180 



DISEASICS OF THE SKIN. 



plication of the mercurial ointment, is the security it 

 affords the sheep from the attack of the sheep fag or ked 

 {Hippobosca ovina). The wool of sheep annoyed by 

 this fly always contains joints or knots, owing- to the 

 occasional stoppage of its growth consequent on the 

 fretting of the irritated animal. On this account dealers 

 in wool are said to give a higher price for fleeces having 

 the mercurial tinge, as they are supposed to be sound 

 ID the pile from having been exempted from the fly. 



The next prescription is one of very great efficacy 

 where the disease has reached the length of scabs, and 

 has, with many variations, gone the round of almost 

 every agricultural publication. The form I prefer is 

 one submitted to me by Mr Wilkin of Tinwald Downs, 

 near Dumfries, who at one time, several years ago, 

 applied it with immediate good effects, to six hundred 

 infected sheep. 



Take of Tobacco scrapings one pound. 



Strong decoction of Broom six gallons ; 



boil for half an hour, and then add three English pints 

 of spirit of tar. 



This quantity is sufficient to cover two dozen of 

 sheep. The scabs, if large, should be raised a little 

 with a knife to permit the free contact of the fluid, and 

 no more of it should be applied than is here directed; 

 for though it be in this dose comparatively harmless, a 

 very small addition will destroy the animal. 



A very good French remedy is made by melting a 

 pound of fat or suet, and mixing with it (when off the 

 fire) a fourth part of oil of turpentine. Rub it into the " 

 affected parts. 



Whatever outward means may be employed, laxative 



