DOURINE 371 
vulva remains naturally closed, and does not gape, as in mal du coit. 
The clitoris retains its natural color, size and appearance.” The dura- 
tion of this affection is stated to be from two to six weeks, but may 
persist for a longer time if neglected. The cause is not known. He 
reports that when it becomes established it is highly contagious. It 
appears to be spread by copulation. 
Prevention. The prevention of dourine seems to rest in the isola- 
tion of all affected animals. It is important, therefore, that its 
diagnosis be made at the earliest possible moment. As it is not 
spread except by copulation, it is a comparatively easy disease to con- 
trol if taken in time. 
Prophylaxis. In Austria where the disease has existed for a long: 
time, the following rules are observed. Baldrey states that they sum 
up the necessary preventive measures. It is understood that they 
apply to a country in which the disease is prevalent: 
“Even when there is nothing to lead to the supposition that 
the disease exists, every mare about to be put to the horse shall be 
carefully inspected, and refusal made to old and weakly mares, or to 
those which have a discharge from the vulva, or have that organ 
enlarged or swollen, or which do not present the ordinary manifesta- 
tions of cestrum. It is also suggested that an edematous swelling, no 
matter where situated, should negative covering. 
“The stallion’s penis to be carefully and frequently examined, and 
on no account is the animal to be used if there is the slightest lesion 
upon it. He is to be kept secluded until all doubt as to the nature of 
the lesion has passed away. 
“Give all information possible to breeders as to character of the 
disease. 
“Immediate information is to be given of all stallions in which the 
disease is suspected, and the necessary steps to be taken. 
“To prevent extension, the sale of all mares in the affected areas 
to be stopped during the prevalence of the disease. 
“Tf the malady has spread in a district, all breeding stallions to be 
stopped employment, whether Government or private property. 
Those already diseased to be sequestrated under police supervision, 
whether private or Government property. 
“Affected animals to be separated from healthy, to have their own 
attendants, and no interchange of clothing, utensils, etc., to take 
place. Those deemed curable to be treated, those incurable to be 
destroyed. 
