22 The Diseases of Animals 
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with a brush. Combs, however, should be used lightly 
and only for the purpose of removing dirt. The es- 
sential part of grooming is to apply the bristle brush 
vigorously. This removes the accumulated dirt and 
dried perspiration, gives the coat a glossy appearance, 
and prevents various parasitic diseases of the skin. 
If possible, grooming should be performed after ani- 
mals have had exercise, as the perspiration produced 
by the exercise is then removed instead of being allowed 
to dry on the skin. This is especially important when 
the skin and coat are soiled with mud or water. After 
the coarse dirt is loosened by means of a curry-comb, 
it should be completely removed with the brush: and, 
after brushing, the loose dust can be removed from 
the outside of the coat by wiping with a slightly 
dampened cloth. 
The manes and tails of horses can be cleaned by 
using a very coarse comb and then thoroughly brush- 
ing with a mane brush, working on a small part of 
the mane or tail at a time. Curry-combs and finer 
combs should not be used upon the mane or tail, 
as they pull out and break off too many hairs. The 
mane and tail should be washed once in two weeks, 
eare being taken to clean the skin thoroughly by 
using warm soft water and some mild soap; after 
washing the hair, brushing it out straight and dry- 
ing it, a little bland oil or vaseline should be worked 
into the skin to keep it soft. 
In warm weather, when horses are brought in wet 
with perspiration, it is often a good plan to rinse 
them off thoroughly with water from which the chill 
