ANAL FISSURE AND FISTULA. I4!I 
PROLAPSE OF THE RECTUM. 
Occasionally in old dogs and sometimes in young subjects the bowel falls 
and protrudes through the outlet. In the former the trouble may be due to a 
relaxed condition of the affected parts and straining consequent upon constipa- 
tion, or it may be dependent upon irritation of the lower bowel, set up by foreign 
bodies that have been swallowed and are making their way out. And this 
seems to be by far the most frequent cause of prolapse, especially in early life. 
A case within the knowledge of the writer may be instructive. It was that 
of a puppy some four months old. Several times his bowel was forced out a 
distance of at least six inches. On the third day three carpet-tacks were dis- 
charged; recovery then took place immediately. 
When young dogs have prolapse the chances are many that there is a stone, 
bit of glass, sliver of bone, or other foreign body lodged in the bowel; and it will 
be well always to administer an injection of sweet-oil, two or three times daily. 
In the meantime, and as often as the bowel comes down, it should be first 
bathed with warm water and then returned. This operation will be easy if 
gentle and continuous pressure is maintained. 
For several days thereafter the foods should be raw beef or milk and raw 
eggs, which are productive of the least waste and therefore favor quietude of 
the bowel. 
Old dogs should be treated in much the same way; but if a lax condition of 
the affected parts is accountable for the accident and there is constipation, one 
or two movements daily should be promoted. 
ANAL FISSURE AND FISTULA. 
Anal fissure is a long, narrow, and irritable ulcer of the lowest part of the 
bowel, just within its orifice, and originates in a crack or break in the mucous 
membrane which lines the same. 
It may be caused by intestinal irritation, hemorrhoids, constipation, or 
hardened refuse and violent straining necessary for its expulsion. It may 
also be induced by large bones having sharp corners or edges. These appear to 
be the most common causes; and where fissures occur, very generally there is a 
previous history of intestinal obstruction. 
Pain is a prominent symptom, and evident from the fact that the sufferer 
does not have easy movements of the bowels; but while they are occurring he 
makes a feeble effort, then desists and runs about as though distressed, and 
likely emits short, sharp cries. Soon again he endeavors to effect a discharge, 
but is speedily stopped by the pain; and it is only after repeated efforts and 
much suffering that he is at last relieved. 
