336 THE DOG IN DISEASE. 



stronger. Before discussing special forms of skin disease 

 further, a few of the principles that underlie treatment in 

 general will now be considered. 



Principles of Treatment. — Lotions are most efficacious 

 in the early stages of inflammation, before there is exuda- 

 tion and the formation of scabs, or they may be used to 

 soften scabs and soothe at the same time ; however, some 

 kind of oil or oily substance will best answer this purpose. 

 In all cases, before applying an ointment, scabs should be 

 removed, as they only tend to keep the application from 

 the diseased skin. 



Generally the very best way to begin all local treat- 

 ment is by washing the dog, though, of course, the season 

 and all the circumstances must be taken into the account. 



Crusts or scabs may be softened by washing in water 

 containing a little sodium carbonate (washing soda), which 

 is soothing in itself. However, in general, oil applied to 

 the skin, if scabs have formed, washing the animal in a 

 couple of hours, or as soon as the scabs are moderately 

 soft, with strong carbolic soap, will have a good effect, 

 as carbolic acid allays irritation and favors healthy ac- 

 tion of the skin. A little crude carbolic acid put into 

 the washing- water — enough to make its presence percepti- 

 ble to the hand — will serve the purpose, and is cheaper, 

 some Castile soap being used to lather the dog. If the 

 skin is very tender, eggs beaten up may replace soap. In 

 all cases, when carbolic acid is used, the dog should be 

 well rinsed with water not too cold. 



Having got the subject ready for the application of 

 some remedy, the next thing is to determine what one^ 

 Is the skin broken, or only red and tender? Are there 



