characteristics in dogs of most all breeds, con- 

 stitution has to some extent been sacrificed. 

 Animals bred in this way, are in consequence, 

 less able to resist or combat disease than those 

 with less pretentious claims to family distinction. 



Causes, — Bad sanitary conditions, crowded 

 or poorly drained kennels, exposure to damp- 

 ness, insufficient or over feeding, improper diet, 

 lack of fresh air and exercise, all conduce to the 

 development of distemper. It is contagious, in- 

 fectious, and will frequently appear spontane- 

 ously without any apparent cause, in certain 

 localities assuming an epidemic form. Age is 

 no exemption from distemper, though it more 

 frequently attacks young animals than adults. 

 Very few dogs pass through life without having 

 it at some period. Many people are of the be- 

 lief that their dogs have contracted distemper 

 while being exhibited at bench shows. This 

 may be the case in some few instances, but when 

 the veterinary surgeon in charge is efficient and 

 attentive to the discharge of his duties, there is 

 little fear of contagion. Distemper following 

 the exhibition of young dogs, particularly when 

 sent from a distance, is due to theii' contracting 

 cold in transportation either to or from a show, 

 the disease following as a natural consequence, 

 though tlie strain on their nervous systems may 

 help towards its development. 



