38 The Management and Diseases of the Dog. 



Treatment. — Remedial measures can only be adopted 

 with a view to alleviating the symptoms : an absolute cure 

 is out of the question. The digestive organs demand 

 special attention ; rich food, and that which is likely to 

 produce flatulency, must be strictly avoided. Vegetable 

 charcoal and iron, i scruple of the former and lo grains of 

 the latter, made into a pill and given three times a week, 

 with an occasional oleaginous aperient, form as a rule 

 the most effectual medicinal treatment. If the animal 

 is gross, and the breathing difficult, an ordinary 

 emetic may be administered with benefit ; and to 

 ensure prolongation of life a gradual reduction of obesity, 

 and when reduced proportionately, a fixed standard main- 

 tained, is most necessary. If out of doors, the dryness, 

 drainage, and kennel situation are matters of importance. 

 (See " Kennel Arrangement.") 



ASTHMA (Spasmodic) 



Differs from the former in that it comes on in paroxyms, 

 often of almost a tetanic nature, and is usually unaccom- 

 panied by any inflammatory symptoms. It is more 

 amenable to treatment than the previous form, but is liable 

 to return suddenly and without warning. 



Predisposing Causes. — ^A previous attack, or hereditary 

 disposition. 



Exciting Causes. — Prolonged dyspepsia ; flatulence ; an- 

 terior spinal irritation ; sudden changes of temperature j 

 irritating effluvia. 



Symptoms, — Sudden and laboured respiration, occurring 

 at intervals ; dry cough during the paroxysm, with or 

 without expectoration ; exertion frequently produces retch- 

 ing and vomiting. 



Treatment. — An emetic at the onset is advisable. If the 

 paroxysms continue, small doses of stimulants should be 

 administered, as a teaspoonful of brandy and water, with 



