Common Diseases of Dogs 



convulsions. In the later stages chorea may de- 

 velop, although tills disease usually occurs some 

 time after the other symptoms have disappeared, 

 and the distemper has been announced cured. Dis- 

 temper may occur in the form of a diarrhea which 

 lasts from two to four days. This is usually fol- 

 lowed in about four weeks with chorea. In some 

 cases no other S3miptom than convulsions is present. 

 The cases which exhibit a bronchitis with a heavy 

 nasal discharge are not as fatal as those which in- 

 volve the intestines. The death rate is very high. 



Prevention. — Every possible precaution should 

 be exercised in preventing distemper. When the 

 dog is out for his walk he should be kept away 

 from suspicious looking animals, especially the 

 street variety. Great care should be taken that he 

 does not contract a cold on rainy days, or after his 

 bath. If the dog is not as vigorous as he should be, 

 find out the reason and try to overcome it. Should 

 the owner desire to enter his dog in a show, it is 

 advisable to have him vaccinated before doing so. 

 The immunity thus conferred will last but a few 

 weeks and should be done about a week before 

 showing. 



Treatment. — ^There is no known cure for dis- 

 temper. Serums in the hands of those familiar with 

 their action often prove helpful if used early, in the 

 disease. The dog should immediately be put under 

 the doctor's care. Delays are dangerous, and with 



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