372 ARTICULAR RHEUMATISM— POYLARTHRITIS 



separation takes place frequently between the epiphyses and 

 diaphyses. 



Etiology.— From injuries and diseases of the bones. 



Symptoms.— Sudden development of lameness. The limb 

 usually hangs inert and cannot be moved upward and for- 

 ward. Examination will reveal the fracture. 



Treatment.— No satisfactory treatment can be applied 

 owing to the location of the scapula. Dogs, when well cared 

 for and protected, will recover without special treatment. 

 Dogs protect the limbs better than any other animal. Stim- 

 ulating liniments might be applied over the area (soap lini- 

 ment, iodin liniment). 



Fracture of the Humerus.— Owing to the exposed position 

 of the humerus it is frequently fractured. In young animals 

 separation of the epiphyseal and diaphyseal portions is not 

 uncommon. It has been observed that the lower end of the 

 bone is more often fractured than any other portion. Fract- 

 ure of the condyles occurs with considerable regularity. 



Etiology.— Traumata of various kinds produce the majority 

 of cases. It occasionally happens that both the humerus 

 and scapula are fractured at the same time. 



Symptoms.— When unilateral fracture of either the epi- 

 physeal or diaphyseal portions of the bone takes place the 

 animal cannot support any weight on the limb. It will hang 

 free and limp. Should both be fractured the animal rests its 

 weight on its haunches, or assumes a recumbent position. 



Diagnosis.— Examination of the limb will at once make 

 the diagnosis positive. It is very rare to find a compound 

 fracture. 



Prognosis . —Favorable . 



Treatment. — The application of bandages is very difficult. 

 This is especially true when the fracture occurs in the upper 

 portion of the bone. Experience has proved that good 

 results follow without splints or bandages. Occasionally a 

 false union of cartilage or fibrous connective tissue will result 

 forming a pseudo-articulation. 



Fracture of the Radius and Ulna.— This is the most fre- 

 quent of all fractures in the anterior limb of the dog. All 

 small animals are affected in a similar manner. Fracture 



