364 



THE DOG IN DISEASE. 



constitution, though possibly bad management of the dam 

 when in whelp or during nursing, very many bitches not 



Fig. 37.— Rachitic Dog (Hill). 



being sufficiently fed at these periods, may give rise to 

 rickets in the young. Unhygienic surroundings, as damp, 

 dark, ill- ventilated kennels, food insufficient as to quantity 

 or quality, etc., are undoubted causes. 



Rickets has been experimentally produced in nursing 

 puppies by removing them from the dam and giving 

 them food they could not digest properly. 



Treatment. — Everything possible should be done to 

 improve the general health — sunlight, dry, warm, well- 

 ventilated kennels, and gentle exercise being essential. 

 Lime-water, phosphate, bone-dust, cod-liver oil, iron ton- 

 ics, etc., are all indicated. Grooming and massage are not 

 to be forgotten. A diet varied and adequate is essential. 



The puppies of large breeds of dogs often grow so fast 

 that the weight of the body is too great for the limbs 



