DOGS*. THEIR MANAGEMENT. 217 



animal can be induced to eat this kind of diet. Exertion 

 should be prevented, and quiet as much as possible 

 enjoined. The tincture of aconite, it is said, 'sometimes 

 does wonders in inflammation of the lungs ; but in my 

 hands its operation has been uncertain, though the 

 homoeopathists trust greatly to its action in this disease. 

 They give it singly, but I have not reaped from its use 

 on the dog those advantages which tempt me to depend 

 solely on its influence. When employed, it may be given 

 in doses of from half a drop to two drops of the tincture, 

 in any pleasant vehicle, every hour. 



After dropsy of the chest has been established, the 

 chance of cure is certainly remote ; but tapping at all 

 events renders the last moments of life more easy. It is 

 both simple and safe, and does not seem to occasion any 

 pain ; but, on the contrary, to afford immediate relief. 

 The skin should be first punctured, and then drawn for- 

 ward so as to bring the incision over the spot where the 

 instrument is to be inserted. The place where the 

 trocar should be introduced is between the seventh and 

 eighth ribs, nearer to the last than to the first, and rather 

 close to the breast-bone. The point being selected, the 

 instrument is pushed gently into the flesh ; and when the 

 operator feels no resistance is offered to the progress of 

 the tube, he knows the cavity has been pierced. The 

 stilet is then withdrawn, and the fluid will pour forth. 

 Unless the dog shows signs of faintness, as much of the 

 water as possible ought to be taken away ; but if symp- 

 toms of syncope appear, the operation must be stopped, 



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