er's stable, we have knowledge of significance in
connection with the causation of a possible febrile disease, which is,
under these conditions, likely to prove to be influenza, or edematous
pneumonia.

It is also important to know whether the particular horse under
examination is the only one in the stable, or on the premises, that is
similarly afflicted. If it is found that several horses are afflicted
much in the same way, we have evidence of a common cause of disease
which may prove to be of an infectious nature.

Another item of importance in connection with the history of the case
relates to the treatment that the horse may have had before he is
examined. It sometimes happens that medicine given in excessive
quantities produces symptoms resembling those of disease, so it is
important that the examiner be fully informed as to the medication that
has been employed.

ATTITUDE AND GENERAL CONDITION.

Before beginning the special examination, attention should be paid to
the attitude and general condition of the animal. Sometimes horses
assume positions that are characteristic of a certain disease. For
example, in tetanus (lockjaw) the muscles of the face, neck, and
shoulders are stiff and rigid, as well as the muscles of the jaw. This
condition produces a peculiar attitude, that once seen is subsequently
recognized as rather characteristic of the disease. A horse with tetanus
stands with his muscles tense and his legs in a somewhat bracing
position, as though he were gathered to repel a shock. The neck is stiff
and hard, the head is slightly extended upon it, and the face is drawn,
and the nostrils are dilated. The tail is usually held up a little, and
when pressed down against the thighs it springs back to its previous
position. In inflammation of the throat, as in pharyngolaryngitis, the
head is extended upon the neck and the angle between the jaw and the
lower border of the neck is opened as far as possible to relieve the
pressure that otherwise would fall upon the throat. In dumminess, or
immobility, the hanging position of the head and the stupid expression
are rather characteristic. In pleurisy, peritonitis, and some other
painful diseases of the internal organs, the rigid position of the body
denotes an effort of the animal to avoid pressure upon and to protect
the inflamed sensitive region.

The horse may be down in the stall and unable to rise. This condition
may result from paraplegia (paralysis), fro