566 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



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bandage being lapped about one half of an inch, until carried be- 

 yond the edges of the splints, when the process is reversed to the 

 bottom, and then again to the top, making in all three layers, which 

 forms a strong, unyielding cast about an inch or a little more thick 

 around the part, when the horse is given freedom to take care of 

 himself in a large, comfortable stall. 



An important condition of success is in the preparation of the 

 plaster. First, it should be of the very best quality ; next, as the 

 plaster will set very quickly, not more than enough for one layer 

 should be prepared or attempted to.be put on at a time. Put in a 

 tin dish about as much piaster as will be necessary for one coat o r 

 layer over the part. Pour on sufficient water to. wet it well, and 

 stir thoroughly for one minute. Being all ready, instantly com- 

 mence putting on, laying on as stated,, until the plaster becomes too 

 hard, when make another batch, and continue the process, and 

 when that is used, making more, and continuing until finished. 



If the skin is broken, or there is a serious cut, as the splints 

 are being put on, avoid covering the spot with wood or iron, and in 

 the course of from six to ten hours, a hole should be made through 

 the plaster to it, when it is to be treated as an ordinary wound. 

 The point is to make the casing so long and tight as to thoroughly 

 support the limb, without being too heavy or clumsy, yet not to ob- 

 struct the circulation. 



In each of the cases referred to, there was no swelling or other 

 trouble, and consequently no after treatment. The horse was let 

 alone, and in about eight weeks the cast was taken off, when there 

 was found to be a complete union of the parts without any notice- 

 able deformity. 



Dr. Mc Beth tells me this method of management is original 

 with himself so far as he knows, and certainly its simplicity in con- 

 nection'with his success, entitles him to considerable credit. Plaster 

 has been employed, I understand, for this purpose, but was put on 

 in such a way as to form a mass excessively heavy and clumsy, and 

 consequently not favorable to success. 



Of course, when such an accident occurs, if a practitioner is 

 available, he should be at once called in. The treatment is included 

 mainly for the benefit pf practitioners. 



Dislocation of the Patella, or " Stifle." 



This is most common in colts, from the outer condyle not being 

 fully developed, allowing the patella to glide off and on at every 

 step. 



