164 Specific and Contagious Diseases. 
the victim; he may be cajoled into a building, yard, or 
enclosure, and there be summarily dealt with. 
Prevention of rabies.—Various means have been sug- 
gested for this purpose, and to the present day the record 
is an admission of disappointment. Absolute extermina- 
tion of the canine race would not secure the stamping 
out of the disease, as other animals, notably the fox and 
cat in this country, contribute to the perpetuation of 
the virus, not among themselves alone, as they are 
undoubtedly answerable for the sudden appearance of 
the malady among straying dogs in localities where it has 
not previously been seen for long periods. Homeless and 
mongrel dogs should be regularly seized and summarily 
consigned to the lethal chamber. The uncertain or inde- 
finite period of incubation of the disease, suggests the 
detention of many animals in a dog’s home should be 
conducted with great care, otherwise the mingling of 
various breeds may ensure the propagation of rabies 
when they return to liberty. For similar reasons guaran- 
tine, unless the animals are isclated from the first and 
retained over six months, would likewise prove a mis- 
take. An efficient system of prevention must sooner or 
later receive the consideration of our Government with 
the view of their taking over the direct control. A serious 
matter of this kind should not be left to the hesitating 
policy of local authorities. It is a matter of surprise and 
regret that the fell disease should have escaped the atten- 
tion of the legislature when framing the Contagious Diseases 
(Animals) Acts, by which the movement of dogs could be 
effectually controlled. Probably our rulers in their zeal 
for the chase were oblivious of the denizen of the town, 
whose nocturnal slumbers are disturbed by the miserable 
and worthless curs which render night miserable by their cry. 
The tax is systematically evaded by many who, scarcely 
knowing the source of their next meal, harbour the non- 
descript wanderers and mongrels which form the subjects 
ofaconstant trade. The docal muzzling order, we believe, 
is a mistake, and produces a needless irritation among 
well-meaning and law-abiding owners. The muzzle is a 
cruel torture to most dogs ; its general utility is question- 
