DOGS: THEIR MANAGEMENT. 219 



animals thus afflicted are always gross and fat. The 

 disorder comes on gradually in most instances, though the 

 fit is usually sudden. The appetite is not affected, or 

 rather it is increased often to an extraordinary degree. 

 The craving is great, and flesh is always preferred, while 

 sweet and seasoned articles are much relished. On ex- 

 amination, the signs denoting the digestion to be deranged 

 will be discovered. Piles are nearly constantly met with ; 

 the coat is generally in a bad condition, and the hair off 

 in places. The nose may be dry ; the membrane of the 

 eyes congested ; the teeth covered with tartar, and the 

 breath offensive. The dog is slothful, and exertion is 

 followed by distress. Cough may or may not exist ; but 

 it usually appears towards the latter period of the attack. 

 Asthma is spasm of the bronchial tubes, and when it is 

 thoroughly established it is seldom to be cured. All 

 medicine can accomplish is the relief of the more violent 

 symptoms. The fits may be rendered comparatively less 

 frequent and less severe ; but the agents that best operate 



