12 



Pure water should be provided, and placed in such a position as 

 to enable the animal to reach it without difficulty; a sick horse 

 will frequently rinse its lips and mouth with water if given the 

 opportunity, even if not thirsty. The water should be changed 

 as often as necessary during the day to insure a pure and fresh 

 supply at all times. 



A horse suffering from colic requires suflcient space, well 

 bedded, to prevent injuring himself by rolling during a spasm of 

 pain. A man should be constantly in attendance, as there is 

 danger of the animal becoming cast and unable to get up with- 

 out assistance. 



Undigested matter being the exciting cause in almost all cases 

 of colic, food should be withheld for about twelve hours after 

 all pain has disappeared, and then given only in small quantities 

 during the next twenty-four hours, after which the ordinary 

 ration may be resumed. A few swallows of pure water may be 

 given at short intervals, special care being taken when the water 

 is very cold. 



CARE OF THE INJUEED. 



If the horse is seriously injured and stands with difficulty, he 

 should be placed in slings to partially support the weight of the 

 body. The slings must be properly adjusted, fitting closely 

 behind the elbows in such a manner as to support the weight of 

 the body on the chest and not on the abdomen. This position is 

 maintained by the use of the breast piece and breeching, which 

 prevent the shifting of the sling. A single stall, having a level 

 floor, free from bedding, is more suitable than one allowing 

 more motion to the animal. 



If the horse is but slightly injured, there is no necessity of 

 placing him in slings. An ordinary stall with a level floor is aU 

 that is required. After the injury has been dressed he should 

 be allowed to stand without being disturbed. If very lame, and 

 movement is painful, the quieter he is kept the more quickly will 

 recovery take place. Absolute rest and perfect quietude are two 

 very essential things, and when secured they will hasten the 

 process of recovery without inflicting unnecessary pain upon the 

 animal. In some surgical cases it is necessary to restrain the 

 animal so. that he can not injure himself by rubbing or biting 

 the affected parts. This can be accomplished by tying up the 



