INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. 137 



INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER 



Is another constant sequel of exposure to cold, especially after 

 the use of calomel as an aperient. The symptoms are very 

 similar to those of peritonitis, but the white or clayey motions 

 and the yellow colour of the eyes soon lead to the conclusion that 

 the liver is the seat of the mischief. I have already described 

 this disease as occurring in distemper, and, when coming on inde- 

 pendently, its character and treatment are nearly the same. In 

 this case, however, the remedies may be carried to a greater 

 extent, for there is not the same danger from the prostration 

 of strength which comes on in the former case. 



TORPID LIVER happens either as a consequence of active inflam- 

 mation, or of overfeeding or want of exercise. In either case it 

 may be known by the dullness of the dog, and by the whiteness of 

 the motions. For this state a pill, composed of a grain or two of 

 blue pill, and five grains of the compound rhubarb pill, every 

 night, or night and morning, is the best remedy ; or, if the 

 weather is very severe, or the dog in training, then give the 

 rhubarb pill, with half a grain or a grain of powdered ipecacuanha 

 instead. 



THE YELLOWS is a symptom of obstruction in the excretion of 

 bile, and is easily recognised by the deep yellow colour of the skin 

 and eyes. It is often a complication of distemper, but it 

 sometimes occurs independently of that affection altogether. In 

 any case it is a very fatal disease, and requires active treatment to 



