6o THE MANAGEMENT AND DISEASES OF THE DOG. 



VOMITING. 



The stomach of the dog is peculiarly liable to reflex 

 peristaltic action. Vomition in this animal is perhaps more 

 easily excited than in any other of the lower species. We 

 have abundant proof of this in the administration of med- 

 icines, and in common observance during exercise, when their 

 instinct teaches them to seek what is termed " dog-grass," the 

 effect of which after swallowing is quickly manifested. 



Vomiting may be a symptom of disease, the result of an 

 overloaded stomach, or the presence of irritating matters 

 within it or applied to the fauces, or it may take place from 

 cesophagal obstruction. Worms are a very frequent cause of 

 vomition. (See "Worms.") 



The vomit may consist of mucus, bile, blood, or food 

 mingled with other offending matters. 



Vomiting is medicinally induced by agents termed 

 " emetics," the favorite one being tartarized antimony— and 

 a dangerous one it is when given injudiciously. Fortunately, 

 however, the dog's stomach, as previously observed, quickly 

 responds to its call, and it is for the most part thrown off ; 

 otherwise do^s would by quacks be killed by the score. If 

 his more unfortunate companion, the horse, were equally 

 capable of performing the same act, antimony would speedily 

 cease to exist in the never -failing condition-powders of the 

 groom and chemist. For all ordinary purposes,, plain warm 

 water or water in which (if immediate action be desired) a 

 little salt and mustard is mixed, is sufficient ; in fact, I have 

 readily produced vomiting with the latter, when I have failed 

 with antimony. The treatment of vomiting must be directed 

 to the c^use. ■ 



