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Another and oftentimes a fatal mistake made by the non-professional 

 is the indiscriminate and reckless use of aconite. This drug is one of 

 the most active poisons, and should not be handled by any one who 

 does not thoroughly understand its action and uses. It is only less 

 active than j^russic acid in its poisonous effects. It is a common opinion, 

 often expressed by non- professionals, that aconite is a stimulant; noth- 

 ing could be more erroneous. In fact, it is just Ihe reverse; it is one 

 of the most powerful sedatives used in the practice of medicine. In 

 fatal doses it kills by paralyzing the very muscles used in breathing; it 

 weakens the action of the heart, and should not be used in any but 

 strong or sthenic types of inflammation, and then only by the expert. 

 After an extensive experience in the treatment of pneumonia in various 

 sections, from the cold northern regions of Canada to the temperate 

 climate of Virginia and North Carolina, the writer has discarded aconite 

 entirely from the list of medicines he uses in the treatment of this affec- 

 tion. Do not give purgative medicines. If constipation exists, over- 

 come it by an allowance of laxative diet, such as scalded oats, bran and 

 linseed mashes, and grass if in season. 



A careful observer will notice that the dung passed by the animal is 

 coated with mucus ; this is an indication that (he bowels are in an irri- 

 table condition ; in fact they are affected to a small extent by the dis- 

 ease. Now, if a purgative dose is administered the irritable state is 

 aggravated ; they become inordinately active and a diarrhea or super- 

 purgation is established that proves a most difficult matter to check. 

 It must be remembered that the animal is already weakened by an ex- 

 haustive disease, and the "running oi3f at the bowels" not only still 

 further weakens the animal, but may cause the bowels to become in- 

 flamed, and thus insure a fatal termination. It is a common practice 

 among non-professionals to give aloes and oil to a horse with pneu- 

 monia, and, considering this fact, it is no wonder that it proves such a 

 fatal disease in their hands. If the costiveness is not relieved by the 

 laxative diet, give an enema of about a quart of warm water three or 

 four times a day. 



A diet consisting principally of bran mashes, scalded oats, grass or 

 blade fodder, when in season, is preferable if the animal retains an 

 appetite ; but if no desire is evinced for food of this particular descrip- 

 tion, then the animal must be allowed to eat anything that will be 

 taken spontaneously. Hay tea, made by pouring boiling water over 

 good hay in a large bucket, and allowing it to stand until cool, then 

 straining off the liquid, will sometimes create a desire for food. The 

 animal may be allowed to drink as much of it as he desires. Corn on 

 the cob is often eaten when everything else is refused. Bread may be 

 tried, also apples or carrots. If the animal can be persuaded to drink 

 milk it may be supported by it for days. Three or four gallons of sweet 

 milk may be given during the day, in which may be stirred three or 

 four fresh eggs to each gallon of milk. Some horses will drink milk, 

 while others will refuse to touch it. It should be borne in mind that 



