408 The Diseases of Animals 
Some cases of dropsy are due to chronic organic 
trouble, and are likely to be serious. The cause of the 
original disease is to be sought and removed, when 
the dropsical condition usually disappears. 
“BIG LEG,” LYMPHANGITIS 
“Big leg” is an inflammation of the lymphatic glands, 
usually of the hind legs. In some respects it resembles 
“stocking,” but it is much more severe and usually af- 
fects the whole system. This disease is also called “milk 
leg,” especially when it has become chronic and the 
leg is permanently enlarged. Lymphangitis is most. 
frequent in heavy draft horses, or in coarse plethoric 
individuals, but it may occur in any horse. 
The disease is likely to occur after a short period of 
idleness. It usually begins with a chill, which is fol- 
lowed by a fever. The temperature may go to 105°, 
depending on the severity of the attack. The affected 
leg is swollen and tender, the horse is often able to bear 
but little weight on it, and manipulation, especially on 
the inside, causes pain. The lymphatic glands and 
vessels extending down on the inside of the thigh are 
swollen, cord-like and tender. The pulse is full and 
throbbing, respiration rapid, appetite lost and the 
bowels constipated. 
In chronic cases, the leg becomes permanently en- 
larged, the ‘inflammation subsides, and the animal suffers 
little inconvenience except from the immobility of the 
leg. This condition is called “elephantiasis.” 
A purgative of six to eight drams of aloes should 
