82 DOGS : THEIR MANAGEMENT. 



of caressing them. Frequently I have found it of no 

 avail to attempt the examination of these creatures at 

 the residences of their owners ; but the same animals 

 brought to my surgery have, without a struggle, allowed 

 me to take what liberties I pleased. I usually carry 

 such dogs into a room by myself, and commence by 

 quickly but gently lifting them off their legs and throw- 

 ing them upon their backs. This appears to take the 

 creatures by surprise, and a little assurance soon allays 

 any fear which the action may have excited. The dog 

 seldom after resists, but permits itself to be freely handled. 

 Should, however, any disposition to bite be exhibited, 

 the hand ought immediately to grasp the throat, nor 

 should the hold be relinquished until the creature is fully 

 convinced of the inutility of its malice, and thoroughly 

 assured that no injury is intended towards it. A few 

 kind words, and the absence of anything approaching to 

 severity, will generally accomplish the latter object in a 

 short period, and confidence being gained, the brute 

 seldom violates the contract. 



Dogs are intelligent and honorable creatures, and no 

 man will have reason to regret who teaches himself to 

 trust in their better qualities. I have hitherto, in a great 

 measure, escaped their teeth, and being slow and infirm, 

 my good fortune certainly cannot be attributed to my 

 activity. Kindness and consideration work upon 

 animals ; nor do I believe there are many of the lower 

 creatures that will not appreciate such appeals. It is 

 better, therefore, to work upon the sympathetic nature 



