16 THE ARMY HOKSE. 



stables, to allow 1,600 cubic feet of air space (over twelve hours' 

 supply) for each animal, and to provide means of admitting 

 fresh air without causing drafts. In infirmary stables the 

 allowance is increased to 1,900 cubic feet. 



Without good air the blood is imperfectly purified, the 

 vitality of the animal is lessened, he is more susceptible to 

 disease, and will succumb more easily when attacked; conse- 

 quently, horses should never be kept in the vicinity of a marsh, 

 the air from which contains an excess of carbonic acid gas 

 and a diminished supply of the necessary oxygen. 



CARE or THE INJURED. 



If the horse is seriously injured and stands with difficulty, he 

 should be placed in slings (Plate II.) to partially support the 

 weight of the body. The slings must be properly adjusted, fit- 

 ting closely behind the elbows in such a manner as to support 

 the weight of the body on the chest and not on the abdomen. 

 This position is maintained by the use of the breast piece and 

 breeching, which prevent the shifting of the sling. A single 

 stall, having a level floor, free from bedding, is more suitable 

 than one allowing more motion to the animal. 



If the horse is but slightly injured, there is no necessity of 

 placing him in slings. An ordinary stall with a level floor is all 

 that is required. After the injury has been dressed he should 

 be allowed to stand without being disturbed. If very lame, and 

 movement is painful, the more quiet he is kept the more quickly 

 Avill recovery take place. Absolute rest and perfect quietude 

 are two very essential things, and when secured they will 

 hasten the process of recovery without inflicting unnecessary 

 pain upon the animal. In some surgical cases it is necessary 

 to restrain the animal so that he can not injure himself by 

 rubbing or biting the affected parts. This can be accomplished 

 by tying up the head, by the application of side lines, or by 

 the use of the cradle. Bandages may be applied to the legs 

 of horses for three different purposes: First, to give support to 

 the blood vessels and synovial bursa?; second, as a vehicle for 

 applying cold lotions ; and third, for drying and warming the 

 legs. 



WATER SUPPLY. 



However harmless impure water may have been to animals 

 in a wild state, the more we subject them to an artificial exist- 



