INFLAMMATION OF THE DlGRSTIVR ORGANS. 265 



relieved after one to two days with an enema, but not 

 with a purgative. 



Hot applications are of great value ; some believe in the 

 administration of turpentine internally ; better, we think, 

 by the rectum in soap-suds and olive oil, when, in small 

 quantities, it may relieve constipation and flatulent disten- 

 tion. Some also recommend ice-cold applications. The 

 great indication is quiet, external and internal, and the 

 relief of pain by opiates. The heart must be carefully 

 watched, and, if it threatens to fail, stimulants — by the 

 stomach, if possible — if not, by the bowel — must be given. 

 Milk, eggs, and brandy make an excellent combination. 



When it is remembered how great in extent is the 

 surface of the peritoneum, covering as it does not only 

 the walls of the abdomen, the under surface of the dia- 

 phragm, but also nearly all the organs of the abdominal 

 cavity, the gravity of an inflammation of a large portion 

 of it is very evident. 



During convalescence special attention must be paid to 

 supplying a nutritious diet and to the use of tonics. 



It is important that the dog be fed for a while about 

 three times a day, and in moderate quantities only at each 

 meal, to avoid distention of the stomach or intestines, 

 which may, if it occurs, be a cause of lasting trouble. The 

 dog must, in fact, be for some time carefully guarded as 

 to exercise, housing, and all that relates to his well-being, 

 including the maintenance of a good deal of self-esteem and 

 cheerfulness, for the effect of the psychic nature over the 

 body in well-bred dogs is very great ; indeed, a fact that 

 must ever be kept in mind in treating them in health and 

 in disease. 



