844* • FRANK FORESTER S FIELD SPORTS. 



alterative in the chronic asthmfatic cough to which dogs are 

 subject, given as an emetic once or twice a week, in doses of 

 one grain to three. Antimonial powder, or James's powder, 

 may also be given with benefit as an alterative in similar cases. 

 Crude antimony is often found useful in the diseases of the skin ; 

 but it is unfortunately very uncertain in its operation : that is, 

 some dogs will bear a considerable quantity, while others cannot 

 even take a small one without violent sickness ; the usual dose 

 is from half a scruple to half a drachm. Nitrate of potash 

 (nitre) is a very useful alterative to dogs, for hot itching humors 

 and redness of the skin, in doses of four grains to ten. The su- 

 pertartrate of potash (cream of tartar) may be so given likewise 

 with benefit in larger doses, in the same cases : all the prepara- 

 tions of mercury, though excellent alteratives, require great 

 caution when frequently repeated, or regularly given ; for dogs 

 are easily salivated, and salivation produces very hurtful effects 

 on them." 



LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES. 



" These evacuants are both preventive and curative of disease : 

 they are valuable alteratives, and active immediate agents in 

 acute affections. By opening the bowels, we remove a frequent 

 cause of irritation to the system ; and a very considerable source 

 of skin affections also ; for whatever is taken up superfluously 

 by the system is apt to find itself an outlet there. We thereby 

 likewise prevent pulmonary congestion, and deposits of fat, 

 which would obstruct the visceral functions. Laxatives are 

 good preventives against that habitual costiveness common to 

 dogs and all other carnivorous animals : such, therefore, as are 

 flesh-fed should have this tendency obviated by laxatives ; and 

 the best which offers itself is a portion of vegetable matter with 

 their flesh food : potatoes, or even greens, can always be pro- 

 cured, and will answer the purpose. This is the more neces- 

 sary, for costiveness sometimes occasions fatal obstructions ; and 

 a costive habit brings on fistulae, and also affords encourage- 

 ment to the breeding of worms. Medicinal laxatives are nu- 



