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
Upon the earliest symptom the horse should be removed to a loose box
amply protected by trusses of straw ranged against the walls. Into this
the animal should be immediately led--for the reader must understand
colic does not always observe the stages in which it has been described.
Occasionally it commences in the wildest form; and if a loose box be not
at hand, one can always be extemporized by removing the carriage from its
house, by throwing the doors wide open and by placing a bar across the
entrance.
No disease is more quickly dispelled if treated at the commencement;
nor is there one which, being left to run its course, occasions greater
agony, is more fearful to witness, or leads to more terrible results than
spasmodic colic. A single dose of ether and of laudanum may vanquish the
malady at the commencement; yet if the attack be allowed to progress, the
fit may set all skill and remedial measures at defiance. The principal
attention of the proprietor must be given to prevent the administration of
the "groom's favorite" or other ignorant nostrums. The case, when properly
treated, is cured for a few shillings; and a horse cannot be killed with
decency for less money.
Besides, let any human being, having feelings capable of impression,
regard an instance of spasmodic colic which has been aggravated by
mistaken treatment; and as he views the fibers of a living body quiver,
sees the frame bedewed in sweat and wrenched in mighty torture,
contemplates the sad condition of the companion of his pleasures, and
hears vented from its throat sounds expressive of agony,--let him, having
the image present to his eyes, ask himself whether any man, possessing
means at his command, has a right to make a money question of the
creature's suffering, which exists in a state of dependence on his bounty.
Horses must be gifted with a certain amount of reason. However furious may
be the attack of colic, the mute expression of anguish is quieted when
preparation is made for the administration of medicine. The most nauseous
drenches are swallowed with a patience that speaks a perfect comprehension
of their intent. The most wonderful proof of reason is, however, given by
the manner in which the horse will recognize the veterinary surgeon. The
author has known animals, in the intervals of spasmodic colic, walk close
up to him, look full into his face with an eye beaming with intelligence,
and a strain upon the features as though the creature "did _so_ wish to
speak;" then finding utterance impossible, the nose has mutely directed
attention to the flank.
Every assistance is, by the animal, afforded to him who displays a desire
to alleviate its distress. Where language is denied, motives appear to be
the more quickly comprehended; and he who wishes to mingle safely among
horses, may best protect himself by treating them gently and sympathizing
with their emotions.
FLATULENT COLIC, WINDY COLIC, TYMPANITIS, ETC.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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