12 DISEASES 



liability of absorption and poisoning. In applying remedies other than 

 per orem it sometimes becomes necessary to restrain the patient from biting 

 his would-be benefactor. This can be accomplished by tying a long piece 

 of tape tightly around the paws, having the knot on the under side. Then 

 carry the ends back of the ears and tie again. 



In the application of unguents to the skin of long-haired dogs time 

 is really sometimes saved by clipping. The skin can be more thoroughly 

 cleansed and dried and the remedy more evenly applied and consequently 

 better results obtained. 



In the writer's experience, no appreciable difference could ever be 

 observed in the texture or color of the hair when it had grown out again. 

 The clipping, however, should not be resorted to except in obstinate cases 

 and during favorable weather. 



Rectal injections are frequently indicated, especially in house dogs 

 where from lack of exercise and irregular habits the faeces becomes im- 

 pacted. In cases of collapse, extreme weakness and refusal of food it 

 sometimes becomes necessary to introduce predigested foods and medi- 

 cines per rectum. The ordinary bulb syringe or those of the hard rubber 

 variety can be used for this purpose, but the nozzle must not be pointed 

 enough to injure the mucus membrane as abrasions of the latter might 

 prove troublesome. 



In connection with the administration of medicine, it will be well to 

 remember that all drugs act more powerfully on an empty stomach than 

 when it holds food, either liquid or solid. Therefore, powerful remedies and 

 those which are of irritating character, such, as arsenic, iron, nux vomica 

 and cod-liver oil, should be given after feeding, so that they will mingle 

 "with the food and be absorbed slowly. Oil can be administered easily if 

 floated on milk. Whisky, alcohol and all fluids of strong taste should be 

 freely diluted with water before administering, at least four parts of water 

 to one of whisky. 



Asthma. — This is a common disease and a most distressing complaint, 

 its victims being mostly found among house pets and toy dogs that have 

 been overfed with a too rich diet, and lack of exercise as well. Almast every 

 toy dog so improperly cared for and fed will develop asthma as they get 

 along in years. The grossness of body induces and fosters it and often 

 causes as well a kind of scurvy mange, the coat feeling harsh and dry with 

 a rough and dirty look. The symptoms are distressing paroxysms of cough- 

 ing with great difficulty in breathing, which occur frequently. The symp- 

 toms exhibited are due to 'thickening of the mucus lining of the trachea and 

 bronchial tubes which by lessening the calibre of the respiratory tract in- 

 terferes with the act of breathing which is attended by a loud, wheezing 

 noise. The blood is imperfectly aereated and the visible mucous mem- 

 branes congested and dark in color. Pugs and aged Spaniels seem pre- 

 disposed to asthmatic troubles, which, while not usually fatal, do not 

 prove amenable to treatment. 



An important feature of the treatment is attention to the diet, which 

 should be of a non-stimulating character. First relieve the animal by giving 

 the following antispasmotic drops: Compound spirits of sulphuric ether and 

 tincture of opium, equal parts, which keep in a cool place and well corked. 



