DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 



2S9 



Cold water is certainly the best ready-at-hand application ; 

 this may be dashed freely in the face, or what is better, if 

 within reach, a tap turned on the animal's head. 



Bleeding as a rule is unnecessary, and injudicious. 



Epikpsy generally arises from debility and nervous irrita- 

 tion ; therefore in the after treatment it is our duty to seek 

 for and remove the causes giving rise to this condition. If it 

 be worms, the speedier they are removed the better. If den- 

 tition, a proper attention to that process, and the regularity 

 of natural functions is to be observed. If from the suppres- 

 sion of natural secretions and evacuations, a restoration of 

 suspended function must be induced. If from sudden excite- 

 ment, as music, steam-engine whistles, and the like, such 

 noises should be avoided, or we should by degrees get the 

 animal accustomed to them. If from suckling, withdrawal 

 of whelps, and a more liberal diet, with tonics. If from over-" 

 exertion after feeding, the cause must not be repeated. If 

 from rapid exertion in obese condition, reduce the latter and 

 regulate the former. If from flesh meat, an alteration in the 

 quantity should be made, or suspended for a time altogether; 



When coma succeeds the attack, ammonia should be ap- 

 plied to the nostrils, and the gums rubbed with brandy. The 

 back of the head may also, in protracted cases, be stimulated 

 with mustard or tutpentine embrocation. 



APOPLEXY. 



Apoplexy, or congestion of the vessels of the brain, is 

 generally met with in aged gross dogs, irregularly exercised. 



Predisposing Causes. — Plethora, obesity, especially in pugs 

 and bull-dogs. 



Exciting Causes. — Violent exercise, intense heat, pressure 

 on the vessels of the neck from tight collars or dragging at 

 the chain, derangement of the digestive organs, violent strain- 

 ing, especially in parturition narcotics. 



