104 THE HORSE. 



expose their horses to the infection when the disease is pre- 

 valent in the neighbourhood. An attack of influenza may be 

 of a comparatively mild nature, or it may be severe in cliarac- 

 ter. The more severe form of the disease is popularh' known 

 as '■' pink-eye." An attack of influenza comes on very sud- 

 denly, and without any preliminary symptoms. It has a very 

 weakening effect on the horses. Among the chief symptoms 

 are great dulness of the patient, feverishness, loss of appetite, 

 staring and dull coat, and much weakness. In addition, there 

 is more or less discharge from the nostrils: the eves are 

 watery; digestive disturbances may or may not be present, 

 and there is some stiffness of the limbs; the latter may also 

 become swollen. Veterinary treatment is required. 



Nursing Sick i-iorses. — In illness, good nursing, com- 

 fortable housing, warmth, and fresli, pure air, are essential to 

 the recovery of the patient, and the treatment prescribed by the 

 veterinary surgeon must always be supplemented by these 

 various things. When a horse has recovered from an illness, 

 it must be brought into work again in a very gradual manner, 

 as it will be weak and out of condition. Some time will elapse 

 before the animal regains its full strength. At first, it must 

 be w^orked very lightly, and not be put to severe exertion. Its 

 feeding should also receive special attention for some time 

 after recoveiy; it must gradually be brought on to a full 

 allowance of corn, and when this has been done, some extra 

 corn, in addition to the usual ration, may be given, so as to 

 help the horse to regain its strength quickly. 



