234 STRANGLES. 



flies) half an ounce ; of lard, one and a half ounces ; mixed 

 well, and as thin as may be desired with spirits of turpentine. 

 This must be well rubbed in, and after it has acted thoroughly, 

 dress with sweet oil or lard. 



STRANGLES. 



This is but another form or stage of laryngitis. The throat 

 becomes enormously swollen, the swelling extending under th» 

 jaws and up to the very ears, threatening suffocation ; then 

 respiration becomes much disturbed ; the flanks heave violently, 

 and the breathing can be heard at a considerable distance ; 

 the animal begins to sweat from his frequently convulsive 

 efforts to breathe, and, if not speedily relieved, dies a most 

 violent death. 



Life may be saved by the veterinary surgeon at this crisis 

 by the operation of bronchotomy, that is, by opening the 

 windpipe, and inserting a tube through which the animal may 

 breathe instead of through the nose. This operation affords 

 instant relief, and gives an opportunity to apply remedies to 

 the diseased throat, which in a few days usually effect a cure, 

 when the tube may be removed. The author has never lost 

 a case where he has resorted to this operation. 



The early treatment of this disease is to poultice the throat 

 well with flaxseed meal, commonly called cake-meal or oil-cake, 

 using salt upon the tongue as before. Mustard plasters are 

 also very effective, and steaming the nostrils frequently affords 

 relief. As soon as the swelling permits, it should be lanced ; 

 and when it has once discharged freely, the animal may be 

 considered out of danger, provided proper care be taken to 

 guard against a relapse. A seton applied between the jaws 



