Common Diseases of the Horse 233 



England, consists in inserting a tallow candle previously well 

 oiled up the rectum, where it quickly melts and has the desired 

 effect. 



While the supply of milk must be liberal it must not be too 

 abundant or digestive troubles will be liable to ensue. It is 

 sometimes, therefore, necessary to restrict the supply by drawing 

 some away, after the foal has had what may be considered a 

 plentiful supply. For the first few days both mare and foal 

 may be left in the box, but after this it is necessary that proper 

 exercise be obtained. The best method is to turn them out for 

 an hour or so in the middle of the first sunny day. This period 

 may be lengthened daily, and after a week from the first turning 

 out, if the weather is not severe, they may be left out altogether. 

 It is advantageous to have an open box in the field where shelter 

 may be obtained should any sudden change occur. If the mare 

 is required for work, she may be allowed light duties, in a 

 week's time, and failing other exercise, will benefit by it. The 

 foal may be allowed to follow, and this course will be much 

 better than keeping it shut up in a loose box. It is, however, 

 necessary to avoid hard work, as the mother has to spend a 

 good part of her strength in supplying nourishment to the foal; 

 nor must she be overheated, as it will affect the condition of the 

 milk, which will be inimical to the wellbeing of the foal. If, on 

 being first turned into the field, there are other horses present, 

 it is wise to watch for a time, as, until the mare gets accustomed to 

 them, she is likely to injure them should they come near the foal. 



Some Accidents and Diseases accompanying Foaling 



In previous remarks it has been indicated how accidents and 

 diseases may as far as possible be avoided, but notwithstanding 

 every precaution, they will sometimes occur. Some are of a very 

 simple nature and easily put right; while others are serious, and 

 unless prompt and skilled attention is given soon, may terminate 

 fatally. It is diflficult to draw the line between the two, or to 

 explain how what appears to be a simple ailment may, by want 

 of attention, soon become a dangerous disease. Whenever any 

 abnormal condition exists that is not thoroughly understood, 

 veterinary aid should at once be obtained. The animals will 

 then get the best chance, and it will also save expense to the 

 owner. The mortality resulting from accidents and diseases ac- 

 companying foaling is greatly increased by unskilled interference, 

 which should never be countenanced. It is impossible in the 



