REPORT OF THE CATTLE COMMISSIONERS. 235 



to inconvenience, — in fact, nearly blocking the wheels of 

 trade. 



In February, 1872, many horses in Boston and vicinity 

 were attacked with a disease called spinal-meniDgitis ; by some, 

 paraplegia or paralysis of the hind-quarters. The animal 

 would appear in the usual health when put to work, but, after 

 going a short distance, would be unable to proceed and with 

 difficulty would be got back to the stable. If taken early and 

 treated properly, it is not a fatal disease. A stimulant should 

 be given at once, after which a laxative (linseed oil is as good 

 as any) , followed by counter-irritation applied over the loins 

 (mustard paste thoroughly applied to the skin) , with blankets 

 of hot water to keep up the warmth. In some cases it is 

 necessary to raise the horse upon his feet, supporting him by 

 slings, otherwise the animal will get bruised,. so that recovery 

 would not be desirable. With good food and careful nursing, 

 a large percentage of those attacked recover. 



Another disease of a more serious character, though not 

 commonly fatal, made its appearance in this vicinity in Sep- 

 tember. We first heard of it in Canada ; afterwards it spread 

 over all the New England States, and finally to every part of 

 our country. 



It appeared in the form of catarrhal fever, afiecting the 

 schneiderian membrane from the nostril to the fauces ; occa- 

 sionally, but rarely, extending to the tracheae or lungs. A 

 description of the symptoms of the disease is unnecessary, as 

 nearly every horse-owner has recently witnessed them. In 

 the treatment, the sj-mptoms are the guide ; debility always 

 exists. Good, nourishing food, easily digestible, warm cloth- 

 ing, good air to breathe, friction to the skin and extremities, 

 with long continued rest, are the essentials for recovery. 



At the time the Board submitted its last annual report there 

 was an unexpended balance of the appropriation of 1871, of 

 one thousand eight hundred and forty-two dollars and thirty- 

 one cents ($1,842.31). 



In accordance with the provisions of law this balance must 

 now revert to the general treasury, leaving the Board power- 

 less to perform the duties of their office should an emergency 

 occur requiring their action. The legislature in its wisdom 

 will determine the propriety of making a small appropriation 



