164 specific and Contagious Diseases. 



the victim ; he may be cajoled into a building, yard, or 

 enclosure, and there be summarily dealt with. 



Prevention of rabies. — Various means have been sug- 

 gested for this purpose, and to the present day the record 

 is an admission of disappointment. Absolute extermina- 

 tion of the canine race would not secure the stamping 

 out of the disease, as other animals, notably the fox and 

 cat in this country, contribute to the perpetuation of 

 the virus, not among themselves alone, as they are 

 undoubtedly answerable for the sudden appearance of 

 the malady among straying dogs in locaHties where it has 

 not previously been seen for long periods. Homeless and 

 mo?igrel dogs should be regularly seized and summarily 

 consigned to the lethal chamber. The 2ince7-tain or inde- 

 finite period of incubation of the disease, suggests the 

 detention of many animals in a dog's home should be 

 conducted with great care, otherwise the mingling of 

 various breeds may ensure the propagation of rabies 

 when they return to liberty. For similar reasons qiiarafir 

 tine, unless the animals are isolated from the first and 

 retained over six months, would likewise prove a mis- 

 take. An efficient system of prevention must sooner or 

 later receive the consideration of our Government with 

 the view of their taking over the direct control. A serious 

 matter of this kind should not be left to the hesitating 

 policy of local authorities. It is a matter of surprise and 

 regret that the fell disease should have escaped the atten- 

 tion of the legislature when framing the Contagious Diseases 

 (Animals) Acts, by which the movement of dogs could be 

 effectually controlled. Probably our rulers in their zeal 

 for the chase were oblivious of the denizen of the town, 

 whose nocturnal slumbers are disturbed by the miserable 

 and worthless curs which render night miserable by their cry. 

 The tax is systematically evaded by many who, scarcely 

 knowing the source of their next meal, harbour the non- 

 descript wanderers and mongrels which form the subjects 

 of a constant trade. The local rnuzzling order, we believe, 

 is a mistake, and produces a needless irritation among 

 well-meaning and law-abiding owners. The muzzle is a 

 cruel torture to most dogs ; its general utility is question- 



