MEDICINES USED FOR THE HORSE. 



87 



THE BEST AND MOST APPROVED METHOD OF CASTING A HORSE FOR 



OPERATION. 



Liquorice Root. This is the root of a small plant, growing four or 

 five feet in height, and which is cultivated in England, the north of 

 France, and Germany. It has an agreeable, sweetish, taste. 



Uses. It is an excellent demulcent and well adapted to cases of irri- 

 tation of the mucous membranes of the lungs, bowels, and urinary or- 

 gans. It forms an important part of condition powders, and especially 

 when given for coughs. 



Dose. From i to 1 ounce. 



Mercurial Ointment. This is used mostly for skin diseases, such as 

 mange. But we prefer, for this disease, the treatment which we have 

 already given in another place. Mercurial ointment is sometimes used 

 with good results to rid animals of lice, by boring a small hole where 

 the animal is liable to rub its neck, and filling it with mercurial ointment. 



Nitre. — (Saltpetre.) This medicine has long been used as a febrifuge 

 and as a diuretic, and is still held in high esteem by many, but there are 

 other drugs which are better adapted to the treatment of the various 

 diseases for which it has long been used. 



' Use. As a febrifuge in fevers and inflammations, and for kidney com- 

 plaints ; it is also used, by many, in condition powders, for scratches and 

 various disorders of the blood. 



Dose, li to 3 drachms. 



Nux Vomica. This is an active poison in large doses, but if given 

 in proper quantities it is an excellent tonic and nervine for the horse 

 when suffering from depression, dyspepsia, etc. 



