296 THE MODERN HORSE DOCTOR. 



of cure, this individual advocated a system of medication tem- 

 pered with mercy, instead of barbarity. Let the reader under- 

 stand, that, in those times, the most inhuman atrocities were 

 perpetrated on the bodies of uncomplaining brutes, and the most 

 destructive " remedies " were called into requisition, to fill up the 

 measure of their woes ; the law of humanity, as applied to the 

 brute creation, was generally disregarded — for it was only until 

 cruelty to animals was made a penal offence that the masses 

 were restrained in their shameful career of ingratitude. Contrast 

 the treatment recommended by this distinguished surgeon with 

 that of some others, whose chief agents for the cure of grease 

 were, corrosive sublimate, muriatic acid, antimony, lead, &c, and 

 we are led to exclaim, that a humane surgeon is more to be 

 admired than the hero of a hundred battles. 



In the early stage of disease attention must be paid to diet, 

 ventilation, and cleanliness. If the heels are hot and swollen, 

 apply the following poultice : — 



Slippery elm, powdered, . . . ^ a pound, 

 Fine salt, 2 ounces. 



Mix to a proper consistence with hot water, and when cool, 

 spread a portion on cotton cloth, and bind it on the parts. 

 Should the horse be " humory," or even in " good condition," — 

 fat, — a mild cathartic will be indicated, consisting of 



Powdered aloes, ..'.... 4 drachms, 



" gentian, 2 drachms, 



" ginger, 1 drachm. 



Mix the above (if a ball is required) with honey ; or, if it be 

 more convenient to administer a drench, dissolve the mass in one 

 pint of warm water, and sweeten with molasses. 



On the other hand, if the horse shall be in poor condition, the 

 medicine can be dispensed with, and a generous diet allowed, 

 together with a meal of grass occasionally, if the season permits. 

 If the patient does not improve in condition, we may infer that 

 the disease will not mend until the health is restored ; and in 

 view of accomplishing that object, we recommend 



Powdered gentian, ") 



" sassafras, [ 



" sulphur, > . . 1£ ounce each, 



" ginger, j 

 Fine salt, ... J 

 Oatmeal, 1 pound. 



