DIETETIC TREATMENT 169 
for the purpose is bismuth. This agent, in virtue of a 
mechanical action by which it is slowly deposited upon 
the walls of the stomach, allays irritation thereof through 
more or less prevention of contact between the gastric 
mucous membrane and the foods ingested. It is also a 
germicide of considerable value in bowel cases, the 
benzoate or subnitrate being mostly employed. These 
can be administered in powder form on the back of the 
tongue in doses of from 3 to 20 grains, three or 
four times daily, or may be suspended in some mucilage. 
A very convenient mixture is that known as mist. 
bismuthi co. (Hewlett), containing in each fluid drachm : 
B. Bismuth. carb. vs we we. 9S. ve 
Liq. morphinze ass as .. M1 iiss. 
Sodii bicarb. re are .. Qi. diss. 
Mucilage... ss sing we QS. 
the dose of which ranges from 3ss. to ii. according to 
the size of the dog. 
Hydrocyanic acid in doses of mi. to miv. of the dilute 
acid is a powerful antemetic, as also is chloretone. The 
former acts by its paralysant effect on all nervous 
structures with which it comes in contact; the latter 
exerts a nerve sedative and antispasmodic action, and is 
the active principle employed in most of the well-known 
proprietary “sea-sick remedies.” It is non-irritating, 
non-toxic, and has no action on the heart, and as a 
remedy for gastritis and vomiting in dogs it is invaluable. 
One or two of the 5-grain capsules are usually sufficient 
to arrest emesis. If the capsules themselves act as 
irritants, and are thrown up before they have had an 
opportunity of dissolving, the chloretone must be given 
in liquid form, the contents of a capsule being dissolved 
in half a teaspoonful of brandy, and a teaspoonful of 
warm water then added. 
Hot fomentations to or stimulation of the abdomen will 
