Cause.—Irritations or injuries to the ear. Washing
dogs with irritating soap and not properly drying them
causes dogs to have an itchy sensation which they constantly
aggravate by scratching the ear with the paw
and shaking the head and flopping the ears violently,
resulting in this disease.
Symptoms.—The dog will be noticed carrying the
head to one side and shaking it frequently in a violent
manner. It will also scratch the ear with the paw involuntarily.
When the inner surface of the ear is carefully
examined it will be found extremely swollen and have an
abnormal appearance, will be stiff and extend out from
the head. Great heat and pain will be evinced when
pressure is applied. The puffy swelling inside the ear
will contain a serous fluid which is very offensive in odor.
Treatment.—With a clean, sharp knife open the
abscess and allow the bloody fluid to escape. Then dress
the wound twice a day with clean cotton and a solution
made from Tincture of Iodine, one dram, to one-half
ounce of water. To prevent the dog from scratching
and flopping the ears, which would cause further irritation,
bind the ears to the head by means of a bandage or
hood. Feed clean, wholesome, laxative food and compel
him to exercise, as good physical condition and clean surroundings
assist materially in healing wounds of the
flesh.
Cause.—Congestion or rupture of the blood vessels
of the brain, which causes a sudden arrest of sense and
motion, the dog lying as if in a deep sleep. It seldom
attacks young, but occurs frequently in fat dogs, especially
if aged and not accustomed to exercise.
Symptoms.—They are very hard to detect, as the
dog generally becomes unconscious before any violent
symptoms are noticed, but there is generally unsteadiness
in the walk, dizziness, deafness, blindness, constipation,
etc., preceding an attack, but only a careful observer
will notice them.
Treatment.—As this is a very dangerous disease,
no time should be lost. The first thing is to relieve the
head from the accumulation of blood to prevent further
congestion and avoid inflammatory action. To accomplish
this place the head well up and apply cold to the
head by means of pounded ice in a cloth bag. Loosen
the collar around the neck and apply hot packs to the
feet to induce the flow of blood to the lower extremities.
Also give a physic consisting of one to two grains of
Calomel. After the dog recovers from the fit great care
will be required to prevent a second attack. The diet
should be light and nutritious. Always avoid feeding
too large a quantity at one time, to prevent overloading
of the stomach. Also avoid excitement or excessive
exercise on a hot day. A cathartic as Calomel should be
administered when a dog shows any signs of constipation.
Cause.—In some instances I believe it is hereditary,
although in others no influence of this nature can be discovered.
This affection frequently follows organic diseases
of the chest. The spasms of difficult breathing
may be directly due to irritants inspired into the lungs,
such as smoke, gas, or dust and cold air containing infectious
matter. Overfeeding frequently produces this
condition, as an abnormal distention of the stomach
presses against the lungs and causes them to become
inactive and spasmodic contraction of the muscular fibers
of the bronchial tubes follows. Dogs with narrow chest
cavities are predisposed to asthma, which condition is
hereditary.
Symptoms.—This disease is attended with difficulty
of breathing and a sensation of constriction of the chest,
giving rise to wheezing, coughing and general nervousness.
The animal becomes emaciated, the hair has a
rough, faded appearance, although it will continue to eat
well. Constipation is generally associated with this disease.
Treatment.—Place the animal in clean, comfortable
surroundings, exercise carefully as violent exercise
would tend to aggravate the disease. Feed sparingly
on nitrogenous food that is easily digested; also administer
Fowler’s Solution of Arsenic, four drops, twice daily.
This can be placed on the food, as the dog will take it
readily. If the bowels are constipated, give one to two
tablespoonfuls of Castor Oil. Good care and careful
feeding play a very important part in the treatment of
asthma.
Cause.—Either the extreme of overfeeding and insufficient
exercise or of overworking and insufficient
supply of food. Contraction of the neck of the womb or
atrophy of the ovaries may produce barrenness. There
are also other conditions that produce failure to breed,
such as inflammation or growths in the womb or ovaries,
leucorrhea, etc.
Symptoms.—If due to Leucorrhea there will be a
white, glary discharge from the vagina, which looks like
curdled milk. It sometimes accumulates in the uterus
and comes away in large quantities and there is a fetid
smell. The animal generally becomes debilitated. In
other cases, where there is a contraction of the womb or
atrophy of the ovaries, no abnormal conditions will be
noticed except that the animal fails to conceive when
bred.
Treatment.—Use both local and constitutional
treatment. Feed sparingly on nitrogenous food that
is easily digested. Allow to exercise moderately and
the bitch may become fertile, if no morbid conditions are
present. If the animal is constipated administer one to
two ounces of Castor Oil and if in a run-down, debilitated
condition give Pulv. Nux Vomica, Pulv. Ginger Root,
Pulv. Ferri Sulphate, each one dram. Make into thirty-two
capsules and give one capsule three times daily.
Cause.—Sudden change of temperature, etc., choking,
drenching, inhalations of irritating material as certain
vapors, dust, etc., containing infectious material;
accumulations of gas in the stomach containing particles
of food may be regurgitated up into the esophagus frequently
producing bronchitis.
Symptoms.—The chief symptoms consist of fever,
hurried breathing with a sense of tightness about the
chest, but not always acute pain. The cough is severe
and dry at first, but later expectoration commences. The
discharge that is raised from the bronchial tubes at first
is a clear, thin mucus, but afterwards it becomes thicker,
more abundant and purulent. It is difficult for persons
not accustomed to examining the chest to always distinguish
the disease from pneumonia, if the case is one
of severity. In mild cases the symptoms need not
usually occasion much alarm.
Treatment.—This disease may be prevented frequently
by giving five to ten grains of Dover’s Powder
as soon as it is discovered that the dog has taken a cold.
It is best given in the evening then placing the dog in a
warm bed; also give some warm stimulants to drink as
Tincture of Capsicum, five to fifteen drops in a teaspoonful
of luke warm water. In the morning, give one
to two grains of Calomel. If the above does not cut
the disease short, then keep the dog confined to warm
quarters and give inhalations of steam from hot water
and Turpentine. For the cough, which is usually troublesome,
give the following mixture: Potassium Chlorate,
one dram; Liquor Ammonia Acetate, three ounces;
Vini Ipecac, two drams; Tincture of Camph. Co., one-half
ounce; Aqua Chloroform, quantity sufficient to
make four ounces. Give one to two teaspoonfuls three
or four times daily. Also feed nutritious food that is
easily digested and permit the animal to have access to
pure cold water.
There is considerable difference in the extent of injury
from the burns produced by hot vapors, fluids, etc.
In some cases, which are only superficial, there will be
slight inflammation or redness produced, while in others
the burn may be of severity and cause the death of the
skin, followed by sloughing.
Treatment.—For Burns and Scalds of ordinary
severity, I have derived excellent results from equal
parts of Raw Linseed Oil and Lime Water, as it removes
the soreness and restores the part to its normal
condition. In cases where the skin is sloughed off, in addition
to the above recommended, dust with Boracic
Acid, two ounces; Corn Starch, two ounces; Tannic
Acid, one-half ounce; Iodoform, two drams. Mix and
powder finely. Place in sifter top can and apply two
or three times daily to the moist, sloughing surface.
Cause.—Filth and dust, especially in long-eared
hunting dogs, as the inner surface of the ear becomes
dirty and damp from wading streams and running
through tall, wet grass. This condition is not serious
at first, but it will irritate the dog so as to cause him to
shake his head and scratch the ear with his paw. Permit
no filth to enter the ear as this will assist to develop a
Canker, which becomes very painful.
Symptoms.—The dog shakes the head violently and
scratches the ears with the paw and even howls from the
severe pain produced. The ears will be moist and have
a poked-out appearance, due to the swelling. As the
disease progresses, there will be a very disagreeable discharge
from the ear that can be very easily detected some
distance from the animal. Ulceration eventually follows,
affecting the internal structure of the ear, which
condition is very difficult to treat.
Treatment.—Remove the cause, if possible. Then
inject ten to fifteen drops of the following solution:
Mild Chloride of Mercury, fifteen grains; Lime Water,
four ounces. Shake well and apply to the ear as above
mentioned two to three times a day. Place a small
piece of cotton in the ear after each injection. Also
place a hood over the ears or bandage them down with
a cloth.
Cause.—The most common, perhaps, is exposure,
especially after a dog has been used to warm closed
quarters. Dogs used for hunting purposes, when in a
poor condition, with their system weakened, are often
victims of Catarrh.
Symptoms.—Slight dullness. May not take food
very well, hair standing to some extent, pulse not much
affected, throat becomes sore. After the congestion
passes off, exudation takes place, followed by discharge
and it may be very profuse, but it need not alarm you.
There is generally impaired secretion of urine, but
breathing not much affected in most cases. We also
have a discharge from the nose in other diseases, such
as Distemper, Bronchitis, Pneumonia, etc.
Treatment.—The treatment should be constitutional
as well as local. Place the animal in clean, well-ventilated
quarters; feed good nourishing food, which is
quite important. The following prescription is very
beneficial in suppressing the secretion from the nostrils:
Ferri Hypophosphitis, five grains; Quinine Sulphate,
three grains; Pulv. Nux Vomica, two drams; Arsenous
Acid, one-half grain. Make into twelve capsules and
give one capsule two or three times a day. Give inhalations
of steam from hot water and Oil of Eucalyptus for
one-half hour twice daily. Permit the dog to exercise
if the weather is favorable. If constipated give rectal
injections and feed laxative food. Avoid giving physics
in Catarrh, especially if there is fever present.
Cause.—Due to an irritation of the nervous system.
It is especially associated with debility, although it may
follow constitutional diseases, such as Distemper, etc.
It is sometimes caused by a direct injury to the brain
or spinal cord.
Symptoms.—A continuous twitching of the muscles
which is noticeable even though the animal sleeps. The
muscles of the head may be affected, or those of one or
both fore limbs or of a hind limb. An animal affected
with Chorea will show an unsteady gait when walking
and usually becomes very poor, although it will have a
very good appetite at all times.
Treatment.—In severe cases the dog will not, as a
rule, respond to treatment. In milder cases, if taken in
hand early, improvement may be brought about, but
seldom a complete recovery. Many drugs have been
tried in the treatment of Chorea, but the superiority of
one medicine over another has not been practically demonstrated.
Fowler’s Solution of Arsenic given in from
two to eight drop doses has been tried in a large number
of cases and in my experience it has given the best results.
The drug should be given at first in small doses
and gradually increased as tolerance is established. If
the physiological action of the Arsenic becomes manifested
it should be discontinued for a few days. In
severe cases, Sedatives are indicated. Of these, either
Bromide of Potassi or Sodii should be given in ten to
twenty grain doses, prepared in gelatin capsules and
administered three or four times a day. Attention to
the digestive organs and to the diet is necessary during
the treatment. If the dog is constipated one or two
tablespoonfuls of Castor Oil should be administered.
Feed nitrogenous food that is easily digested and provide
comfortable sleeping quarters.
Cause.—Worms, indigestible or decomposed irritating
food, compaction or obstruction, calculus, strictures
of the intestines or it may be due to liver complication
and animals swallowing sharp bones, etc. Several forms
of poisoning may produce Colic.
Symptoms.—The dog evinces severe abdominal pain,
usually with constipation and often vomiting. As a
rule, there is no fever or quickness of the pulse. The
pain, which is spasmodic, is relieved on pressure as the
dog prefers to lie on his abdomen in many instances.
The dog frequently eats green grass as this causes him
to vomit, which is nature’s method of relieving the digestive
tract of irritating material.
Treatment.—In cases which are not very severe,
the application of hot cloths to the abdomen frequently
affords relief. Ginger, ten to twenty grains, dissolved
in a teaspoonful of water may relieve a mild attack, but
when the above treatment fails the following is recommended:
Fluid Extract of Cannabis Indica, one dram;
Chloroform, one dram; Tincture of Capsicum, ten
drops; Oil of Peppermint, ten drops; Morphine, three
grains; water, quantity sufficient to make one fluid
ounce. Give ten to fifteen drops every hour, if necessary.
A physic is indicated in the majority of cases of
Colic for the purpose of removing irritants or obstructions
from the intestines. Calomel, one to two grains,
is a very efficient drug, while Castor Oil is given with
great difficulty and it should be administered only where
diarrhoea is a complication of Colic. Rectal injections
of warm water is very beneficial in the treatment of intestinal
obstructions. It is good practice to give a dog
some vermifuge after an attack of Colic, as worms frequently
produce it.
Cause.—Insufficient exercise, overfeeding or feeding
decomposed or irritating foods. Dogs are predisposed
to indigestion as they frequently swallow a large
quantity of indigestible food without masticating it.
Poor care and exposure to cold also frequently produce
Constipation.
Symptoms.—Constipation is often a complication of
other diseases, the feces is dry-looking and may be more
or less covered with a mucus. A prominent symptom
is straining, attempts to defecate, the appetite is greatly
impaired, the dog acts dull and stands with the head
down or goes off to some quiet place and lies down.
Protrusion of the rectum or piles may occur, especially
if the animal has eaten freely of dry, indigestible food.
Colicky pains are sometimes manifested. Constipation
occurring from causes other than a complication of diseases
seldom takes on a serious form.
Treatment.—When a dog becomes constipated, all
dry, indigestible food should be withheld. A soft, easily
digested diet should be fed sparingly and a liberal supply
of water allowed. In some cases it is well to exercise
the dog. A physic of two to four ounces of Castor
Oil should be given, but overdosing with physics avoided.
The action of the physic should be assisted by injecting
into the rectum warm, soapy water. Tonics which assist
digestion by stimulating secretions of the bowels, should
be administered, as Ferri Sulphate, one-half dram;
Quinine, one-half dram; Pulv. Nux Vomica, one-half
dram; Gentian Root, one dram. Mix and make into
twelve capsules and give one capsule three or four times
a day.
The above treatment must be persisted in until the
constipated condition is relieved.
Cause.—Among the common causes of Diarrhoea
and Dysentery can be mentioned irritating foods, sudden
change in feed, decomposed matter, irritation from
intestinal worms, imperfect mastication of food and its
imperfect preparation for digestion, eating more food
than the digestive organs can well digest, debilitated
condition and irritation from indigestible food. The
immediate cause is perhaps the irritated condition of the
mucous membranes lining the intestines and a profuse
secretion from the intestinal glands, nature’s own
method of removing poisonous or infectious matter from
the digestive canal.
Symptoms.—Undue amount of liquid feces, the dog
weakly and sickly, the coat staring and perhaps a sort
of curdled fluid passes with the feces. If the fecal matter
is tinged with blood, then it is called Dysentery, and
this is more serious than common Diarrhoea. These
conditions are generally associated with other diseases
and should be examined very carefully for complications.
Treatment.—Treatment consists of keeping the
dog as quiet as possible, feed sparingly on clean, easily
digested food, as raw eggs, etc. It may be necessary to
give a dose of physic, as Castor Oil in two to four ounce
doses which is an excellent remedy for expelling irritants
from the bowels without griping. After the cause or
irritant from within the intestines is removed administer
Protan, one-half ounce; Gum Catechu, one-half ounce;
Zinc Sulphocarbolates, two grains. Make into sixteen
capsules and give one capsule every four hours. This
dose is prepared for a dog weighing forty pounds. To
larger dogs or puppies give the same medicine in doses
proportionate to their weight.
Cause.—Is due to a specific bacteria that is developed
spontaneously, although I am of the opinion that
insanitary surroundings, as dark, damp, ill-ventilated
quarters play a very active part in its causation as well
as food that is decomposed, contaminated or deficient in
nitrogenous matter, or any condition that has a tendency
to weaken the dog’s constitution.
Symptoms.—The first symptom revealed is a bad
cold. The dog chills, the eyes become inflamed and a
thin watery discharge oozes from them as well as from
the nostrils, and, as the disease progresses, this thin
watery discharge takes on a pus-like character, becomes
thick, yellow, tinged with blood, sticky and very offensive
in smell. The dog vomits and has a dry, husky
cough, the temperature rises from two to four degrees
above normal, the pulse considerably weakened, breathing
hurried and labored and the dog walks around in a
staggering stupor and may even go into convulsions.
There is also a twitching of the muscles in many cases,
as in Chorea, and this disease generally follows Distemper.
In other cases, the dog will lie flat on the side,
breathe with great difficulty, in a half-unconscious manner.
This is a very unfavorable symptom, as lung complications
have developed. Constipation or diarrhoea
and even dysentery that is foul in odor may accompany
this disease. The dog grows very poor, weak, the legs,
nose and ears grow cold and clammy, and death follows.
When the above described symptoms are present, the
dog generally dies in from two to four days. If he lives
through this stage, chances are that he will develop
Chorea and be of practically no value.
Treatment.—As this disease runs its course in
about eighteen days, good sanitary surroundings are
very beneficial. Pure, fresh air, light, clean and comfortable
place to lie upon are also necessary. Feed albuminous
food, as raw eggs, milk, etc. Beef broth is
very beneficial in many cases; also permit the dog to
have free access to pure water at all times.
If vomiting accompanies the disease, the following
prescription should be administered: Diluted Prussic
Acid, nine drops; Morphine Hydrochlorate, ten grains;
Bismuth Nitrate, one dram; water, quantity sufficient to
make three ounces. Give one tablespoonful not oftener
than six hours. This should be given a dog weighing
forty pounds. Smaller or larger dogs should receive
the same medicine in doses proportionate to their weight.
When constipation is present, give two to four ounces of
Castor Oil. The general medical treatment for Dog
Distemper consists of the following: Quinine Sulphate,
two drams; Potassi Nitrate, three drams; Zinc Sulphocarbolates,
two drams. Mix well and make into twenty-four
capsules and give one capsule every two or three
hours. This dose should be proportionately increased
in dogs weighing over forty pounds, or decreased for
dogs weighing less than forty pounds. Of course a difference
of five pounds should not be considered. Bathe
the nose and eyes several times daily in a five per cent
solution of Boracic Acid. When complications, as
Chorea or Pneumonia develop, use the treatments as
described under their respective headings.
Cause.—Derangements of the digestive canal, dogs
recovering from distemper, or a bitch after whelping, is
predisposed to Eczema. Dogs exposed to a sudden
chilling of the surface of the body, when heated, frequently
develop Surfeit. Sometimes dogs confined to
poorly ventilated, damp kennels develop Eczema, or
Surfeit. In fact, any condition that tends to cause a
sluggishness of the circulation produces impure blood,
and eruptions of the skin naturally follow as a result.
Symptoms.—This disease generally affects the neck,
back, inside the thighs, arms and the abdomen. The
skin becomes red, painful to the touch, small pimples
form and serum oozes from them. This gradually
spreads and the skin becomes raw and ulcerated. The
dog will continue to scratch and bite himself violently,
producing further irritation, if not properly treated.
Treatment.—Internal treatment is just as essential
as applications to the skin. Digestive and blood disorders
must be eradicated before the outer surface of
the body will yield to a treatment. Internally, give
Fowler’s Solution of Arsenic, two to eight drops, three
times daily in the food. The drug should be given at
first in small doses and gradually increased as tolerance
is established. If the bowels are sluggish, give one to
three grains of Calomel. This will relieve any irritant
in the alimentary canal. Feed food that is easily digested,
as vegetables, Cod Liver Oil, etc. Beef Broth
is beneficial, but a heavy meat diet should be discontinued.
To the irritated surface of the skin, the following
is soothing as well as healing: Zinc Oxide, one
ounce; Pisis Liquid, one ounce; Mercurial Ointment,
one ounce. Mix and apply sparingly once a day.
Poisons are readily absorbed through the skin, therefore,
be very careful when using powerful antiseptics
over a large surface of the body.
Cause.—Direct or indirect injuries, as a blow from a
whip, dust, sand or chaff in the eye, or may be due to
extreme cold, or heat, or foul air.
Symptoms.—An inflammation of the superficial
structures of the eye, with a partial or complete closure,
and a watery discharge due to the overstimulation
of the lachrymal glands, the fluid being secreted so
abundantly that it is impossible for the tear duct to
carry it away, hence there will be a continuous flow of
tears running down the side of the dog’s face. The
formation of a film or a scum over the eyes need not
cause alarm if the eyeball shows no sign of being lacerated
or punctured.
Treatment.—Examine the eye carefully and remove
any foreign body with a clean cloth or feather,
and use a solution made from distilled water containing
three per cent Boric Acid, and apply ten or twelve
drops to the eye by the use of an ordinary eye-dropper.
Keep the animal in a clean, dark room, as it hastens
recovery and avoids other serious eye complications.
Cause.—Usually arises from excessive nervous irritation,
induced by disturbances of the stomach and
bowels from the presence of worms, indigestible food,
etc., or it may arise occasionally from a hereditary predisposition,
sexual excess, urine irritation, or from other
causes inducing extreme nervousness, irritability, etc.
Dogs affected with this disease are usually troubled with
dyspepsia and constipation.
Symptoms.—The leading symptoms of the disease
are sudden loss of consciousness, with spasms of muscles,
followed by exhaustion and drowsiness. After a certain
length of time has passed, the attack returns. About
five or ten per cent of the cases give some warning for
a short time before the fits come on, but in most cases
the fit comes on suddenly, the dog whines, and at once
falls to the ground senseless with convulsions. The eyes
are partly open, the eyeballs rolling, and a gnawing of
the teeth, foaming at the mouth; the tongue is usually
extended out, and many times badly bitten. The nose
is usually cold and clammy and breathing laborious.
The fit usually lasts from a few minutes to one-half
hour, but in some cases continues for longer time.
Treatment.—The dog should be placed on a blanket
to prevent inhalations of dust, etc., remove the collar
from around the neck, and apply cold applications of
ice to the head. The remedy most to be relied upon is
Bromide of Potassium, and should be given to a dog
weighing forty pounds in doses of twenty grains three
times a day. The dose to larger or smaller dogs should
be given in proportion to their weight. If necessary,
the dose may be increased one-third for a short time.
Also give Castor Oil, one to two ounces. To puppies
give in proportion to their weight. Pay strict attention
to the organs of digestion, and see that the nourishment
taken is sufficient to nourish the body well, but be careful
not to have an over-amount at one time. Also regulate
the feed so as to always have five or six hours elapse
between feeds. It is advisable to give a vermifuge
in all cases of fits, as worms are frequently producers
of the malady.
Cause.—There are several different varieties of
fractures, but for convenience sake I will divide them
into four varieties:
1. Simple fracture is one in which a bone is broken
and the muscles and skin are not severely injured.
2. Compound fracture is one in which the sharp
ends of the broken bone penetrate and perhaps pass
through the skin. This is considered a rather severe
fracture.
3. Comminuted fracture is one in which a broken
bone is badly shattered.
4. Complicated fracture is one in which important
articular joints and large arteries are injured.
Some people imagine that the bones of the dog will
not unite as quickly as the bones of man, but I am of
the opinion that they will unite quicker if the bones are
properly placed and the animal kept quiet. I will admit
that fractures are somewhat troublesome to treat in some
cases, although I have seen dogs with severe fractures
make good recoveries without any assistance other than
that of nature. In treating a fracture where the bones
penetrate the skin, cut the hair from around the surface
and wash with a five per cent solution of Carbolic Acid.
Place the broken bones in position, wrap the surface
with a thin layer of cotton and retain the bones in position
with splints and bandages. Keep the animal as
quiet as possible and feed on soft laxative good. If
bowels become constipated, give two to four ounces of
Castor Oil. If severe swelling follows in a few days,
and the dog shows signs of great pain, remove the bandage
and wash clean with an antiseptic. Then place
fresh cotton around the part and bandage the same as
before.
Cause.—Generally associated with a debilitated condition
of a heavy pregnant bitch that is poorly fed, and
exposed to various temperatures. The offspring of such
a bitch are very often victims of Goiter. When the
puppies are born the mother’s milk lacks sufficient nitrogenous
properties; they are consequently deprived of
mineral matter and develop Goiter. Some writers hold
that this is hereditary, because one or more puppies
become affected at the same time. I believe that it is
due to debility, starvation, and what produces it in one
dog will produce it in another. Although full-grown
dogs are often victims of Goiters, it is due to some
debilitated condition drawing on their systems. Even
though the dog looks well, and appears to be in good
condition, his food may be deficient in mineral properties.
Symptoms.—Enlargement of the Thyroid bodies of
the ductless gland situated on the under surface of the
neck. It may vary from the size of a pigeon’s egg to
the size of a man’s two fists. It is very easily detected,
and does not often interfere with the animal’s breathing
unless it becomes abnormally large and causes pressure
on the windpipe, jugular vein and esophagus. A dog
affected with Goiter does not thrive, his hair looks faded,
dusty and rough.
Treatment.—Administer Adrenolin twice daily in
five to ten grain doses half an hour before feeding, and
two to five grains of Potassium Iodide two times daily
shortly after feeding. The Potassium Iodide should be
discontinued when the skin scales, or when an abnormal
watery discharge from the eyes is present. To the enlargement
apply Tincture of Iodine once a day with a
camelhair brush. If the dog has long hair, clip it off
from over the enlargement. Feed the dog on nitrogenous
foods, as raw eggs, Cod Liver Oil, Beef Broth,
and also supply him with soft bones to chew. Where
the bowels are constipated, give one to two ounces of
Castor Oil. The above medicines prescribed are prescribed
for dogs weighing forty pounds, and should be
increased when given to larger, or decreased when given
to smaller dogs proportionately to their weight. See
that the dog has clean, light and well ventilated quarters
to sleep in.
Cause.—Intestinal worms, indigestible and unnutritious
food, foreign bodies in the stomach, eating too
large a quantity or, in many cases, eating too fast, torpidity
of the liver, derangements of the teeth, as the
accumulations of tartar cause the gums to become soft
and sore, resulting in the dog not taking sufficient time
to chew food properly; excessive or inexcessive exercise,
or improper attention to the hygienic surroundings often
derange the digestive system.
Symptoms.—The appetite is depraved, the dog eats
grass freely, and vomits often; colicky pains, persistent
constipation and bloating, causing the dog serious inconvenience.
He is irritable, dull and evidently out of
sorts; his coat looks faded and feels rough; the temperature
and pulse are not much affected; as a rule the breath
is foul, the tongue covered with a whitish fur, loss of flesh
occurs, and paleness of the skin.
Treatment.—Good hygiene, careful feeding of
nitrogenous foods and regular exercise plays a very important
part in the treatment of indigestion. First, endeavor
to clean out the Alimentary Canal by the careful
use of physics, as Calomel in one to three grain doses.
Feed raw eggs, sweet milk, boiled vegetables, fresh raw
beef finely chopped. Also give one tablespoonful of
Cod Liver Oil two or three times a day. I have derived
good results in the treatment of Indigestion by using
the following gastric tonic: Pepsin, two ounces; Syrup
of Orange, two ounces; Tincture of Columbia, five
drams; Tincture Nux Vomica, one dram; Tincture
Gentian, one dram; water, quantity sufficient to make
six ounces. Mix and give one or two teaspoonfuls three
times daily before feeding. In cases where there is
great difficulty in the dog passing the feces, give rectal
injections of soap and warm water.
Cause.—A sluggishness of the liver, or by the bile
duct becoming obstructed by a Calculi (Gall Stone).
Either condition suppresses the flow of bile into the
bowels, hence the bile is taken up by the blood and causes
the visible mucous membranes of the eyes and mouth
to become yellowish in color. The predisposing causes
are improper and overfeeding, combined with lack of
exercise in house dogs, or excessive exercise in hunting
dogs, exposure to damp, ill-ventilated sleeping quarters,
producing debility, and liver complications are likely to
follow.
Symptoms.—Appetite varied, thirst great, vomiting
occasionally, the dog shows signs of dullness and sleepiness.
Then there may be alternate diarrhoea and constipation,
the tongue coated and foul in smell, the eyes,
mouth, inside of the ears, and the skin inside the thighs
and fore legs become very yellow and dry, temperature
and pulse not much affected, the dog passes small quantities
of dark amber colored urine frequently, due to
the bile it contains. In severe cases, the dog loses
strength and flesh readily and soon becomes a mere
skeleton. Jaundice is often a complication of other diseases,
as distemper, indigestion, colic, constipation, etc.
Treatment.—Endeavor to make the dog as comfortable
as possible by placing him in quiet, clean, light
and well ventilated quarters. If he is in great pain,
apply hot applications over the seat of pain and administer
Calomel, one-half grain; Podophyllin, two grains;
Powdered Jalap, one dram; Powdered Rhubarb, one
dram. Make into six capsules and give one capsule once
daily to a dog weighing forty pounds; to smaller or
larger dogs regulate the dose in proportion to their
weight. The above prescription stimulates the flow of
bile from the liver into the bowels, which is very important
in the treatment of Jaundice. Tonics are also necessary,
and I have found the following very beneficial in
treating convalescing diseases, especially where the appetite
is poor: Pulv. Ferri Sulphate, one dram; Quinine
Sulphate, one dram; Pulv. Nux Vomica, one dram;
Pulv. Gentian Root, two drams. Mix and make into
twenty-four capsules and give one capsule three times
daily just before feeding. This dose should be given to
a dog weighing about forty pounds. Smaller or larger
dogs should receive the same medicine in doses proportionate
to their weight. Feed raw eggs, pure sweet
milk, fresh beef finely chopped, cooked vegetables, beef
broth, etc. Do not feed too large a quantity at any one
time.
Cause.—Frequently occurs when dogs are accustomed
to warm, comfortable quarters, then exposed to
cold, drafty kennels during cold weather. In fact, any
sudden chilling of the body is a common cause of lung
disorders. Giving fat dogs too much exercise when
they are not accustomed to it is frequently the cause of
engorgement and inflammation of the soft spongy tissue
of the lungs. Excessive exercise or running during the
hot summer months is apt to cause congestion of the
lung tissue as well as heat stroke. Washing or dipping
dogs during cold weather may chill the outer surface of
the body and result in Congestion of the Lungs.
Symptoms.—Lung Fever follows as a result of a
bad cold, and is preceded by the symptoms of the primary
disease. If due to severe exercise, the animal appears
greatly exhausted, and the congestion of the lung
substance is marked and may occur at this stage of the
disease. Lung Fever usually begins with a chill, and
is followed by a high fever. The dog lies down most
of the time, and eats nothing, or very little. The breathing
is hurried and fast, but when the lung becomes badly
involved it is labored. The character of the pulse beat
varies, depending on the extent of the inflammation and
the stage of the disease. In most cases the pulse beats
are full and quick during the first stage, but later, as
the condition of the dog improves, more nearly normal.
A very weak pulse is present in severe and fatal lung
inflammation. The visible mucous membranes of the
eyes and mouth have a congested appearance, and there
may be a slight discharge from the nostrils, reddish in
color. The expression of the face is distressed and
anxious, and in severe cases, rigors and chilling of the
body occur. The respiratory sounds become more or
less changed from normal. The cough is at first deep
and dry, later loose and moist. It may be accompanied
by a hemorrhage of the lungs during the first stages of
the disease. Other respiratory sounds are revealed by
placing the ear to the side of the chest wall and listening.
In the very early stages of lung fever, a crepitating, or
crackling sound can be heard in the diseased parts; and
louder sounds than normal in the healthy areas. Later,
when the engorgement of the lung substance occurs, and
the air cells become filled by the inflammatory exudation,
the respiratory sounds are deadened. On returning to
the normal, rattling sounds occur. These signs aid
greatly in determining the dog’s condition. The chance
for recovery depends on the extent and acuteness of the
disease. Careless handling, exercise, etc., lessens the
chance for a favorable termination in this disease, and
good nursing helps more in bringing about a recovery
than the medical treatment. The chances are more unfavorable
in fat dogs than in lean ones, as the inflammation
is usually more severe in the former. The course
of the disease is from one to three weeks, and it may
become chronic if the irritation is kept up. In such
cases, unthriftiness is a prominent sign.
Treatment.—Preventive treatment in Lung Fever
must not be overlooked. Briefly, it consists in avoiding
such conditions as may predispose the dog to the disease,
or act in any way as an exciting cause. Careful nursing
is a very important part of the treatment. The dog
should be given a clean, comfortable, well ventilated
kennel, and kept as quiet as possible. To keep the
bowels from becoming constipated, give one-half to one
ounce of Castor Oil daily. Feed raw eggs, pure fresh
milk, beef broth, etc. In severe cold weather, the dog
must not be permitted to chill or take more cold. Cover
him with a blanket, or use artificial heat. As one attack
predisposes a dog to the second, he should be protected
from severe cold, or the other extreme, heat, for a few
weeks after making a complete recovery. It is advisable
to apply strong stimulating liniments over the
lungs, as Aqua Ammonia Fort., one ounce; Oil of Turpentine,
one ounce; Sweet Oil, two ounces. Shake well
and apply once daily.
I have found the following prescription very beneficial
in the treatment of Lung Fever, as it regulates the
heart action, lowers the temperature and stimulates the
body in general: Tincture Digitalis, one dram; Tincture
Nux Vomica, one dram; Nitrous Ether, two drams;
Liq. Ammonia Acet., four drams; water, quantity sufficient
to make four ounces. Give one teaspoonful every
two or three hours.
All drugs prescribed in the above treatment are
based on a dog weighing forty pounds. Larger or
smaller dogs should receive the same medicine but in
doses proportionate to their weight.
Cause.—Inflammation of the Udder commonly occurs
in heavy milkers, and is caused by all the milk not
being removed. Sometimes it occurs as the result of the
milk accumulating in the udder when the bitch has lost
part of her litter. Other causes are obstructed teats,
injuries to the glandular tissues, and infection from
germs. Congestion and inflammation of the udder frequently
follow difficult birth.
Treatment.—Milk the bitch three or four times a
day. This will usually relieve the congestion. A physic
of Castor Oil, one or two ounces, should be given and
the animal fed on easily digested food, as boiled vegetables,
fresh raw beef finely chopped, pure sweet milk,
etc. The udder should be massaged gently with the
fingers, and the following ointment applied: Gum
Camphor, one dram; Fluid Extracts of Belladonna, one
dram; Lanolin, three ounces. Mix and apply two or
three times daily. Fomentations of hot water are beneficial
in the majority of cases. If the appetite is deprived,
administer Nitrate of Potash, two drams; Pulv.
Nux Vomica, one dram; Pulv. Gentian Root, one dram.
Mix and make into twenty-four capsules and give one
capsule three times daily before feeding. This dose is
based on a dog weighing forty pounds. Smaller or
larger dogs should receive the same medicine, but in
doses proportionate to their weight.
Cause.—This skin eruption is produced by the Sarcoptes
Scabi. There are two other forms of parasites
that produce Mange, but they are so rarely found that
we need not mention them. Insanitary conditions favor
their production. A dog in a poor condition, with a
dirty skin, etc., is more liable to be attacked than dogs
in good condition and with clean skins. It may be communicated
in various ways, through kennels, brushes,
collars, etc.
Symptoms.—Are generally very plain. It usually
attacks the back, about the root of the tail, and extends
to the head and neck, spreading quickly. The scabs do
not pile up as they do on other large animals, because
the dogs, on account of the intense itching, continually
rub and scratch themselves so that only thin scabs can
form. The affected skin becomes denude of hair, the
dog becomes thin, emaciated, etc. The parasites can
be seen with an ordinary magnifying glass, or if the
small scabs be scraped off and placed on a dark paper in
the warm sun, you can readily see small, white objects
moving about. Eczema usually attacks the belly, etc.,
while true Sarcoptic Mange attacks the back and then
spreads.
Treatment.—Feed soft, laxative food and give one
to two ounces of Castor Oil; also provide clean, dry
sleeping quarters. I have found the following remedy
very successful in the treatment of Mange: Oil of Tar,
one-half ounce; Vinice Turpentine, two ounces; Sublime
Sulphur, one pound; Crude Petrolatum, one quart. Apply
once a day. A few applications are generally sufficient
to effect a cure. Great care should be exercised,
as this disease is very contagious, and communicated
to other dogs.
Cause.—The common cause, perhaps, is a sudden
chilling of the body; cold, damp, chilly weather and
damp, drafty kennels are favorable conditions to cause
chilling of the body and the rheumatic form of Pleurisy.
Germs may also produce it. It is commonly met with
in specific diseases, as Distemper, etc.
Symptoms.—Chilling and high temperature, two to
four degrees above normal, the dog generally refuses
to eat, and acts dull. Pain is a noticeable sign, and
when the sides of the chest are pressed with the hand
the dog will flinch; this is very noticeable during the
early stage of the inflammation, and may cause a dog
to act restless. When breathing the ribs are always
held rigid. The breathing movements are mostly in the
muscles of the flanks, the dog getting his breath in short
jerks. Later, when fluids collect in the chest cavity, the
breathing is more labored, and all of the abdominal
muscles are used. On absorption of this fluid, the movements
of the lungs may again become jerky in case the
inflammation becomes chronic. The character of the
pulse beats varies, and in some cases is very weak. In
the early stage of the disease, friction sounds, caused by
the dry inflamed membranes rubbing against each other,
are detected on placing the ear against the chest walls.
Later, the collection of fluids around the lungs may
deaden all lung sounds, especially towards the lower
part of the chest. In a mild case of Pleurisy, the inflammation
is localized to just part of the lungs, or
pleura. A lameness in both front limbs and stiffness in
moving about are the most noticeable signs in this form
of disease. In Chronic Pleurisy a dog is usually very
weak and depressed. He is seen frequently lying on
his side, and shows great difficulty in walking. The
course of Acute Pleurisy is from six to eighteen days;
the chronic form may run a course of two or three
months, or longer. This form is unsatisfactorily treated,
and the dog eventually dies.
Treatment.—Place the dog in clean, warm, comfortable
surroundings; fresh air is very beneficial, but
omit any drafts. Internally, administer the following:
Quinine Sulphate, two drams; Potassium Iodide, two
drams; Carbonate of Ammonia, one dram; Potassium
Nitrate, four drams. Mix and make into thirty-two
capsules. Give one capsule every three or four hours.
This dose is based on a dog weighing forty pounds; to
smaller or larger dogs give the same medicine, but in
doses proportionate to their weight. Feed the dog
raw eggs, pure fresh milk, cooked vegetables, finely
chopped beef or beef broth, and in some cases I believe
it is very beneficial to give the dog small doses of brandy.
Over the lungs apply the following liniment: Aqua
Ammonia Fort., one ounce; Oil of Turpentine, one
ounce; Sweet Oil, two ounces. Shake well and apply
like a shampoo once daily.
Cause.—Overfeeding with too stimulating food, deficiency
in exercise, constipation, causing straining; consequently,
Piles frequently follows. This condition
sometimes occurs in weak, debilitated dogs, due to a relaxed
condition of the intestines.
Symptoms.—In some cases only a portion of the
rectal mucous membrane protrudes outside of the anus.
In the more severe cases red, bleeding tumors will be
present. After being exposed for a time, it becomes
enormously swollen and dark in color, and finally dries
and cracks on its surface. The protruded part itches
intensely, and the dog rubs and injures the intestine
trying to relieve the irritation. Usually the appetite
falls off, and the dog is restless if not relieved.
Treatment.—When the dog is constipated, as is
usually the case it should be given a laxative, such as
one to three ounces of Castor Oil, and fed on food that
is loosening to the bowels. The protruded rectal mucous
membrane should be washed with warm water containing
five per cent Carbolic Acid until clean; then replace.
If badly swollen and inflamed, astringent wash should
be used, made from Water and Powdered Alum five
per cent. The protrusion can be returned by gentle
pressure of the fingers. In case the protruded rectum
shows signs of sloughing, it should be cut off and the
cut edges of the rectum stitched to the edges of the anus.
Cause.—Rabies is produced by a specific micro-organism
that is known to exist in the brain, spinal cord
and the saliva of affected animals. This disease is
communicated from one animal to another by inoculation,
usually by the bite of a rabied dog, or the
saliva entering a wound or abrasion. Wild animals, as
well as domesticated, no doubt spread the disease by
biting, but it is a fact that dogs are inclined to bite, and
have a good opportunity to attack people, and hence
are considered the principal factor in the spread of the
disease.
Symptoms.—Are characterized by two forms of
Rabies: Furious and Dumb. In Furious Rabies, the
general habits of the dogs are changed. They become
very restless, excited, and frequently are more affectionate
than usual, licking the hands or face, soliciting sympathy
and help. This form of Rabies is extremely
dangerous, for the dog’s tongue is covered with saliva
containing micro-organisms which, coming in contact
with thin skin, wounds or abrasions, may inoculate the
person to whom the dog is attempting to prove its fondness,
etc. This form of inoculation is not uncommon.
Usually, the dog becomes dull, melancholy, etc., seeking
some cool, dark and quiet place. The eyes at times are
fixed, or are rolled about, and there is an abundant
secretion of saliva, which dribbles from the mouth. It
frequently gnaws wood, especially if tied or locked up,
and makes a desperate effort to get away. It also swallows
indigestible objects, and attempts to bite its master,
mistress and animals. Paralysis soon develops, and the
dog has difficulty in swallowing, and is unable to move
about.
Dumb Rabies.—This form of Rabies is accompanied
by depression and a tendency to lick objects.
Paralysis of the muscles that close the mouth causes
the jaw to drop or hang down. The dog is unable to
bite and, owing to the relaxed conditions of the mouth,
he cannot close it. The tongue hangs out, and stringy
saliva escapes. The dog may attempt to bite even
though the muscles that close the mouth are paralyzed.
The duration of the disease is short; paralysis develops
early in the attack, and death usually occurs in from
two to four days.
Treatment.—Prevention. All vagrant dogs should
be exterminated, and all dogs that appear in public highways,
streets or public places should be muzzled. This
precaution has practically eradicated the disease in
Europe. Medical treatment is useless after the first
appearance of the symptoms. However, a wound infected
by Rabies should be immediately cauterized, or
even completely cut away, care being taken to cut entirely
around the wound in the healthy flesh. For cauterizing
the wound, use Nitric Acid or a hot iron.
Sometimes a ten per cent solution of Zinc Chloride is
used, and perhaps it is the most successful. To afford
absolute protection, this should be done within a few
minutes after being bitten. However, treatment even
as late as a few hours has been known to suppress the
development of the disease. Pasteur has originated a
virus which is used with great success, and any person
bitten by a dog suspected of Rabies should be submitted
to Pasteur’s treatment.
Cause.—This disease is generally attributed to cold,
damp, filthy, ill-ventilated kennels, and exposure, but it
may occur in dogs that are well cared for. Overfeeding
is also liable to produce it. The most frequent forms of
Rheumatism in dogs are Lumbago, Chest Founder, or
Kennel Lameness.
Symptoms.—The symptoms are quite marked.
These are severe loss of appetite, lameness and general
lack of condition. Sometimes large swellings appear
in the region of the hock, knee, and joints of the feet.
The muscles of the back are held stiff and arched, the
muscles are tender and sensitive when pressed, and the
dog may be unable to move his hind parts. Other cases
may show a serious train of symptoms. A bitch that
has raised a litter of pups, when in poor flesh, is often
affected with this disease. A lameness of one or more
of the limbs that shows a tendency to shift about is the
only sign noticed in the mild form of the disease. Stiffness
of the joints is noticed, especially if the quarters
are affected, and the dog lies around a good share of
the time and refuses to go far for its food. In Acute
Rheumatism, the pain in the affected muscles and joints
is intense, and when these parts are handled, or the
joints moved, the dog will whine from the pain produced.
When lying down, asleep, sudden contractions
of the muscles may be noticed. This is due to the pain
resulting from the relaxing of the muscles. This disease
may pursue a long course; the joints become greatly
enlarged, and the dog grows very thin and weak. In
such cases, a complete recovery seldom follows.
Treatment.—Prevention is very important, such
as providing dry, comfortable quarters, and the avoidance
of exposure. Unless this is practiced, but little
can be obtained from medical treatment. A soft laxative
diet is also indicated: Salicylate Soda, three
drams; Quinine Sulphate, one dram. Make into twenty
capsules and give one capsule every three or four hours.
When the bowels are constipated, give two or three
ounces of Castor Oil. The above doses are based on a
dog weighing forty pounds. Smaller or larger dogs
should receive the same medicine but proportionately to
their weight. It is advisable, in cases where the limbs
are badly swollen, to apply liniments, and I would recommend
the following: Aqua Ammonia Fort., two
ounces; Oil of Turpentine, two ounces; Sweet Oil, four
ounces. Shake and rub on the affected parts once or
twice daily.
Cause.—Perhaps the most common cause of this
disease is a faulty diet, as food that is deficient in inorganic
matter. Unless supplemented by milk or other
foods containing lime salt, the bones are not supplied
with the necessary elements; lack of exercise, ill-ventilated,
filthy kennels, etc., help in causing the disease.
A tendency towards Rickets in pups is no doubt hereditary.
Symptoms.—The dog is usually in good condition at
the beginning of the disease. Large, well grown pups
may suddenly develop symptoms of paralysis of the
hind parts. The weakened condition of the thigh bone,
not being able to support the dog’s weight, fractures.
At other times there is a weakness and bending of bones
in the limbs, breaking down of the feet, bending or arching
of the back, straddling gait, deformed or disfigured
condition of the face or nose.
Treatment.—Rickets can be prevented by careful
feeding on suitable foods and keeping the dog clean in
well ventilated kennels, where he can get plenty of exercise.
Whenever a litter of several pups show symptoms
of the disease, the character of the food should be looked
into, and if faulty corrected by adding to it medicines
or food containing required elements. It is hardly
practical to use medical treatment other than bitter
tonics. Unless the disease is in an advanced stage, it
can usually be controlled by careful feeding of a ration
rich in inorganic substances, as bone dust, lime water,
and crushed egg shells, with a view of supplying calcareous
matter to the system. This can be fed to the
bitch nursing the pups or, if the pups are weaned, feed
them carefully.
Cause.—Dogs may become infected with Ringworm
by coming in contact with infected dogs, or by being
shipped in crates or boxes in which infected dogs have
recently been transported, or by using blankets, brushes,
collars, etc., which have been recently used by infected
dogs.
Symptoms.—Small red spots first appear on the
skin, gradually enlarging, and are covered with a thin,
grayish scale, under which is found a serum. The hair
falls out as a result of the infection of the skin by the
parasite. The outside of the affected patches is red,
while the inner portion takes on a grayish-white color,
giving it a ring appearance. This condition is followed
by severe itching; the dog rubs and scratches severely.
Treatment.—The most effective drug is Tincture
of Iodine, applied once daily with a brush. Great care
must be exercised, as this disease may be transmitted to
man, and to all domestic animals. Sanitary surroundings
and good, clean food, that is easily digested, assists
materially in eradicating the parasites.
This worm is commonly seen infesting the intestines
of puppies. The body is generally white in color and
slightly curved at the head. This worm has a stiff, wiry
appearance, and measures from one to three and one-half
inches in length.
Symptoms.—Puppies are more susceptible to these
worms, although we find them in aged dogs. About
fifty per cent of the dogs are infested with these worms.
They cause irritation of the intestines, irregularity of
digestion, diarrhoea, colic, nervousness, constipation,
irregular appetite and a rough, dry, unthrifty appearance
of the hair and skin, and the dog becomes emaciated.
After this worm migrates into the stomach, it causes
nausea and vomiting, occasionally the bowels are filled
with large masses of these worms, and their passage
aids in determining the cause of the dog’s debility.
Treatment.—Withhold all food from eighteen to
twenty-four hours and administer Thymol, one grain;
Santonin, three grains; Calomel, two grains. Mix and
place in capsule and give in one dose to a dog weighing
fifty pounds. Smaller or larger dogs should receive the
same prescription, but in doses proportionate to their
weight.
Cause.—Sore Throat is frequently complicated by
a cold. Sometimes it is produced by inhaling irritating
gases, or administering irritating medicine. Injuries
from sharp pointed sticks, eating sharp bones, etc.
Symptoms.—It is more or less severe. The eyes are
red and watery, and the dog is dull and lies around most
of the time. The appetite is poor and, because of the
pain and difficulty in swallowing, the dog may refuse
food. The pain in the throat is sometimes severe, and
causes the dog to move about in a restless manner. The
character of the cough depends on the part inflamed.
When the larynx (opening of the windpipe) is involved,
the cough is usually hoarse and the breathing noisy and
labored, as the opening is more or less closed by the
inflammation. At other times it is dry and, when the
dog moves about, or the parts are irritated by dust, cold
air, etc., coughing spells usually follow. The throat
may be swollen so as to be noticeable from the outside.
Simple Sore Throat is not a serious affection, and lasts
but a short time. The symptoms may be so mild as to
escape observation; however, if the conditions are favorable,
it may re-occur and assume a severe form or become
chronic.
Treatment.—Place the dog in clean, warm, well
ventilated quarters and feed soft food that is easily
digested, as hot milk, boiled rice, etc., and administer the
following: Potassium Chlorate, one dram; Liq. Ammonia
Acet., three ounces; Vini Ipecac, two drams;
Tincture Camph. Co., one-half ounce; Aqua Chloroform,
quantity sufficient to make six ounces. Give one
teaspoonful every four hours. This dose is based on a
dog weighing forty pounds. To smaller or larger dogs
give doses in proportion to their weight. When the
throat becomes badly swollen, apply a liniment made
from equal parts of Aqua Ammonia Fort., Turpentine
and Sweet Oil. Apply over the throat and rub in
briskly.
Cause.—A dog eating raw flesh of sheep or cattle
infested with the larva of the Tapeworm or Gid, Sturdy,
or Water Balls. (See Gid in Sheep.)
Symptoms.—Tapeworms in dogs are numerous. It
must be borne in mind that an animal is not free from
them until the Tapeworm’s head, apparently the most
insignificant part, has passed from the intestines. So
long as the head remains attached to the wall of the
bowels by its hooklets it will develop fresh eggs, producing
segments which are passed and prove the means
of scattering the parasites. A dog infected with Tapeworm,
as a rule, is liable to reflex paralysis, coughing
and convulsions from the irritation caused by its presence
in the bowels, depraved appetite, unthriftiness, a
rough, unhealthy condition of the skin, loss of hair,
anemia, irregularity of the bowels, and the feces offensive
and slimy. There is generally a certain amount of
irritation of the anus, which renders the dog fond of
licking those parts or dragging them along on the
ground. Tapeworms frequently cause vomiting, and I
have seen portions of Tapeworms expelled in this way.
In other cases there may be diarrhoea and obstinate indigestion
may be traced to the presence of Tapeworms.
Treatment.—Withhold all food for twenty-four
hours and administer Extract of Mail Fern, two drams;
Pulv. Areca Nut, one dram. Mix in two tablespoonfuls
of syrup and give at one dose. Follow this treatment
in about two hours with one to two ounces of
Castor Oil. This treatment should be repeated in a
week or ten days. These doses are based on a dog
weighing forty pounds. Smaller or larger dogs should
receive the same medicine, but in doses proportionate to
their weight.
Cause.—This is a symptom which shows itself in
almost any disease to which the dog is subject, so extensive
are the reflex influences which follow disease in a
dog. This process of Vomiting can be brought about
in the dog by means of many medicines, and the good
effect of emetics is appreciable even to the most casual
observer. This class of medicines has been much abused
by those caring for sick dogs, emetics being given for
any and every disease. They sometimes free the stomach
of irritants and poisons which cause disease and
poisoning, but their use requires care and judgment.
Symptoms.—The dog shows very marked symptoms
of pain, but usually the first signs exhibited are those
of a sense of discomfort. The dog moans in his sleep,
wakes suddenly, curls himself up and goes to sleep
again. This continues until at last the vomiting is too
urgent to allow rest. The dog utters sharp, shrill, continuous
cries, tries all sorts of positions to get itself at
ease, and walks about with the back arched. There may
be distention of the abdomen, due to the gases generated
in the bowels from the fermentation of their contents.
Colicky symptoms frequently accompany vomiting,
due to the spasmodic contractions of the stomach
relieving itself of some irritant.
Treatment.—Knowing that the causes operating
in the production of Vomiting are so numerous, it will
be easily understood that the treatment must be equally
variable. If due to the torpidity of the liver, give
Calomel, one to two grains. When worms are suspected,
give worm treatment recommended under the
heading of Worms. When due to poisoning, give milk
and raw eggs. In case it is due to faulty digestion, or
where a dog is recovering from some debilitating disease,
give one-fourth to one-half teaspoonful of Baking
Soda in a gelatin capsule two or three times a day. The
following prescription is recommended when all suspected
irritants are removed from the stomach: Diluted
Prussic Acid (B. P.), twelve drops; Bismuth Nitrate,
one dram; Lime Water, four ounces. Mix and give
one tablespoonful three times daily. This dose is based
on a dog weighing fifty pounds. Smaller or larger
dogs should receive the same prescription, but in doses
proportionate to their weight. This medicine should be
administered with great precaution, as it is very poisonous
when used in larger doses, or given at shorter intervals
than above recommended.
A wound is a disruption of the soft parts of the
body due to external violence. Wounds are of various
kinds, as incised, lacerated, punctured, gunshot and
poisonous.
Treatment.—If a wound is extensive, and bleeding
is present, first arrest it, and the most satisfactory
method is as follows: Tie the artery from which the
blood is escaping, or twist with forceps, cauterize with
hot iron, compress by bandaging tightly and apply
Tincture of Chloride of Iron. This coagulates the
blood, and is very effective. One important factor in
treating wounds is to attend to the drainage, as decomposed
matter absorbed into the blood produces blood
poisoning. Dogs lick wounds and keep them clean,
therefore it is hardly necessary to apply medicine.
Sewing Wounds.—I cannot recommend sewing except
in cases of incised or clean-cut wounds. After
clipping the hair from around the incision, and washing
it thoroughly with a one in one-thousandth solution of
Bichloride, stitch with cat-gut or absorbent silk suture.
In case of deep, punctured or gunshot wounds, with a
syringe wash out the wounds, using a one in one-thousandth
Bichloride solution. For open wounds, use dusting
powders, as Iodoform, Boracic Acid, etc.
To keep flies from annoying a wounded dog, apply
the following prescription: Oil of Origanum, one
ounce; Oil of Turpentine, one ounce; Sweet Oil, one
ounce. Apply to and around the wound with a feather.
This is also a good healing liniment as well as a fly
repellent.