THE HORSE, SKIN DISEASES, ETC. 28 J 



the large flat muscle that covers the front of the shoulder, and is caused 

 by the chafing of the collar. 



How to know it — it is scarcely necessary to undertake farther descrip. 

 tion of a well-known, visible affection. It is usually found near the 

 point of the shoulder ; and the character of the tumor as to simplicity 

 or severity can be readily determined by examination. If of considerable 

 standing, it will be found so hard as to render it almost impossible to 

 detect any fluctuation that would indicate the presence of matter. 

 Where there is much swelling, however, there is almost invariably matter, 

 and no cure can be effected until this is removed. In cases less marked 

 there will be a small, hard or indurated lump without matter. 



Under similar conditions as those mentioned in the preceding section, 

 it may form a leathery patch in the center and become a real sitfast. 



What to do — The tumor must, if possible, be so treated as to leave no 

 scar or lump, as this would be easily irritated by the collar upon subse- 

 quent use, and prove a source of constant trouble. The first thing in 

 order will be to take the horse from work, if at all practicable. If not, 

 use a breast-strap, so as to prevent all further chafing. If the swelling 

 is recent, apply cold water often, or cover the part Avith a wet rag hung 

 over the shoulders in such a way as to remain in contact with the swelling. 

 This must be kept constantly wet. 



But if the tumor is large, and of long standing — already hardened 

 and containing matter deeply hidden, open with a knife — making a 

 smooth, vertical cut, and of suflScient depth to thoroughly evacuate 

 the pus. Syringe the opening well every day with the following solution ; 



No. 19. 30 Grains chloride of zinc, 



1 Quart water. 



If the wound seems inclined to heal and leave a hard lump in doing so, 

 discontinue the injection, and rub frequently with the following liniment 

 to promote the absorption of the callous or gristly formation : 



No. 20. 1 Oz. iodine, 



12 Oz. soap liniment. 



Xn. Warts. 



Causes. — it is difficult to point out anything that may be implicitly 

 received as the cause of these excrescences. Generally accompanying a 

 plethoric condition, they may be considered as owing their origin prima- 

 rily to high feeding and insufficient exercise. This, however, must not 

 be taken as conclusive, since they not unfrequently appear upon active 

 animals, of meagre habit. 



