268 THE DISEASES OF THE DOG. 



Hydrophobia.' " The only safe place to grip a dog is at 

 the back of the neck, behind the head ; there the skin is 

 sufficiently loose to afford a good hold, while the hands 

 cannot be touched by the animal's teeth so long as the 

 grasp is maintained. . . . Blows will not prevent 

 their biting and holding on. . . The simplest, safest, 

 and by far the most effective plan of rescuing one's self, or 

 defending other persons or dogs from some infuriated or 

 mad animal's fangs, is choking. If the animal wears a 

 collar this is easily done, as one has only to seize it firmly 

 at the back, and pull it tightly against the throat in front ; 

 the foot or other hand may usefully aid in the operation 

 by pressing strongly against the back of the neck. It 

 should by no means be released immediately it lets go 

 its hold, but ought to be still further choked until it is 

 harmless for the time, when means may be had recourse 

 to for securing it properly. When there is no collar on 

 the neck a strong handkerchief or piece of rope tied round 

 and pulled in the same manner, or twisted with a stick, 

 is a ready appliance. . . It only requires strong arms 

 and a little coolness and tact." 



