198 VETERINARY HOMOEOPATHY. 



Hale, of Chicago, has drawn special attention to its virtues; Dr. 

 Hale seems to consider that its influence for good is derived from 

 the specific action of the drug upon the kidneys, restoring the 

 urinary secretion to its normal constitution and in this way free- 

 ing the system from the surplusage of fluid constituents; probably 

 it acts more generally, for in many cases the drug has effected 

 relief after other remedies had proved ineffectual. 



Arsenicum album 3X in cases where the legs are much swollen 

 and disease of the heart is present; general debility, emaciation and 

 poverty; difficult breathing; dry, scaly skin; continuous thirst; 

 feeble and irregular pulse; coldness of the ears and other ex- 

 tremities are general indications for the selection of this drug. 



Apis mel. 5 is a valuable agent when the animal has difficulty 

 in passing water and only makes a small quantity at a time; also 

 when the temperature is elevated and febrile symptoms are 

 present. 



Digitalis ix when dropsy is due to the irregular action of the 

 heart, as indicated by an intermittent pulse, accompanied by great 

 difficulty in breathing and when the animal persistently maintains 

 the standing posture. 



Accessory Measures. — Contrary to ordinary practice we 

 advise that a dropsical horse should be allowed as much cold 

 water as it desires to take; there should be a constant supply 

 available, as we believe that water under such cases tends to in- 

 crease the amount of fluid excreted and that far beyond the bulk that 

 is imbibed; it also tends to improve the appetite and restore vigor 

 to the constitution; in this way the pulse becomes stronger and 

 the dropsical effusions are reduced. Food of the most easily 

 digestible character must be allowed, such as artificial grasses, 

 carrots, turnips, and the like, with plenty of linseed gruel and 

 barley water. The place the animal is stabled in should be dry 

 and warm; and if alcoholic stimulants should appear desirable 

 Holland gin mixed with milk is the best agent under the circum- 

 stances. 



CONSTIPATION. 



This condition of the digestive tract is by no means an uncom- 

 mon one in the horse, and it is frequently attended with conse- 

 quences that do not lend to the general well-being of the animal; on 



