The illustrated horse doctor : $b being an accurate and detailed account of the various diseases to which the equine race are subjectedMayhew, Edward
Science
The illustrated horse doctor : $b being an accurate and detailed account of the various diseases to which the equine race are subjected
Mayhew, Edward
Horses -- Diseases
The wretched slave, after the distance is accomplished, is taken from the
shafts and led into the stable; it is hardly tied to the manger before a
sickening sensation seizes on the body. The head hangs down; the furnished
rack and manger are not glanced at. This alarms the groom's prejudices. At
length the man imagines it must be thirst which prevents his charge from
eating. The attendant hastens for water, but on his return he finds the
horse blowing; that is, panting or breathing quickly.
[Illustration: CONGESTION IN THE STABLE.]
This symptom, which only denotes exhaustion, used to be regarded as the
forerunner of inflammation of the lungs. Doubtless, it would terminate
thus seriously, were nothing done to arrest the progress of the affection.
The change from extreme labor to perfect rest produces a revulsion of the
system. The capillaries contract and soon become in a congested condition.
Not only does this state affect the lungs, but it is present all over
the body. Should the pulse be now taken, the artery will be round and
gorged. The beat may be either quicker or slower than most books fix the
number at; but it will be very feeble and will convey no idea of vital
activity. It hardly stirs, suggesting the surging of a tranquil summer
sea upon a sandy shore. Partial perspirations may break forth, and the
body may become wet with a fluid of no higher temperature than the skin
from which it exudes. The feet are cold; the eye is fixed; the living
type of obedience moves not, when commanded; hearing is lost; all natural
functions appear to be arrested, except the breathing; and that being
involuntary, nevertheless is evidently disordered.
If this condition be immediately attended to, it will disappear almost as
quickly as it was exhibited. Take two ounces each of sulphuric ether and
of laudanum; cold water, one pint. Give this drink with caution, as the
animal to which it is administered is not conscious. Have patience with
sickness, and the whole will be swallowed; or the fumes will be inhaled
and do almost as much good as the imbibition of the fluid.
The drink being given, do not leave the stable. Wait by the side of the
horse, watching the effect of the draught. If in ten minutes the horse
has not perfectly recovered, or be but partially restored, let another
similar portion be poured into the body. More will seldom be required;
but, notwithstanding, watch for twenty minutes after the last drink, as
such fits occasionally vanish and reappear.
The rack and the manger must be emptied. Gruel is all we dare at present
trust within reach of an exhausted frame. Though the animal would eat,
solid food must be withheld. The body should be lightly, but well clothed;
and a pail of gruel should be suspended from the manger, so that a heavy
head need not be raised high to partake of it.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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