198 Diseases of the Digestive System. 



function of the digestive organs in particular, and the 

 system generally. 



Atony of the Rectum is common to old dogs 

 unable to take exercise. The gut is enlarged from 

 constant impaction, and the glands of the vicinity 

 discharge a foul-smelling fluid ; the anus is also enlarged 

 and ulcerated, from which a swelling arises and is con- 

 tinued downwards between the thighs along the course 

 of the abdomen. It is common also to other diseases as 

 a complication, viz., chronic diarrhcea and dysentery. 



Treatvmit consists of supporting and improving the 

 system by internal tonics and laxatives ; the regular 

 removal of fsecal accumulations, and constant administra- 

 tion of tonic astringent enemas, as solutions of tannic 

 acid, sulphate of iron, &c. 



Thickening of the Bowel, leading to Stricture, 

 sometimes attended by dilation, is somewhat common to 

 the duodenum. Such cases are always clearly manifested 

 during life, and . are usually traced to the action of 

 some chemical or other irritant on the tissues of the 

 bowels. 



Hernia, or the passage of some portion of the intes- 

 tines and their appendages, is not of common occurrence. 

 In puppies hernia of the navel is now and again seen. It 

 consists of the omentum or caul, which may be returned 

 Avithin the abdomen, and maintained by a bandage or 

 truss, or excision of the whole protrusion by means of the 

 ligature may be tried. Other forms need not be discussed 

 here, as they are only of interest to the scientific operator 

 in surgery. 



Worms in the Intestines. — Several species of worms 

 find their abode within the intestines of the dog, being 

 chiefly of the classes commonly known as round and tape- 

 worms. Their presence is in obedience to certain laws 

 which regulate and ensure their being called into exist- 

 ence, as well as subsequent changes and developments. 



The Symptoms generally denoting the presence of 

 worms in the bowels are as follows : irritation, more or 

 less persistent, inducing disorder, as variable and depraved 

 appetite, loss of hair, and a rough unhealthy state of the 



