456 DISEASES OF THE PERIPHERAL NERVES 



Symptoms.— The most prominent symptom is a limp, 

 lifeless condition of the limb unable to support any weight. 

 Sensation, as a rule, is lost in the entire limb. If the paralysis 

 is partial only, the symptoms will be less prominent. 



Prognosis.— Most cases, inasmuch as they are due to 

 injuries, recover completely in the course of a few weeks. 



Treatment.— Massage and nerve stimulants are useful. 

 Keep the animal well nourished. 



Sciatic Nerve.— Etiology. — (a) Falling from heights and 

 jumping, (b) Wounds and direct injuries to the nerve, (c) 

 Infectious diseases (distemper), (d) Tumors and abscesses 

 in contact with the nerve. 



Symptoms.— There will be paralysis of the biceps femoris, 

 the semitendinosus and the muscles below the stifle joint. 

 In the dog the limb will hang relaxed and during forward 

 movement the toe is dragged on the ground. Cases will be 

 seen where the hair and skin are abraded from the anterior 

 surface of the foot. There may be loss of sensation below 

 the stifle joint. In bilateral sciatic paralysis it resembles 

 lumbar paralysis to a certain degree. A differentiation 

 should be made. Atrophy of the affected muscles will soon 

 be noticeable. 



Prognosis.— If due to injuries it is favorable, provided the 

 nerve is not completely destroyed. 



Treatment.— Massage and employ nerve stimulants. Pro- 

 tect the feet from injury, give nourishing food and use 

 the electric current. 



Paralysis of other nerves is occasionally seen but is of 

 minor importance. 



