DOGS : THEIR MANAGEMENT. 335 



being used as stock-dogs, and are for such purposes as 

 certain, as those more perfectly formed. Of this I have 

 had repeated proofs ; and, consequently", the absence of 

 one gland is not to be viewed as a serious defect ; 

 though I do not know that it can be regarded in the 

 light of a recommendation. Speaking from observation, 

 and bringing the results of positive experience to bear 

 upon my opinion, I may assert, that in diminutive dogs 

 — animals intended only to be esteemed as " toys," — the 

 absence of one testicle is not of the slightest import ; 

 though, in the larger breeds intended for actual work, I 

 should by no means be inclined so to regard it. 



The testicles are also subject to enlarge and become 

 hard, more than is natural. In that state they most fre- 

 quently are devoid of sensation ; though sometimes, but 

 rarely, they are unnaturally tender. The size and de- 

 gree of feeling maybe the only indications ; but gene- 

 rally the scrotum is at the same time thickbn^d, and ex- 

 hibits an alteration in structure. 



Blaine speaks of castraltion under such circumstances. 

 I have hitherto abstained from direct interference. Not- 

 withstanding the alteration, which has ' been obvious, I 

 have, beyond daily rubbing in the ointment,' containing 

 camphor and mercury, resorted to no topical application. 

 In one instance I employed an unguent, containing 

 iodine ; but it was ultimately discontinued, from a con- 

 viction that it was in its operation injurious, seeming to 

 produce effects the opposite of those desired. The food, 

 however, I alter ; and by gentle aperients I eiideavor to 



