io6 THE CARE OF HORSES 



on the ground. When down, the paroxysm rarely 

 lasts long, the cause being removed during the 

 struggle by the displacement of the collar and a free 

 return of blood from the brain. Beside through the 

 over-pressure of a badly-fitting collar, staggers is 

 caused by close and ill- ventilated stables, the brain - 

 trouble is accelerated, too, by a disordered stomach, 

 over-feeding, and undigested food. To relieve the 

 poor animal, remove the collar- pressure and throw 

 cold water over the head and face. Use a breast- 

 strap instead of the ordinary neck-collar. 



Ringworm. — This appears as small raised places, 

 which gradually grow bigger, when the hair falls off, 

 showing the unmistakable disease, ringworm. It 

 is very catching, both among horses and people, and 

 should be treated at once. None of the tools used 

 on the affected animal must be used on any other — 

 neither brushes, rubber, nor rugs. Nor should any 

 other horse be allowed to drink from the same 

 bucket. 



When your vet. has supplied you with the neces- 

 sary dressing, always apply it with a little brush, 

 never with your hand ; you cannot be too careful. 



Cold. — In the case of a cold, you will notice a 

 running at the nostrils, with blowing and a cold 

 sweat, as if it is hard to draw breath. Keep your 

 horse warm and quiet, give him warm bran and 

 linseed mashes. The steam from the mashes he will 

 inhale or breathe, and it will help to clear his head. 

 Don't give him any dry food until the running at the 

 nostrils has ceased and he breathes comfortably. 

 Be careful, also, not to give him any cold water; let 

 it be just chilled. 



Exhaustion from overwork is not sickness, but if 

 not properly treated it may cause sickness and 

 trouble. A horse comes in worn out, and too tired 

 to eat an ordinary feed. Give him a warm mash and 



