148 FEVERS. 



Where a doubt exists that, towards the abatement but 

 prolonged endurance of influenza, the disease has fixed upon 

 the lungs, our chief aim must be to support the strength of 

 the animal. Weakness, when excessive, naturally leads to 

 congestion; congestion in a debilitated body rapidly passes 

 into effusion. The intermediate inflammation oftener escapes 

 observation than attracts notice. We frequently suspect 

 hydrothorax only after it has taken place. This is no time 

 for further bleeding ; the condition permits of no additional 

 repletion. We must endeavour to rally the dormant vigour 

 by strengthening mixtures and diffusible stimulants ; these 

 we may pour in without fear of their effect ; their operation' 

 is only denoted by the improved appearance of the patient. 

 All other symptoms are delusive, and of all appearances, that 

 of returning appetite is the very best. 



In all cases proving hopeless or irremediable by the 

 ordinary treatment, the exhibition of mercury has often proved 

 a successful resort. {Vide 'Veterinarian' for 1842, p. 336.) 



Tonics. — Concerning debility, a common practice is to 

 prescribe tojiics. How far we can by medicine impart tone 

 to a body, which, although reduced, is free from disease, is 

 a question that does not appear yet to have been solved. I 

 must confess myself a sceptic in their virtues. My plan is 

 to do all in my power to remove disease ; which done, I find 

 the animal's appetite returns ; and this once regained, points 

 out the surest mode of recruiting the strength. Let the 

 granary be searched for whatever may coax the appetite ; 

 and take care that it is not palled by too long persistence 

 in the same kind of food, and we shall find we have little 

 occasion for assistance from the pharmacy. Good hay, oats, 

 and beans, judiciously apportioned ; vetches, lucern, and 

 green clover, when they can be obtained ; and when they 

 cannot, carrots, parsnips, Swedish turnips, and linseed, are 

 wonderfully effective as restoratives. 



• STRANGLES. 



Though, in accordance with custom, I call this disease, 

 strangles, it is with the impression, that the term is inadequate. 



