise — ^rest, and frequent bathing with the following mixture, will generally efi'ect a cure. Take extract of saturn, two ounces — cam- phorated spirits of wine, four ounces — mix them together — then add good vinegar, one pint — shake them well — lastly, add one pint of soft water ; for use. And keep the part bound with flannel, saturated with the mixture. S. But if the complaint is not removed by the above application, make use of the following blister ointment. Powdered cantharides, euphorbium, and cor- 1 rosive sublimate, of each, one dram ; mixed [ with one ounce of the oil of bays. All the hair on the affected part must first be cut off; and the ointment pretty thickly spread over the place. This should be done in tha is 85 morning ; and the horse so tied up as to prevent his rubbing any of the ointment off — and, at night, a plaster of pitch must be well bound on, to keep all safe. After the blister is done running, and the scabs begin to peel oiT, a second and similar application may be made — which, if the horse be young, will generally effect a perfect cure. SPLENTS. Description. Splents are bony excressences on the fore legs of some horses (generally young ones) between the knees and fetlock-joints — which are sometimes disagreeable to the sight ; but are seldom injurious; ex(fept when situated near the joints, or under the large tendons on tlie back part of the leg — when tiiey never fail to produce lameness. Old horses are not very subject to splents, unless they had them while young ; or they are jccasioned by blows, accidents, &c. REMEDIES. 1. When the swelling is first discovered, )alhe the part well with hot vinegar, twice a lay — and, immediately afterward, rub it with L smooth, round stick, about fifleea minutes — H 86 repeating the applications one week ; or longer, if necessary. 2. If the above treatment should not remove the complaint ; cut off the hair that covers the diseased part ; and apply a plaster of Spanish ilies. SADDLE-GALLS, OR WARBLES. Description. Saddle-Galls are inflamed swell. ings on the sides or back of a horse — which, if neglected, frequently become troublesome ulcers. Cause. Extreme pressure and friction of some hard and protuberant part of the saddle. | llEMEDlES. d. When the saddle is taken off; if, on exa« mination, any bruise or inflammation be disco- vered ; wash the part, immediately, with plenty of cold water — and take care to prevent a repe-il tition of the injury. 3. If the above application should not disU perse the fever; use the following mixture^, twice a day. Sharp vinegar, and spirits of any kind, ofl each, one gill— and sweet oil, or fresh butter, one table spoonful — all properly incorporated? 87 ^. When the skin is rubbed off, let a little whitelead he occasionally sprinkled on the raw flesh. A person, when on a journey, should always have some of the article with him, for this purpose, SITFAST. Description, A silfast is a hard and horny lump in the skin, about the back or shoulder of a horse — frequently succeeds a gall of the sad- dle or harness — and is produced by the same means. REMEDY. Take up the callous part with a pair of pin- cers — and, by leaning them on one side, it may be readily taken off with a sharp knife. After which, the wound may be healed, in a short time, by using either of the following mixtures. Of brandy and honey, each, half a pint — and alum, two ounces. Or — of blue stone, a quarter of an ounce — spirits of turpentine, two table spoonfuls— and spring water, one pint. Or — of sugar of lead, half an ounce — alum, one ounce — and copperas, half an ounce — mix them well together — and wash the wound twice a day — after cleansing it with warm soap-suds. » 88 STAGGERS. Symptoms. Unusual disposition in the horse in sleep — the eyes inflamed, and half shut — reat debility — -hanging his head, or resting it on the manger — the ears hot with a burning fever — rearing, and throwing himself abonfc with great violence — and, finally, falling, and lying in a stale of insensibility. Cause. The disease is supposed to he pro- duced by eating grass, very early in the morn- ing, while covered with dew, and a poisonous web, indnstriousiy spun and spread by small spiders, during the night. When a horse feeds on pasture in this situation, he must unavoidably swallow a large quantity of the web ; and some of the weavers also — the effect of which, some- times, is delirium, apoplexy, &c. REViEDIES. 1. Take from the neck vein half a gallon of ;; blood, three times a week, if the animal can bear it — and give liira a drench, composed of sassafras tea, three half pints — plantain juice, | half a pint — assafoelida, half an ounce — and nitre, one tea spoonful — three times in a week — and inject a clyster, consisting of one pint of meal, two quarts of water, one pint of molasses, , 89 and one spoonful of liog's lard. — Moderate ex- ercise, and frequent rubbing, should not be I neglected — and, twice a week, give bim four quarls of bran, wiih one (able spoonful of sul- phur, one tea spoonful of nitre, one eighth of an I ounce of assafoelida, and one quart of boiling sassafras tea — not permitting Isim to drink cold water for six hours afterward. If these appli- cations should have a favourable effect, nothing further will be necessary ; except to feed with bran, or other light food of any kind. 2. But if (he above treatment should not give relief — take of calomel, twenty-five grains — opium and camphire, each, two drams — pow- dered fennel seed, one dram — syrup, of any kind, sufficient to form a ball — and give him one of these balls, every morning, four or five days — in which time he will be well ; if not incurable. STRAINS. '-'^ Description. A strain is an unnatural relax- ation, extension, or rupture of some of the ten- dons or muscles — an will be. forced to the opposite side. It is generally the effect of hard labour — • 97 aud difficult to cure. The only remedies are blisters and rest. THRUSH. Description. This disease consists of a dis- charge of foetid matter from the cleft of the frog ; when the part is so soft and rotten as to be in- capable of affording protection to the sensible frog, which it covers. Hence arises that ten- derness of the foot, which is so frequently ob- served. Causes. The thrush is generally produced by a contraction of the horny matter at the heels; by which the sensible frog is compressed and in- flamed — or by frequent bruises ; for want of proper shoeing. See Shoeing. Remarks. The discharge whicli takes place, is a consequence of the inflammation ; and may be con- sidered as an effort of nature to cure it.* The dis- charge diminishes tiie inflammation ; or prevents it from becoming violent — but when it has been stop- ped by the injudicious application of astringents, or voluntarily ceases, tlie inflammation will soon be greatly increased — extend to the other parts of the foot — and occasion severe lameness — which, gen- erally, will be relieved, or removed, by a return of the discharge. 98 REMEDIES. 1. It will be necessary, in the first place, to remove the cause; by rasping the heel — and keeping the hoof constantly moist ; by making the horse stand in soft clay, some part of the day — taking care to keep the frog dry by means of tar. 3. When, by the above means, the compres- sion, and consequent inflammation of the sen- sible frog, are removed — apply a solution of white ol' blue vitriol, or alum — which, if assist- ed by pressure and tar, will render that part firm ; and the discharge will cease, when the inflammation leaves the sensible frog. When the discharge has continued a long time, care should be taken not to check it so suddenly as to produce inflammation, and swel- ling of the legs — and yet, if totally neglected, it will, eventually, become a canker— a more dan- gerous disease. »See Canker in the foot. WIND-GALLS. Description. Wind-Galls are spongy and flatulent humours, on both sides of the legs, just above the pastern joint. Causes. They are generally the effect of Jiard treatment — strains or bruises of the back sinew, &g. 99 REMEDIES. 1. When wind-galls are first discovered, fo- ment the parts, twice a day, with a strong de- coction of red oak bark, sharp vinegar, and a little alum— applied as warm as the hand can bear — and bind a woollen cloth, wet with the liquid, around the place; as tight as possible without giving pain. 2. If the above application should not suc- ceed ; blistering with flies may next be resor- ted to. WOUNDS. Horses are continually subject to wounds of various kinds — some of which may be distin- guished by the following terms — Incisions^ Lacerations, and Punctures. INCISIONS. Description, An incision is a wound made by a keen edge-tool — and by which the skin and other parts are separated; without being torn or bruised. REMEDIES. 1. If the wound be small, and the situation will admit of a bandage, draw the lips of the incision together — apply a sticking plaster — and bind it on with a roller. 100 S. If the divided parts cannot be kept togeth- er by the plaster and bandage alone — or if the wound be large, or so situated as not to admit of binding — the lips of it must be drawn into contact by a few long stitches, with strong wax- ed thread — and a bandage applied, if practica- ble* 3. If an artery should be divided, and cause much bleeding ; it must be taken up with a crooked needle, and tied with a thread. But if the bleeding vessel cannot be secured in this way, apply a small quantity of flour to the mouth of it — taking care to confine it there, by a proper compress, until a scab is formed — and after the lips of the wound are brought together, as above directed, cover it with rags, dipped in spirits of turpentine, or any other spirits — place a little lint, lightly, within the edges of it — and take care to keep it intirely clean, with strong soap-suds; and as free from motion as possible. 4. Whenever a wound becomes much swel- led, or inflamed ; or discovers signs of mortifica- tion — frequent bleeding, and the application of a red oak poultice, or mush, will have a good effect. But if the wound should heal very rapid- 101 ly ; and fungus be produced, wasli it with a little blue stone water. The diet should be bran, oats, or green food. LACERATIONS. Description. A laceration is a wound made by some blunt or rough instrument — by the horse's becoming entangled in a gate, fence, &c. and using violent exertions to extricate himself — or by some other accident that rends the flesh. REM EDI KS. Remove all dirt, splinters, and other extra- neous substances from the wound — draw and bind the separated parts as closely together as possible, without obstructing the discharge of matter, when formed. If the horse should be in good condition, and has lost but little blood from the wound, a moderate quantity may be taken from him. The injured part must be cleansed, once a day, or when necessary, with warm water ; which, if the wound be deep, may be done more effectually by a syringe — and bathe, twice a day, with either of the following lotions — applied very warm. A strong decoction of wormwood, southern- wood, chamomile flowers, and bay leaves. 12 102 Or — Spirits, half a pint — alum, one ounce — and honey, one gill — mixed well together. Or — Copperas, two ounces — and clean water, one quart. Or — Sugar of lead, a quarter of an ounce — and clear water, one quart. Or — Wet the sore, once a day, with spirits of turpentine. The horse's food should be light and cooling. PUNCTURES. Description. These are wounds to which the feet are most liable — and are made by some sharp pointed instrument. Sometimes by the horse's treading on a nail, thorn, &c.— frequent- ly by incautiously driving a nail of the shoe into the sensible part of the foot — and sometimes by the careless or passionate use of a pitchfork, &c. REMEDIES. 1. Punctures being generally very painful wounds, and frequently dangerous, require im- mediate and careful attention. First, cleanse the injured part from all dirt, sand, &c. with warm water — then apply poultices, composed of red oak bark, beaten very fine and well boiled, and corurmeal, sufficient to form the mass ; until 103 healthy matter is discharged. And then use either of the remedies prescribed for lacera- tions. S. When the bottom of the foot is punctured by a nail or any other instrument, it will be essential, without delay, to enlarge the orifice through the horny matter, with a sharp knife — then pour in a little tincture of benzoin — and when a secretion of healthy matter is produced, apply a little tow or lint, dipped in tar, or Ve- nice turpentine — and keep the whole foot cool by bran poultices. 104 AFPISNBIZ. Containing Instructions for Breeding, Wean- ing , Castrating f Breaking, Docking, Shoe- ingf Mounting- Kiding^ Travellings Driving, Feeding, Soiling, Watering, Stabling, Trim- mings Dressing, Choosing Ostlers, Fatten- ing, Bleeding, Purging, Clystering, Blister- ing, Poulticing, Mowelling, Preventing in- fectious and other diseases, defending from Flies, ^c. Breeding. A mare should not be suffered to breed before she is four years old. The best time for her to take the horse* is late in the Spring — so that she may not foal, the next sea- son, before the grass be sufficiently grown for pasture ; which is much better than hay for pro- ducing milk. During the time of gestation her food should be wholesome and plentiful — her exercise moderate and frequent — and, in Au- tumn and winter, care must be taken to protect her from wet and cold, by keeping her in a large stable or shed, furnished with a rack and man- ger, and liberally supplied with clean litter. * Crossing the breeds is said to be of great advantage. APPENDIX. 105 When a mare is made choice of for a regular breeder, she may he put to the horse about three or four weeks after foaling, annually, during eight or ten years. Weaning. If a mare should foal in the be- ginning of summer, the colt may run with her until the beginning of tlie following winter — by which time it will acquire the habit of eating dry food, as well as grass. When separated, they should be kept intirely out of sight and hearing of each other, several mouths. The colt must be kept in a convenient house, with a low rack and manger, for hay and oats — the hay must be very fine and sweet — and a little wheat bran should be mixed with the oats, in order to keep the body open, and excite an appetite. In the Spring it must be turned out to pasture, where the grass is short and sweet ; and Avhere i there is good water, to diink at pleasure. The I next winter, the comfort and cleanliness of the young animal ought not to be neglected. After the first year, male and female colts should not be kept together. Castrating. Castrating a horse is taking away his testicles — an operation much easier performed, and attended with less danger, on a 106 APPENDIX. colt, or young horse, than an old one. He must first be thrown on his back, on some soft ground, and his feet made perfectly secure — the operator is then, with a proper instrument, to cut open the scrotum on each side of the seam ; and, pre- vious to removing tlie testicles, a waxed thread should be tied round the spermatic strings, to prevent too great an effusion of blood — when this is done, the testicles must be removed with a very sharp knife — and pledgits of tow, dipped in melted basilicon, with the addition of a little spirits of wine, should be applied to the wounds, secured by a compress and a proper bandage. The best season for the operation is in the Spring, when the weather is temperate. lireahing. When a colt is about two years and a half old, he ought to be gently and fre- quently handled, by a person well skilled in the management of horses — he should first be taught the use of the bridle — afterward, the saddle — and, finally, the harness. All which will re- quire great patience and perseverance — with a continual consideration that, though a horse is not furnished with the faculty of reason, yet he is endued with a capacity to distinguish between kindness and cruelty — and is liable, especially APPENDIX, 107 when young, to contract the disposition of those who have the care of him. See Summary. DocJcing. Docking a colt is an operation so simple that little skill is required in the perfor- mance. A cord must be fastened round his upper lip, so as not to affect his breathing — one of his fore legs should be held up ; to prevent his kicking, or doing any other injury. Then, tie a waxed string, very tightly, twice round the tail, just above the place where it is to be cut off; and secure all the hair intended to be re- tained — a large block of wood must be placed on his rump, and the tail turned up and laid smoothly on the block — then, with a sharp in- strument and a mallet, the part may be taken off at once. Apply a little fine rosin to the wound, and sear it with a smooth piece of iron, made moderately hot. Two or three days afterward, the string must be taken off, and the place anointed with sweet oil or fresh butter. Or — If the animal has been properly inured to the bridle, the operation may be performed with very little trouble. Let some person hold liim with his buttocks close to a strong and open fence — then, having provided a suitable block, Bind of sufficient length to rest on the ground, 108 APPENDIX. draw the tail, gently, through or over the fence, and proceed with the husiness as before directed. Slioein^. Shoeing is an operation of very great importance ; and should alwa^'s be per- formed by a person of good judgment or prac- tical experience. Many horse's feet have been greatly injured, if not intirely ruined, by igno- rant or obstinate persons. In preparing the foot for shoeing, the cruel practice of burning it with a red hot shoe must never be permitted — but the hoof should be neatly pared away, with a butteris, to an evenli surface — and a small opening made between the bar and crust, to prevent the shoe from pressing; on that part, and producing corns — taking par- ■ ticular care not to injure their connexion, which i is to afford a support for the heel of the shoe, , and must be made perfectly level with the other: parts of the hoof, with a rasp. The frog, whenji in a healthy state, should never be trimmed ; except to remove, with great caution, such rough and uneven parts as may collect and retain any gravel or dirt. For, when frequently pared away,, its elasticity is destroyed — the foot becomes con-' tracted — and a thrush is generally the conse- quence. See Hoqf-hoimd, and Thrush, APPENDIX. 109 When the sole is full, or convex, the shoe should be no wider than the crust — and a nar- row one is now recommended, as the best kind, for general use. It ought to be made of very good iron — and exactly the form and size of the foot for which it is designed, after being prop- erly prepared. The nails, which should also be made of the best iron, must be regularly driven in, and well clenched — not so high as to touch the sensible part of the foot ; yet so as to have sufficient hold to coniine the shoe for seve- ral months. Shoes for draft-horses, that seldom go out of a walk, should be heavy, strong, have high heels, and be pointed at the toes with steel. When a horse is well shod, if water be poured on the bottom of his foot, it will not pass between the hoof and shoe. Mounting. Previous to mounting a horse, examine the bridle, saddle, and their various appendages ; and see that every thing is in good order, and where it ought to be. And he should be accustomed to stand firmly and motionless, until his rider be fairly seated, and his clothes properly adjusted. Riding, When the rider is mounted, and ready to go, he should give his horee an intima- K 110 APPENDIX. tion of it by a pressure with liis knees, or by- some gentle expression ; which he may soon be taught to understand, without resorting to the cruel use of whip or spur — wliicli ought ncveri to be used, except in cases of absolute ueces- sity ; and even then, with reason and humanity. The rider should continually guard against every unnatural and unnecessary motion of his; body — and carefully avoid the odious practice of jerking his horse's mouth with the bridle- mechanically bruising his sides, at every stepl with a pair of unconscious heels — and tossinaj his arms and legs about, like a person afflictetMi with St. Vitus's Dance. I A horse will travel with ranch more ease, both to himself and his rider, when governed by a gentle and steady hand. See Nummary, Travelling. To perform a long journey, witJi ease and comfort to a horse, and satisfaction tc bis rider, will require some attention to his feed- ing, during eight or ten days previous to setting out. A horse uncommonly fat, running late at grassj, fed with unsubstantial food, or unaccus- tomed to exercise, is very unfit to endure the fatigue of a journey; unless prepared by being APPENDIX. Ill fed, a week or t^n days, on corn or oats, and good hay ; and giving liini moderate exercise every day. And it will be necessary to have liini shod with a good set of shoes — taking care that they fit easily ; and are so placed as not to cut the legs, or contract the feet. Examine the saddle, or harness (as the mode of travelling Intended may be) and see that they fit properly; and so as not to pinch the horse, or injure any part of him by friction or too great pressure. In the evening previous to commencing the journey, after the horse is furnished with a good bed of straw, and is well rubbed, give him four quarts of old corn, or eight quarts of clean oats, and a sufficient quantity of good liay. In the morning, feed him with four quarts of oats, or bvo quarts of corn ; and afterward oifer him a bucket of water. Being now prepared for the journey, the fol- lowing directions must be strictly observed. — Never permit the horse, while travelling, to |!lrink very cold water, much more than suffi- cient to wet his mouth and throat. Before feed- ing, which should be done once in about four hours, during the day, let him stand ten mi- iiutes to get cool — olTer him a bucket of water, ivith a little salt and two handfuls of corn meal lis APPENDIX. stirred in it — feed him with four quarts of oats, or half that quantity of dry corn, and a little hay — and offer him water again, prepared as before. At night, let him be turned into a lot, if convenient, for the purpose of rolling, and cooling himself — and after removing all the dirt trom his legs with soap-suds, have him put I into a stable, well supplied with clean litter- then take any kind of spirits and vinegar, off! each, half a pint — mix them together, and rub his legs with the mixture, until they are dry. Let him be well curried, brushed, and rubbed with straw — give him plenty of water — and feed him with four quarts of corn, or twice the quan- tity of oats, and a sufficiency of hay. Have dung, to keep his hoofs tough and cool. Next morning, give him four quarts of oats or two quarts of corn, and as much water as he will drink. And thus proceed, daily, to the end of i the journey. Change the horse's food as frequently as possible, without giving him grain or hay just gathered ; which would be very injurious to him. His shoes should be daily inspected, and kept in good order — his back, and other parts liable to injuries by the saddle or liarness APPENDIX. 113 ought to be carefully examined every evening — ^and if chafed or scalded, the part must be cleansed with weak soap-suds ; and, afterward, bathed with a little water and salt. See Saddle Galls and Summary. Driving. I am aware that many who have the care of horses duly appreciate their worth ; and treat them with propriety — but a great proportion of tliose noble, generous and useful animals, are annually doomed to diseases and death, by the savage conduct of their drivers ! *^ A righteous man regardetii the life of his beast'' — but, surely, that man must be unright- eouSf and callous to every feeling of humanity, who, from motives of either interest or vanity, can deliberately impose a burden on bis horse which he is unable to sustain — and then beat him, with the fury of a deraoniaek, for not per- forming a task which is utterly impossible. And, for the sake of humanity, and the in- terest of those who have horses. I would res- pectfully recommend, that they be very careful not to intrust them to the management of boys, or others, who are subject to violent paroxysms of anger ; and appear to be destitute of either K2 1 14 APPENDIX. judgment or mercy, in their ordinary transac- tions. A judicious and humane driver has no need of written rules and directions, for the regula- tion of his conduct — but there may be others to whom a few hints may be useful. When horses are harnessed* for the pur- pose of performing any particular service ; great care should be observed to adapt their burden to their strength — the condition of the road — distance they have to travel — and the state of the weather. They should never be hurried when ascending a hill ; nor be allowed to exceed a walk when descending one. Watering fre- quently, and feeding seasonably and sufficient- ly, must not be neglected. And let the carriage- wheels be well supplied with grease. Feeding. I suppose it to be generally known tliat some liorses recjuire more food than others, of the same size and in similar circumstances — that any horsemustbebetterfeed when employed, than when idle— and that all of them should be supplied witi) a sufficient quantity of sweet and wholesome provision, to keep them in good con- dition. ♦Harness ouglit always to fit the horse that wears it ; and be kept clejtn, soft and pliable ; to prevent it from galling-. APPENDIX. 115 Let their meals be moderate and frequent — and when on a jourr.ey, their food must be light and sparing, during the day, but plentiful in the evening — always allowing them time to get cool, previously to being fed. No person should keep more horses in his possession than can be profitably and reputably supported. How frequently do we see fearful signs of famine exhibited to view, by indigent or penurious proprietors of miserable skeletons, moving to and fro ; with ribs almost as naked as the rundles of the rack from which they should derive a portion of their sustenance. 1 appre- hend it w ould much better comport with human- ity to despatch such objects of commiseration, without loss of time, than suffer them to languish to death, for want of the necessaries of life. See Summary. Soiling. Soiling is recommended, by men of experience, as the best and most economical mode of feeding horses with grass, during Ihe ummer season. That is, to cut it, when suffi- dently grown, and convey it to their racks ; in- stead of permitting them to run over it as they please ; by which they destroy much more than ihey eat ; and unavoidably waste the principal part of their manure. 116 APPENDIX. Watering. When a horse is at liberty, and has free access to water, he will take care of himself — but when under restraint, of any kind, his owner should not fail to see his wants sup- plied in due season. It would be absurd to offer any definitive or positive rule for watering a horse — an attention to his constitution, situation, and otiier circum- stances, must alwajs regulate the conduct of the person who has the immediate care of him. Thirst is generally excited, and increased, by constantly feeding on dry and strong food — by excessive labour, and severe travelling — by pro- fuse perspiration, &c. when frequent watering, in moderate quantities, should never be neglec-; ted — taking care not to suffer him to drink while) very warm ; and always avoid very cold watetf as much as possible. If ploughmen would give a little water to their horses, once every two hours, during the time of labour, allowing them a few minutes to get cool bet >re drinking, 1 believe it would have a salutary effect. Stahling. A stable should be built in a dry i and airy situation — the f oor inade <^f plardc, and \ a little descending from the manger, backwards; APPENDIX. 117 to drain off the urine, &c. — the ceiling high, and weli ventilated ; to let the noxious air in the sta- ble escape — and the door wide and high ; to prevent the horse from hurting his head and hips. It should be furnished with a number of win- dows to be opened or shut at pleasure; for the purpose of admitting air in warm weather, and repelling cold and storms in the winter season. There ought to be one glass window fronting each horse; that he may not be continually kept in total darkness. And every one should have a stall to himself; made sufficiently large for him to turn round with ease — the partitions so long and high as to prevent any communica- tion with his neighbours ; and so near the floor as to hinder him from getting his feet under it, when lying down. The rack and manger must be composed of hard and smooth wood — and both placed in such a manner as to render it easy for the horse to procure his food. The rack should stand perpendicularly, two or three feet from the wall; and boards extended, obliquely, from the wall to the bottom of the rack — the hay will then set- tle without sifting any dirt into the horse's eyes. The halter should never be tied to the rack, 118 APPKNDIX. but pass through a ring in the manger ; with a smooth piece of wood, weighing about a pound, fastened to the end of it. No hogsty or putrid substance should be placed near the stable — and that ought to be cleaned every morning ; and supplied with fresh litter every evening. When horses are constantly confined in the jstable, on a plank floor, their hoofs become very dry and brittle ; they should, therefore, be al- lowed the liherty of standing on damp and soft ground, w iienever convenient. See Summary, Trimming. When the mane and tail of a borse are w ell proportioned to his body, they greatly add (o his beauty. Previously to trimming the tail, the form and ? size of the body must be particularly attended io — that a due proportion may be preserved. The mane of a horse should reach about half | way down his neck — and be kept thin and smooth by frequent combing. Dressing. When horses are kept in the stable, they should be dressed, daily, with the currycomb and brush, on all those parts that are covered with hair — which will increase per- spiration through the pores of the skin— pro- . APPENDIX. ii^ mote health and activity — and render them more tit for service. In summer, or whenever the weather is temperate, tliey should be cleaned in the open air — and particularly when just come from some exercise or labour, in a state of per- spiration — for, if immediately put into a warm stable, they frequently perspire so long as to suffer by it. See Summary. The practice of washing a horse's legs with cold water, or plunging him into a river, when very warm, ought never to be permitted. But, after travelling, or any laborious exer- cise, a horse's feet should be entirely freed from dirt — his legs may then be washed with water a little warm. If tlie hoofs appear to be either brittle or contracted, a mixture of cow dung and soft clay may be usefully applied to the soles. Choosing Ostlers. Notwithstanding the situ- ation of an ostler is far from being enviable, y«t there are few occupations which require a greater variety of virtues and qualifications, than that of a person intrusted with the manage- ment of horses, at an inn. He should be honest, sober, attentive, kind, obliging, active, industrious, courageous, prur jdent, patient, chearful, &c. 130 APPENDIX. " No situation tliat a servant can be placed in, requires more activity, sobriety, strength, attention, and industry, than that of an ostler. And how often do we see weak, lazy, careless, crippled, and even extreme old men, worn out ■with age and infirmity, placed in that employ- ment! Indeed, those are often made choice of who are unable to perform labour of any de- scription. Nothing can be more agreeable to a fatigued traveller, than to place his horse in possession of every pleasure, every comfort pos- sible, after his having faithfully performed a hard ride, or on a journey : which he cannot have the opportunity of doing, unless a fit per- son is selected for an ostler. Many fine horses and stables have been de- stroyed by carelessness — ostlers that smoke pipes or segars are unfit for that employment." [Z>r. Mason.2 Fattening. For the purpose of fattening a lean horse in a short time, plenty of clean, sweet corn, oats, bran, and hay must be provi- ded — and also, a sufficient quantity of straw, to furnish him with a clean and comfortable bed. If the animal be very poor, take one quart of blood from his neck — if in tolerable condition,, APPENDIX. 121 take two quarts from him — and repeat the ope- ration at the expiration of every ten days ; until he become fat. Give him a mash of bran, about six quarts, scalded with one quart of strong flax-seed tea, adding one table spoonful of flour of sulphur and one tea spoonful of nitre — re- peated every eight days. But he must not be suffered to drink during ten hours after each mash. Take half an ounce of assafoetida — wrap it in a clean linen rag — and nail it in the bottom of the manger, where the horse is fed. He will dislike it at first ; but, in a few days, he will become fond of it. His manger should be wash- ed with vinegar and salt, twice a week — and eare must be taken to remove all dust and sour food, previously to feeding. His common food must be a mixture of bran and oats — bran and corn — or either of them alone — and a sufficient quantity of good hay. Let him be fed three times a day — change his diet very frequently — and when good grass can be procured, put a little into his rack, every noon, instead of hay. If his mashes were oc- casionally moistened with strong sassafras tea, it would increase his appetite — enrich his blood '—and open his bowels. 4^S APPENDIX. When a horse is very lean, occasioned by want and other cruel treatment, great care will be necessary to confine him to light food at first ; to prevent a founder, or some other injury — but as he improves in condition, his mashes may be richer, and gradually increased, to almost any quantity that he will eat with a good appetite. Let him liave water three times a day, imme- diately after his meals — dissolving a handful of salt in it two or three times a week. A little moderate exercise, once a day, and proper rub- bing, twice a day, will render his flesh firm and solid ; atid be otherwise useful. The hoofs should be cleaned out frequently, and stuffed with clay and salt, or fresh cow dung; to keep the feet cool, and prevent the legs from swelling. Bleeding. This is frequently a very essential operation to bo jierfornied ; for the purpose of preventing, mitigating, or removing diseases^ — v.diich is simply opening a vein, with a sharp fleam or lancet, generally in the neck of a horse. Some of the symptoms indicaling the propri- ety of bleeding are — unusually full veins — red or yellow appearance of the eyes — itching aboutif the mane and tail, denoted by the aniraaPs rub» i bing them almost continually. APPENDIX. 123 Bleeding is necessary in colds — fevers, of nearly every description — violent falls and bruises — wounds of the eyes — strains, from hard riding or drawing — and all other accidents, when there is reason to apprehend a stagnation of the blood will take place — or where the small vessels may be ruptured, and the blood extravasated. TliG quantity drawn off may vary from one to six quarts ; according to the urgency of the case, and strength of the animal. But, previous to any attempt to bleed, the state of the pulse should be ascertained ; and the operation either omitted or regulated accord- ingly. One of the pulse- veins may be found on the inside of the jaw-bone ; and another on the in- side of the foreleg, or that part called the arm, between the point of the shoulder and the knee. The pulsations in a healthy horse are, gene- rally, from forty to fifty in a minute. If they exceed fifty, there is reason to apprehend a fe- ver — the state of which will be indicated by the additional number of strokes. When a fever is very violent, the pulse will frequently strike nearly a hundred times in a minute^ and produce a peculiar sensation to the 124 APPENDIX. i finger ; as though it were sharply struck by the * vibratiun of a cord. Bleeding high in the neck is recommended : to prevent the part from swelling. When it is done for the cure of important inflammatory dis- eases, a large orifice should be made in the vein, and the blood drawn off in a large stream. It must be caught in some vessel, for the purpose of judging of its quality, as well as quantity. If, after it has coagulated, a light buff coloured jelly forms the surface, it is an evidence of the inflammatory state of it. Blood drawn from a healil-y horse coagulates in a short time ; and has tise appearance of a red jelly ; with a small j quantity of fluid, resembling water, floating on ^ its surface. In cases of external and circumscribed in- flammatien, opening a vein contiguous to the affected part will be useful — for when a disease i is occasioned by an undue proportion of blood in the vessels of the brain, relief may frequently be obtained by opening the artery of the temple. Purging. Horses have frequent need of purg- ing. But, before a purge is given, some prepa- ration is necessary, in order to render the ope- ration safe and efficacious. APPENDIX. 1S5 A very fleshy, or full fed horse, should be bled, and have his diet lowered during a week — several mashes of scalded bran sliould be given, to open his bowels, and remove the indurated excrement ; which sometimes prevents the regu- lar operation of the physic ; and occasions much sickness and griping. When horses are constantly kept in the sta- ble, without the benefit of air or exercise, in proportion to their food, they should have a mild purge in the Spring of the year — after being prepared for it, as before directed. It should be remembered, that a horse is ge- nerally purged with difficulty — that the physic frequently lies twenty. four hours in his bowels before it operates — and that the tract it has to pass through exceeds thirty yards — consequent- ly, resinous and other improper drugs, by their violent irritations, often occasion excessive grip- ings and cold sweats — shave off* the very mu- cous of the gu's — and produce inflammations ; which sometimes terminate in mortification and death. The first purge given to a horse should always be mild. A purge should be given in the morning, while tiie stomach is empty — and the horse be kept warm, and mostly in the stable, until it K2 126 APPENDIX. operates. Let him have three mashes of scalded bra!! during the day — the first about four hours after taking his dose. But if he refuse to eat it when warm, give it to him cold or raw. A little good hay may be put into his rack, after eating each niasli. His drink should be plentiful ; and as warm as he will take it. Next morning feed and wa- ter him in a similar manner — give him a little exercise — and, in the evening, he may be fed with a mixture of bran and oats. PLRCiATiYE BALLS. 1. Socotoritie aloes, ten drains — jalap and salt of tartar, of each, two drams — grated gin- ger, one dram — oil of cloves, thirty drops — and syrup sufficient to make it into a ball. 2.. Soeotorine aloes, one ounce — powdered rhubarb, half an ounce — grated ginger, one dram — made into a ball with syrup of roses. 3. Soeotorine aloes, ten drams — myrrh, finely poVidcred, half an ounce — saffron and fresh jala[' in powder, of each, one dram — make them into a stiff ball with syrup of roses — and add a small spoonful of reetifitd oil of amber. Half an ounce of Castile soap may be added to any of the above mixtures, for a horse of a APPENDIX. 1^7 gross constiiulion — and the pro})orlioiis of iu- gredienls increased for large and strong horses. A little Avann water-gruel should be given im- mediately after the ball — and bran mashes, as above directed. The following mixture may be used for a purge with intiie safety — and can be made stronger, if necessary, by adding one ounce more of senna, or two ounces of jalap. Take senna, two ounces — iijfuse it in a pint of boiling water, two liours — add three drams of salt of tartar — pour it off; atid dissolve in it four ounces of Glauber's salts, and two or three ounces of the cream of tartar. This dose is cooling, easy and quiclv in its operation — and preferable, in all inflammatory cases, to any other purge — as it passes into the blood ; and operates by urijie also. When a horse loses his appetite after purg- ing, it will be necessary to give him a warm istomach drink, made of an infusion of chamo- Imile flowers, anise-seeds r.ud saffron. If the purging continue too long, give one ounce of diascordium in one pint of Port wine — and repeat the drench ever}^ twelve hours^ until the disorder abates. Plenty of the follow- ing preparation should also be given — Gum 128 * APPENDIX. arable and tragacanth, of each, four ouuees— = juniper berries and caraway seeds, of each, one ounce — and bruised cloves, half an ounce — gently simmered in one gallon of water, till the gums are dissolved. Let the horse have one quart at a time, in a pail of water. But if he will not take it in that way, give it to him with a horn, without the water. When the purge does not operate ; but makes the horse swell, and refuse his food and water (which is sometimes the effect of improper drugs, or taking cold) give him the following diuretic, warm — and lead him gently about, until relief is obtained. White wine, one pint — nitre, one ounce — and camphire, dissolved in a little rectified spirit of wine, one dram — then add oil of juniper, and rectified oil of amber, of each, two drams — and of honey or syrup of marsh-mallow, four ounces. Clystering. As clysters are frequently the means of preserving the lives of horses, every person who has any of those animals in his pos- session, should always have a clyster bag and pipe prepared for any emergency. The whole apparatus consists of nothing more than a large bladder, with the neck cut off — and a pewter APPENDIX. 139 pipe, common reed, or any other smooth tube, nine or ten inches long, and about one inch in diameter. When about to be used, the end of the blad- der must be softened with warm water ; and the liquid poured through a funnel into it — which is then to be securely tied round one end of the tube — the other end, being made perfectly smooth, rounding, and well oiled, must be intro- duced several inches into the anus — and the liquid forced through the tube, by pressure with the hand. But if the passage should be ob- structed by hard dung, it may be removed by a very small hand, well greased. When a clyster is to be injected, the horse must be placed, with his head down hill — and if he refuse to stand, fasten a twitch on his nose. Clysters are of three kinds — opening — ano- dyne — and nourishing. For the lirst purpose — dissolve three fourths of a pound of common salt in one gallon of warm water — and add of olive or linseed oil, four or five ounces. For the second — take solid opium, two drams — mix it well with half a pint of water — and add one quart of Indian meal or wheat flour gruel. 130 APPENDIX. For tbe third — rich broths — wheat floui gruel — and other nourishing fluids, are recom- mended ; as being sometimes useful, when the throat is so diseased as to prevent swallowing. When the operation is performed, the tail should be kept close to the fundament a few minutes, to prevent a too hasty return of the clyster. mistering. Previous to the application of a blister plaster to any part of a horse, the hair should be cut off as closely as possible — the blistering ointment must then be regularly spread, witii a warm knife, on a peice of strong linen or soft leather, sufficiently large for the purpose — and applied to (lie place. During the operation of the blister, the ani- mal must be so confined as to prevent his biting (he part, or doing any other injury. BLISTER PLASTERS. 1. Take of Spanish flies, half an ounce — oil of turpentine, one ounce — hog's lard, four ounces — and mix them well together for use. • 2. Mix together tar, four ounces — vitriolic acid, two ounces — oil of origanum, half an ounce — hog's lard and Spanish flies, of each, two ounces. AIM'ENDIX. 131 The last is recommended for spavins. Poulticing. Tlie following mixtures will fre- quently be found useful, as poultices, when ap- plied to wounds, &c. 1. Take of bran, one quart — sharp vinegar, scalding hot, half a pint — hog's lard, one table spoonful — and mix them for use. 2. Take of red oak bark, a sufficient quantity to make one quart of strong decoction — and In- dian meal, enough to form the poultice. ti. Take of sharp vinegar, half a pint — meal, one quart — hog's lard, two table spoonfuls — and pour a sufficient quantity of boiling water on them, to form the mass for use. 4. Take plenty of lettuce, cabbage, mallow leaves, turnip tops and turnips themselves, or any of them separately — boil them tender — press the water out — and chop them fine, with two or three ounces of hog's lard or butter added. This last is an excellent poultice for bruised feet; bound on as hot as the horse can bear it -taking care to have them well cleaned before it is applied. Moivelling. Rowels have been sometimes found useful in cases of inward strains about I J33 APPExNDlX. the shoulders or hips — and for hard swellings that are not easily dissolved. When apprehen- ded necessary to apply one, take either a skein of silk, a piece of coarse twine, or a small roll of hair — grease it with lard or fresli butter — then, three or four inches below the part affec- ted, raise the skin with a thumb and finger; and, with a needle sufficiently large for the pur- pose, draw the cord through, and tie the ends together. It must, afterward, be greased daily; and drawn backward and forward, to increase the discharge of matter. "What are called Rowels by the English Farriers are made as follows : An incision is made through the skin, about three eighths of an inch long. Then the skin is separated from the flesh with the finger, or with the end of a blunt horn, as far as the finger will easily reach. Into this a piece of leather, made very thin, and round shaped, is introduced, about the size of a crown piece, having a large, round hole in the middle of it. Previous to introducing the leather, it is covered with lint or tow, and dip- ped in some digestive ointment. Also a pledgifc of tow, dipped in the same ointment, is put in the orifice, to keep out the cold air.'' [^JVew Kng. Farmer, APPENDIX. 133 Preventing infectious diseases. ^^ x\.s most diseases that are infectious, endanger the life of a horse, 1 consider it important to every owner of those useful animals, to be able to use a medi- cine that will act against, or prevent, those dis- eases that are contagious. I have been in the habit of owning from one to eigiit horses at a time, for fifteen years ; and in ail that time never lost a horse. I cannot help believing my suc- cess, in this respect, has been much indebted to the constant use of assafostida; v. hicli 1 consid- er one of the most valuable and ianncent medi- cines ever used among iiorscs. li not only drives off diseases of almost every kind, but it keeps up tlie appetite, produces a remarkable fineness in the coat of hair, and gives such life and spirits, as to induce even an old plough liorse to attempt the attitudes and movements of the gay and mettled racer. " The value of tlie assafcetida is, at present, but little known for the use of horses ; but whenever it shall have been used, or brought into notice, its remarkable effect, no doubt, will prove what I now say. Its virtue is acknow- ledged, and remembered with pleasure, by all jthose who have used it in their stables.'' M It3-t APPENDIX. "When a small piece of assafceti^a has been placed in the manger of a horse in health, I have known him to stand for months in a stall next to one violently diseased, without taking the infection, or any ill consequence resulting from their contiguous situation." * * * *• * 9Jf *- * * ->fc * 4^ ifS- "Take of assafoetida, one ounce, divide it and wrap each piece in a clean linen rag ; nail one in tlie !)ottom of the manger the horse is fed in ; the otlser in tiie bottom of the bucket in which he is watered. The above quantity will last about three months; at the expiration of which time it must be replenished. " A small piece confined to the !)ridle bit, will have the same effect, when he goes from home, or enters on a journey.'- [i>/'. Jlason.^ An infallible preventitive for nearly all the disorders to which horses are liable, may be comprised in the few follov,'ing Avords — always treat them well. Defending from Flies. A certain protection from the annoyance of flies would be found in the use of rancid fish-oil, of any kind. With a sponge, or woollen cloth, rub a small quantity of Uie oil completely over the legs, and other parts i of a horse, liable to their voracious attacks, an 1 APPENDIX. 135 they will immediately abandon tlieir bloody em- ployment. — The oil may be washed oflf, at any time, with a little warm soap-suds. Foxing f Marking, JSTickingf FricJdng, ^c. being attended with more cruelty than real utility, have been purposely omitted. Summar?j. " House, one of the most useful of tame quadrupeds. The marks or evidences of a good one are these — a high neck, a full breast, a lively eye, a strong back, a stiff dock, full buttocks, ribs reaching near to the hips, well made hoofs, rather large, and a good gait. "The size of a horse should be in proportion to the work in which he is chiefly to be employ- ed. Small sized ones often prove good in the saddle. They are apt to be hardy, and in pro- portion to their size, and the quantity of their eating, usually are the most profitable. Plough horses, and all draught horses, should be large ; as their weight is of importance in drawing; and as it is often inconvenient to put two horses to one plough, especially in horse hoeing. Large- ness is also of importance, when they are used single, in journeying, as they most usually are, in a chaise or sleigh. " A horse's manner of going is a matter of no small importance. — The ambling gait, or what, 136 APPENDIX. in this country, is vulgarly called pacing, is not good ; neither for the horse nor the rider. It is tiresome to both. It habituates a horse to carry his feet too near to the ground ; so that he is the more liable to trip and stumble. ^' The method so much practised formerly in this country, of teaching horses to pace swiftly, and racing in that gait, is highly pernicious. It puts them to a much greater strain than running; and numbers have been thus ruined. Some colts naturally amble, and others trot. But all may be made to trot, if due care and pains be taken with them while they are young; or as soon as they are first ridden. In a carriage an amble is tiresome to a horse, appears highly improper^ and is disgusting to every one. And 1 do not see why it should appear at all more tolerable in the saddle. i( Vv hen any change of gait is wanted for the ease of the rider, the canter is to be preferred, than whicli none can be more easy. '• The way of breaking a young horse that is mostly used in this country, is highly absurd, hurtful and dangerous. He is mounted and rid- den before he has been used to tiic bridle, or to bearing any weight on his back. If he will not go forward, he is most unmercifully beaten ; by which his spirits are broken : and his strength API-ENDIX. 437 impaired. If he rear up, he is pulled back- wards ; with the risk of hurtiug both horse and man. If lie run and start, as he probably will under such management, he flings the rider ; perhaps is frightened ; gains his liberty, and is encouraged to do just so the next opportunity; and the unfortunate rider blesses himself, as he has reason to do, if he escape without broken limbs. Or if the horse should chance to go kindly, the rider continues the exercise till the horse is fatigued, discouraged, and injured. " Instead of tliis mad management, the way practised in the older countries should be adopt- ed. Let a iiorse first of all be tamed with the bridle, by leading him again and again ; in the first place, after, or by the side of another horse; and after he walks well, bring him to trot after his leader. In the next place, put on the sad- dle, and lead him in that, time after time. Then lay a small weight on the saddle, and if he be apt to start, fasten it, that it may not be flung oft*; increasing the weight from time to time, till he learns to carry what is equal to a man's weight. Lastly, let a man gently mount him, while another holds iiim by the bridle, and fix himself firmly in the saddle. The place of riding is recommended to be a ploughed field. Let him thus be ridden with a horse going be- M3 i38 Al'PENDlX. fore him, till he learn the use of the hit ; and will stop, or go forward, at tlie pleasure of the rider : and without the application of much force. Being exercised in this manner a few limes, and treated witli all possible gentleness, there will be no more occasion for leading him. He will go well of himself; and be thoroughly broken, without so much as giving him one blow, and without danger or fiitigne, to the horse or his rider. And, wMiat is much to be regarded, the horse's spirits will be preserved, though he be sufficiently tamed. In teaching a horse to draw, gentleness must be used. He should be tried first in company with other horses ; whe- ther in carting or ploughing; and the draught should not be so heavy as to fret him, or put him to great exertion, till he has learned to draw steadily. After this he may be put to draw light loads by himself. Lastly, he may be put to a pleasure carriage : but coupled with ano- ther, rather than alone ; and to a sleigh rather than a chaise. It may be taken for a general rule, that the gait which is easiest to a horse, will be the easiest to his rider. For jaded hor- ses, it has always been observed, are apt to go hard ; and to tire their riders. The feeding of horses, as I conceive, has not been sufficiently attended to in this country ; which is. doubt APPENDIX. I3t) less, one reason why they are in general so mean and despicable. Too many keep horses who cannot well aflx)rd to feed them. They should neither run upon the roads and com- mons, nor in pastures that are filled with wild and water grasses. They love a dry pasture, not too much shaded ; and short grasses of the best kinds. Clover and white honey-suckle, both green and dry, is excellent food for them. It nourishes them well ; and prevents costive- ness ; which is very hurtful to them. The best clover hay will keep them as well as most other kinds of hay with oats. " To fit a horse for a journey he should not bo suftered to grow too fat and gross. He should for some time be kept in the stable rather than in the pasture ; and fed mostly with hay and provender : but rather sparingly if he incline to be fat. He should have exercise, daily, to harden his flesh, and keep him in the habit of travelling. He should be s!»od some days be- fore he begins a journey, that the shoes may be well settled to his feet, and the nails a little rusted at the points, that they may hold the faster. And the pads of the saddle should be well fitted to his back, so as to fill the hollows, and bear equally on every part. And while he is on the journey, he should be stabled every 110 APPENDIX. niglit. It is destructive to expose a horse to the dampness and cold of the night, after severe exercise. But it would be best, if neither hor- ses, nor any of our cattle, were wholly confined to dry meat in winter. Horses indicate this, by their eating snow with their hay. Set a basket of snow within reach of a horse, when he is at his manger, and he will take a mouthful from eacli alternately. Of all juicy food for horses in winter, writers on husbandry seem to give carrots the preference. They have been found by experience to answer well, instead of oats, for labouring horses ; and to fatten those which aie lean. " He that would be sure to keep his horse in good order, must beware whom he suffers to ride him ; and must see that he is never abused. Profuse sweating should always be avoided. And when ahorse is much warmed by exercise, he should not be exposed to cold air, or night dew; and much less to rain and snow. If he cannot be instantly rubbed down and housed when warm, he should be covered with a blan- ket ; and he should always have a dry stable, and be well littered. The neglect of these pre- cautions may bring on incurable disorders. ^' Horses should not be too much deprived of the liberty of motion, as they too often are= APPENDIX. 141 Close confinement after hard labour, will be apt to abate their circulations too suddenly ; make them chilly ; and stiffen their joints. To be de- prived of motion, is bad lor man and beast. Horses, therefore, should not be straitened for room in their stables. Htables should not be so low as to prevent their tossing up theii- heads as high as they please. Some stables liave so little room over head as to bring horses into a habit of carrying their heads too low. 'l^hey become afraid to lift them up. They should also have room in their stables to turn their heads to any part of their bodies, that tiiey may defend themselves from the biting of insects, allay itching, &c. And their halters should al- ways be so long, and their stable so wide, that they may lie down conveniently. Nor should horses be so placed as to be able to deprive each other of his fodder. *' When horses are kept in stables, as they generally are in the coldest half of the year, they should be daily dressed, as it is called. The curry comb, and the brush, should be well used on all parts of their skin which are covered with hair. This increases perspiration through the pores of the skin, which is necessary for health : and causes the blood to move faster in the veins. This treatment will not only cause 143 APPENDIX. them to look better, but they will have bettei' health, and more activity and courage. They will digest their food better ; and be belter for service. But if rubbing and friction be wholly neglected, or slightly performed, the hair will appear dry and rough ; the perspirable matter hardens in the pores of the skin, or remains lodged at tlie roots of the hair, and has the ap- pearance of a dirty white dust ; and sometimes like small scales, attended with itching. More especially is rubbing necessary for horses, when they are growing cold, after being sweated by labour. In such cases it should never be omitted. '^ Columella observes * that the bodies of cattle ought to be rubbed down daily, as well as the bodies of men ;' and says * it often does them more good to have their backs well rubbed down, than their bellies well filled with provender.' ^^ But in warm weather it would be best for them, that they should not have the confinenwot of the halter; nor even of the stable. A small spot of feeding gi'ound, if it were only a few rods, adjoining to the stable, and the door left open, that a horse may go in and out, alter- nately, as he pleases, would greatly conduce to the health of the animal. *' This degree of liberty will be most needful when the flies are troublesome; and be better for APPENDIX. 443 him tban coufineraent to a stable that is perfectly dark. In fly time it gives a horse much ease and comfort to smear his limbs, neck and head, with rancid fish oil, or something else that will keep the flies from attacking him. And, in all seasons, when horses have been heated with exercise, they should be well rubbed or curried. '^ When a horse runs in a pasture, during the grass season, he should have some shelter ; not ony a shade to defend him from the intense h«t of the sun, but a shed, or a clump of trees ; tlftt he may retreat from the inclemencies of the ai?i3osphere. ^But horses that are daily worked, in summer, slould be mostly kept upon green fodder in stibles, rather than grazed in pastures. The teidauce of them will not be so burdensome, wth a spot of high and thick grass at hand, as lading them to and from a pasture, at the dis- tnce of a quarter of a mile. This will prevent tieir being often chilled by feeding in wet nights. 1 large quantity of manure will thus be saved. i.nd a very small quantity of land will answer, h comparison with what it takes for the pastur- ng of a horse. Keeping a sithe and a basket it hand, a horse may be foddered in this way, n two or three minutes ; and by the time that he whole spot has been once mowed over, that 144 APPENDIX. which is first cut will be grown up again. Where a number of horses are soiled, a pair of poles, or a hand cart, will be better than a bas- ket, to carry the grass to them. The practice, called soiling, answers well near to cities and large towns, where lands for pasturage are not plenty ; and where, by means of the plenty of; manure, lands may be made to yield the great- est crops of grass. For very thick grass should not be fed off; because the greater part «f it will be wasted by the trampling, and the exere- ments of animals. " When grain is given to horses, it is an eco- nomical practice to have it either grount or boiled. When horses are soiled, or fed ii a stable on green grass, it should be cut and (ar- ried in during the morning, while the dew ism. ^' A disorder, called Ptyalism, has, for sone years past, been gaining ground among horss, in various parts of the United States ; whichis an excessive v;atering or slavering at the mouh. Various causes have been assigned for the ds- order ; but none of them satisfactory. Soiliig them is, however, a certain remedy .^^ [JVekJ England Farmer. THE END. '^'^. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 002 844 689 5