DISEASES OF HORSES TREATMENT 179 



Sunstroke. 



During the hot summer months all horses that work continuously in dry 

 open fields are subject to sunstroke. Heavy horses are the most liable to be 

 affected by the heat. Improper care in watering and feeding induce improper 

 respiration. 



Symptoms. Just before the critical period the driver will notice that he 

 has to urge the animal more than usual to get it to work. Right then is the time 

 to stop in a cool place and rest the animal. If the animal is not stopped in 

 time the perspiration ceases, there is hard breathing, blowing nostrils, stag- 

 gering, and a fall results. When the animal is down it is much harder to aid 

 in recovering. 



Treatment. As stated above, prevention when first symptoms appear 

 obtains the best and surest results. Take the horse to a cool place. Pour 

 cool water on its head and take off the harness. Do not work the animal 

 for several days. A horse that is once affected will always be susceptible 

 to heat, so a few days rest at the right time is well given. Do not bleed. Rubbing 

 the limbs is good. A half ounce of carbonate of ammonia given in a pint 

 of water will be found beneficial. 



Swamp Fever. Notice how animal has fallen away. 

 Little blood is in the system. 



Swamp Fever. 



In parts of Manitoba, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Virginia, Texas 

 and New York, the horses are often badly affected with this disease. It is 

 known by many names and is easily distinguished in these localities because 

 of the sudden onset fever, continuous emaciation, great appetite and stag- 

 gering gait. The mortality is so great that no satisfactory treatment has yet 

 been found. Stimulating the bowels aids the horse and gives much relief. 

 Cold water sponge baths are good. The sick animals should be kept apart and 

 all places where the sick have been should be disinfected with a solution of six 

 ounces of carbolic acid, chloride of lime or compound solution of cresol to a 

 gallon of water. A potato sprayer is good to use in disinfecting. 



Sweeny. 



This is often due to lameness or injuries below the elbow and not always 



o shoulder diseases. There are numerous causes because of the hard work 



carried by the shoulders. Slips, sprains, and soreness are among the causes. 



