98 THE farmer's veterinarian 



at the same time exercise no injury to the struc- 

 tures through which they pass. 



In giving a drench exercise as much patience as 

 possible. To horses it should be given slowly. If 

 there is any disposition to cough, lower the head, 

 and then proceed as before. 



Poultices. — These are made of a variety of things, 

 bread, bran, and linseed meal being the most com- 

 mon. Any substance that will hold water and re- 

 tain heat will serve the purpose. 



Mustard Plasters. — These are made with mus- 

 tard and water, cold water being the most desir- 

 able. Mix to a thin paste. If the part to which 

 the plaster is to be applied is covered with thick, 

 long hair, a very thin plaster will more quickly 

 soak into the skin. This kind of plaster is most 

 commonly applied to the throat, the windpipe, the 

 sides of the chest, the abdomen and over the region 

 of the liver. To get the best effect for the last 

 named, apply on the right side at a point four or 

 five inches behind the back ribs. 



Blistering. — The first step in blistering is the 

 clipping of the hair over the diseased part, and the 

 removal of dirt and scurf attached to the skin. The 

 blister is to be worked into the skin, and usually 

 ten minutes of rubbing will be necessary to produce 

 the desired results. 



In the course of twenty-four hours blisters will 

 form, and some swelling in the region is likely to 

 be manifest. On the third day bathe the part with 

 warm water and soap. After drying, apply vase- 

 line, lard, or sweet oil. The blister should be re- 

 peated if the results of the first blister do not bring 

 about a cure. 



Firing. — The hot iron is a very useful agent in 

 treating many cases of chronic lameness and bone 



