60 THE ARMY ITORSE. 



The principal defects in conformation (previously noted) 

 are: Abnormally high or abnormally low and thick withers; 

 the keel-shaped breast, accompanied by flat ribs and light 

 flanks, and the broad or bulging barrel. 



Old horses sometimes have the muscles in the saddle bed atro- 

 phied, and are therefore more liable to contract saddle galls. 



All horses, whatever their conformation, are subject to saddle 

 and cinch galls, produced mechanically by three causes: First, 

 unequal distribution of weight; second, faults in saddling and 

 cinching; third, poor riding. 



After a long ride, the blood vessels under the saddle and 

 cinch are compressed and almost empty. If it is suspected that 

 saddle or cinch galls may have been formed, it is advisable to 

 leave the saddle on for a half hour to an hour after dismount- 

 ing; the cinch should be loosened eery slightly. 



If pressure be suddenly and completely removed, blood 

 is vigorously forced into the paralyzed vessels, and may rupture 

 their walls. On the other hand, if the saddle is allowed to 

 remain some time in position, circulation is gradually restored 

 without injury. 



Treatment. — As soon as a swelling is noticed, application of 

 cold in the form of pads kept saturated with cold w^ater and 

 massage in the form of gentle stroking with the fingers wdll aid 

 in the absorption of the fluids causing the swelling. 



Injuries to the withers require dift'erent treatment — cold 

 applications without pressure and without massage, on account 

 of the danger of the fluids burrowing. 



A solution made of the following is a very good application 

 for bruises : Sugar of lead 2 ounces, laudanum 4 ounces, water 

 to make 1 quart. To be applied several times daily. Or a 

 poultice made of flaxseed meal, to which has been added an 

 antiseptic, such as creolin, carbolic acid, etc. 



Bruises caused by kicks or running against an obstacle should 

 be treated by applications of water, and if j^ainful, an anodyne 

 (pain reducing) liniment. The following makes a good ano- 

 dyne: Witch-hazel 2 parts, tincture opium 1 part, tincture 

 aconite \ part, water 2 parts. Apply locally with the hand. 



Artillery horses are subject to the same injuries, produced by 

 the saddle and cinch, as are cavalry horses, and, in addition, 

 may be bruised about the neck and shoulders by the collar. If 

 the collar has not broken or chafed the skin (see " Abrasions ") 

 treat the bruises as previously directed. 



