198 Diseases of the Digestive System. 
function of the digestive organs in particular, and the 
system generally. 
Atony of the Rectum is common to old dogs 
unable to take exercise. The gut is enlarged from 
constant impaction, and the glands of the vicinity 
discharge a foul-smelling fluid ; the anus is also enlarged 
and ulcerated, from which a swelling arises and is con- 
tinued downwards between the thighs along the course 
of the abdomen. It is common also to other diseases as 
a complication, viz., chronic diarrhcea and dysentery. 
Treatment consists of supporting and improving the 
system by internal tonics and laxatives; the regular 
removal of feecal accumulations, and constant administra- 
tion of tonic astringent enemas, as solutions of tannic 
acid, sulphate of iron, &c. : ; 
Thickening of the Bowel, fading to Stricture, 
sometimes attended by dilation, is somewhat common to 
the duodenum. Such cases are always clearly manifested 
during life, and are usually traced to the action of 
some chemical or other irritant on the tissues of the 
bowels. 
Hernia, or the passage of some portion of the intes- 
tines and their appendages, is not of common occurrence. 
In puppies hernia of the navel is now and again seen. It 
consists of the omentum or caul, which may be returned 
within the abdomen, and maintained by a bandage or 
truss, or excision of the whole protrusion by means of the 
ligature may be tried. Other forms need not be discussed 
here, as they are only of interest to the scientific operator 
in surgery. 
Worms in the Intestines.—Several species of worms 
find their abode within the intestines of the dog, being 
chiefly of the classes commonly known as round and tape- 
worms. ‘Their presence is in obedience to certain laws 
which regulate and ensure their being called into exist- 
ence, as well as subsequent changes and developments. 
The Symptoms generally denoting the presence of 
worms in the bowels are as follows: irritation, more or 
less persistent, inducing disorder, as variable and depraved 
appetite, loss of hair, and a rough unhealthy state of the 
