MOULTING. 199 



position to some extent. The truth is, that the vital 

 energy, which should render him equal to his work, is 

 partially depressed. More than the natural share of 

 animal power is expended upon the skin, and is em- 

 ployed in the reproduction of the hair. Therefore 

 there is a degree of languor, and incapacity for work, 

 about the animal : he sweats with the slightest ex- 

 ertion ; he is partially off his feed ; the pulse is some- 

 what quickened ; and he clearly labours under a slight 

 degree of fever. 



In cases of this kind we shall do well, if we endea- 

 vour to aid nature in her effort to cast off the old coat 

 and produce the new one. Where there is work to be 

 done, whether by the body or the legs, the strength 

 must be supported. Tonics are now, therefore, of 

 service ; and may be given daily while the horse is 

 exempted from violent exertion. A couple of pints 

 of good strong ale every day is sometimes quite as 

 good for the horse as for the master ; and now it may 

 be tried. Mashes occasionally — good food always — 

 and sufficient exercise, will tend to bring the annoy- 

 ance to a speedier termination. 



Attentive grooming also is now more than ever 

 beneficial. It will loosen the old hair, and hasten 

 the growth of the new ; and that being once accom- 

 plished, the horse will regain his former spirits, 

 appetite, and health. In short, better diet and lessened 

 labour, with all those many nameless attentions, which 

 humanity would suggest should be expended upon 

 the sick, will now be amply repaid, by the rapid im- 

 provement of the animal that receives them. 



k 4 



