CHAPTER V. 



DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 

 1. Mange. 



Mange Is the result of a germ or parasite burrowing into 

 the skin. This parasite may be easily communicated from 

 one dog to another. They multiply extremely fast and when 

 the disease once starts it soon spreads over the whole body, 

 mostly affecting the skin of the back, head and neck. 



Care ehould be taken in its management as persons may 

 become affected. 



Causes. — The principal causes to be noted are dirty, 

 filthy kennels, sleeping in dirty stables or damp places and 

 allowing the skin and hair to become dirty. 



Symptoms. — Extreme irritation of the skin is the most 

 noticeable symptom. He rubs and scratches himself until 

 the hair comes off in spots and frequently the skin bleeds. 

 The hair is dry and scurfy and the physical condition in 

 general becomes run down. 



Absolute certainty as to the presence of the disease may 

 be obtained by the examination of the skin or scales under 

 a microscope. The. parasite may be clearly seen. 



Treatment. — If the weather is warm clip the hair off 

 short, and give him a thorough good washing with lukewarm 

 water and soap, after this rub him dry and apply the creolin 

 wash by rubbing it well into the skin all over the body. 

 Use two dessertspoonfuls of creolin to the pint of water 

 and apply it once a day until the dog stops rubbing him- 

 self, the skin heals and the hair starts to grow out. As 

 well as this, give a teaspoonful of sulphur in his milk twice 

 a day if a large dog. Give the sulphur in proportion to 

 the size of the dog. If in the winter time just clip the hair 

 off and apply the creolin wash, but do not wash him with 

 water. 



See that the sleeping quarters are well cleaned and 

 disinfected to prevent the disease from spreading. Feed 

 nutritious, wholesome food and keep the patient warm. 



