198 SPASMODIC COLIC, ETC. 
times doubled, is likewise frequently beneficial. If these means, used 
simultaneously, produce no amendment in two hours, watch the pulse, 
for there is most probably something beyond simple colic to contend 
with. 
Upon the earliest symptom the horse should be removed to a loose 
box amply protected by trusses of straw ranged against the walls. Into 
this the animal should be immediately led—for the reader must under- 
APPLYING AN AMMONIACAL BLISTER. 
stand colic does not always observe the stages in which it has been 
described. Occasionally it commences in the wildest form; and if a 
loose box be not at hand, one can always be extemporized by removing 
the carriage from its house, by throwing the doors wide open and by 
placing a bar across the entrance. 
No disease is more quickly dispelled if treated at the commencement; 
nor is there one which, being left to run its course, occasions greater 
agony, is more fearful to witness, or leads to more terrible results than 
spasmodic colic. A single dose of ether and of laudanum may van- 
quish the malady at the commencement; yet if the attack be allowed to 
progress, the fit may set all skill and remedial measures at defiance. 
The principal attention of the proprietor must be given to prevent the 
administration of the ‘“groom’s favorite” or other ignorant nostrums. 
The case, when properly treated, is cured for a few shillings; and a 
horse cannot be killed with decency for less money. 
Besides, let any human being, having feelings capable of impression, 
regard an instance of spasmodic colic which has been aggravated by 
mistaken treatment; and as he views the fibers of a living body quiver, 
sees the frame bedewed in sweat and wrenched in mighty torture, con- 
templates the sad condition of the companion of his pleasures, and hears 
vented from its throat sounds expressive of agony,—let him, having the 
