DICTIONARY OF THE VETERINARY ART. A&O 



enveloped in a slimy or mucous matter, that is called by some 

 molten grease." 



Dilutents. Those substances that increase the fluidity 

 of the animal economy. Water may be justly considered as 

 the only dilutent. 



Director. A grooved instrument, made for the purpose 

 of conducting the knife in open sinuses, and in several other 

 operations of surgery. 



Dislocation. A displacement of a bone from its socket. 

 A dislocation of the fetlock joint may be replaced, and kept 

 in its position by bandages ; the horse should not take any 

 exercise until it is completely healed. A dislocation of the 

 stifle, or patella, must be reduced by bringing the horse's leg 

 under the belly, and then depressing the outer angle of the 

 patella, or stifle bone, with the hand, which gives the muscles 

 the power to draw the bone into its place. Generally speak- 

 ing, dislocations are rare. 



Distemper. This name is applied to diseases that prevail 

 at particular periods, and spread to a considerable distance. 

 (See Epidemic.) 



Docking. Cutting off part of the tail. If this is ever 

 necessary, (and the author doubts it,) then the operation 

 should be performed before the animal is two years old. 



Drastic A term applied to purgatives that operate pow- 

 erfully. 



Drenches, or Drinks. When it is necessary that any 

 medicine should operate speedily, this is the best form in 

 which it can be given. A bottle, with a short neck, is the 

 best drenching instrument. In giving a drench, the tongue 

 should be at liberty, the head moderately elevated ; the 

 drench is then poured down moderately. The head is to be 

 kept in an elevated position until the drench is swallowed. 

 If the animal happens to cough while the drench is in his 

 throat, the head should be immediately let down. 



Dressing. A term employed to designate medical applica- 

 tions to a wound, or ulcer, and the operation of cleaning a 

 horse. 



