DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS 55 



Concerning the cholagogue action of the emetics, see page 34. 

 Bile secretion is also increased by large quantities of water and by a 

 meat diet. The bile acids also have a cholagogue action, which 

 explains the former use of bile (fel bovis). According to recent 

 investigations, Carlsbad water only renders the bile more fluid and 

 does not increase the secretion of bile proper. 



2. DIETETIC AND MECHANICAL METHODS 



In dogs affected with icterus, as in man, the secretion of bile 

 may be increased by a diet of meat and milk and by the adminis- 

 tration of large quantities of water. The latter facilitates the 

 reabsorption from the intestines into the blood of the bile salts, 

 which have a cholagogue action (Schiff). 



The circulation of blood in the liver is mechanically stimulated, 

 directly or indirectly, by exercise, massage of the liver (applied in 

 dogs under the right ribs), cutaneous irritation, cold infusions into 

 the intestines; emetics and cathartics. 



