Orbost & District Historical Society
horse drencher, Early 20th century- 1950
... drench horses Denyer transport... Denyer transport 7668 Denyer
ECLIPSE A brass horse drencher ...
This early draught-horse drenching bit was used by the early vets to administer paraffin oil and perhaps castor oil or epsom salts to a colicky horse.
The bit was fitted to the horses mouth like a normal bit. A rope attached to the top of the bit pulled the head of the horse up. The drench was tipped into the funnel.This trickled through the hollow bit and down the throat of the horse.
In the 1950's and beyond vets used a stomach tube, passed via the horse's nostril to administer drenches, which was much more effective and safe. This procedure spelt the end of drenching bits which are now only museum pieces.A brass horse drencher. It has a leather strap with a brass funnel.
This one was probably used for larger horses.7668 Denyer
ECLIPSEdrench horses denyer transport