COLD AND HEAT 709 



waterproof protective is interposed between the wet blanket, 

 sheet, sponges or cloths on the inside and outside woolen cov- 

 erings. Evaporation is thus prevented, but not vaporization. 

 Such an application may be used with safety in febrile dis- 

 eases, as pleuritis and pneumonia. If it is not renewed 

 frequently, hypersemia of the surface occurs, and this may ' 

 be beneficial in aborting or relieving internal congestion. It 

 then acts as an ordinary poultice, and is of value in various 



localinflam mations resulting from strains, blows and bruises; 

 also, in laryngitis. Besides relieving internal congestion, 

 the Priessnitz poultice stimulates absorption,^ removes in- 

 duration and hastens suppuration, locally. The wet pack 

 and Priessnitz poultice are more appropriate for practical 

 use than the other methods in veterinary practice, since the 

 evaporation from the hair of animals contraindicates methods 

 snHable in human medicine. 



Cold Baths are only practicable for the smaller animals. 

 Dogs may be immersed in water at 90° F., which is rapidly 

 cooled down to 60°. The bath should last about fifteen 

 minutes, the surface of the body being rubbed constantly. 

 Ice water should be frequently poured over the head. After 

 removal from the water, the patient must be thoroughly 

 dried, wrapped in warm blankets, and a stimulant given if 

 necessary. Such treatment may be used as an antipyretic 

 measure if the temperature is over 103° F. in the rectum. 



Douches. — A douche is a forcible impact of water against 

 the surface of the body. It is not used for its antipyretic 

 effect, but acts as a stimulant to the nervous system at large, 

 whereby the respiratory action is deepened and strength- 

 ened, and the circulation invigorated. The douche is given 

 advantageously in the treatment of coma, of alcohol, chloro- 

 form, ether or opium, applied to the head. The water may 

 be dashed from a pail or applied by means of a garden hose 

 or from a tap. Bheumatic lameness and peripheral para- 

 lysis are suitable cases for the douche treatment, followed 

 by vigorous rubbing and dry bandaging. Syncope may oft^p 

 belquickly relieved by douching of the head and chest. 



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