366 THE DOG IN DISEASE. 



The subacute and chronic forms are more common in 

 the dog. 



Diagnosis. — The diagnosis lies between sprains and 

 other injuries, colic, etc. In the acute form, when there 

 is decided swelling without the history of any injury, 

 when the temperature is a good deal elevated and the di- 

 gestion deranged, the diagnosis is not difficult. 



In any form of the disease the joints, if not tender to 

 the touch, are so when moved, which often assists in a 

 diagnosis. 



The movements, attitude, etc., of a rheumatic dog are 

 often characteristic. 



In the subacute and chronic forms the health is not 

 always greatly impaired. 



Muscular rheumatism differs from that just described 

 in not affecting joints, though in lumbago the ligaments 

 as well as muscles of the loins are probably involved. 

 The muscles are sore, stiff, and tender, if not positively 

 painful. 



Chest founder, or kennel lameness, affects more espe- 

 cially the muscles of the shoulders, chest, and fore-legs. 



This form of rheumatism can generally be traced to 

 damp, draughts, cold, etc. 



Treatment. — In the acute form, alkalies and colchicum 

 in frequent and rather large (ten to twenty grains) doses 

 are still preferred by some ; but with the majority sali- 

 cylate of sodium is the favorite remedy. It is best given 

 in gelatin capsules, every two or three hours, till pain, 

 etc., is relieved ; afterward in smaller doses at longer 

 intervals. Some incline to phenacetin. 



The animal should be made very comfortable, and, if 



