334 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR. 
EPILEPSY. 
Epilepsy is a sudden and violent spasm of the muscles, lasting ten 
minutes or more. It is usually hereditary, though it may result from an 
injury to the head, disorders in teething, eating too much raw flesh, and 
worms in the bowels. 
In an attack the animal suddenly staggers and falls, often with a dis- 
tressing bark; violently struggles; foams at the mouth, perhaps with blood 
flowing from bites on the tongue; the legs generally grow stiff; the eyes 
roll wildly; the face twitches. Consciousness gradually returns, and the 
dog seems perfectly well until another attack comes on. 
TREATMENT.— Use the remedies prescribed for Epilepsy in the Horse. 
All food given toa dog subject to epilepsy should be cooked. During an 
attack, keep a stick between the jaws to prevent biting of the tongue. 
CANKER IN THE MOUTH. 
This is a very troublesome disorder, and if the disease result from 
long-continued irritation, or be in an old dog, it is deemed incurable. Its 
symptoms are swollen gums, discharging blood; offensive matter; proud 
flesh; bleeding; difficulty in eating; loss of appetite, flesh and strength. 
TREATMENT.—In recent cases, or in young dogs of general good 
health, wash out the mouth once daily for several days with a solution of 
two grains of nitrate of silver to four ounces of water, using a tooth-brush 
in the application. Hydrastis, internally and externally, may be good. 
SALIVATION.—SLOBBERS. 
An overdose of mercury, or the use of mercurial ointments for skin 
disorders, sometimes produces salivation, of which the symptoms are 
swollen gums and lips, loose teeth, swollen and red tongue, profuse and 
constant flow of saliva from the mouth, very offensive breath, easy falling 
of hair, diarrhoea and straining. 
TREATMENT.—Give two drops of nitric acid three times a day. 
Wash the mouth out with warm water and honey. Keep the dog ina 
warm, dry place, with clothing if necessary to comfort, and feed him well. 
INDIGESTION. 
Indigestion may result from overfeeding, improper food, want of ex- 
ercise or reduced vitality. Its symptoms are restlessness; reduced appetite; 
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