DISEASES OF THE FETLOCK, ANKLE, AND FOOT. 457 
ing up of the toe, blistering of the coronet, in front only, sometimes 
stimulates the growth of horn, but as a rule judicious shoeing is the 
only treatment that will enable the animal to do light, slow work. 
When suppuration of the laminz is profuse, it is better to destroy 
your patient at once and relieve his suffering; but if the suppuration 
is limited to a small extent of tissue, especially of the sole, treatment, 
as in acute cases, may induce recovery and should always be tried. 
If from bed sores or other causes septicemia or pyemia is feared, the 
bisulphite of soda, in half-ounce doses, may be given in conjunction 
with tonics and such other treatment as is indicated in these diseases. 
As to enforced recumbency I doubt the propriety of insisting on it 
in the majority of cases, for I think the patient usually assumes what- 
ever position gives most comfort. No doubt recumbency diminishes 
the amount of blood sent to the feet, and may greatly relieve the pain, 
so that forcing the patient to he down may be tried, yet should not be 
renewed if he thereafter persists in standing. ; 
When the animal persistently stands, or constant lying indicates 
it (to prevent extensive sores), the patient should be placed in 
slings. When all four feet are affected it may be impossible to use 
slings, for the reason that the patient refuses to support any of his 
weight and simply hangs in them. Lastly, convalescent cases must 
not be returned to work too early, else permanent recovery may never 
be effected. 
