SWOLLEN GUMS. a7 
It runs a very rapid course, and almost always to a fatal end. 
The exciting cause is probably microbic. 
Mercurial stomatitis sometimes occurs in dogs as a result of too large doses 
of calomel or other mercurials, too protracted treatment with small doses, or 
absorption from applications containing them. It is first of catarrhal form, and 
may end in that, or it may become ulcerative stomatitis; this, however, is but 
very rarely the result. 
SWOLLEN GUMS. 
In occasional instances the gums are swollen, soft, spongy, sensitive, and 
disposed to bleed easily. A like condition in man indicates scurvy, and in the 
dog it is evidence that the general health is much below the normal; also, as a 
tule, that he is not properly fed or otherwise rightly cared for. 
In such cases the breath is usually offensive, in consequence of digestive dis- 
turbances, and especially that rather vague condition commonly known as bil- 
iousness. There is also a change in demeanor, the victims being rather dull and 
listless, if not obstinate and sulky, while the appetite is poor. 
The trouble is but rarely encountered except in house-pets, fed unwisely and 
to excess, and deprived of sufficient exercise. In this fact appears the essen- 
tials in the way of treatment. It should begin with a generous cathartic, as mag- 
nesia or the syrup of buckthorn. For several days afterward the diet should be 
of the starvation sort; that is, but little food and only at long intervals. 
Two meals daily will be ample, and the first may rightly consist of new milk 
or butter-milk — the latter for choice; while for the heartiest meal of the day — 
at night— lean meat, either raw or cooked, chopped fine, and in quantity about 
one-fourth the proportion of other foods would be right. As for the other in- 
gredients, they should be rice, Graham bread or crackers, and vegetables that 
grow above ground, if they can be obtained, as the various “ greens,” cabbage, etc. 
Exercise should be strictly enforced, the dog being obliged to walk a mile 
each day at first, then two miles, and so on until in condition for good long runs 
behind a horse. Of course, as he becomes stronger his food may be more gen- 
erous, and the proportion of meat considerably increased. 
Unless there are accumulations of tartar, which must be removed, local treat- 
ment will scarcely be required; yet it can do no harm, and may do some good, 
to rub the gums each day with tincture of myrrh. The remonstrance against 
the use of this will be, however, very energetic after the first application. 
