84 MEDICINES USED FOR THE HORSE. 



grayish-white, pulverulent substance, with an odor similar to that of 

 chlorine. 



Uses. Chloride of lime is a disinfectant, and from its deodorizing 

 and antiseptic properties makes an excellent stimulant to unhealthy 

 ulcers, applied in solution ; also for cutaneous eruptions, &c. Its prin- 

 cipal use is as a disinfectant in stables occupied by glandered and other 

 sickly liorses, and it may be sprinkled on the floor every morning, or may 

 be suspended in the stable in a box which has several holes cut into it. 



Dose. When it is thought best to give it internally 1 to 3 drachms 

 may be given at a dose, in water. 



Chloroform is a colorless, volatile liquid, having a bland, ethereal 

 odor and a sweetish taste. 



Uses. It is an excellent stimulant for horses when having a chill 

 from cold, or in congestion, and is sometimes given to quiet pain in colic 

 and other painful diseases. It is used mostly in liniments and some- 

 times for inhalation. One ounce of chloroform and three ounces of 

 olive oil, well mixed, make an excellent liniment for external use. 

 When chloroform is given to the horse by inhalation he should be well 

 secured, so as to prevent his doing any damage, as it sometimes makes 

 him perfectly wild and uncontrollable. When any operation of 

 any considerable extent is to be performed it is best to tie the horse 

 down, and then administer the chloroform by pouring about an ounce 

 of it on to a sponge, and holding the sponge to one nostril and 

 covering the nose loosely with a large towel ; but care should be taken 

 to allow the horse pure air also, to breathe with the fumes of the chlo- 

 roform. Usually two to four ounces is suflicient to produce its effects 

 when inhaled. 



Dose. One to two drachms, well diluted with weak spirits. 



Croton Oil. This is a very powerful cathartic and dangerous if im- 

 properly used, but as a " last resort" oftentimes works very well. 



Dose is usually from 10 to 15 drops. 



Elecampane. This is one of the best medicines in use for lung affec- 

 tions, and should enter largely into all mixtures for this class of dis- 

 eases. It is also an agreeable aromatic, and should form a part of all 

 Condition Powders. 



Epsom Salts. (Sulphate of Magnesia.) This medicine, so well 

 known in every household, is used with good results as a febrifuge, and 

 is often given as a purgative. It is not only cheap, but it is very good 

 for several diseases, and forms a part of various condition powders. 



Dose. I to i pound dissolved in as large quantity of cold water as 

 can be given the horse conveniently, with one ounce of ginger; also 

 allowing the horse to drink if he will after the salts have been given, 

 for the reason that they will be much more efficient if largely diluted. ^ 



