2o6 THE MANAGEMENT AND DISEASES OF THE DOG. 



soreness. Young dogs, particularly when teething, are those 

 usually attacked. The disease is non-contagious, and readily 

 yields to treatment. 



Treatment. — Mild saline aperients in the first instance, 

 followed by tonics, forms the most effectual medicinal treat- 

 ment. 



With regard to local applications, the oxide of zinc oint- 

 ment or lotion is most suitable. Sponging with cold vinegar 

 and water or a weak solution of alum is likewise beneficial. 

 The diet shou'd be plain and unstimulating. 



RINGWORM (Proper). 



This disease is occasionally met with in the dog. It is 

 due to the presence of a minute vegetable parasite or fungus 

 {Tricophyton tonsurans, Malmsten, or Achorion Lebertii). 



Ringworm is exceedingly contagious, communicable from 

 man to the lower animal, and vice versa. 



Causes. — Cold, wet seasons ; badly drained, dirty, and un- 

 comfortable kennels ; insufficient and nutritious food ; inat- 

 tention to the cleanliness of the skin, are each conducive to 

 the presence of ringworm. 



Symptoms. — The most prominent symptom is the charac- 

 teristic circular patch, with silver scaly crusts, whilst the pres- 

 ence of the fungus at once removes any doubt that may exist. 

 The hair has a dry harsh appearance, is exceedingly brittle, 

 and easily detached. As the disease advances, the hair 

 breaks of itself close to the crust, and when the latter is re- 

 moved, the hairs are exhibited in short, bristle-like pieces, sur- 

 rounded with the spores of the fungus. 



From the animal biting, rubbing, or scratching itself, the 

 characteristic shape is sometimes obliterated. 



The period of incubation is from eight to fourteen days. 



Treatment. — Mild mercurial and iodine ointments are gen- 



