Rachitis. Rickets. 571 



that have been rachitic to a marked degree, as their progeny are 

 likely to show the same weakness. Change the ration giving one 

 that is well b ilanced and rich in nntritive matters and earthy salts. 

 Clover, alfalfa, and a generous grain diet may serve as an example 

 for herbivora, and a fair allowance of meat and bones for dogs. 

 F'ood from land that has apparently contributed to the disease in 

 other cases is best avoided. If the land is poor, sandy, or desti- 

 tute of earthy salts and phosphates, so much the more is it to be 

 suspected and set aside. In the case of sucking animals it 

 should be seen that the milk is rich and abundant, and that it is 

 not too rich in fat, nor otlierwise calculated to disagree and in- 

 duce indigesti(jn. Abjve all soured or otherwise fermented milk 

 should 1)^ withheld, and any buckets or troughs used in feeding 

 should b^ regularly washed, scalded and disinfected. In case 

 colts, or dogs are being raised on cow's milk it may be requisite 

 to dilute it with one third its volume of barley water, or solution 

 of gum arable, and to sweeten with sugar. Lime water with 

 each meal is valuable in counteracting acidity, and fermentation, 

 and in furnishing lime which may be absorbed in part. 



In prevention and treatment alike, fresh air and sunshine must 

 never be neglected and in warm weather, an outdoor life, night 

 and day is of the greatest value. At the same time cold storms, 

 damp beds, or any condition which may induce chill must be ex- 

 cluded. Close stalls, pens, or kennels must be absolutelj^ for- 

 bidden. 



Among medicinal agents antacids are often essential on account 

 of the acid condition of the ingesta, lime water will often suffice, 

 but if there is manifest constipation calcined magnesia three times 

 a day on an empty stomach so as to counteract costiveness will 

 often serve a good end. Tlie atony of the bowel ma}' be further 

 met by small doses of .strychnia. Other bitters may be used if 

 this has little effect. Small doses of phosphate of soda, or bone 

 dust have been long lauded in the affection, and probably act 

 beneficially as a tonic as well as a food material. Phosphorus in 

 minute doses tends to increase the deposit of earthy salts and 

 consolidate the bones. Large doses induce hvpersemia of the 

 epiphyseal ligament and even favor fracture. A grain of phos- 

 phorus daily may be given in olive oil or better in cod liver oil 

 which acts as a valuable tonic. Dieckerhoff recommends the in- 

 tratracheal injection of the solution of phosphorus in olive oil. 



