284: THE DOG IN DISEASE. 



When ulceration occurs, the healing process may be 

 hastened by a touch with a crystal of sulphate of copper 

 or nitrate of silver. lodoform also has much to commend 

 it. It may be necessary to muzzle the dog, to prevent his 

 licking off the applications and injuring himself thereby ; 

 but muzzling is always to be avoided if possible, as many 

 animals worry under it to a degree that retards restora- 

 tion to health. As the scrotum is so exposed, it will often 

 be necessary when it is affected to cover up the applica- 

 tions by a dressing that may be kept on as long as desired. 



Vulvitis, or inflammation of the external genitals, cor- 

 responds in the female with balanitis in the male, but is 

 more readily managed. The parts are to be kept clean, 

 and treated as in balanitis. 



Vaginitis, or inflammation of the vagina or passage 

 leading to the womb, when taken early, yields to astrin- 

 gent lotions, etc. 



If chronic, attention must be paid to building up the 

 health of the patient with tonics and the best of food, 

 housing, etc. 



Morbid Growths as warts, polypi, etc. must be treated 

 as in other parts, always bearing in mind that the genitals, 

 especially the mucous membranes, are very abundantly 

 supplied with blood (vascular), and in all operations about 

 them haemorrhage is to be guarded against. 



Ligation of growths, excision, and cauterization are 

 the methods usually employed. 



Prolapse of the Vagina, or eversion of the uterus, is rare 

 except after parturition or in very debilitated bitches. 

 The treatment is much as in prolapse of the rectum (see 

 page 271). 



