GASTRITIS. 97 
For the largest dogs a safe dose is six drops; four for breeds of medium size; 
two for dogs like fox-terriers ; and one for the very smallest toys. 
It should be given three times daily, at meal times; and being bitter, the 
following expedient may wisely be resorted to: Cut several small slices of meat; 
pour on each one or two drops of the tincture; roll them up and toss to the 
patient. Or each dose may be given in a gelatin capsule which has first been 
partially filled with sugar, to hold the tincture. Enveloped in a slice of meat it 
will be taken readily. 
The doses advised are only medium, and considerably larger ones might 
safely be given, yet they will be quite sufficient in most cases, provided they are 
persisted in. Again, the tincture varies in strength ; some dogs, also, are pecu- 
liarly susceptible to it, consequently small doses and long continued, for months 
if necessary, is the only sure rule. 
GASTRITIS. 
The simple meaning of this term is inflammation of the stomach; yet as used 
by the best-informed physicians, mere affection of its lining membrane, such as 
exists in a large proportion of those who suffer from dyspepsia or indigestion, is 
not included under it, but it is limited to an inflammation of the entire thickness 
of the walls of that organ, which when acute is very intense and painful, and 
greatly endangers life. 
While acute gastritis might, possibly, spring from other causes, as exposure to 
cold, unsuitable food, etc., to which it has been attributed by some authors, very 
rarely indeed is it produced by other than irritants given for the purpose of 
poisoning. 
Vomiting is one of the most prominent symptoms, and usually for days it is 
frequent and persistent. Indeed, oftentimes water even cannot be retained. As 
for the matter raised, after the stomach has first been emptied, ordinarily it is a 
stringy mucus of a greenish tinge. In extreme cases, however, it is mixed with 
‘dark, clotted blood, and shreds of the gastric mucous membrane. 
Thirst is excessive, and the poor victim will drink constantly, notwithstand- 
‘ing his stomach rebels, and empties itself within two or three minutes after every 
‘indulgence. 
That he is suffering intense pain is very evident, for his expression is drawn 
and haggard, and breathing rapid and short. He is also extremely nervous, and 
generally inclined to change his position frequently ; but in very severe cases he 
lies much on his belly, with his legs extended; some relief doubtless being 
afforded by the pressure. 
As in all cases of tenderness and much pain within the abdomen its walls are 
drawn tightly. They are also generally shrunken; and when standing the victim 
