CHAPTER XLI 

 COMMON AILMENTS OF THE HORSE 



When properly cared for the horse is the most health- 

 ful of our farm animals. He is thought to be a native of 

 the north and can endure adverse conditions so long as 

 given his freedom. His troubles begin, however, when 

 he is closely confined, improperly fed or watered, and 

 overworked. Under such conditions the horse is subject 

 to a very large number of ailments, some of which are 

 simple and easily cared for, more of which are compli- 

 cated and require skilled treatment. This chapter simply 

 directs attention to the more common ones and how to 

 avoid them rather than to suggest treatment. Everyone 

 who owns a horse should know how to care for the 

 simpler difficulties, and when to call for the advice of a 

 veterinarian. 



Nursing a sick horse. — The sick horse should receive 

 careful attention. In many of the lesser ailments good 

 care is preferred to the use of medicine, while in many 

 others rest is preferred to both. Thus, in the case of the 

 horse that is run down in flesh, appetite gone, and other- 

 wise out of condition, comparative idleness is essential. 

 Under such conditions there is nothing better than a good 

 blue grass pasture, well watered and well shaded, es- 

 pecially in the early summer, before the flies become 

 troublesome. The aim is to hasten recovery from the ill. 

 effects of the ailments. To do this we must understand 

 the horse thoroughly and be able to supply his every 

 need. This calls for careful, painstaking and patient 

 effort. First of all look for the cause of the trouble, and, 

 if possible, remove it. If the disease is contagious, the 

 sick horse should be separated from the others and placed 

 in well-ventilated and comfortable quarters. 



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