116 WORMS. 



services; but, in the meanwliile, I shall observe that 

 inflammation of the kidneys is, sad to say, too common 

 to admit of its being passed by without offering some 

 caution and advice regarding it, more for the purpose 

 of prevention than cure. 



Disease of the kidneys is generally brought on by the 

 misuse by grooms of their favourite diuretics ; a dose of 

 nitre " to fine his legs," or " bloom his coat," or for any 

 other purpose, to save themselves trouble, is the groom's 

 specific for the poor beasts under their care ; but so in- 

 jurious are diuretics that masters ought to make their 

 secret administration, as commonly practised by the 

 class referred to, a case of instant dismissal. 



The kidneys of the horse are peculiarly susceptible of 

 action; so much so that purges frequently, in place of 

 acting as intended, will take effect on them. 



It should besides be borne in mind that while the 

 kidneys are in artificial action, and secreting an extra 

 quantity of urine which is being passed away, the crea- 

 ture should have the same opportunity of rest, and as 

 much consideration given him, as if he were in a state 

 of purgation. The secretion is blood in its changed 

 form, and is a serious call on the system. All this does 

 not enter into the head of an ignorant groom, who, on 

 the contrary,, will work or treat the poor suffering crea- 

 ture as if he was in his best vig-our. 



Inflammation of the kidneys is marked by an appear- 

 ance of general distress — hind legs straddled, the back- 

 bone hogged, urine small in quantity, tenderness over 

 the loins when pressed. 



If a practitioner be not procurable, immediately place 

 warm mustard poultices over the loins, and cover them 

 with sheep-skins. 



