196 RURAL VETERINARY SECRETIS 



GOITER (Big Neck, WooUess Lambs) 



Goiter is characterized by a swelling of the thyroid, which is 

 situated in the throat just below the lower jaw. It is quite common in 

 sheep in various regions. Lambs from affected flocks show absence 

 of wool and enlargement of the throat. Many are born dead, and 

 some die shortly after birth. Those that live are often unthrifty. 



CAUSE 



The disease is caused by lack of iodin in the thyroid gland. This 

 appears to be due to a scarcity of iodin in the vegetation and water in 

 certain districts. Where the pregnant ewe can not get iodin enough 

 the normal growth of the fetus is arrested. 



TREATMENT 



In Hocks where the disease exists pregnant ewes should be given 

 potassium iodid daily for three months before lambing. One-half ounce 

 of potassium iodid mixed with one-half ounce of milk sugar and dis- 

 solved in the drinking water dailv is sufficient for 100 ewes. 



RHEUMATISM 



CAUSE 



Rheumatism does not occur so often as a separate affection as 

 formerly believed. Symptoms of soreness, lameness, or stiffness as- 

 sociated with various internal diseases are popularly termed rheuma- 

 tism. Rhetimatism, independent of other ailments, is generally due 

 to cold drafts and dampness. It affects the muscles and to a less ex- 

 tent the ioints. Young animals are usuallv affected. 



TREATMENT 



I'roteclion against the causes, with application of National Elec- 

 tric Cream to the affected parts, will help restore the animal to health. 



