THE IMPROVED ART OF FARRIERY. 479 



Dropsy. 



This is a disease occasionally found among dogs, 

 arising from various causes, and accompanied with 

 various symptoms ; at times showing itself early, at 

 other times appearing only in its latest stage. Con- 

 siderable thirst exists at first, gradual loss of appetite 

 succeeds, and the immense pressure of the water on 

 the membrane which separates the lungs and intestines, 

 finally produces suffocation. 



Dropsy is of two kinds, existing in the chest and in 

 the belly, the latter being the most prevalent. 



Dropsy of the chest is incurable, and may be dis- 

 tinguished from the other by the swollen appearance 

 of that portion of the body in which it exists. The 

 dog appears to suffer much pain when he attempts to 

 lie down, being desirous at all times of elevating his 

 head. 



Dropsy of the belly, as well as dropsy of the chest, 

 is not a primary disease, generally resulting from an 

 unsound liver, neglected mange, and not unfrequently 

 it has been known to follow the asthma. 



Diuretics have been tried in all cases of dropsy, and 

 have occasionally only proved successful. 

 Take— 



Fox-glove, (powdered) - - 10 grains 

 Antimonial powder - - - 14 grains, 

 mixed, and divided into a dozen portions, one of which 

 may be given every night and morning. 

 Take — 



Fox-glove, (powdered) - - 9 grains. 

 Squills, (powdered) - - - 10 grains. 

 Cream of Tartar - - - 3 drachms , 



