DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 265 



are apt to arise. In cases where they do, fuller's earth, alum 

 and flour — one part of the former to three of the latter, or the 

 oxide of zinc ointment or lotion, are the most suitable, appli- 

 cations. 



In confirmed and chronic paralysis, complete recovery is 

 rarely witnesed ; some lingering effect, as twitching or 

 tremor of a part, being observable throughout life. In such 

 instances, undue exposure to cold and damp should be 

 avoided. 



CONCUSSION OF THE BRAIN. 



The brain of the dog, though strongly protected in com- 

 parison with that of the human being and some of the lower 

 animals, is nevertheless at times subjected to severe shocks 

 from external violence, as falls, blows, etc. 



Symptoms. — The patient lies insensible or (in common 

 parlance) stunned, and motionless. The respiration is slow 

 and feeble, the pulse quick and small, the pupils are gener- 

 ally contracted and insensible to light. 



As the senses gradually return, vomiting usually takes 

 place ; when in locomotion, the Jiead is carried low, the eyes 

 have a vacant dreamy expression, and the gait is reeling and 

 unsteady, the animal blunders forward and butts against 

 various objects in its way. 



Treatment. — The attention of the surgeon should first be 

 directed to the head, which should be carefully examined to 

 ascertain if there be any injury or fracture of the skull. If 

 the latter exists, and there is depression of tlae broken parts, 

 their elevation is at once indicated. If there is an external 

 wound, it should be carefully attended to, and hemorrhage, 

 if any, arrested. 



With regard to further treatment, ammonia may be applied 

 to the nostrils, and the gums and lips rubbed with brandy ; 



