196 THE HORSE 



adopted. The simplest, and usually most effective, plan 

 is to dissolve thoroughly a small piece of soft soap (about 

 the size of a walnut) in a teacupful of warm water, and 

 administer it as an enema. If this does not at once 

 produce the desired effect give two tablespoonfuls of 

 castor oil, or linseed oil, to the foal. 



Some mares foal standing up, and in the case of valuable 

 stock it is advisable for two assistants to hold a horse- 

 rug in which to receive the foal, as it otherwise may be 

 seriously injured, especially if the mare should kick at 

 the infant when it drops on to the straw. A close watch 

 without attractmg the mare's attention should always 

 be kept, but if it is seen that the process is normal, the head 

 and fore-legs appearing first, it is better to leave Nature 

 to herself. If, however, a wrong presentation is made 

 assistance must be given at once, or both mare and foal 

 may be lost. If the under-jaw can be seized a leverage 

 is obtained, whereby the position of the foal can be 

 greatly altered. 



Foals should be encouraged to eat crushed oats as soon 

 as possible, and if they cannot reach the manger a small 

 one should be put up close by, which need only be a 

 temporary arrangement. They will then miss the dam 

 much less at weaning-time in consequence ; and they 

 must be well fed during the first winter, which is the 

 most important time of their lives. If they begin to look 

 pot-bellied, with rough coats, suspect worms, and give 

 linseed oil and turpentine, according to the directions 

 already given. Dalwood's Worm Powders are also very 

 good, and have stood the test of long experience. These 

 should be followed up by a dose of linseed oil, and after- 

 wards by the tonic powders containing sulphate of iron, 

 the amount given being reduced in proportion to the age 

 of the animal. 



Stallions need plenty of exercise, and should be in hard 

 condition to be fruitful. It is frequently noticed how 

 successful travelling stalHons are, with all the dis- 

 advantages of unskilled assistants, and excited spectators 

 amongst the farm-hands where they visit, compared to 



