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Symptoms. — In the normal or healthy state of an ani- 

 mal there is secreted about the heels a sufficient quantity of 

 fluid from the oil glands to lubricate these parts ; but when 

 this disease occurs it is the result of an increased and mor- 

 bid secretion from these glands and neighboring parts of a 

 peculiar greasy offensive discharge of matter, which is at- 

 tended with irritation and increased vascular action. 



In this state of the parts there is first an arrest of the 

 secretion, then an increase, and lastly a perversion of this 

 lubricating fluid. 



The first appearance of grease is, therefore (from the ar- 

 rest of secretion), a dry scrufl'y state of the heels, with heat 

 and itchiness. Swelling succeeds, with slight lameness from 

 the tension of the skin. As the discharge augments in 

 quantity, the hair follicles become inflamed, and as a result 

 of that inflamation deep fissures begin to form, and become 

 prominent about the upper portion of the fetlock. In these 

 fissures pustules begin to form ; these soon burst, and expose 

 great coarse granulations, which are vulgarly called grapes 

 (and by others, proud flesh). When a creature is neglected 

 in this condition, the skin of the heels becomes tough, 

 almost horny (indurated), and in a short time the limbs be- 

 come twice their natural size, and seldom if ever can be 

 brought back to their former symmetry. 



Treatment of Grease. — An animal in this condition 

 must have an entire change of food to begin with, from oats 

 or mixed feed to green food, carrots, apples and mashes 

 three or four times a week. If the horse is strong and full 

 of flesh, in addition to this an ounce of saltpetre may be 

 given twice a week, mixed up with his pail of water, and 

 once a week a dose of aloes, say four to six drachms. Thus 

 much for the constitutional treatment. The local remedies 

 are very simple. Wash the parts thoroughly with tepid 

 water after work, clean them with a soft brush, sprinkle 

 them jver with a little dry oxide of zinc, and allow plenty 



