General [General] “The causes of abortion are various, and some of them as contrary as possible in their nature. It may arise from starvation, especially when a cold winter succeeds a wet summer and autumn. It is also produced in the open and neglected parts of the country from continued intercourse with the ram after the period of gestation is considerably advanced. It has often been known to follow the incautious and hasty driving of sheep into the fold in the latter period of pregnancy, or a leap over a ditch or a low gate has been followed by abortion, and so has a sudden fright, when a dog addicted to worrying sheep has suddenly made his appearance in the flock. Salt has also been known to cause abortion. One favourable circumstance may be stated, that when abortion occurs, from whatever cause, it is rarely fatal to the ewe.” Youatt on Sheep.
REMEDIES: Arnica, Pulsatilla, Sabina, and Secale cornutum. Arnica [Arn] Arnica may be given when the ewe has received an injury; the best way is to give a dose immediately, which will generally prevent any bad consequences following. Sabina [Sabin] Sabina may be given when the symptoms of abortion have fairly commenced, and when there is a general tendency to abortion, amongst the ewes of a flock.
Dose. Four drops twice a day. Secale cornutum [Sec] Secale cornutum may be given, if the symptoms continue after two or three doses, of Sabina, and the straining becomes more violent.
Dose. The same as previously mentioned. Pulsatilla [Puls] Pulsatilla is useful when abortion has actually taken place, and the after-birth is retained.
Dose. Four drops every three or four hours.
