47 



146. Poll Evil is of an ulcerative or fistulous character, with open 

 sores discharging a thin glairy matter; it is a very troublesome disease, 

 and occurs just behind the ears. {See Plate IX., No. 7). It is caused by 

 an injury to this part, for instance, from a blow with a big stick, wielded 

 by a brutal stableman or through the horse — when in a low-ceilinged 

 stable — throwing up its head, and striking itself against the beams; 

 or from a heavy, grandly furnished bridle. At first, the animal 

 goes with its neck very stiff, and points its nose, with drooping 

 head ; it flinches when the collar or bridle is put on : and then swelling 

 of the part is next noticed. As this is a very formidable disease to 

 deal with, it should, at once, be put in the hands of a qualified man. 

 At first, cold water cloths ought to be constantly applied ; after- 

 wards, blistering may be necessary ; and, finally an operation. As the 

 part affected is of low vitality, great care and judicious treatment 

 must be exercised, or the disease may extend to, and cause, caries of 

 the bones. 



147. Fistulous Withers is similar in character to Poll Evil, and 

 as the name indicates, is a disease found at the top of the shoulders- 

 [Sec Plate IX. No. 9). It is due to some damage done to the neigh- 

 bouring parts, as from one horse biting another; or through injuries 

 to the bony spines by blows ; or from nips from badly fitting riding 

 or harness saddles. Here, again, swelling is the first visible indica- 

 tion, and prompt attention is necessary. Cold water cloths should 

 be applied, and kept constantly wet, and the saddles must be 

 examined and altered ; again, on account of its formidable nature, the 

 case should not be "tinkered" with, but must be immediately placed 

 in the hands of a professional man. 



148. The Elbow Joint {see Plate IX. No. 23) is also subject to 

 injury from kicks and blows, as well as from the shoes being made 

 too long, or with too much caulking, thus damaging the elbow point 

 when the animal lies down. If the shoe is the cause, it must be at 

 once removed and remedied, to prevent further injuries from that 

 source ; a stocking leg stuffed with horse hair, or special pad, should 

 be placed round the pastern every night. Hot or cold fomentations 



