i66 THE MANAGEMENT AND DISEASES OF THE DOG. 



and, so soon as the patient is able to swallow, a little of the 

 latter may be poured down the throat. 



When inflammatory symptoms succeed the coma, local 

 bleedmg by means of leeches to the temples and back of the 

 head, followed by counter-irritation, is advisable. The bowels 

 at the same time should be kept freely opened. Strict 

 quietude should be observed throughout. The food should 

 be plain and not excessive in quantity. 



The effects of concussion are often apparent for some con- 

 siderable time afterwards,- being usually exhibited in a wild 

 unnatural stare of the eyes, with, from time to time, particu- 

 larly after feeding, a reeling gait. 



In such cases I recommend the insertion of a seton at the 

 back of the head, small doses of aperient medicine pretty fre- 

 quently, and the daily administration of nux vomica. 



COMPRESSION OF THE BRAIN. 



Compression of the brain may arise from extravasated 

 blood within the cranium, morbid growths in connection with 

 the latter or its contents, the formation of pus or accumula- 

 tion of serum within the cranial cavity or substance of the 

 brain, or by mere distension of the bloodvessels (congestion) , 

 but probably it more frequently occurs from fracture of the 

 skull, with depression of the broken parts.* 



Symptoms. — Partial or complete coma, depending upon the 

 seat and extent of compression. The breathing is slow, 

 labored, and generally stertorous, pulse slow and sometimes 

 intermittent, eyes fixed, pupils dilated and insensible to light ; 

 the limbs are relaxed and motionless, the faeces and urine are 

 frequently passed involuntarily. 



Treatment. — To remove, if possible, the cause. If it arises 

 from congestion of the brain — from mere distension of the 



* See " Fractures." 



