CHAPTER XVIIIConstitutional Skin DiseasesEczema—Boils—Herpes—Nettle-rashECZEMAThis is a very common complaint, indeed much more so than need be if proper attention were paid to the feeding and exercising of dogs.That eczema is of a hereditary nature there seems abundant evidence to prove, the progeny of eczematous parents predisposing the offspring to suffer—when the exciting cause comes into play—in a like manner. Derangement of the digestive organs and impaired nerve force must be reckoned as chief amongst such causes.Sarcoptic mange and certain other parasites are of course capable of producing eczema, but this is chiefly mechanical irritation, ceasing with the destruction of the irritant.Not so, however, with eczema of a constitutional nature, the irritation requiring internal medication for its subjugation.Eczema is denoted by the appearance of one ormore patches of inflamed skin, and unless checked, the whole of the skin may become inflamed, the hairs broken and shed, reducing the dog to a condition of misery and suffering.Any portion of the body or extremities are the seats of eruption, but where the parts can be licked or scratched by the dog, the worse the zone of inflammation.In the moist form of eczema small vesicles appear; the rupture of these and the dessication of their contents, along with scales, hair, etc., forms a scab or crust on the surface.Many sporting (and other) dogs have a dry form of eczema known asPsoriasis, showing itself upon the points of the elbows and buttocks.Here the patches are very intractable, the skin having a dry and leathery appearance.Between the toes, around the eyelids, margins of the ears, are common situations for eczema to make its appearance.Treatment.—This must be both local,i.e., applied to the diseased part or parts, and general,i.e., directed towards improving the constitution.Plenty of exercise and a reasonable supply of good, sound, boiled flesh, mixed with bread, night and morning, will do much towards a cure.Give a bath of sulphurated potash (2 ounces of sulphate of potash to 6 gallons of water) weekly, drythoroughly and then dress the parts with sulphur ointment, or boracic acid ointment.If the disease has spread more, or less, over the whole skin, dress with the following liniment.℞Paraffin oil4 ouncesSulphur flowers4 ouncesOil of tar2 ouncesOlive oil30 ouncesMix. Wash off in six days' time, and repeat once every ten days until cured.N.B.—A cheap oil (rape, colza, etc.), can be substituted for the olive oil, though these are all distinctly inferior for the purpose.In addition to the treatment, give the dog a 5-grain blue pill, say once every three or four weeks, and have the following mixture compounded.℞Liquid extract of sacred bark2 drachmsAcetate of potash1 drachmAmmoniated citrate of iron1 drachmTincture of orange1 ounceFowler's Solution of Arsenic80 dropsWater to 8 ouncesDirections: Give one tablespoonful night and morning before food. Several weeks' or months' treatment will be required ere a complete cure can be anticipated.Mild cases of eczema are not difficult to bringunder control, but those of long-standing demand perseverance. If skin scaly, use tar ointment daily.BOILSA common situation for these to make their appearance is upon or between the toes.Frequently they are very troublesome, appearing and reappearing.The best treatment is to poultice freely with hot linseed meal, and if at all tardy in healing, paint with Friar's Balsam.Keep feet very clean, soaking in hot water at each time of removal of poultice.Give a dose of Epsom salts, and don't allow dog to run about without a leather boot for a few days, or at anyrate until the sores have become perfectly healed. A little powdered boracic acid powder can be dusted upon the sore places. For drawing sores turpentine ointment is very useful.HERPESBy this term we mean an eruption of vesicles or small blisters in groups upon an inflamed skin. These blisters are larger than those of eczema. It is not uncommon to see them around the lips during an attack of distemper, causing the mouth to become extremely sore and painful. In ringworm, the patch is of a kindred nature, though contagious.NETTLE-RASHThis complaint is characterised by the sudden appearance of numerous wheals or elevations upon various parts of the skin, causing a burning and itching sensation, provoking the dog to bite and scratch the parts affected.Generally these wheals disappear as suddenly as they came, though now and again some are very stationary.The best treatment comprises the administration of a 5-grain blue pill and the application of a little vinegar and water to the irritable patches.CHAPTER XIXExternal Parasites and Parasitic Skin DiseasesFleas—Pediculi or Lice—Ringworm—Sarcoptic Mange—Follicular MangeFLEASDuring the warm weather more particularly, fleas are a source of great annoyance to dogs, and frequently to their owners, more especially if the animal be kept in the house.Owing to the rapid multiplication of fleas, dogs that are not regularly groomed or washed, soon become swarmed with these pests, consequently the severe irritation they produce upon the skin causes the animal to lose condition, whilst the scratching and biting destroys its coat. Regularity of washing, both dog and kennel, constitutes the best means of checking these pests.Wash all woodwork with boiling water and Stone Ammonia, then expose to air.Turpentine is a capital thing to sprinkle the kennel, benches, etc., with. Fleas seem to dislike this drug more than any other agent we have employed.A very good dressing for destroying fleas is composedof an ounce each of turpentine and terebene, dissolved in a pint of methylated spirits of wine.PEDICULI OR LICE (PHTHIRIASIS)Whenever dogs get into this condition, it is reasonable to conclude that there has been a want of proper attention.One may go further, by saying that it is generally the outcome of neglect, and a lousy dog should only be found in the kennel of the sluggard, no matter whatever be the source of infection. Detection at an exhibition leads to exclusion, and rightly so.The eggs or "nits" are attached firmly to the shafts of the hairs close to the root, and hatch in about five days after being deposited.Any part of the body may be the seat of these parasites, but those parts where the hairy covering is dense, constitute the most favourable cover.Loss of condition soon follows the invasion.Treatment.—Use the brush and comb freely. Scrub all kennel fittings with strong decoction of tobacco.Dress dog with the following:—℞Oil of Stavesacre1 ounceOlive Oil14 ouncesMix and rub in with a stiff brush.An infusion of quassia is an excellent and harmless remedy.Buy 4d. of quassia chips, and add a quart ofboiling water, with the addition of half an ounce of shag tobacco, infusing for six hours. Dress dog all over, rubbing well into "under" coat, if dog has one.Dog ticks may be snipped off with scissors.RINGWORMAlthough now and then affected with ringworm, the dog does not suffer from the skin disease anything like so commonly as cattle.The chief variety seen upon the dog is that induced by the vegetable parasite,Tricophyton tonsurans, which assumes a circular, or shield-like form. Honeycomb ringworm is another variety. The patch is about an inch long as a rule, scaly, and shows the hairs broken across, giving it a stubbly appearance. It is easily recognised.Ringworm can be readily transferred from one dog to another, or to animals of different species, and the converse.Treatment.—Paint the bare patch or patches with iodine liniment; groom well and feed well. Keep dog away from others until cured.SARCOPTIC MANGEThis is a very common form of mange, though often confused with non-parasitic eczema.The mange mite is known asSarcoptes canis, andtakes up its abode upon the superficial dermoid structures.The irritation thus induced, causes the dog to bite and scratch the part, ending in the production of a raw, weeping surface, extending from point to point, unless something is done to check the ravages of the mites. With licking, biting and scratching, these parasites are transferred as indicated, and an artificial form of eczema induced.The diagnosis can be confirmed by microscopic examination of the under surfaces of the crusts upon the sores.Treatment.—Being contagious, keep the diseased dog from healthy ones until cured.All fittings, clothing, and other appliances likely to have been in contact with the diseased dog ought to be thoroughly scalded with boiling water and soda.Short-coated dogs are more readily curable than heavily-coated varieties.Wash dog twice weekly, and after thoroughly drying, dress all over with a dressing, composed of 4 ounces of flowers of sulphur, ½ ounce of oil of tar, and a pint of train, or colza oil.This dressing should be washed off in about three or four days, and repeated until cured.A bath of sulphurated potash is a capital remedy.Add an ounce of sulphurated potash to every ten gallons of tepid water.In some instances it is advisable to clip the dog, thus facilitating the penetration of the dressing.Almost every kennel man and doggy man has his so-called mange cure, but the first principles are to make a diagnosis of the complaint under which the animal is labouring.FOLLICULAR MANGEThis is a very intractable variety of mange, resulting from the invasion of the hair-follicles by a minute mite, known asDemodex folliculorum, easily recognisable on microscopic examination. It is of lobster-like shape.It will readily be understood that the inaccessible habitats of these mites renders the effective application of medicinal agents at a disadvantage.Destruction of the roots of the hairs is a common result, and a permanent bare patch often remains as a legacy of the parasitic attack.Like the sarcoptic, follicular mange is transferable from one dog to another, though less readily than the former.Bare patches should be shaved all around, and the part painted with colourless tincture of iodine daily, or twice daily.The most satisfactory way of dealing with this complaint is to consult a qualified veterinary surgeon.CHAPTER XXDiseases of the Gullet, Stomach, Bowels, and Digestive GlandsDisease of Gullet—Inflammation of Stomach—Twist and Intussusception of the Bowels—Inflammation of the Bowels—Vomiting—Worms—Diarrhœa—Dysentery—Hæmorrhage—Hæmorrhoids—Dyspepsia—Jaundice or Yellow—Ruptures.GULLETThis begins at the back part of the mouth, the entrance into it is known as the pharynx, and ends at the stomach.Stricture, or narrowing of the gullet, and injury to it, such as sometimes produced by the dog swallowing a sharp-pointed body, is not an uncommon accident.External compression, such as the presence of a morbid growth in juxtaposition to the gullet, is capable of interfering with the functional use of the tube, thereby preventing the animal from swallowing properly.Diseases of the gullet always demand the exercise of professional skill, and until this is obtained, nothing beyond trifling amounts of liquid nourishment ought to be given.INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH (GASTRITIS)Probably the most frequent cause of gastric inflammation in the dog is that arising through the ingestion of irritant poisons, such as arsenic, antimony, etc.Less frequently an inflamed stomach is due to the presence of worms, or to the specific poison of distemper: in the latter case the areas of disease generally being of an extensive nature.The chief symptoms of stomach inflammation are vomiting; pain in the belly; prostration; thirst, and other signs of the dog being in a critical condition.Treatment must be in accordance with the cause.TWIST OR STRANGULATION; AND INTUSSUSCEPTION OF THE BOWELSNeither of these morbid conditions are of uncommon occurrence amongst dogs, more especially so in young dogs, but why this should be so, is difficult of explanation.A twisted bowel is certainly not so frequently met with as a telescoped or intussuscepted one. In both cases inflammation is set up, chiefly confined to thearea involved, or in those parts in juxtaposition to the lesion.Practically speaking, one issue is the rule in both cases, and that is death.Spontaneous reduction is rare, and as the diagnosis is attended with difficulty, relief by operation seldom attempted.The true nature of these bowel complaints is generally only revealed on after-death examination.INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELSWe have already alluded to this in the previous paragraph, but inflammation of the bowels also arises from other than the causes therein named.In the author's opinion, the most frequent causes of this complaint in puppies are round-worms (Ascaris marginata).To avoid puppies being troubled with these parasites, small quantities of lime-water are of service. A tablespoonful will be sufficient at once.Teaspoonful doses of Brand's Essence of Beef constitutes one of the very best substances that can be used when vomition is troublesome, and later on the yolk of an egg, with the addition of a teaspoonful of brandy.As a medicinal agent, bismuth is particularly useful,so that the following mixture should be obtained from the chemist:—℞Carbonate of bismuth3 drachmsPepsin30 grainsBromide of potash2 drachmsBicarbonate of soda3 drachmsCompound tincture of cardamoms1 ounceWater to make4 ouncesMix. Dose: One tablespoonful every four hours until the vomiting ceases. For Terriers, etc., half this dose will suffice.This mixture will be found specially suitable for the vomiting of distemper, and when arising from other causes, of a general nature. In case the dog has been poisoned or picked up some material of an objectionable nature, it may not be advisable to try and check the vomiting. Under these circumstances, it must be regarded as a salutary process. It is only when it becomes excessive that it is advisable to stop it.Another very important matter when dealing with a case of excessive vomition, is that of keeping the dog as quiet as possible, together with the application of hot, dry flannels, applied over the belly for several hours at a time, and continued with until improvement sets in.The bitch should be thoroughly dosed with worm medicine before she comes into season, otherwiserepeated purgation by worm medicine may have a prejudicial influence after service. Refusing to suck and crying from the pain in the belly are the surest indications of this condition in suckers. In adult dogs irritant poisons are not at all an uncommon cause of inflammation of the bowels. The specific poison of distemper is another cause. External injuries will produce it, and probably exposure to severe wet, such as lying on a damp kennel floor. Peritonitis is a frequent accompaniment. It is generally fatal, therefore the best of skill should be obtained. Hot fomentations and 15-to 20-drop doses of chlorodyne every three hours can be tried in the meantime.VOMITINGThe dog finds vomiting the readiest means of ejecting objectionable substances from within its stomach, and consequently many medicinal agents are conveniently—sometimes inconveniently—got rid of by this means.Even this ready means does not safeguard our canine friends against death from the ingestion of various poisonous agents, though doubtless this prompt action of the stomach in response to stimulation of the vomiting centre in the brain, does confer a certain degree of immunity against toxic substances. Rapidity of absorption has an important bearing in this respect, such deadly agents as strychnine being absorbed bythe stomach, passing into the circulation to other vital organs in a very rapid manner.During distemper, vomiting is common, its frequent repetition being an additional exhausting factor in this malady.To avoid this, minute quantities of readily assimilable nourishment is essential.When the ejected material is stained with blood or actually contains blood as blood, it points to ulceration of the lining membrane of the stomach—a condition of gravity.Stoppage of the bowels is often followed by vomiting, and frequently brings on paralysis.Treatment for Vomition.—Rest for the stomach is one of the first essentials of treatment. Nourishment must be given, and, if necessary, this can be in the form of nutrient enemas. (SeeClysters.)Fatty substances, milk, vegetables, and solid food, must be rigidly excluded until such time as the organ has regained its tone and proper power of assimilating the nutritive pabulum supplied. Soda-water to drink and 20 grains of powdered bismuth three times a day, along with a tablespoonful of the soda-water. If dog is paralytic give it an enema.WORMSAlthough fairly common in other situations,worms are most frequently found infesting the intestines and stomach.The cavities of the heart, nasal and respiratory passages, cranial cavity, and bile-duct are more rarely the seats of parasitic invasion in the dog. When the heart and respiratory tubes are affected, the parasites are of a minute, thread-like character, hence known asFilaria, or thread-worms.The flat, lancet-shaped worm, sometimes found up the nose, is spoken of as a trematode; the round-worms in the stomach and bowels as nematodes; whilst the other long, flat, or tape-like worms, are calledTænia.Very few dogs are entirely free from worms of one sort or another, though it is only when these become numerous that the dog shows signs of having these pests.Gradual loss of condition, irregular appetite, irregular evacuations, harsh coat, sometimes vomiting, and increased redness of the membranes lining the eyelids, are the usual signs, significant of internal parasites. Positive proof is of course the passage of segments of tape-worms, or round-worms, either by vomiting, or in the evacuations.Sneezing and a catarrhal discharge from the nose is generally present when the nasal passages are infested with the lancet-shaped worms already alluded to. An uncommon true blood-sucking worm (Spiropterasanguinolenta) is occasionally found in the stomach.Newly-born puppies seem predisposed to become infected with round-worms, known asAscaris marginata, such infection taking place from the dam, hence the necessity for ridding her of worms, and the most suitable time to administer vermifuge medicine, in an efficacious manner, is prior to her coming in season.With reference to the preventative measures against worm infestation, speaking practically, not a great deal can be done, the sources of infection being so varied. Feeding dogs on the viscera of animals must of course be condemned, and with the abolition of this practice so will diminish one source of infection. Many so-called worm specifics are now largely advertised, rival proprietors claiming superiority and even infallibility.Some of these nostrums are given without fasting the dog, but said to be equally efficacious. This statement must be accepted with reservation, as all worm medicines act more energetically when the stomach and bowels are empty. Before administering worm medicine, it is advisable to fast adult dogs for twenty-four hours, but puppies should not be kept longer than fifteen hours without food.Although an old, but well-tried remedy against both round and flat worms, areca nut still maintainsits position, and rightly so, because when given in suitable doses, and in accordance with the old rules, it seldom fails to give a satisfactory account of its action.The freshly grated nut has advantages over the powder, more especially if the latter has been kept in stock for a considerable time, as usually happens where the demand for a certain drug is limited. When combined with santonin, its action on round-worms is greatly enhanced.Areca nut, santonin, and male fern, are now all sold in capsular form, thus diminishing their nauseating effects.The average dose of areca nut for such breeds as Pointers, Setters, Retrievers, Fox and other Hounds, is a drachm and a half, combined with 8 grains of santonin, and given as a bolus mixed with honey, treacle, etc., or in a little milk, though less liable to be vomited when given without any liquid.About three hours afterwards give a full dose of castor oil.Repeat weekly, for a month if needful. A course of tonic medicine may then follow, so as to brace up the constitution.Such substances as powdered glass and other mechanical irritants ought to be avoided, being liable to set up gastro-enteritis. Powdered tin, glass, etc., belong to this class. Calomel, hellebore, pomegranatebark, spirit of turpentine, Barbadoes tar, garlic, wormwood, Kousso, Kamala, etc., have been, and still are, much used, and abused.Whatever be the drug employed, it is advisable to isolate dog both before and after dosing, so that the results can be properly noted.Through neglect of this precaution, many failures or indifferent results arise.The indiscriminate employment of worm medicines is but too frequently resorted to, and may further deplete an already exhausted system.In many instances, a course of iron and arsenic tonics, followed by cod-liver oil and malt, does more good than the administration of anti-worm remedies.DIARRHŒALike almost every other animal, the dog is a frequent sufferer from a too loose condition of the evacuations, constituting diarrhœa.A variety of causes are capable of bringing this about, but the presence of worms, cold, feeding on liver and other unsuitable foods, are, in all probability the most frequent causes.During distemper, superpurgation is a frequent sign, calling for active but well-regulated treatment to control it.It must be borne in mind that this excessive dischargeof liquid fæces is but symptomatic of derangement of the stomach, bowels, or digestive glands, and that it can only be successfully treated when viewed in this light, the administration of diarrhœa mixtures being often a failure, because these facts are ignored.A little careful consideration will often determine the cause, the discharge ceasing with its removal.In other instances it can only be conjectured, treatment becoming speculative.Boiled rice and milk, arrowroot and milk, to which two or three tablespoonfuls of port wine has been added, constitutes suitable dietary whilst the evacuations are in a fluid, or semi-fluid state.When arising through a chill, or the animal becoming overheated, the following mixture can, with benefit, be used:—℞Rubini's Essence of Camphor1 drachmChlorodyne2 drachmsMix, and give 25 drops three times per day, along with a tablespoonful of cold arrowroot gruel.Diarrhœa arising through the irritation of unsuitable food in the stomach and bowels must be treated as follows:—1. Give a full dose of castor oil, along with 20 drops of laudanum.2. After this has had time to work itself out, follow up with doses of the diarrhœa mixture, as sold by chemists for the human subject.DYSENTERYWhen diarrhœa is allowed to continue, it is liable to end with dysenteric symptoms, the lower end of the bowel becoming implicated, producing bloodstained evacuations, or the disease may be of a specific nature from the beginning.No matter how arising, dysentery is an exhausting disease, and one that demands prompt treatment for its alleviation.Internally, powdered ipecacuanha is the best remedy, and it should be given.First give an injection of tepid water (½ to 1½ pints) to wash out the bowel, and then administer from 5 to 20 grains of the above drug, mixed with the same quantity of bicarbonate of soda, in a tablespoonful of honey and water. Repeat in eight hours.Give no food, and keep dog very quiet for next twenty-four hours.Injections of starch gruel and laudanum are often very useful for dysentery, and can be used twice daily.Twenty to 60 drops of laudanum may be added to a couple of tablespoonfuls of tepid boiled starch, then injected into the lower end of the bowel by means of a vulcanite, glass, or ball syringe.Particular attention must, of course, be paid to the animal's diet.Nothing but farinaceous foods should be allowed unless it be Brand's Essence, or some stimulating liquid, such as bovril or Oxo, to which isinglass has been added. If pain severe, apply hot poultices to the belly.HÆMORRHAGELoss of blood may arise either from within or without the body, be of varying amount, and either arterial, venous, or capillary.Excessive hæmorrhage is of course always injurious, but its gravity is greater when issuing from some vital part, such as the lungs, stomach, kidneys, cranium, etc.In lung hæmorrhage the blood is coughed up, and of a bright-red colour—fresh blood.When coming from the stomach it is generally intermingled with the vomited material.If issuing from the urinary apparatus, it is either mingled with the urine, so as to stain this fluid, or passed as blood at the end of the act of urination.In the latter case, it will most probably be coming from the bladder, or the kidneys.Hæmorrhage from the bowels is passed along with the stools, or immediately following the act of defecation, as frequently happens in piles.Rupture of the heart, or the larger vessels gives rise to a rapid and fatal hæmorrhage.The treatment, with a view to arrest the bleeding, will of course depend upon the conditions through which it has been brought about.If from without,e.g., a wound, the bleeding vessel ought to be ligatured, or else have a compress fastened on so as to exercise sufficient pressure upon and above the injured vessel.When bleeding is due to small blood-vessels having been torn, tincture of steel, Friar's Balsam, etc., will sometimes be sufficient to arrest it.Cold water, or an ice compress is equally useful. When blood comes from the lungs,e.g., a gunshot wound in this region, there is generally a certain amount of bronchial irritation, so that the dog must be kept warm. Have ice compresses applied to the chest, and 15 grains of gallic acid given three times a day. If this fails, Adrenalin Tablets can be tried.HÆMORRHOIDS (PILES)The dog, like other animals, is liable to suffer from piles, causing it considerable discomfiture. The disease may be external, or internal. External piles consist of enlarged veins, the result of a sluggish circulation, and are more frequently seen in ladies' lap-dogs, or those leading an indolent and useless existence. Internal piles generally cause bleeding and pain during defecation, and are often seen protruding during the latter act.Exercise, a liver laxative, such as 1 to 4 of Carter's Little Liver Pills now and then, with the application of a little gallic acid ointment, constitutes the safest treatment that the amateur can adopt.DYSPEPSIA (INDIGESTION)Although the dog has remarkable powers of digesting such apparently insoluble substances as bones, etc., he, like most other animals, is a frequent sufferer from digestive disturbance, though this derangement of the digestive organs is certainly of more frequent occurrence amongst dogs leading inactive lives.Probably the most frequent cause of dyspeptic symptoms are the various forms of worms, so prevalent amongst dogs.Following this as a cause, decayed teeth are liable to provoke it, whilst prolonged feeding on unsuitable food, over, under, and irregular feeding, are equally fruitful sources of mischief to the digestive apparatus.General unthriftiness, want of energy, and a morbid appetite, together with foul breath, are the leading features of disordered digestion.It must be borne in mind, however, that the digestive organs are frequently in a perverted condition through disease in other parts, such as the heart,kidneys, liver, etc., and can only be regulated for proper assimilation when treatment is directed towards the mischief, in connection with any of the foregoing organs.Most suitable food is that containing a due proportion of flesh and carbohydrate; therefore a mixture of boiled paunch and boiled rice will meet this end.Feed the dog regularly, and give no more than the dictates of common sense suggest as sufficient for the size of the dog. Give extract of malt daily.Hounds and other sporting dogs should not be allowed to eat as much as they like, no matter however hard they may have been working.If sickness is a troublesome symptom, it will generally be advisable to give the dog a dose of worm medicine. Should the results be negative, give one of the following powders night and morning.℞Bismuth carbonate1 drachmPepsin20 grainsPowdered charcoal2 drachmsPowdered sugar1 drachmMix and divide into one dozen powders, giving in their dry state, by placing on the back of the tongue.Any loose or carious teeth ought to be removed, and a dose of compound liquorice powder given occasionally to regulate the bowels.From a quarter to one teaspoonful of this powder will be a suitable dose.Should there be no improvement in the animal's condition, it will be advisable to obtain skilled advice—not such as is frequently offered by unqualified canine specialists, or others of this class professing a knowledge of "all pertaining to the doggy world."JAUNDICEAffections of the liver, or when the secretion or excretion of bile is perverted, the symptom known as jaundice results.Very few people are unacquainted with the characteristic yellow colouration of the skin and visible mucous membranes.The word "jaundice" comes from the French "jaune," yellow, and "icterus," a Greek word for golden thrush.The yellow colour of the skin, white of eyes, mucuous membranes lining eyelids and cheeks is, of course diagnostic that the colouring matter of the bile is circulating throughout the system.The urine is usually deep yellow and very scanty, and the motions often clay-coloured and hard, though this latter condition is frequently absent, in fact diarrhœa present.This is particularly well marked in the so-called hepatic or bilious form of distemper.Gall-stones, when impacted in the bile-ducts, give rise to jaundice and colic pains.There is also a catarrhal condition of the bile-ducts that leads to the same jaundiced condition.As a considerable number of dogs succumb to this affection, very careful treatment is necessary. Linseed and mustard poultices over the region of the liver, and a hot bath, will often work miracles. Soda-water and milk should constitute the only nourishment for a few days, unless it be teaspoonful doses of Brand's Essence of Beef.A grain of calomel along with a quarter teaspoonful of sugar, night and morning for two or three days (until the bowels are open), will be found to do good in most instances. Further treatment can, with advantage, be left to the veterinarian, so much depending upon individual conditions.RUPTURESAlthough purely of a surgical nature, it may not be out of place to mention that any organ or tissue in any part of the body may be the seat of a rupture.Ruptures of the stomach (rare in the dog), bladder, liver, blood-vessels, bowels, muscles, etc., are of occasional occurrence.A very common rupture is that known as "umbilical," many puppies showing this swellingin the region of the navel. Frequently it disappears with increasing age. It is of little importance.Rupture of the wall of the belly and protrusion of the bowels, etc., is a serious condition, demanding immediate professional aid.This is equally applicable when the generative organs or perinæum are injured.Another form of rupture is that known as "inguinal," denoted by a variously-sized swelling in the region of the groin.In scrotal rupture the testicular sac is enlarged.CHAPTER XXIPoisons and their RemediesPoisoning by Arsenic—By Antimony—Strychnine—Phosphorus—Rat and Other Vermin-Killers—By Lead—Mercury—Ptomaine PoisoningPOISONING BY ARSENICVery small quantities of this drug are capable of bringing on a fatal inflammation of the stomach and bowels, and it is only prescribed in the most minute doses.Fowler's Solution of Arsenic is the compound generally selected for administration of the drug in the liquid form, the average dose of it for the larger sporting dogs being 10 drops. Arsenious acid or white arsenic is an extremely cheap compound, and one that enters largely into the composition of many sheep-dips, a fact that it may be worth while to bear in mind should a dog be poisoned in a manner, suspiciously regarded.This same poison is not uncommonly used for the destruction of rats and other vermin, though thefacilities for obtaining it are, to a great extent, a barrier against its frequent employment for such purposes.Arsenic is a corrosive and irritant poison, producing vomiting, dysentery, acute pain within the belly, thirst, prostration, and a speedy but painful death.As a rule, dogs poisoned by arsenic die, only the mildest forms making recovery.Under any circumstances it is advisable to seek the assistance of a M.R.C.V.S., acting in accordance with his instructions.In the absence of professional aid, provided the animal is not too much exhausted, an emetic should be given, and for this purpose there is nothing more suitable than 20 grains of white vitriol (sulphate of zinc), or the same quantity of blue vitriol (sulphate of copper), mixed with a couple of tablespoonfuls of tepid water. If neither of these agents are handy, use mustard, salt, and water.Teaspoonful doses of brandy, mixed with the same quantity of olive or salad oil, can be given at frequent intervals.Twenty-drop doses of chlorodyne, may be added if the pain is severe.Hot fomentations to the belly will do good.ANTIMONYThe compound of this element most commonly in use for medicinal purposes is that known as tartaremetic—an exceedingly active poison. Minute doses are sometimes prescribed in order to induce vomiting, and in bronchial complaints to produce expectoration.The symptoms and treatment are practically on a par with those laid down for arsenic. Vomiting and extreme depression of the vital powers are specially significant symptoms.Both arsenic and antimony have their special antidotes, though even these are of very doubtful efficacy.STRYCHNINEAlthough a difficult poison to procure from any source, it is surprising the number of dogs that are annually poisoned by this agent.In appearance, strychnine is a harmless-looking crystalline (or powdered) white solid, the most minute particles readily inducing muscular spasms and death.Strychnine also occurs in the form of a buff-coloured powder, known as nux vomica, the alkaloid or active principle being strychnine.Many gamekeepers make use of strychnine for destroying such birds as hooded crows, etc.Farmers now and then soak maize in a solution of strychnine, in order to destroy crows in a wholesale manner.We merely mention these facts, as showing the various sources from which a dog might accidentally get poisoned.In a very few minutes after swallowing strychnine the dog becomes convulsed all over. The muscular spasms may completely render the dog paralytic; in fact, this usually happens. Quick and laboured breathing is soon followed by complete collapse.So rapidly does strychnine—especially if the dog has taken a few grains—produce death, that there is seldom much chance for the employment of remedial agents, or to call professional assistance.If there seems reasonable hopes of recovery, call in a qualified veterinary surgeon at once. Twenty grains of chloral hydrate, 25 grains each of potassium, iodide and bromide, in water, can be used in the meantime.PHOSPHORUSIt is hardly necessary to go beyond mentioning the possibility of poisoning by this agent.It is a constituent of so-called "phosphor paste" largely used for the destruction of vermin, such as rats and mice.Dogs have been known to partake of it, usually ending in death.A most important matter is to avoid giving the dog any oily substances, if poisoned by this element.RAT AND OTHER VERMIN KILLERSWe have already spoken of phosphorus being the active agent in some of these compounds. Bariumand arsenic are likewise employed. Most of these being proprietary articles, their exact composition is not of any particular interest.Sickness, thirst, severe pain and prostration, are chief amongst the symptoms produced by such agents.Empty stomach with an emetic; give small doses of brandy in water, along with 40 grains of carbonate of bismuth, every three hours, or oftener.Keep dog quiet, and apply hot dry flannels to the belly continuously.LEADThe most likely method for lead-poisoning to occur in a dog is through the animal licking paint, or drinking out of a leaden vessel.It is an uncommon form of poisoning in the dog. Lead poisoning can be either "acute" or "chronic," and is denoted by colicky pains, constipation and a blue line around the gums. Paralysis and other nervo-muscular signs supervene.Give half an ounce of Epsom's salts until bowels are freely open, and later on, 5 grains of iodide of potash night and morning.Warm fomentations to belly.MERCURYMercurial poisoning but seldom occurs, and when it does, it is chiefly the result of the continued medicinal use of the drug, or as an over-dose.Dogs seem particularly susceptible to the action of mercurial compounds, so that this drug requires to be given with circumspection.An excessive discharge of saliva from the mouth and loosening of the teeth are amongst the most prominent signs.PTOMAINE POISONINGTo this class belongs various organic poisons produced in food substances (fish, etc.), as the result of fermentative changes, arising through the presence of bacteria or other minute living organisms.Although cases of ptomaine poisoning are more frequently met with in the human subject, there is a possibility of the occurrence of such in the dog.Empty stomach with an emetic, say 20 grains of white vitriol and given in two tablespoonfuls of tepid water.CHAPTER XXIIDiseases of the Urinary OrgansDisease of the Kidneys—Stone in the Bladder—Inflammation of the Bladder—Stricture of the UrethraDISEASE OF THE KIDNEYSOne or both of the kidneys may be the seat of acute or of chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation of the kidneys is not uncommonly the result of stone, or gravel, accumulating within what is called the "pelvis" of the kidney.Under these circumstances, the dog suffers great discomfiture in passing his water, the latter being ejected in very small quantities, and it is generally stained with blood.In some instances a single stone will occupy the whole of the pelvis of the kidney, destroying its functions, whereas in other cases the particles of stone are small, or even gritty, rendering them extremely liable to wander into other portions of the urinary tract.Abscess of the kidney is induced by the presence of injecting material gaining admission.Severe pain during urination, bloody-coloured urine passed in drops, loss of condition and tenderness across the loins, are some of the more prominent signs of this malady. If there is the least suspicion as to the presence of this complaint, consult a M.R.C.V.S.In the meantime, if the animal is in pain, give 30 drops of laudanum, in a little water, or, as a substitute, 20 drops of chlorodyne. Avoid giving the dog much liquid, but easily-digested solid food, such as rice, boiled chicken, etc.STONE IN THE BLADDERThe dog is not uncommonly a sufferer from stone in the bladder, the writer having seen the whole cavity practically obliterated by the presence of one or more calculi.Considerable numbers have been removed by operation.When there are a number of calculi in the bladder, the rubbing of one against another causes the faces of them to become very smooth.Calculi vary in size, hardness, weight, shape, and position; likewise are more frequent in dogs than bitches.The chief indications of stone in the bladder are the passage of small quantities of urine at very frequent intervals, often bloodstained.For the relief of this condition, surgical aid is necessary.INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDERThis arises through chemical, mechanical, and specific causes.To the first class belong certain drugs; to the second, stone; whilst the third class includes the germs of distemper, blood-poisoning, etc., and the extension of inflammation from adjacent parts.It may also occur as the sequel to an operation for stone in this organ.The urine is passed in drops, and the dog is in considerable pain, more so when the parts in this region are pressed. It is generally fatal.STRICTUREThe urethra is a tube leading from the bladder to the exterior, serving for the passage of the urine.Sometimes it is the seat of obstruction or stricture,i.e., a narrowing of it.Congestion, spasmodic contraction, and organic changes are the principal causes.The chief sign is the passage of urine in drops, together with pain.Give a hot bath, 20-drop doses of chlorodyne in a little water, and consult a qualified veterinary surgeon.
CHAPTER XVIIIConstitutional Skin DiseasesEczema—Boils—Herpes—Nettle-rashECZEMAThis is a very common complaint, indeed much more so than need be if proper attention were paid to the feeding and exercising of dogs.That eczema is of a hereditary nature there seems abundant evidence to prove, the progeny of eczematous parents predisposing the offspring to suffer—when the exciting cause comes into play—in a like manner. Derangement of the digestive organs and impaired nerve force must be reckoned as chief amongst such causes.Sarcoptic mange and certain other parasites are of course capable of producing eczema, but this is chiefly mechanical irritation, ceasing with the destruction of the irritant.Not so, however, with eczema of a constitutional nature, the irritation requiring internal medication for its subjugation.Eczema is denoted by the appearance of one ormore patches of inflamed skin, and unless checked, the whole of the skin may become inflamed, the hairs broken and shed, reducing the dog to a condition of misery and suffering.Any portion of the body or extremities are the seats of eruption, but where the parts can be licked or scratched by the dog, the worse the zone of inflammation.In the moist form of eczema small vesicles appear; the rupture of these and the dessication of their contents, along with scales, hair, etc., forms a scab or crust on the surface.Many sporting (and other) dogs have a dry form of eczema known asPsoriasis, showing itself upon the points of the elbows and buttocks.Here the patches are very intractable, the skin having a dry and leathery appearance.Between the toes, around the eyelids, margins of the ears, are common situations for eczema to make its appearance.Treatment.—This must be both local,i.e., applied to the diseased part or parts, and general,i.e., directed towards improving the constitution.Plenty of exercise and a reasonable supply of good, sound, boiled flesh, mixed with bread, night and morning, will do much towards a cure.Give a bath of sulphurated potash (2 ounces of sulphate of potash to 6 gallons of water) weekly, drythoroughly and then dress the parts with sulphur ointment, or boracic acid ointment.If the disease has spread more, or less, over the whole skin, dress with the following liniment.℞Paraffin oil4 ouncesSulphur flowers4 ouncesOil of tar2 ouncesOlive oil30 ouncesMix. Wash off in six days' time, and repeat once every ten days until cured.N.B.—A cheap oil (rape, colza, etc.), can be substituted for the olive oil, though these are all distinctly inferior for the purpose.In addition to the treatment, give the dog a 5-grain blue pill, say once every three or four weeks, and have the following mixture compounded.℞Liquid extract of sacred bark2 drachmsAcetate of potash1 drachmAmmoniated citrate of iron1 drachmTincture of orange1 ounceFowler's Solution of Arsenic80 dropsWater to 8 ouncesDirections: Give one tablespoonful night and morning before food. Several weeks' or months' treatment will be required ere a complete cure can be anticipated.Mild cases of eczema are not difficult to bringunder control, but those of long-standing demand perseverance. If skin scaly, use tar ointment daily.BOILSA common situation for these to make their appearance is upon or between the toes.Frequently they are very troublesome, appearing and reappearing.The best treatment is to poultice freely with hot linseed meal, and if at all tardy in healing, paint with Friar's Balsam.Keep feet very clean, soaking in hot water at each time of removal of poultice.Give a dose of Epsom salts, and don't allow dog to run about without a leather boot for a few days, or at anyrate until the sores have become perfectly healed. A little powdered boracic acid powder can be dusted upon the sore places. For drawing sores turpentine ointment is very useful.HERPESBy this term we mean an eruption of vesicles or small blisters in groups upon an inflamed skin. These blisters are larger than those of eczema. It is not uncommon to see them around the lips during an attack of distemper, causing the mouth to become extremely sore and painful. In ringworm, the patch is of a kindred nature, though contagious.NETTLE-RASHThis complaint is characterised by the sudden appearance of numerous wheals or elevations upon various parts of the skin, causing a burning and itching sensation, provoking the dog to bite and scratch the parts affected.Generally these wheals disappear as suddenly as they came, though now and again some are very stationary.The best treatment comprises the administration of a 5-grain blue pill and the application of a little vinegar and water to the irritable patches.
Eczema—Boils—Herpes—Nettle-rash
ECZEMA
This is a very common complaint, indeed much more so than need be if proper attention were paid to the feeding and exercising of dogs.
That eczema is of a hereditary nature there seems abundant evidence to prove, the progeny of eczematous parents predisposing the offspring to suffer—when the exciting cause comes into play—in a like manner. Derangement of the digestive organs and impaired nerve force must be reckoned as chief amongst such causes.
Sarcoptic mange and certain other parasites are of course capable of producing eczema, but this is chiefly mechanical irritation, ceasing with the destruction of the irritant.
Not so, however, with eczema of a constitutional nature, the irritation requiring internal medication for its subjugation.
Eczema is denoted by the appearance of one ormore patches of inflamed skin, and unless checked, the whole of the skin may become inflamed, the hairs broken and shed, reducing the dog to a condition of misery and suffering.
Any portion of the body or extremities are the seats of eruption, but where the parts can be licked or scratched by the dog, the worse the zone of inflammation.
In the moist form of eczema small vesicles appear; the rupture of these and the dessication of their contents, along with scales, hair, etc., forms a scab or crust on the surface.
Many sporting (and other) dogs have a dry form of eczema known asPsoriasis, showing itself upon the points of the elbows and buttocks.
Here the patches are very intractable, the skin having a dry and leathery appearance.
Between the toes, around the eyelids, margins of the ears, are common situations for eczema to make its appearance.
Treatment.—This must be both local,i.e., applied to the diseased part or parts, and general,i.e., directed towards improving the constitution.
Plenty of exercise and a reasonable supply of good, sound, boiled flesh, mixed with bread, night and morning, will do much towards a cure.
Give a bath of sulphurated potash (2 ounces of sulphate of potash to 6 gallons of water) weekly, drythoroughly and then dress the parts with sulphur ointment, or boracic acid ointment.
If the disease has spread more, or less, over the whole skin, dress with the following liniment.
Mix. Wash off in six days' time, and repeat once every ten days until cured.
N.B.—A cheap oil (rape, colza, etc.), can be substituted for the olive oil, though these are all distinctly inferior for the purpose.
In addition to the treatment, give the dog a 5-grain blue pill, say once every three or four weeks, and have the following mixture compounded.
Directions: Give one tablespoonful night and morning before food. Several weeks' or months' treatment will be required ere a complete cure can be anticipated.
Mild cases of eczema are not difficult to bringunder control, but those of long-standing demand perseverance. If skin scaly, use tar ointment daily.
BOILS
A common situation for these to make their appearance is upon or between the toes.
Frequently they are very troublesome, appearing and reappearing.
The best treatment is to poultice freely with hot linseed meal, and if at all tardy in healing, paint with Friar's Balsam.
Keep feet very clean, soaking in hot water at each time of removal of poultice.
Give a dose of Epsom salts, and don't allow dog to run about without a leather boot for a few days, or at anyrate until the sores have become perfectly healed. A little powdered boracic acid powder can be dusted upon the sore places. For drawing sores turpentine ointment is very useful.
HERPES
By this term we mean an eruption of vesicles or small blisters in groups upon an inflamed skin. These blisters are larger than those of eczema. It is not uncommon to see them around the lips during an attack of distemper, causing the mouth to become extremely sore and painful. In ringworm, the patch is of a kindred nature, though contagious.
NETTLE-RASH
This complaint is characterised by the sudden appearance of numerous wheals or elevations upon various parts of the skin, causing a burning and itching sensation, provoking the dog to bite and scratch the parts affected.
Generally these wheals disappear as suddenly as they came, though now and again some are very stationary.
The best treatment comprises the administration of a 5-grain blue pill and the application of a little vinegar and water to the irritable patches.
CHAPTER XIXExternal Parasites and Parasitic Skin DiseasesFleas—Pediculi or Lice—Ringworm—Sarcoptic Mange—Follicular MangeFLEASDuring the warm weather more particularly, fleas are a source of great annoyance to dogs, and frequently to their owners, more especially if the animal be kept in the house.Owing to the rapid multiplication of fleas, dogs that are not regularly groomed or washed, soon become swarmed with these pests, consequently the severe irritation they produce upon the skin causes the animal to lose condition, whilst the scratching and biting destroys its coat. Regularity of washing, both dog and kennel, constitutes the best means of checking these pests.Wash all woodwork with boiling water and Stone Ammonia, then expose to air.Turpentine is a capital thing to sprinkle the kennel, benches, etc., with. Fleas seem to dislike this drug more than any other agent we have employed.A very good dressing for destroying fleas is composedof an ounce each of turpentine and terebene, dissolved in a pint of methylated spirits of wine.PEDICULI OR LICE (PHTHIRIASIS)Whenever dogs get into this condition, it is reasonable to conclude that there has been a want of proper attention.One may go further, by saying that it is generally the outcome of neglect, and a lousy dog should only be found in the kennel of the sluggard, no matter whatever be the source of infection. Detection at an exhibition leads to exclusion, and rightly so.The eggs or "nits" are attached firmly to the shafts of the hairs close to the root, and hatch in about five days after being deposited.Any part of the body may be the seat of these parasites, but those parts where the hairy covering is dense, constitute the most favourable cover.Loss of condition soon follows the invasion.Treatment.—Use the brush and comb freely. Scrub all kennel fittings with strong decoction of tobacco.Dress dog with the following:—℞Oil of Stavesacre1 ounceOlive Oil14 ouncesMix and rub in with a stiff brush.An infusion of quassia is an excellent and harmless remedy.Buy 4d. of quassia chips, and add a quart ofboiling water, with the addition of half an ounce of shag tobacco, infusing for six hours. Dress dog all over, rubbing well into "under" coat, if dog has one.Dog ticks may be snipped off with scissors.RINGWORMAlthough now and then affected with ringworm, the dog does not suffer from the skin disease anything like so commonly as cattle.The chief variety seen upon the dog is that induced by the vegetable parasite,Tricophyton tonsurans, which assumes a circular, or shield-like form. Honeycomb ringworm is another variety. The patch is about an inch long as a rule, scaly, and shows the hairs broken across, giving it a stubbly appearance. It is easily recognised.Ringworm can be readily transferred from one dog to another, or to animals of different species, and the converse.Treatment.—Paint the bare patch or patches with iodine liniment; groom well and feed well. Keep dog away from others until cured.SARCOPTIC MANGEThis is a very common form of mange, though often confused with non-parasitic eczema.The mange mite is known asSarcoptes canis, andtakes up its abode upon the superficial dermoid structures.The irritation thus induced, causes the dog to bite and scratch the part, ending in the production of a raw, weeping surface, extending from point to point, unless something is done to check the ravages of the mites. With licking, biting and scratching, these parasites are transferred as indicated, and an artificial form of eczema induced.The diagnosis can be confirmed by microscopic examination of the under surfaces of the crusts upon the sores.Treatment.—Being contagious, keep the diseased dog from healthy ones until cured.All fittings, clothing, and other appliances likely to have been in contact with the diseased dog ought to be thoroughly scalded with boiling water and soda.Short-coated dogs are more readily curable than heavily-coated varieties.Wash dog twice weekly, and after thoroughly drying, dress all over with a dressing, composed of 4 ounces of flowers of sulphur, ½ ounce of oil of tar, and a pint of train, or colza oil.This dressing should be washed off in about three or four days, and repeated until cured.A bath of sulphurated potash is a capital remedy.Add an ounce of sulphurated potash to every ten gallons of tepid water.In some instances it is advisable to clip the dog, thus facilitating the penetration of the dressing.Almost every kennel man and doggy man has his so-called mange cure, but the first principles are to make a diagnosis of the complaint under which the animal is labouring.FOLLICULAR MANGEThis is a very intractable variety of mange, resulting from the invasion of the hair-follicles by a minute mite, known asDemodex folliculorum, easily recognisable on microscopic examination. It is of lobster-like shape.It will readily be understood that the inaccessible habitats of these mites renders the effective application of medicinal agents at a disadvantage.Destruction of the roots of the hairs is a common result, and a permanent bare patch often remains as a legacy of the parasitic attack.Like the sarcoptic, follicular mange is transferable from one dog to another, though less readily than the former.Bare patches should be shaved all around, and the part painted with colourless tincture of iodine daily, or twice daily.The most satisfactory way of dealing with this complaint is to consult a qualified veterinary surgeon.
Fleas—Pediculi or Lice—Ringworm—Sarcoptic Mange—Follicular Mange
FLEAS
During the warm weather more particularly, fleas are a source of great annoyance to dogs, and frequently to their owners, more especially if the animal be kept in the house.
Owing to the rapid multiplication of fleas, dogs that are not regularly groomed or washed, soon become swarmed with these pests, consequently the severe irritation they produce upon the skin causes the animal to lose condition, whilst the scratching and biting destroys its coat. Regularity of washing, both dog and kennel, constitutes the best means of checking these pests.
Wash all woodwork with boiling water and Stone Ammonia, then expose to air.
Turpentine is a capital thing to sprinkle the kennel, benches, etc., with. Fleas seem to dislike this drug more than any other agent we have employed.
A very good dressing for destroying fleas is composedof an ounce each of turpentine and terebene, dissolved in a pint of methylated spirits of wine.
PEDICULI OR LICE (PHTHIRIASIS)
Whenever dogs get into this condition, it is reasonable to conclude that there has been a want of proper attention.
One may go further, by saying that it is generally the outcome of neglect, and a lousy dog should only be found in the kennel of the sluggard, no matter whatever be the source of infection. Detection at an exhibition leads to exclusion, and rightly so.
The eggs or "nits" are attached firmly to the shafts of the hairs close to the root, and hatch in about five days after being deposited.
Any part of the body may be the seat of these parasites, but those parts where the hairy covering is dense, constitute the most favourable cover.
Loss of condition soon follows the invasion.
Treatment.—Use the brush and comb freely. Scrub all kennel fittings with strong decoction of tobacco.
Dress dog with the following:—
Mix and rub in with a stiff brush.
An infusion of quassia is an excellent and harmless remedy.
Buy 4d. of quassia chips, and add a quart ofboiling water, with the addition of half an ounce of shag tobacco, infusing for six hours. Dress dog all over, rubbing well into "under" coat, if dog has one.
Dog ticks may be snipped off with scissors.
RINGWORM
Although now and then affected with ringworm, the dog does not suffer from the skin disease anything like so commonly as cattle.
The chief variety seen upon the dog is that induced by the vegetable parasite,Tricophyton tonsurans, which assumes a circular, or shield-like form. Honeycomb ringworm is another variety. The patch is about an inch long as a rule, scaly, and shows the hairs broken across, giving it a stubbly appearance. It is easily recognised.
Ringworm can be readily transferred from one dog to another, or to animals of different species, and the converse.
Treatment.—Paint the bare patch or patches with iodine liniment; groom well and feed well. Keep dog away from others until cured.
SARCOPTIC MANGE
This is a very common form of mange, though often confused with non-parasitic eczema.
The mange mite is known asSarcoptes canis, andtakes up its abode upon the superficial dermoid structures.
The irritation thus induced, causes the dog to bite and scratch the part, ending in the production of a raw, weeping surface, extending from point to point, unless something is done to check the ravages of the mites. With licking, biting and scratching, these parasites are transferred as indicated, and an artificial form of eczema induced.
The diagnosis can be confirmed by microscopic examination of the under surfaces of the crusts upon the sores.
Treatment.—Being contagious, keep the diseased dog from healthy ones until cured.
All fittings, clothing, and other appliances likely to have been in contact with the diseased dog ought to be thoroughly scalded with boiling water and soda.
Short-coated dogs are more readily curable than heavily-coated varieties.
Wash dog twice weekly, and after thoroughly drying, dress all over with a dressing, composed of 4 ounces of flowers of sulphur, ½ ounce of oil of tar, and a pint of train, or colza oil.
This dressing should be washed off in about three or four days, and repeated until cured.
A bath of sulphurated potash is a capital remedy.
Add an ounce of sulphurated potash to every ten gallons of tepid water.
In some instances it is advisable to clip the dog, thus facilitating the penetration of the dressing.
Almost every kennel man and doggy man has his so-called mange cure, but the first principles are to make a diagnosis of the complaint under which the animal is labouring.
FOLLICULAR MANGE
This is a very intractable variety of mange, resulting from the invasion of the hair-follicles by a minute mite, known asDemodex folliculorum, easily recognisable on microscopic examination. It is of lobster-like shape.
It will readily be understood that the inaccessible habitats of these mites renders the effective application of medicinal agents at a disadvantage.
Destruction of the roots of the hairs is a common result, and a permanent bare patch often remains as a legacy of the parasitic attack.
Like the sarcoptic, follicular mange is transferable from one dog to another, though less readily than the former.
Bare patches should be shaved all around, and the part painted with colourless tincture of iodine daily, or twice daily.
The most satisfactory way of dealing with this complaint is to consult a qualified veterinary surgeon.
CHAPTER XXDiseases of the Gullet, Stomach, Bowels, and Digestive GlandsDisease of Gullet—Inflammation of Stomach—Twist and Intussusception of the Bowels—Inflammation of the Bowels—Vomiting—Worms—Diarrhœa—Dysentery—Hæmorrhage—Hæmorrhoids—Dyspepsia—Jaundice or Yellow—Ruptures.GULLETThis begins at the back part of the mouth, the entrance into it is known as the pharynx, and ends at the stomach.Stricture, or narrowing of the gullet, and injury to it, such as sometimes produced by the dog swallowing a sharp-pointed body, is not an uncommon accident.External compression, such as the presence of a morbid growth in juxtaposition to the gullet, is capable of interfering with the functional use of the tube, thereby preventing the animal from swallowing properly.Diseases of the gullet always demand the exercise of professional skill, and until this is obtained, nothing beyond trifling amounts of liquid nourishment ought to be given.INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH (GASTRITIS)Probably the most frequent cause of gastric inflammation in the dog is that arising through the ingestion of irritant poisons, such as arsenic, antimony, etc.Less frequently an inflamed stomach is due to the presence of worms, or to the specific poison of distemper: in the latter case the areas of disease generally being of an extensive nature.The chief symptoms of stomach inflammation are vomiting; pain in the belly; prostration; thirst, and other signs of the dog being in a critical condition.Treatment must be in accordance with the cause.TWIST OR STRANGULATION; AND INTUSSUSCEPTION OF THE BOWELSNeither of these morbid conditions are of uncommon occurrence amongst dogs, more especially so in young dogs, but why this should be so, is difficult of explanation.A twisted bowel is certainly not so frequently met with as a telescoped or intussuscepted one. In both cases inflammation is set up, chiefly confined to thearea involved, or in those parts in juxtaposition to the lesion.Practically speaking, one issue is the rule in both cases, and that is death.Spontaneous reduction is rare, and as the diagnosis is attended with difficulty, relief by operation seldom attempted.The true nature of these bowel complaints is generally only revealed on after-death examination.INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELSWe have already alluded to this in the previous paragraph, but inflammation of the bowels also arises from other than the causes therein named.In the author's opinion, the most frequent causes of this complaint in puppies are round-worms (Ascaris marginata).To avoid puppies being troubled with these parasites, small quantities of lime-water are of service. A tablespoonful will be sufficient at once.Teaspoonful doses of Brand's Essence of Beef constitutes one of the very best substances that can be used when vomition is troublesome, and later on the yolk of an egg, with the addition of a teaspoonful of brandy.As a medicinal agent, bismuth is particularly useful,so that the following mixture should be obtained from the chemist:—℞Carbonate of bismuth3 drachmsPepsin30 grainsBromide of potash2 drachmsBicarbonate of soda3 drachmsCompound tincture of cardamoms1 ounceWater to make4 ouncesMix. Dose: One tablespoonful every four hours until the vomiting ceases. For Terriers, etc., half this dose will suffice.This mixture will be found specially suitable for the vomiting of distemper, and when arising from other causes, of a general nature. In case the dog has been poisoned or picked up some material of an objectionable nature, it may not be advisable to try and check the vomiting. Under these circumstances, it must be regarded as a salutary process. It is only when it becomes excessive that it is advisable to stop it.Another very important matter when dealing with a case of excessive vomition, is that of keeping the dog as quiet as possible, together with the application of hot, dry flannels, applied over the belly for several hours at a time, and continued with until improvement sets in.The bitch should be thoroughly dosed with worm medicine before she comes into season, otherwiserepeated purgation by worm medicine may have a prejudicial influence after service. Refusing to suck and crying from the pain in the belly are the surest indications of this condition in suckers. In adult dogs irritant poisons are not at all an uncommon cause of inflammation of the bowels. The specific poison of distemper is another cause. External injuries will produce it, and probably exposure to severe wet, such as lying on a damp kennel floor. Peritonitis is a frequent accompaniment. It is generally fatal, therefore the best of skill should be obtained. Hot fomentations and 15-to 20-drop doses of chlorodyne every three hours can be tried in the meantime.VOMITINGThe dog finds vomiting the readiest means of ejecting objectionable substances from within its stomach, and consequently many medicinal agents are conveniently—sometimes inconveniently—got rid of by this means.Even this ready means does not safeguard our canine friends against death from the ingestion of various poisonous agents, though doubtless this prompt action of the stomach in response to stimulation of the vomiting centre in the brain, does confer a certain degree of immunity against toxic substances. Rapidity of absorption has an important bearing in this respect, such deadly agents as strychnine being absorbed bythe stomach, passing into the circulation to other vital organs in a very rapid manner.During distemper, vomiting is common, its frequent repetition being an additional exhausting factor in this malady.To avoid this, minute quantities of readily assimilable nourishment is essential.When the ejected material is stained with blood or actually contains blood as blood, it points to ulceration of the lining membrane of the stomach—a condition of gravity.Stoppage of the bowels is often followed by vomiting, and frequently brings on paralysis.Treatment for Vomition.—Rest for the stomach is one of the first essentials of treatment. Nourishment must be given, and, if necessary, this can be in the form of nutrient enemas. (SeeClysters.)Fatty substances, milk, vegetables, and solid food, must be rigidly excluded until such time as the organ has regained its tone and proper power of assimilating the nutritive pabulum supplied. Soda-water to drink and 20 grains of powdered bismuth three times a day, along with a tablespoonful of the soda-water. If dog is paralytic give it an enema.WORMSAlthough fairly common in other situations,worms are most frequently found infesting the intestines and stomach.The cavities of the heart, nasal and respiratory passages, cranial cavity, and bile-duct are more rarely the seats of parasitic invasion in the dog. When the heart and respiratory tubes are affected, the parasites are of a minute, thread-like character, hence known asFilaria, or thread-worms.The flat, lancet-shaped worm, sometimes found up the nose, is spoken of as a trematode; the round-worms in the stomach and bowels as nematodes; whilst the other long, flat, or tape-like worms, are calledTænia.Very few dogs are entirely free from worms of one sort or another, though it is only when these become numerous that the dog shows signs of having these pests.Gradual loss of condition, irregular appetite, irregular evacuations, harsh coat, sometimes vomiting, and increased redness of the membranes lining the eyelids, are the usual signs, significant of internal parasites. Positive proof is of course the passage of segments of tape-worms, or round-worms, either by vomiting, or in the evacuations.Sneezing and a catarrhal discharge from the nose is generally present when the nasal passages are infested with the lancet-shaped worms already alluded to. An uncommon true blood-sucking worm (Spiropterasanguinolenta) is occasionally found in the stomach.Newly-born puppies seem predisposed to become infected with round-worms, known asAscaris marginata, such infection taking place from the dam, hence the necessity for ridding her of worms, and the most suitable time to administer vermifuge medicine, in an efficacious manner, is prior to her coming in season.With reference to the preventative measures against worm infestation, speaking practically, not a great deal can be done, the sources of infection being so varied. Feeding dogs on the viscera of animals must of course be condemned, and with the abolition of this practice so will diminish one source of infection. Many so-called worm specifics are now largely advertised, rival proprietors claiming superiority and even infallibility.Some of these nostrums are given without fasting the dog, but said to be equally efficacious. This statement must be accepted with reservation, as all worm medicines act more energetically when the stomach and bowels are empty. Before administering worm medicine, it is advisable to fast adult dogs for twenty-four hours, but puppies should not be kept longer than fifteen hours without food.Although an old, but well-tried remedy against both round and flat worms, areca nut still maintainsits position, and rightly so, because when given in suitable doses, and in accordance with the old rules, it seldom fails to give a satisfactory account of its action.The freshly grated nut has advantages over the powder, more especially if the latter has been kept in stock for a considerable time, as usually happens where the demand for a certain drug is limited. When combined with santonin, its action on round-worms is greatly enhanced.Areca nut, santonin, and male fern, are now all sold in capsular form, thus diminishing their nauseating effects.The average dose of areca nut for such breeds as Pointers, Setters, Retrievers, Fox and other Hounds, is a drachm and a half, combined with 8 grains of santonin, and given as a bolus mixed with honey, treacle, etc., or in a little milk, though less liable to be vomited when given without any liquid.About three hours afterwards give a full dose of castor oil.Repeat weekly, for a month if needful. A course of tonic medicine may then follow, so as to brace up the constitution.Such substances as powdered glass and other mechanical irritants ought to be avoided, being liable to set up gastro-enteritis. Powdered tin, glass, etc., belong to this class. Calomel, hellebore, pomegranatebark, spirit of turpentine, Barbadoes tar, garlic, wormwood, Kousso, Kamala, etc., have been, and still are, much used, and abused.Whatever be the drug employed, it is advisable to isolate dog both before and after dosing, so that the results can be properly noted.Through neglect of this precaution, many failures or indifferent results arise.The indiscriminate employment of worm medicines is but too frequently resorted to, and may further deplete an already exhausted system.In many instances, a course of iron and arsenic tonics, followed by cod-liver oil and malt, does more good than the administration of anti-worm remedies.DIARRHŒALike almost every other animal, the dog is a frequent sufferer from a too loose condition of the evacuations, constituting diarrhœa.A variety of causes are capable of bringing this about, but the presence of worms, cold, feeding on liver and other unsuitable foods, are, in all probability the most frequent causes.During distemper, superpurgation is a frequent sign, calling for active but well-regulated treatment to control it.It must be borne in mind that this excessive dischargeof liquid fæces is but symptomatic of derangement of the stomach, bowels, or digestive glands, and that it can only be successfully treated when viewed in this light, the administration of diarrhœa mixtures being often a failure, because these facts are ignored.A little careful consideration will often determine the cause, the discharge ceasing with its removal.In other instances it can only be conjectured, treatment becoming speculative.Boiled rice and milk, arrowroot and milk, to which two or three tablespoonfuls of port wine has been added, constitutes suitable dietary whilst the evacuations are in a fluid, or semi-fluid state.When arising through a chill, or the animal becoming overheated, the following mixture can, with benefit, be used:—℞Rubini's Essence of Camphor1 drachmChlorodyne2 drachmsMix, and give 25 drops three times per day, along with a tablespoonful of cold arrowroot gruel.Diarrhœa arising through the irritation of unsuitable food in the stomach and bowels must be treated as follows:—1. Give a full dose of castor oil, along with 20 drops of laudanum.2. After this has had time to work itself out, follow up with doses of the diarrhœa mixture, as sold by chemists for the human subject.DYSENTERYWhen diarrhœa is allowed to continue, it is liable to end with dysenteric symptoms, the lower end of the bowel becoming implicated, producing bloodstained evacuations, or the disease may be of a specific nature from the beginning.No matter how arising, dysentery is an exhausting disease, and one that demands prompt treatment for its alleviation.Internally, powdered ipecacuanha is the best remedy, and it should be given.First give an injection of tepid water (½ to 1½ pints) to wash out the bowel, and then administer from 5 to 20 grains of the above drug, mixed with the same quantity of bicarbonate of soda, in a tablespoonful of honey and water. Repeat in eight hours.Give no food, and keep dog very quiet for next twenty-four hours.Injections of starch gruel and laudanum are often very useful for dysentery, and can be used twice daily.Twenty to 60 drops of laudanum may be added to a couple of tablespoonfuls of tepid boiled starch, then injected into the lower end of the bowel by means of a vulcanite, glass, or ball syringe.Particular attention must, of course, be paid to the animal's diet.Nothing but farinaceous foods should be allowed unless it be Brand's Essence, or some stimulating liquid, such as bovril or Oxo, to which isinglass has been added. If pain severe, apply hot poultices to the belly.HÆMORRHAGELoss of blood may arise either from within or without the body, be of varying amount, and either arterial, venous, or capillary.Excessive hæmorrhage is of course always injurious, but its gravity is greater when issuing from some vital part, such as the lungs, stomach, kidneys, cranium, etc.In lung hæmorrhage the blood is coughed up, and of a bright-red colour—fresh blood.When coming from the stomach it is generally intermingled with the vomited material.If issuing from the urinary apparatus, it is either mingled with the urine, so as to stain this fluid, or passed as blood at the end of the act of urination.In the latter case, it will most probably be coming from the bladder, or the kidneys.Hæmorrhage from the bowels is passed along with the stools, or immediately following the act of defecation, as frequently happens in piles.Rupture of the heart, or the larger vessels gives rise to a rapid and fatal hæmorrhage.The treatment, with a view to arrest the bleeding, will of course depend upon the conditions through which it has been brought about.If from without,e.g., a wound, the bleeding vessel ought to be ligatured, or else have a compress fastened on so as to exercise sufficient pressure upon and above the injured vessel.When bleeding is due to small blood-vessels having been torn, tincture of steel, Friar's Balsam, etc., will sometimes be sufficient to arrest it.Cold water, or an ice compress is equally useful. When blood comes from the lungs,e.g., a gunshot wound in this region, there is generally a certain amount of bronchial irritation, so that the dog must be kept warm. Have ice compresses applied to the chest, and 15 grains of gallic acid given three times a day. If this fails, Adrenalin Tablets can be tried.HÆMORRHOIDS (PILES)The dog, like other animals, is liable to suffer from piles, causing it considerable discomfiture. The disease may be external, or internal. External piles consist of enlarged veins, the result of a sluggish circulation, and are more frequently seen in ladies' lap-dogs, or those leading an indolent and useless existence. Internal piles generally cause bleeding and pain during defecation, and are often seen protruding during the latter act.Exercise, a liver laxative, such as 1 to 4 of Carter's Little Liver Pills now and then, with the application of a little gallic acid ointment, constitutes the safest treatment that the amateur can adopt.DYSPEPSIA (INDIGESTION)Although the dog has remarkable powers of digesting such apparently insoluble substances as bones, etc., he, like most other animals, is a frequent sufferer from digestive disturbance, though this derangement of the digestive organs is certainly of more frequent occurrence amongst dogs leading inactive lives.Probably the most frequent cause of dyspeptic symptoms are the various forms of worms, so prevalent amongst dogs.Following this as a cause, decayed teeth are liable to provoke it, whilst prolonged feeding on unsuitable food, over, under, and irregular feeding, are equally fruitful sources of mischief to the digestive apparatus.General unthriftiness, want of energy, and a morbid appetite, together with foul breath, are the leading features of disordered digestion.It must be borne in mind, however, that the digestive organs are frequently in a perverted condition through disease in other parts, such as the heart,kidneys, liver, etc., and can only be regulated for proper assimilation when treatment is directed towards the mischief, in connection with any of the foregoing organs.Most suitable food is that containing a due proportion of flesh and carbohydrate; therefore a mixture of boiled paunch and boiled rice will meet this end.Feed the dog regularly, and give no more than the dictates of common sense suggest as sufficient for the size of the dog. Give extract of malt daily.Hounds and other sporting dogs should not be allowed to eat as much as they like, no matter however hard they may have been working.If sickness is a troublesome symptom, it will generally be advisable to give the dog a dose of worm medicine. Should the results be negative, give one of the following powders night and morning.℞Bismuth carbonate1 drachmPepsin20 grainsPowdered charcoal2 drachmsPowdered sugar1 drachmMix and divide into one dozen powders, giving in their dry state, by placing on the back of the tongue.Any loose or carious teeth ought to be removed, and a dose of compound liquorice powder given occasionally to regulate the bowels.From a quarter to one teaspoonful of this powder will be a suitable dose.Should there be no improvement in the animal's condition, it will be advisable to obtain skilled advice—not such as is frequently offered by unqualified canine specialists, or others of this class professing a knowledge of "all pertaining to the doggy world."JAUNDICEAffections of the liver, or when the secretion or excretion of bile is perverted, the symptom known as jaundice results.Very few people are unacquainted with the characteristic yellow colouration of the skin and visible mucous membranes.The word "jaundice" comes from the French "jaune," yellow, and "icterus," a Greek word for golden thrush.The yellow colour of the skin, white of eyes, mucuous membranes lining eyelids and cheeks is, of course diagnostic that the colouring matter of the bile is circulating throughout the system.The urine is usually deep yellow and very scanty, and the motions often clay-coloured and hard, though this latter condition is frequently absent, in fact diarrhœa present.This is particularly well marked in the so-called hepatic or bilious form of distemper.Gall-stones, when impacted in the bile-ducts, give rise to jaundice and colic pains.There is also a catarrhal condition of the bile-ducts that leads to the same jaundiced condition.As a considerable number of dogs succumb to this affection, very careful treatment is necessary. Linseed and mustard poultices over the region of the liver, and a hot bath, will often work miracles. Soda-water and milk should constitute the only nourishment for a few days, unless it be teaspoonful doses of Brand's Essence of Beef.A grain of calomel along with a quarter teaspoonful of sugar, night and morning for two or three days (until the bowels are open), will be found to do good in most instances. Further treatment can, with advantage, be left to the veterinarian, so much depending upon individual conditions.RUPTURESAlthough purely of a surgical nature, it may not be out of place to mention that any organ or tissue in any part of the body may be the seat of a rupture.Ruptures of the stomach (rare in the dog), bladder, liver, blood-vessels, bowels, muscles, etc., are of occasional occurrence.A very common rupture is that known as "umbilical," many puppies showing this swellingin the region of the navel. Frequently it disappears with increasing age. It is of little importance.Rupture of the wall of the belly and protrusion of the bowels, etc., is a serious condition, demanding immediate professional aid.This is equally applicable when the generative organs or perinæum are injured.Another form of rupture is that known as "inguinal," denoted by a variously-sized swelling in the region of the groin.In scrotal rupture the testicular sac is enlarged.
Disease of Gullet—Inflammation of Stomach—Twist and Intussusception of the Bowels—Inflammation of the Bowels—Vomiting—Worms—Diarrhœa—Dysentery—Hæmorrhage—Hæmorrhoids—Dyspepsia—Jaundice or Yellow—Ruptures.
GULLET
This begins at the back part of the mouth, the entrance into it is known as the pharynx, and ends at the stomach.
Stricture, or narrowing of the gullet, and injury to it, such as sometimes produced by the dog swallowing a sharp-pointed body, is not an uncommon accident.
External compression, such as the presence of a morbid growth in juxtaposition to the gullet, is capable of interfering with the functional use of the tube, thereby preventing the animal from swallowing properly.
Diseases of the gullet always demand the exercise of professional skill, and until this is obtained, nothing beyond trifling amounts of liquid nourishment ought to be given.
INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH (GASTRITIS)
Probably the most frequent cause of gastric inflammation in the dog is that arising through the ingestion of irritant poisons, such as arsenic, antimony, etc.
Less frequently an inflamed stomach is due to the presence of worms, or to the specific poison of distemper: in the latter case the areas of disease generally being of an extensive nature.
The chief symptoms of stomach inflammation are vomiting; pain in the belly; prostration; thirst, and other signs of the dog being in a critical condition.
Treatment must be in accordance with the cause.
TWIST OR STRANGULATION; AND INTUSSUSCEPTION OF THE BOWELS
Neither of these morbid conditions are of uncommon occurrence amongst dogs, more especially so in young dogs, but why this should be so, is difficult of explanation.
A twisted bowel is certainly not so frequently met with as a telescoped or intussuscepted one. In both cases inflammation is set up, chiefly confined to thearea involved, or in those parts in juxtaposition to the lesion.
Practically speaking, one issue is the rule in both cases, and that is death.
Spontaneous reduction is rare, and as the diagnosis is attended with difficulty, relief by operation seldom attempted.
The true nature of these bowel complaints is generally only revealed on after-death examination.
INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS
We have already alluded to this in the previous paragraph, but inflammation of the bowels also arises from other than the causes therein named.
In the author's opinion, the most frequent causes of this complaint in puppies are round-worms (Ascaris marginata).
To avoid puppies being troubled with these parasites, small quantities of lime-water are of service. A tablespoonful will be sufficient at once.
Teaspoonful doses of Brand's Essence of Beef constitutes one of the very best substances that can be used when vomition is troublesome, and later on the yolk of an egg, with the addition of a teaspoonful of brandy.
As a medicinal agent, bismuth is particularly useful,so that the following mixture should be obtained from the chemist:—
Mix. Dose: One tablespoonful every four hours until the vomiting ceases. For Terriers, etc., half this dose will suffice.
This mixture will be found specially suitable for the vomiting of distemper, and when arising from other causes, of a general nature. In case the dog has been poisoned or picked up some material of an objectionable nature, it may not be advisable to try and check the vomiting. Under these circumstances, it must be regarded as a salutary process. It is only when it becomes excessive that it is advisable to stop it.
Another very important matter when dealing with a case of excessive vomition, is that of keeping the dog as quiet as possible, together with the application of hot, dry flannels, applied over the belly for several hours at a time, and continued with until improvement sets in.
The bitch should be thoroughly dosed with worm medicine before she comes into season, otherwiserepeated purgation by worm medicine may have a prejudicial influence after service. Refusing to suck and crying from the pain in the belly are the surest indications of this condition in suckers. In adult dogs irritant poisons are not at all an uncommon cause of inflammation of the bowels. The specific poison of distemper is another cause. External injuries will produce it, and probably exposure to severe wet, such as lying on a damp kennel floor. Peritonitis is a frequent accompaniment. It is generally fatal, therefore the best of skill should be obtained. Hot fomentations and 15-to 20-drop doses of chlorodyne every three hours can be tried in the meantime.
VOMITING
The dog finds vomiting the readiest means of ejecting objectionable substances from within its stomach, and consequently many medicinal agents are conveniently—sometimes inconveniently—got rid of by this means.
Even this ready means does not safeguard our canine friends against death from the ingestion of various poisonous agents, though doubtless this prompt action of the stomach in response to stimulation of the vomiting centre in the brain, does confer a certain degree of immunity against toxic substances. Rapidity of absorption has an important bearing in this respect, such deadly agents as strychnine being absorbed bythe stomach, passing into the circulation to other vital organs in a very rapid manner.
During distemper, vomiting is common, its frequent repetition being an additional exhausting factor in this malady.
To avoid this, minute quantities of readily assimilable nourishment is essential.
When the ejected material is stained with blood or actually contains blood as blood, it points to ulceration of the lining membrane of the stomach—a condition of gravity.
Stoppage of the bowels is often followed by vomiting, and frequently brings on paralysis.
Treatment for Vomition.—Rest for the stomach is one of the first essentials of treatment. Nourishment must be given, and, if necessary, this can be in the form of nutrient enemas. (SeeClysters.)
Fatty substances, milk, vegetables, and solid food, must be rigidly excluded until such time as the organ has regained its tone and proper power of assimilating the nutritive pabulum supplied. Soda-water to drink and 20 grains of powdered bismuth three times a day, along with a tablespoonful of the soda-water. If dog is paralytic give it an enema.
WORMS
Although fairly common in other situations,worms are most frequently found infesting the intestines and stomach.
The cavities of the heart, nasal and respiratory passages, cranial cavity, and bile-duct are more rarely the seats of parasitic invasion in the dog. When the heart and respiratory tubes are affected, the parasites are of a minute, thread-like character, hence known asFilaria, or thread-worms.
The flat, lancet-shaped worm, sometimes found up the nose, is spoken of as a trematode; the round-worms in the stomach and bowels as nematodes; whilst the other long, flat, or tape-like worms, are calledTænia.
Very few dogs are entirely free from worms of one sort or another, though it is only when these become numerous that the dog shows signs of having these pests.
Gradual loss of condition, irregular appetite, irregular evacuations, harsh coat, sometimes vomiting, and increased redness of the membranes lining the eyelids, are the usual signs, significant of internal parasites. Positive proof is of course the passage of segments of tape-worms, or round-worms, either by vomiting, or in the evacuations.
Sneezing and a catarrhal discharge from the nose is generally present when the nasal passages are infested with the lancet-shaped worms already alluded to. An uncommon true blood-sucking worm (Spiropterasanguinolenta) is occasionally found in the stomach.
Newly-born puppies seem predisposed to become infected with round-worms, known asAscaris marginata, such infection taking place from the dam, hence the necessity for ridding her of worms, and the most suitable time to administer vermifuge medicine, in an efficacious manner, is prior to her coming in season.
With reference to the preventative measures against worm infestation, speaking practically, not a great deal can be done, the sources of infection being so varied. Feeding dogs on the viscera of animals must of course be condemned, and with the abolition of this practice so will diminish one source of infection. Many so-called worm specifics are now largely advertised, rival proprietors claiming superiority and even infallibility.
Some of these nostrums are given without fasting the dog, but said to be equally efficacious. This statement must be accepted with reservation, as all worm medicines act more energetically when the stomach and bowels are empty. Before administering worm medicine, it is advisable to fast adult dogs for twenty-four hours, but puppies should not be kept longer than fifteen hours without food.
Although an old, but well-tried remedy against both round and flat worms, areca nut still maintainsits position, and rightly so, because when given in suitable doses, and in accordance with the old rules, it seldom fails to give a satisfactory account of its action.
The freshly grated nut has advantages over the powder, more especially if the latter has been kept in stock for a considerable time, as usually happens where the demand for a certain drug is limited. When combined with santonin, its action on round-worms is greatly enhanced.
Areca nut, santonin, and male fern, are now all sold in capsular form, thus diminishing their nauseating effects.
The average dose of areca nut for such breeds as Pointers, Setters, Retrievers, Fox and other Hounds, is a drachm and a half, combined with 8 grains of santonin, and given as a bolus mixed with honey, treacle, etc., or in a little milk, though less liable to be vomited when given without any liquid.
About three hours afterwards give a full dose of castor oil.
Repeat weekly, for a month if needful. A course of tonic medicine may then follow, so as to brace up the constitution.
Such substances as powdered glass and other mechanical irritants ought to be avoided, being liable to set up gastro-enteritis. Powdered tin, glass, etc., belong to this class. Calomel, hellebore, pomegranatebark, spirit of turpentine, Barbadoes tar, garlic, wormwood, Kousso, Kamala, etc., have been, and still are, much used, and abused.
Whatever be the drug employed, it is advisable to isolate dog both before and after dosing, so that the results can be properly noted.
Through neglect of this precaution, many failures or indifferent results arise.
The indiscriminate employment of worm medicines is but too frequently resorted to, and may further deplete an already exhausted system.
In many instances, a course of iron and arsenic tonics, followed by cod-liver oil and malt, does more good than the administration of anti-worm remedies.
DIARRHŒA
Like almost every other animal, the dog is a frequent sufferer from a too loose condition of the evacuations, constituting diarrhœa.
A variety of causes are capable of bringing this about, but the presence of worms, cold, feeding on liver and other unsuitable foods, are, in all probability the most frequent causes.
During distemper, superpurgation is a frequent sign, calling for active but well-regulated treatment to control it.
It must be borne in mind that this excessive dischargeof liquid fæces is but symptomatic of derangement of the stomach, bowels, or digestive glands, and that it can only be successfully treated when viewed in this light, the administration of diarrhœa mixtures being often a failure, because these facts are ignored.
A little careful consideration will often determine the cause, the discharge ceasing with its removal.
In other instances it can only be conjectured, treatment becoming speculative.
Boiled rice and milk, arrowroot and milk, to which two or three tablespoonfuls of port wine has been added, constitutes suitable dietary whilst the evacuations are in a fluid, or semi-fluid state.
When arising through a chill, or the animal becoming overheated, the following mixture can, with benefit, be used:—
Mix, and give 25 drops three times per day, along with a tablespoonful of cold arrowroot gruel.
Diarrhœa arising through the irritation of unsuitable food in the stomach and bowels must be treated as follows:—
1. Give a full dose of castor oil, along with 20 drops of laudanum.
2. After this has had time to work itself out, follow up with doses of the diarrhœa mixture, as sold by chemists for the human subject.
DYSENTERY
When diarrhœa is allowed to continue, it is liable to end with dysenteric symptoms, the lower end of the bowel becoming implicated, producing bloodstained evacuations, or the disease may be of a specific nature from the beginning.
No matter how arising, dysentery is an exhausting disease, and one that demands prompt treatment for its alleviation.
Internally, powdered ipecacuanha is the best remedy, and it should be given.
First give an injection of tepid water (½ to 1½ pints) to wash out the bowel, and then administer from 5 to 20 grains of the above drug, mixed with the same quantity of bicarbonate of soda, in a tablespoonful of honey and water. Repeat in eight hours.
Give no food, and keep dog very quiet for next twenty-four hours.
Injections of starch gruel and laudanum are often very useful for dysentery, and can be used twice daily.
Twenty to 60 drops of laudanum may be added to a couple of tablespoonfuls of tepid boiled starch, then injected into the lower end of the bowel by means of a vulcanite, glass, or ball syringe.
Particular attention must, of course, be paid to the animal's diet.
Nothing but farinaceous foods should be allowed unless it be Brand's Essence, or some stimulating liquid, such as bovril or Oxo, to which isinglass has been added. If pain severe, apply hot poultices to the belly.
HÆMORRHAGE
Loss of blood may arise either from within or without the body, be of varying amount, and either arterial, venous, or capillary.
Excessive hæmorrhage is of course always injurious, but its gravity is greater when issuing from some vital part, such as the lungs, stomach, kidneys, cranium, etc.
In lung hæmorrhage the blood is coughed up, and of a bright-red colour—fresh blood.
When coming from the stomach it is generally intermingled with the vomited material.
If issuing from the urinary apparatus, it is either mingled with the urine, so as to stain this fluid, or passed as blood at the end of the act of urination.
In the latter case, it will most probably be coming from the bladder, or the kidneys.
Hæmorrhage from the bowels is passed along with the stools, or immediately following the act of defecation, as frequently happens in piles.
Rupture of the heart, or the larger vessels gives rise to a rapid and fatal hæmorrhage.
The treatment, with a view to arrest the bleeding, will of course depend upon the conditions through which it has been brought about.
If from without,e.g., a wound, the bleeding vessel ought to be ligatured, or else have a compress fastened on so as to exercise sufficient pressure upon and above the injured vessel.
When bleeding is due to small blood-vessels having been torn, tincture of steel, Friar's Balsam, etc., will sometimes be sufficient to arrest it.
Cold water, or an ice compress is equally useful. When blood comes from the lungs,e.g., a gunshot wound in this region, there is generally a certain amount of bronchial irritation, so that the dog must be kept warm. Have ice compresses applied to the chest, and 15 grains of gallic acid given three times a day. If this fails, Adrenalin Tablets can be tried.
HÆMORRHOIDS (PILES)
The dog, like other animals, is liable to suffer from piles, causing it considerable discomfiture. The disease may be external, or internal. External piles consist of enlarged veins, the result of a sluggish circulation, and are more frequently seen in ladies' lap-dogs, or those leading an indolent and useless existence. Internal piles generally cause bleeding and pain during defecation, and are often seen protruding during the latter act.
Exercise, a liver laxative, such as 1 to 4 of Carter's Little Liver Pills now and then, with the application of a little gallic acid ointment, constitutes the safest treatment that the amateur can adopt.
DYSPEPSIA (INDIGESTION)
Although the dog has remarkable powers of digesting such apparently insoluble substances as bones, etc., he, like most other animals, is a frequent sufferer from digestive disturbance, though this derangement of the digestive organs is certainly of more frequent occurrence amongst dogs leading inactive lives.
Probably the most frequent cause of dyspeptic symptoms are the various forms of worms, so prevalent amongst dogs.
Following this as a cause, decayed teeth are liable to provoke it, whilst prolonged feeding on unsuitable food, over, under, and irregular feeding, are equally fruitful sources of mischief to the digestive apparatus.
General unthriftiness, want of energy, and a morbid appetite, together with foul breath, are the leading features of disordered digestion.
It must be borne in mind, however, that the digestive organs are frequently in a perverted condition through disease in other parts, such as the heart,kidneys, liver, etc., and can only be regulated for proper assimilation when treatment is directed towards the mischief, in connection with any of the foregoing organs.
Most suitable food is that containing a due proportion of flesh and carbohydrate; therefore a mixture of boiled paunch and boiled rice will meet this end.
Feed the dog regularly, and give no more than the dictates of common sense suggest as sufficient for the size of the dog. Give extract of malt daily.
Hounds and other sporting dogs should not be allowed to eat as much as they like, no matter however hard they may have been working.
If sickness is a troublesome symptom, it will generally be advisable to give the dog a dose of worm medicine. Should the results be negative, give one of the following powders night and morning.
Mix and divide into one dozen powders, giving in their dry state, by placing on the back of the tongue.
Any loose or carious teeth ought to be removed, and a dose of compound liquorice powder given occasionally to regulate the bowels.
From a quarter to one teaspoonful of this powder will be a suitable dose.
Should there be no improvement in the animal's condition, it will be advisable to obtain skilled advice—not such as is frequently offered by unqualified canine specialists, or others of this class professing a knowledge of "all pertaining to the doggy world."
JAUNDICE
Affections of the liver, or when the secretion or excretion of bile is perverted, the symptom known as jaundice results.
Very few people are unacquainted with the characteristic yellow colouration of the skin and visible mucous membranes.
The word "jaundice" comes from the French "jaune," yellow, and "icterus," a Greek word for golden thrush.
The yellow colour of the skin, white of eyes, mucuous membranes lining eyelids and cheeks is, of course diagnostic that the colouring matter of the bile is circulating throughout the system.
The urine is usually deep yellow and very scanty, and the motions often clay-coloured and hard, though this latter condition is frequently absent, in fact diarrhœa present.
This is particularly well marked in the so-called hepatic or bilious form of distemper.
Gall-stones, when impacted in the bile-ducts, give rise to jaundice and colic pains.
There is also a catarrhal condition of the bile-ducts that leads to the same jaundiced condition.
As a considerable number of dogs succumb to this affection, very careful treatment is necessary. Linseed and mustard poultices over the region of the liver, and a hot bath, will often work miracles. Soda-water and milk should constitute the only nourishment for a few days, unless it be teaspoonful doses of Brand's Essence of Beef.
A grain of calomel along with a quarter teaspoonful of sugar, night and morning for two or three days (until the bowels are open), will be found to do good in most instances. Further treatment can, with advantage, be left to the veterinarian, so much depending upon individual conditions.
RUPTURES
Although purely of a surgical nature, it may not be out of place to mention that any organ or tissue in any part of the body may be the seat of a rupture.
Ruptures of the stomach (rare in the dog), bladder, liver, blood-vessels, bowels, muscles, etc., are of occasional occurrence.
A very common rupture is that known as "umbilical," many puppies showing this swellingin the region of the navel. Frequently it disappears with increasing age. It is of little importance.
Rupture of the wall of the belly and protrusion of the bowels, etc., is a serious condition, demanding immediate professional aid.
This is equally applicable when the generative organs or perinæum are injured.
Another form of rupture is that known as "inguinal," denoted by a variously-sized swelling in the region of the groin.
In scrotal rupture the testicular sac is enlarged.
CHAPTER XXIPoisons and their RemediesPoisoning by Arsenic—By Antimony—Strychnine—Phosphorus—Rat and Other Vermin-Killers—By Lead—Mercury—Ptomaine PoisoningPOISONING BY ARSENICVery small quantities of this drug are capable of bringing on a fatal inflammation of the stomach and bowels, and it is only prescribed in the most minute doses.Fowler's Solution of Arsenic is the compound generally selected for administration of the drug in the liquid form, the average dose of it for the larger sporting dogs being 10 drops. Arsenious acid or white arsenic is an extremely cheap compound, and one that enters largely into the composition of many sheep-dips, a fact that it may be worth while to bear in mind should a dog be poisoned in a manner, suspiciously regarded.This same poison is not uncommonly used for the destruction of rats and other vermin, though thefacilities for obtaining it are, to a great extent, a barrier against its frequent employment for such purposes.Arsenic is a corrosive and irritant poison, producing vomiting, dysentery, acute pain within the belly, thirst, prostration, and a speedy but painful death.As a rule, dogs poisoned by arsenic die, only the mildest forms making recovery.Under any circumstances it is advisable to seek the assistance of a M.R.C.V.S., acting in accordance with his instructions.In the absence of professional aid, provided the animal is not too much exhausted, an emetic should be given, and for this purpose there is nothing more suitable than 20 grains of white vitriol (sulphate of zinc), or the same quantity of blue vitriol (sulphate of copper), mixed with a couple of tablespoonfuls of tepid water. If neither of these agents are handy, use mustard, salt, and water.Teaspoonful doses of brandy, mixed with the same quantity of olive or salad oil, can be given at frequent intervals.Twenty-drop doses of chlorodyne, may be added if the pain is severe.Hot fomentations to the belly will do good.ANTIMONYThe compound of this element most commonly in use for medicinal purposes is that known as tartaremetic—an exceedingly active poison. Minute doses are sometimes prescribed in order to induce vomiting, and in bronchial complaints to produce expectoration.The symptoms and treatment are practically on a par with those laid down for arsenic. Vomiting and extreme depression of the vital powers are specially significant symptoms.Both arsenic and antimony have their special antidotes, though even these are of very doubtful efficacy.STRYCHNINEAlthough a difficult poison to procure from any source, it is surprising the number of dogs that are annually poisoned by this agent.In appearance, strychnine is a harmless-looking crystalline (or powdered) white solid, the most minute particles readily inducing muscular spasms and death.Strychnine also occurs in the form of a buff-coloured powder, known as nux vomica, the alkaloid or active principle being strychnine.Many gamekeepers make use of strychnine for destroying such birds as hooded crows, etc.Farmers now and then soak maize in a solution of strychnine, in order to destroy crows in a wholesale manner.We merely mention these facts, as showing the various sources from which a dog might accidentally get poisoned.In a very few minutes after swallowing strychnine the dog becomes convulsed all over. The muscular spasms may completely render the dog paralytic; in fact, this usually happens. Quick and laboured breathing is soon followed by complete collapse.So rapidly does strychnine—especially if the dog has taken a few grains—produce death, that there is seldom much chance for the employment of remedial agents, or to call professional assistance.If there seems reasonable hopes of recovery, call in a qualified veterinary surgeon at once. Twenty grains of chloral hydrate, 25 grains each of potassium, iodide and bromide, in water, can be used in the meantime.PHOSPHORUSIt is hardly necessary to go beyond mentioning the possibility of poisoning by this agent.It is a constituent of so-called "phosphor paste" largely used for the destruction of vermin, such as rats and mice.Dogs have been known to partake of it, usually ending in death.A most important matter is to avoid giving the dog any oily substances, if poisoned by this element.RAT AND OTHER VERMIN KILLERSWe have already spoken of phosphorus being the active agent in some of these compounds. Bariumand arsenic are likewise employed. Most of these being proprietary articles, their exact composition is not of any particular interest.Sickness, thirst, severe pain and prostration, are chief amongst the symptoms produced by such agents.Empty stomach with an emetic; give small doses of brandy in water, along with 40 grains of carbonate of bismuth, every three hours, or oftener.Keep dog quiet, and apply hot dry flannels to the belly continuously.LEADThe most likely method for lead-poisoning to occur in a dog is through the animal licking paint, or drinking out of a leaden vessel.It is an uncommon form of poisoning in the dog. Lead poisoning can be either "acute" or "chronic," and is denoted by colicky pains, constipation and a blue line around the gums. Paralysis and other nervo-muscular signs supervene.Give half an ounce of Epsom's salts until bowels are freely open, and later on, 5 grains of iodide of potash night and morning.Warm fomentations to belly.MERCURYMercurial poisoning but seldom occurs, and when it does, it is chiefly the result of the continued medicinal use of the drug, or as an over-dose.Dogs seem particularly susceptible to the action of mercurial compounds, so that this drug requires to be given with circumspection.An excessive discharge of saliva from the mouth and loosening of the teeth are amongst the most prominent signs.PTOMAINE POISONINGTo this class belongs various organic poisons produced in food substances (fish, etc.), as the result of fermentative changes, arising through the presence of bacteria or other minute living organisms.Although cases of ptomaine poisoning are more frequently met with in the human subject, there is a possibility of the occurrence of such in the dog.Empty stomach with an emetic, say 20 grains of white vitriol and given in two tablespoonfuls of tepid water.CHAPTER XXIIDiseases of the Urinary OrgansDisease of the Kidneys—Stone in the Bladder—Inflammation of the Bladder—Stricture of the UrethraDISEASE OF THE KIDNEYSOne or both of the kidneys may be the seat of acute or of chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation of the kidneys is not uncommonly the result of stone, or gravel, accumulating within what is called the "pelvis" of the kidney.Under these circumstances, the dog suffers great discomfiture in passing his water, the latter being ejected in very small quantities, and it is generally stained with blood.In some instances a single stone will occupy the whole of the pelvis of the kidney, destroying its functions, whereas in other cases the particles of stone are small, or even gritty, rendering them extremely liable to wander into other portions of the urinary tract.Abscess of the kidney is induced by the presence of injecting material gaining admission.Severe pain during urination, bloody-coloured urine passed in drops, loss of condition and tenderness across the loins, are some of the more prominent signs of this malady. If there is the least suspicion as to the presence of this complaint, consult a M.R.C.V.S.In the meantime, if the animal is in pain, give 30 drops of laudanum, in a little water, or, as a substitute, 20 drops of chlorodyne. Avoid giving the dog much liquid, but easily-digested solid food, such as rice, boiled chicken, etc.STONE IN THE BLADDERThe dog is not uncommonly a sufferer from stone in the bladder, the writer having seen the whole cavity practically obliterated by the presence of one or more calculi.Considerable numbers have been removed by operation.When there are a number of calculi in the bladder, the rubbing of one against another causes the faces of them to become very smooth.Calculi vary in size, hardness, weight, shape, and position; likewise are more frequent in dogs than bitches.The chief indications of stone in the bladder are the passage of small quantities of urine at very frequent intervals, often bloodstained.For the relief of this condition, surgical aid is necessary.INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDERThis arises through chemical, mechanical, and specific causes.To the first class belong certain drugs; to the second, stone; whilst the third class includes the germs of distemper, blood-poisoning, etc., and the extension of inflammation from adjacent parts.It may also occur as the sequel to an operation for stone in this organ.The urine is passed in drops, and the dog is in considerable pain, more so when the parts in this region are pressed. It is generally fatal.STRICTUREThe urethra is a tube leading from the bladder to the exterior, serving for the passage of the urine.Sometimes it is the seat of obstruction or stricture,i.e., a narrowing of it.Congestion, spasmodic contraction, and organic changes are the principal causes.The chief sign is the passage of urine in drops, together with pain.Give a hot bath, 20-drop doses of chlorodyne in a little water, and consult a qualified veterinary surgeon.
Poisoning by Arsenic—By Antimony—Strychnine—Phosphorus—Rat and Other Vermin-Killers—By Lead—Mercury—Ptomaine Poisoning
POISONING BY ARSENIC
Very small quantities of this drug are capable of bringing on a fatal inflammation of the stomach and bowels, and it is only prescribed in the most minute doses.
Fowler's Solution of Arsenic is the compound generally selected for administration of the drug in the liquid form, the average dose of it for the larger sporting dogs being 10 drops. Arsenious acid or white arsenic is an extremely cheap compound, and one that enters largely into the composition of many sheep-dips, a fact that it may be worth while to bear in mind should a dog be poisoned in a manner, suspiciously regarded.
This same poison is not uncommonly used for the destruction of rats and other vermin, though thefacilities for obtaining it are, to a great extent, a barrier against its frequent employment for such purposes.
Arsenic is a corrosive and irritant poison, producing vomiting, dysentery, acute pain within the belly, thirst, prostration, and a speedy but painful death.
As a rule, dogs poisoned by arsenic die, only the mildest forms making recovery.
Under any circumstances it is advisable to seek the assistance of a M.R.C.V.S., acting in accordance with his instructions.
In the absence of professional aid, provided the animal is not too much exhausted, an emetic should be given, and for this purpose there is nothing more suitable than 20 grains of white vitriol (sulphate of zinc), or the same quantity of blue vitriol (sulphate of copper), mixed with a couple of tablespoonfuls of tepid water. If neither of these agents are handy, use mustard, salt, and water.
Teaspoonful doses of brandy, mixed with the same quantity of olive or salad oil, can be given at frequent intervals.
Twenty-drop doses of chlorodyne, may be added if the pain is severe.
Hot fomentations to the belly will do good.
ANTIMONY
The compound of this element most commonly in use for medicinal purposes is that known as tartaremetic—an exceedingly active poison. Minute doses are sometimes prescribed in order to induce vomiting, and in bronchial complaints to produce expectoration.
The symptoms and treatment are practically on a par with those laid down for arsenic. Vomiting and extreme depression of the vital powers are specially significant symptoms.
Both arsenic and antimony have their special antidotes, though even these are of very doubtful efficacy.
STRYCHNINE
Although a difficult poison to procure from any source, it is surprising the number of dogs that are annually poisoned by this agent.
In appearance, strychnine is a harmless-looking crystalline (or powdered) white solid, the most minute particles readily inducing muscular spasms and death.
Strychnine also occurs in the form of a buff-coloured powder, known as nux vomica, the alkaloid or active principle being strychnine.
Many gamekeepers make use of strychnine for destroying such birds as hooded crows, etc.
Farmers now and then soak maize in a solution of strychnine, in order to destroy crows in a wholesale manner.
We merely mention these facts, as showing the various sources from which a dog might accidentally get poisoned.
In a very few minutes after swallowing strychnine the dog becomes convulsed all over. The muscular spasms may completely render the dog paralytic; in fact, this usually happens. Quick and laboured breathing is soon followed by complete collapse.
So rapidly does strychnine—especially if the dog has taken a few grains—produce death, that there is seldom much chance for the employment of remedial agents, or to call professional assistance.
If there seems reasonable hopes of recovery, call in a qualified veterinary surgeon at once. Twenty grains of chloral hydrate, 25 grains each of potassium, iodide and bromide, in water, can be used in the meantime.
PHOSPHORUS
It is hardly necessary to go beyond mentioning the possibility of poisoning by this agent.
It is a constituent of so-called "phosphor paste" largely used for the destruction of vermin, such as rats and mice.
Dogs have been known to partake of it, usually ending in death.
A most important matter is to avoid giving the dog any oily substances, if poisoned by this element.
RAT AND OTHER VERMIN KILLERS
We have already spoken of phosphorus being the active agent in some of these compounds. Bariumand arsenic are likewise employed. Most of these being proprietary articles, their exact composition is not of any particular interest.
Sickness, thirst, severe pain and prostration, are chief amongst the symptoms produced by such agents.
Empty stomach with an emetic; give small doses of brandy in water, along with 40 grains of carbonate of bismuth, every three hours, or oftener.
Keep dog quiet, and apply hot dry flannels to the belly continuously.
LEAD
The most likely method for lead-poisoning to occur in a dog is through the animal licking paint, or drinking out of a leaden vessel.
It is an uncommon form of poisoning in the dog. Lead poisoning can be either "acute" or "chronic," and is denoted by colicky pains, constipation and a blue line around the gums. Paralysis and other nervo-muscular signs supervene.
Give half an ounce of Epsom's salts until bowels are freely open, and later on, 5 grains of iodide of potash night and morning.
Warm fomentations to belly.
MERCURY
Mercurial poisoning but seldom occurs, and when it does, it is chiefly the result of the continued medicinal use of the drug, or as an over-dose.
Dogs seem particularly susceptible to the action of mercurial compounds, so that this drug requires to be given with circumspection.
An excessive discharge of saliva from the mouth and loosening of the teeth are amongst the most prominent signs.
PTOMAINE POISONING
To this class belongs various organic poisons produced in food substances (fish, etc.), as the result of fermentative changes, arising through the presence of bacteria or other minute living organisms.
Although cases of ptomaine poisoning are more frequently met with in the human subject, there is a possibility of the occurrence of such in the dog.
Empty stomach with an emetic, say 20 grains of white vitriol and given in two tablespoonfuls of tepid water.
Disease of the Kidneys—Stone in the Bladder—Inflammation of the Bladder—Stricture of the Urethra
DISEASE OF THE KIDNEYS
One or both of the kidneys may be the seat of acute or of chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation of the kidneys is not uncommonly the result of stone, or gravel, accumulating within what is called the "pelvis" of the kidney.
Under these circumstances, the dog suffers great discomfiture in passing his water, the latter being ejected in very small quantities, and it is generally stained with blood.
In some instances a single stone will occupy the whole of the pelvis of the kidney, destroying its functions, whereas in other cases the particles of stone are small, or even gritty, rendering them extremely liable to wander into other portions of the urinary tract.
Abscess of the kidney is induced by the presence of injecting material gaining admission.
Severe pain during urination, bloody-coloured urine passed in drops, loss of condition and tenderness across the loins, are some of the more prominent signs of this malady. If there is the least suspicion as to the presence of this complaint, consult a M.R.C.V.S.
In the meantime, if the animal is in pain, give 30 drops of laudanum, in a little water, or, as a substitute, 20 drops of chlorodyne. Avoid giving the dog much liquid, but easily-digested solid food, such as rice, boiled chicken, etc.
STONE IN THE BLADDER
The dog is not uncommonly a sufferer from stone in the bladder, the writer having seen the whole cavity practically obliterated by the presence of one or more calculi.
Considerable numbers have been removed by operation.
When there are a number of calculi in the bladder, the rubbing of one against another causes the faces of them to become very smooth.
Calculi vary in size, hardness, weight, shape, and position; likewise are more frequent in dogs than bitches.
The chief indications of stone in the bladder are the passage of small quantities of urine at very frequent intervals, often bloodstained.
For the relief of this condition, surgical aid is necessary.
INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER
This arises through chemical, mechanical, and specific causes.
To the first class belong certain drugs; to the second, stone; whilst the third class includes the germs of distemper, blood-poisoning, etc., and the extension of inflammation from adjacent parts.
It may also occur as the sequel to an operation for stone in this organ.
The urine is passed in drops, and the dog is in considerable pain, more so when the parts in this region are pressed. It is generally fatal.
STRICTURE
The urethra is a tube leading from the bladder to the exterior, serving for the passage of the urine.
Sometimes it is the seat of obstruction or stricture,i.e., a narrowing of it.
Congestion, spasmodic contraction, and organic changes are the principal causes.
The chief sign is the passage of urine in drops, together with pain.
Give a hot bath, 20-drop doses of chlorodyne in a little water, and consult a qualified veterinary surgeon.