NOTE. 



The design of this work and the results attained are so 

 evident a formal introduction is unnecessary. 



Possibly the elementary character of many of the pre- 

 cepts given will occasion surprise, yet all must agree that 

 it is over trifles that they are likely to stumble, especially 

 where health is involved. 



Not a few popular beliefs have been antagonized, but 

 seldom other than those which owe their force to antiquity 

 and repetition. 



Mystical speculations and ungrounded theories, cal- 

 culated to invite confusion, have been excluded in so far 

 as possible ; and the measures advocated are such only as 

 rest on bases proved sound by observation and experience. 



Every important subject that has engaged attention has 

 been fully discussed, generalities being held practically 

 valueless and misleading. The simplest language has 

 also been chosen and needless technical expressions 

 excluded, to favor ready understanding in the least experi- 

 enced. 



Nature's apparent methods, effects and requirements 

 have been dwelt upon at considerable length with a pur- 

 pose of protecting the kennel from drugging, as far as 

 may be, and displacing the common tendency to it by reli- 

 ance on hygienic and dietetic agencies. 



It is a pleasing duty of the author thus publicly to 

 acknowledge his deep obligation to his highly esteemed 



