DISEASES OF THE EAR. 997 



the external ear, but, if not checked, may extend both ex- 

 ternally and internally. It begins with redness, swelling, 

 etc., but is rarely seen in this stage except by those who 

 are accustomed to make daily careful examination of all 

 parts of the body of their dogs a most excellent thing, 

 which does not take much time, and often saves a great 

 deal of worry to the owner and misery to the dog. 



The dog even at this stage, feeling uncomfortable, may 

 shake the head, scratch the ear, etc. Soon the usual in- 

 flammation with exudation, which dries and forms scabs, 

 or actual pus may appear, run inward, become foul, irritate 

 the drum-head, and give rise to inflammation of the mid- 

 dle ear. It greatly worries most dogs, and unless soon re- 

 lieved they lose condition. The disease is most frequently 

 attributable to wet and cold, combined with injudicious 



FIG. 22. VARIOUS KINDS OF BANDAGES (AFTER STEEL). 



feeding, giving rise to general irritation of the whole skin, 

 etc. The food may either be too stimulating or wanting in 

 nutriment. 



