At the earliest time of which we have any record, and even up to within comparatively recent years, large herds of horses and cattle ranged over our plains in a wild state. At first no attempts were made to capture or round up these herds, and later but one or two attempts per year, when the young were branded and grown animals shipped, if possible, or driven to available markets. As the country became more thickly settled and populated these larger herds were broken up, the ranges becoming divided and fenced. With this segregation, attention to breeding and care of animals began to be practiced, gradually causing the animal's evolution from the wild to the domesticated state. As this process of evolution progressed the animal became farther and farther removed from its natural condition of living, becoming more dependent on man for food and shelter, and with this change the animal's former vitality and power to resist disease decreased markedly. With the advancement of agriculture, and their resultant prosperity, the farmers and settlers improved their stock by importing blooded or registered males and females, particularly the former, until today our country is second to none in the number of good conformated draft and speed horses; beef and dairy cattle; quick-maturing hogs; large wool and mutton-producing sheep, etc. Poultry has likewise been improved for both egg-laying and meat-producing qualities. The poultry industry is yet in its infancy, and offers large inducements to the practical raiser. Our importation of eggs is enormous. The average stock raiser and poultryman has just begun to realize the value of proper care and treatment of his stock, and how much unnecessary loss can be prevented by the expenditure of a little time and even less money if given at the proper time. Animals and poultry are subject, just as humans, to many diseases but, unfortunately, when they become ill are dependent on man to recognize the symptoms of disease and diagnose. Therefore, it behooves all owners of stock to know and practice the fundamental necessities of their animals' health, not only for the welfare of themselves, but also as an act of humanity to dumb animals. INDEX DISEASES OF HORSES