GENERAL DISEASES
Distemper
This is one of the most common diseases of the dog, and one that leaves
in its train often very serious results. The earlier symptoms are very
insidious. There is dullness; loss of appetite, flesh and strength may
be remarked, while purging and vomiting are not uncommon. To this are
added a short, husky cough, watery eyes, increased redness of the
vessels of the eye, sensibility of the eye to light, increased frequency
of the pulse. As the disease advances, the animal shivers with the cold,
dislikes to be disturbed, seeks warmth, and courts solitude; the bowels
are confined; the membrane of the eye covered with a fine net-work of
bright red vessels; a thick discharge of matter flows from the eyes; the
nostrils are covered with a glassy yellowish fluid; the cough is
increased in frequency, and comes on in fits, which terminates in the
discharge of a yellow, frothy fluid from the stomach; the skin is hot.
Often with red spots on the under side of the body and between the
thighs.
A later stage is marked by an increase of all the foregoing symptoms.
The body wastes, the shivering is constant, the eyes are filled with a
thick matter, which glues the eyelids together in the morning, tenacious
matter clogs the nostrils and obstructs the breathing. This causes much
uneasiness and frequent but unsuccessful attempts to overcome the cause
of annoyance. The discharge from the nostrils becomes bloody and
offensive; the breath is fetid; the lips are covered with ulcers; short
cries express pain; and the animal, becoming weaker and worse in every
respect, at last dies, a severe diarrhea being the usual harbinger of
that end.
Distemper frequently results in chorea, or St. Vitus’ dance, paralysis,
disease of the brain, ulcers on the eyes and opacity, inflammation of
the lungs, or in numerous other ailments.
TREATMENT.—The earlier stages, before the discharge is established, are
best controlled by the A. A., of which give a dose of three or five
drops, according to the size of the dog, morning, noon and night.
After the catarrhal stage has come on, give three or five drops of the
C. C., four times per day. This will, in general, carry the animal
safely and speedily through this ordeal. Should other diseases declare
themselves, they should be treated accordingly.
Should a general or partial paralysis occur, or inability to use one or
several limbs, the J. K., should be given, three or five drops, three
times per day, until recovered. (See paralysis.)
ACCESSORY MEASURES.—A nutritious and easily digested diet is of great
importance in this disease, such as—milk, bouillon, soup, scraped raw
meat and beef tea. If much diarrhea, boiled milk. If great loss of
strength or appetite, alcoholic stimulants may be added to the milk or
soup.
Simple or Inflammatory Fever
Is known by a fever, attended with increased heat of the whole body, and
with a quick, strong, decided pulse. It attacks dogs of all breeds and
ages, but most frequently those from one year to three years old.
CAUSES.—Sudden changes from heat to cold; jumping into cold water after
being very much heated from running; excitement from various causes.
Fever is accompanied with some degree of inflammation, however it may be
occasioned.
SYMPTOMS.—The fever comes on with a dislike to move, and with a drowsy
appearance, soon followed by great restlessness; constant getting up,
turning round, and lying down again; great thirst; hard, frequent pulse;
hurried breathing; red, swollen, watery eyes; burning heat of the whole
body; dry, parched nose; intensely hot mouth; as the disease progresses
the restlessness increases, and the dog stares, and frequently becomes
unconscious.
TREATMENT.—Give A. A., from one to three drops, according to the size of
the dog, every two hours at first, and as the patient mends, a dose four
times per day; and at the last, a dose of J. K., morning and night.
Rheumatism—Chest Founder—Kennel Lameness
DEFINITION.—An affection of the muscles and joints accompanied with
stiffness and tenderness. More often of the chest, loins or back, but
may occur anywhere.
CAUSES.—Sudden exposure to cold and damp; going into water after running
fast; lying in a cold, wet kennel; violent exercise. It chiefly attacks
sporting dogs and house dogs.
SYMPTOMS.—Stiffness in the fore legs and shoulders; stiffness of back,
neck, and loins, animal cannot go up or down stairs easily, howls when
fore paws are lifted from the ground; unusual firmness and tenderness of
the muscles of the chest when pressed; swelling at the knees, with heat
and tenderness; tenderness at the back of the shoulder or the ribs;
accelerated breathing; impaired appetite; dry and hot nose. The animal
often limps with one paw, trails it, or holds it up as he goes along,
and howls when he puts it to the ground.
TREATMENT.—Give, at first, and more especially if there is heat or
fever, A. A., a dose every three or four hours, and later, if the
lameness and stiffness is considerable, give B. B., in alternation with
the A. A., at similar intervals. For simple rheumatic stiffness, give B.
B., morning and night. Dose, one to three drops, according to the size
of dog.
ACCESSORY MEASURES.—The animal must be kept warm and dry, and protected
from the inclemency of the weather. No meat of any kind should be given.
Dropsy
Dropsy is a morbid accumulation of watery fluid confined to certain
parts of the body, or affecting the cellular tissue; the latter form,
called ANASARCA, is very rarely seen in the dog. The most common forms
are: water in the cavity of the chest, HYDROTHORAX; and water in the
abdomen, ASCITES.
CAUSES.—General Debility, brought on by want of food; diarrhea suddenly
checked; damp lodgings. It may follow various diseases, such as
inflammation of the lungs, or retroceding skin disorders; or be caused
by a diseased state of the mesenteric glands, or of the liver.
SYMPTOMS.—Ascites is accompanied by enlargement of the abdomen; the
water is sometimes collected in the abdominal cavity; at other times it
is between the skin and the peritoneum; in the former case there is not
that tense feeling which characterizes the latter. The presence of water
may be ascertained by resting one hand on one side of the abdomen and
striking the other side, when _fluctuation_ will be felt. WATER IN THE
CHEST is accompanied by oppressed breathing and cough; both symptoms are
aggravated by lying down. In either form of the disease there is loss of
appetite, disinclination to move, the urine is passed in small
quantities, the dog loses flesh and becomes weak.
TREATMENT.—H. H., by increasing the action of the kidneys, is often
efficient, a dose once in three hours. If not efficient, alternate I.
I., with the H. H., at the same intervals.
Abscess
DEFINITION.—A collection of matter, generally appearing between the skin
and the cellular tissue—occasionally close to the joint, and rarely (in
the dog) upon some internal organ. It may appear on any part of the
body.
CAUSES.—Injuries are the chief causes of abscesses in the dog, but they
sometimes appear from weakness after certain diseases, especially
distemper. When internal abscesses form, they are due to too great care,
too high feeding, or want of sufficient exercise.
SYMPTOMS.—A swelling appears, which is hot, painful and inflamed; it
increases in size, and finally bursts, when the matter is discharged. In
other cases there is but little heat or tenderness, and the swelling
increases slowly, and is occasionally hardened. If hardening takes
place, instead of suppuration, there is usually a sub-cutaneous fungoid
growth.
TREATMENT.—The I. I., is the remedy for such forms of disease, and may
be given, a dose of from one to three drops, according to the size of
the dog, three or four times per day.
ACCESSORY TREATMENT.—If an abscess appears to be forming, the part
should be narrowly examined to ascertain if there has been any injury
from a thorn, etc. If anything is found, it must be at once carefully
removed, and HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH HAZEL or VETERINARY OIL applied to
the part. This, if attended to in time, will often prevent the formation
of the abscess. But if the swelling continue, and it is certain that pus
is forming, it will be hastened by fomenting the part with warm water,
three or four times a day; if the swelling has increased in size and
becomes softer, but does not break, it will be necessary to open it with
a lancet or sharp pen-knife.
Tumors
DEFINITION.—A deposit or growth of diseased structure confined to the
part where it first appears. The tumors generally seen on the dog are of
two kinds—(1) indurated, or hard; and (2) encysted, or enclosed in a sac
or bag. They are seldom painful, unless considerable pressure be used;
as a rule they are movable, and their extent can easily be determined.
_Encysted tumors_ are the most common; they vary in size, from that of a
nut to that of a pint measure. They are sacs or small bladders filled
with matter, smooth and soft, devoid of inflammation, and lie close
under the skin. At times their formation is very slow; this is generally
the case when they are due to constitutional causes, a fact which can
generally be clearly ascertained.
LACTEAL TUMORS
Tumors sometimes form in the teat when there is obstruction in its
canal; or when the milk is dried up too soon or too quickly after
suckling. They appear in different parts of the gland, as small,
movable, hard bodies; increase in size; cause great inconvenience to the
animal; and form an eyesore to its owner. If their progress be not
arrested, they may ulcerate; or encysted tumors may form, which, if
injured by dragging along the ground, may have a similar issue.
CAUSES.—Bruises; wounds; constitutional tendency; diseased condition of
the secreting glands.
TREATMENT.—Hard tumors are best excised as soon as they appear. The
operation is simple, and the wound will generally soon close up if left
to the care of the dog, and after a time will scarcely be seen.
Encysted tumors are also best removed by excision. They may also be
removed by tapping for the extraction of the fluid, and the subsequent
injection of iodine. Should they become compound, they must be excised.
On the other hand, when it is known that they have been caused by an
injury, they will sometimes disappear by the use of HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL
WITCH HAZEL, internally and externally.
Cancer
All tumors are not cancers, but in certain constitutions, inflammation,
indurated and encysted tumors may degenerate into cancerous growths. The
cancerous tumor is at first small, hard, knotted and irregular in form;
it then grows larger, and is attached to the skin; this inflames and
ulcerates; and thus the cancer appears on the surface. Its edges are
irregular red or purple, and indurated; it is attended with considerable
pain and a most disgusting discharge.
TREATMENT.—If in good health the tumor may be excised while the dog is
under chloroform. But the cancer will return. If fully established, the
animal should be put out of its misery. The best application is
HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY OIL, and the best internal treatment is the I.I.,
a dose two or three times per day.
Black Tongue
During the last few years a disease has been quite prevalent in the
south which has been called “Black Tongue” whether this is a distinct
disease or merely the symptom of some other disease is as yet not known.
The principal symptoms are congestion of the tongue and mouth which
causes the black color, this usually leads to ulceration of the mouth
and the ulceration frequently extends so as to involve the entire
digestive tract. There is great weakness and emaciation with death in a
few days. Very few animals recover. Besides these symptoms many others
have been reported but they vary so much in the different cases that
they have caused great doubt as to “Black Tongue” being a distinct
disease. The symptoms given might be Dumb Rabies, page 225; Canker of
the Mouth, page 237; Hook Worm, page 243; or Sore Throat, page 232.
In cases of so called “Black Tongue” we would advise comparing the
symptoms with those of the above diseases.
CHAPTER II.—PART IV.
DISEASES OF THE HEAD AND NERVOUS SYSTEM
Apoplexy
DEFINITION.—A sudden, partial or complete loss of consciousness and
power of motion, occasioned by determination of blood to the head.
CAUSES.—Pressure on the brain, from a congested state of the
blood-vessels. Fat pet dogs are more subject to an attack than dogs
moderately fed and allowed plenty of exercise.
SYMPTOMS.—Staggering walk, drowsiness, twitching of the muscles of the
face and limbs; these are premonitary symptoms of an attack; or the fit
may be sudden, when the dog falls down without power of movement, with
loud and irregular breathing, and appears to be dying, but generally,
after three or four hours, he gradually recovers.
TREATMENT.—The A.A., is the proper remedy, and may be given for the
premonitions of an attack, a dose morning and night. If he has had the
fit, give a dose at once, and repeat it again after two or three hours,
and then morning and night for a time, to prevent a relapse. Dose, one
to three drops, according to the size of the dog.
ACCESSORY MEANS.—Wherever the fit occurs, if possible, let the dog
remain, and apply cold water to the head with sponge. After recovery
takes place, care must be taken as to diet, only milk or oatmeal and
water should be given for a day or two.
Palsy, Paralysis
This is not an unfrequent affection in the dog, especially those that
are well fed, as pet dogs. It arises from disease of the brain or spinal
cord, and is sometimes also the result of disease of the bowels or
stomach.
SYMPTOMS.—It may occur in one side or part of the animal, and is most
frequent in the hind legs, which appear as if the animal had no power
over them; he staggers, falls, or lies on the ground, dragging his hind
legs after him, unable to stand upon them.
TREATMENT.—Give the J.K., two to five drops, according to the size of
the dog, three times per day.
In case it comes on suddenly in well fed dogs, from an over-feed or
gorging the animal, give a spoonful of castor oil and an injection of
warm soap and water, followed with the prescription above.
Epilepsy, or Fits
The dog is occasionally subject to true epilepsy, and not unfrequently
to fits or convulsions arising from transient causes; such as teething
in puppies, worms, want of exercise, and then too violent exercise. They
are liable, also, to come on during distemper, or after it, or from
disease of the brain. Small pet dogs are more subject to fits than
others, as their nervous system is more excitable and their lives more
artificial.
SYMPTOMS.—The fit generally comes on suddenly, the animal staggers,
falls down, remains lying for an instant, and then is violently
convulsed; the legs become stiff, the face distorted, the eyes roll
about, the tongue is thrust out, the jaws nearly closed or firmly
clenched. The convulsion becomes gradually less, and after some twitches
they cease, and the animal in a short time appears well again.
In true epilepsy the fits recur again at diminishing intervals, and
excitements may easily reproduce them.
TREATMENT.—Give on an attack, from whatever cause, from two to five
drops, according to the size of the animal, of the A.A., and repeat it
once after the paroxysm is over. This will be sufficient for fits
arising from any transient cause; but if the dog is subject to them, he
must have J.K., alternately with A.A., a dose every day or two, and
continued for some time.
Chorea, St. Vitus’ Dance
This is a frequent result of severe distemper, especially in the case of
young dogs, intestinal worms, disorders of the stomach or a weak and
anemic condition seem to predispose to this disease.
SYMPTOMS.—The disease manifests itself by twitches, or involuntary jerks
of various parts, as the leg, shoulder, face, neck, or even eyelids.
Sometimes it is confined to a single limb or two, or the whole body may
be affected. The animal has no control over them, and they are
manifested sometimes during sleep. He wastes, eats and sleeps badly, and
may become palsied; at last he becomes incapable of any service,
staggers, has convulsions, and is at last worn out.
TREATMENT.—Give the A.A., each morning, and J.K., each night, two to
five drops, according to the size of the animal, and follow the
treatment perseveringly.
ACCESSORY MEASURES.—Fresh air and fattening food such as—rich milk,
broth, oatmeal, meat once a day.
Rabies, Canine Madness
Much has been said upon the subject of _Rabies_, or _Canine Madness_,
and from the general horror in which the disease is justly held, some
consideration of it is proper, even if we do not possess the means of
cure. It is an acute disease, communicable from one animal to another
and from them to man. Occurring among men it is known as hydrophobia.
Its origin is unknown, but it is supposed to have originated from the
skunk. Formerly it was very common among the wolves and skunks of the
western plains. The virus affects the nervous system of the animal. It
is found in some of the secretions, chiefly in the salivary glands. The
disease is communicated only by the saliva of affected animals, usually
by biting. The disease may break out in from a few days to a few months
after the animal has been bitten; the average time is about twenty-five
days. Two principal forms of this disease have been distinguished;
rabies proper, and dumb rabies.
SYMPTOMS OF RABIES PROPER.—First change noticed is in the dog’s gait in
walking, either more lively and irritable than usual, or more dull and
sad; peculiar restlessness; does not remain in one place; often quits
his home and roams to a distance; he recognizes and obeys his master at
the commencement, and even through the entire disease; generally no
appetite from the commencement; some will take soup, but never solid
food; they often, however, devour strange things, as wood, leather,
straw, or even filth; they drink in all stages of the disease, as long
as they can swallow; there is always a peculiar change of voice, more
shrill or more grave, always slightly hoarse and disagreeable; the bark
is peculiar, not in distinct emissions, as in health, but an emission of
voice ending in a howl; the desire to bite is not constant, but comes
occasionally in fits, and varying degrees; during the fits he bites
everything, cats, other dogs, human beings, even his own master, or
inanimate objects, and frequently snaps at the air. At first he is but
little changed in appearance; but soon the eyes become red; they open
and shut alternately; later, they are dull, as if covered with dust;
rapid emaciation; he becomes, finally, very weak, and drags his hind
quarters, while at first he is strong, carries his tail as usual, and
differs not in gait from a healthy dog.
Dumb Rabies is manifested by loss of appetite, drink, voice, as in the
first instance, modified thus: The lower jaw droops, apparently
paralyzed from the commencement; he cannot swallow any liquid; saliva
constantly flows from his mouth; the tongue often hangs from between the
teeth; he bites less than in the first form; still, as there are times,
when irritated, that he may close his mouth, the danger from biting is
the same.
There are some popular errors, which are corrected by the following
statements, thus: Dogs may become mad at any season of the year. Female
and altered dogs may become mad by communication, though the disease
originates, probably, with entire animals. Mad dogs drink in all stages
of the disease, if the soreness of the throat, or paralysis of the jaws,
or flow of saliva does not prevent them; they have even been known to
swim in water. Mad dogs do not always carry the tail between the legs,
but otherwise, during the commencement of the disease; it is however,
common in many other diseases, and in all dogs when pursued or
frightened. Mad dogs do not always run in a straight line, unless
pursued; they change their direction like other dogs, and run to objects
which attract them. Other dogs do not avoid them, but if a stranger, it
will be attacked by well dogs. Sound animals have no repugnance to the
saliva of a mad dog, but will even eat meat which is covered with it.
TREATMENT.—All the means hitherto discovered to arrest the disease have
proved unreliable. BELLADONNA and the A.A., may do something, and had
best be administered in all doubtful cases: but if an animal is
indisputably rabid, it should be killed at once. The excision of the
gland or ligament under the tongue is only mutilating the animal to no
purpose.
If a dog is suspected, or has been bitten, or exposed to contagion, give
him the A.A., three or four drops, according to his size, three times
per day, and inject a dose of the same medicine into the wound at the
same time. Only a small proportion of the animals or persons bitten by
animals supposed to be rabid ever become mad.
CHAPTER III.—PART IV.
DISEASES OF THE EYES, EARS, NOSE, ETC.
Inflammation of the Eye, Ophthalmia
It may arise from a variety of causes, such as congestion of the brain;
exposure to heat and cold; over-exertion; blows or other injuries;
over-salted food, infection, foreign bodies, etc.
SYMPTOMS.—The white of the eye is covered with red streaks; the clear
portion in front (pupil) is dim; water runs down the face; the light
cannot be endured and the eyelid is closed. An ulcer may appear
afterwards in the front of the eye, and it may go on until it penetrates
through the outer coating of the eye (cornea), and the fluids of the eye
thus escape. In some cases proud flesh springs up from these ulcers.
TREATMENT.—The A.A., should be given, a dose of two drops only, two or
three times per day. This in general will be sufficient for all forms of
ophthalmia; but if the case is of some standing, or if ulcers or
degenerations have taken place, two drops of I.I., may be given every
night, and the A.A., in the morning.
A wash of HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH HAZEL, diluted one-half with soft
water, will promptly relieve.
Amaurosis, Gutta Serena
This disease consists in entire or partial loss of vision in consequence
of paralysis of the optic nerve, or interruption of its communication
with the brain. Injuries of the head, or ball of the eye, or some
disease of the brain, are the usual causes. The dog walks cautiously,
head elevated, the eye has a peculiar glassy appearance, and the pupil
does not dilate and contract when light is brought near or removed from
the eye.
But little can be done for these cases. In the earlier stages a dose of
the A.A., may possibly arrest its progress, but generally it is
incurable in man or beast.
Cataract
Opacity of the crystalline lens, or of its capsule, or both, prevents
the transmission of light, and thus causes blindness. One or both eyes
may be affected; old dogs generally suffer in both. The causes are the
same as those which lead to cataract in the horse; and to the section
thereon reference should be made. But little can be done by way of
medicine; A.A., will sometimes relieve.
Pterygium
This disease, which consists in a thickened state of the cellular tissue
of the conjunctiva, extending from the inner angle of the eye towards
the cornea, is not uncommon in dogs, both old and young. In pups it is
often cured by the mother’s licking the eye; in old dogs it proves
intractable. It sometimes follows ophthalmia.
TREATMENT.—You may give daily a dose, one to three drops, of A.A., with
decided benefit.
Eczema of the Eyelids
In this affection small pustules appear on the edges of the lids at the
roots of the lashes; presently they break, emit matter, which drys into
crusts, mats the hair, and glues the lids together. If not arrested, the
ulceration extends and destroys the bulbs of the hair, and with them the
eyelashes.
TREATMENT.—The eyelashes should be clipped off close to the eyelids; the
parts carefully washed with a sponge and diluted HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH
HAZEL, morning and night, to prevent agglutination. When crusts have
formed they can be best softened and removed by fomentations with warm
water. Care should be taken not to drag away the purulent matter with
force. Give I.I., morning and night.
Fistula Lachrymalis
The Lachrymal canals, which originate from the internal angle of the
eye, convey the tears into the lachrymal sac, an oval bag, which is a
receptacle for tears. It is situated near the angle, and constitutes the
upper extremity of the nasal duct. If this duct be obstructed, the tears
flow over on the cheek and a small tumor forms in the sac. This is
followed by inflammation, suppuration, and the formation of an abscess,
which bursts externally and leaves a fistulous opening, through which
tears flow from the sac on to the cheek.
TREATMENT.—Sponge the eye with warm water, and give A.A., morning and
night, if the eye or lids are inflamed, or the I.I., if no manifest
inflammation is present.
Canker in the Ear
This disease consists of an inflammation of the internal ear, followed
by ulceration and the formation of matter. It is usually the consequence
of some injury, but may also result from excess of food and want of
exercise, or from frequent and sudden exposure, as in case of dogs
taught to go in the water, among whom it is quite common; it may also
come from parasites; fat dogs are more subject to it than others.
SYMPTOMS.—The dog manifests pain by shaking his head, scratching his
ears, or whining. The internal ear looks red, afterwards may ulcerate; a
discharge occurs, and a blackish fluid will be found at the bottom of
the ear, sometimes in considerable quantity; there is high fever, which,
with the continuance of the discharge, may wear out the dog.
TREATMENT.—Wash the ear frequently with warm water, to carefully remove
the discharge; afterwards apply some diluted MARVEL WITCH HAZEL.
Give A.A., three or four drops, alternately with I.I. The same dose four
times per day; it may be successful.
Deafness
CAUSES.—It is sometimes a sequel of distemper, fever, or inflammation of
the brain; it is also due to general debility, an accumulation of
hardened wax, old age and canker.
TREATMENT.—Examination must be made to ascertain if it is due to the
impaction of hard wax; if so, a little warm water and soap may be
injected twice a day; after a few days the wax will most likely be
softened sufficiently to allow of its removal. If the disorder follows
distemper, C.C., should be given; if fever or inflammation of the brain,
A.A.; if canker, also the C.C., a dose morning and night.
Serous Cyst or Abscess of the Ears
This affection of the ear generally arises from some injury, which is
followed by an accumulation of a pale, straw-colored fluid between the
outside and inside skin of the ear. Sometimes it increases slowly, at
others rapidly, so much so that in a few days there will be a quarter of
a pint deposited. The best thing is to open the swelling at once with a
lancet, at the lowest part of the inside of the ear, and press out all
the fluid. If this can be done effectually, adhesion of the two skins
takes place without anything else being necessary. But if the discharge
has been caused by a severe blow, it may continue for a week or two.
Occasionally, if the punctured place is not kept open, the fluid
accumulates a second and third time; if such should be the case, it will
be advisable to inject a little warm water, and lay the ear in a vessel
containing warm water for five or ten minutes, once a day for several
days. Give I.I., also morning and night.
External Canker
External Canker is mostly found on the ears of dogs with short coats; it
comes generally on the outside of the ears, beginning at the tips, and
gradually extends down to the roots.
CAUSES.—Constitutional tendency; unsuitable food; want of cleanliness;
sudden disappearance of eczema.
TREATMENT.—I.I., is the proper remedy, giving once or twice per day.
The ears should be washed once a day with warm water and soap. After
they are dry, the following lotion should be applied with a sponge;
Glycerine one part, HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH HAZEL two parts, to water
three parts.
Ulceration of the Nose
Ulcerations of the nose are not common in dogs, but they should not be
neglected, as they might injure or destroy the sense of smell. They
sometimes occur in old dogs, and emit a purulent, or sanious, and most
offensive discharge. This condition is attended with pain, noisy
breathing, attempts to sneeze, etc.
TREATMENT.—C.C., is the proper remedy, and may be given two or three
times per day.
The nostrils should be washed and syringed with tepid water, morning and
night.
CHAPTER IV.—PART IV.
DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS
Angina—Sore Throat
DEFINITION.—Inflammatory swelling of the larynx and trachea.
CAUSES.—Exposure to sudden cold when heated; damp lodgings.
SYMPTOMS.—The first are generally sneezing, hoarse cough, ears and nose
alternately hot and cold, noisy breathing, caused by swelling of the
glands under the throat and jaw; difficulty of swallowing. The front of
the neck, especially about the larynx, is much swollen; when the
swelling is considerable, internally and externally, the breathing
sometimes becomes so much embarrassed that the animal dies of
suffocation.
TREATMENT.—Give A.A., a dose every hour at first, and then every two
hours, until relieved.
ACCESSORY MEANS.—The frequent application to the throat of cloths dipped
in hot water; cold water, frequently renewed, for the dog to lap; cold
milk and broth as diet.
Catarrh—Coryza—Cold
DEFINITION.—As a rule, coryza in the dog consists of inflammation of the
mucous membrane of the nose. It is most frequent among dogs that are
petted and kept in warm rooms. It may lead to bronchitis and other
diseases of the respiratory organs.
CAUSE.—Change of temperature, especially in spring, during the
prevalence of easterly winds.
SYMPTOMS.—Running from the nose and eyes; sneezing; diminished appetite;
accelerated breathing; dullness; heaviness; sleepiness.
TREATMENT.—C.C., is the proper remedy, a dose, one to three drops, three
or four times per day.
ACCESSORY TREATMENT.—It will facilitate the cure if the dog is kept in a
warm place for a day or two, not allowed to go out at all, and fed upon
milk or thin oatmeal gruel. He should also have plenty of water to
drink. The nose and eyes should be sponged with tepid water several
times a day.
Bronchitis—Acute and Chronic
DEFINITION.—Acute bronchitis is active inflammation of the membrane of
the air-tubes of the lungs. Chronic bronchitis more particularly affects
old dogs.
CAUSES.—Sudden changes of temperature; standing in the cold when heated;
cold draughts of air in the kennels, or wherever the dog is kept,
frequently cause bronchitis.
SYMPTOMS.—The first symptoms of acute bronchitis are generally those of
common cold; shivering; short, hard cough; constant distressing cough,
at first dry, afterwards accompanied by a sticky mucous; feverish
symptoms; accelerated pulse and breathing; loss of appetite; dullness;
an anxious look depicted on the countenance. Auscultation detects a
wheezing sound, or rattling of mucous, in the trachea and bronchial
tubes. The nose is hot and dry at the commencement of the attack, but
becomes moist when the inflammatory stage is passed. Chronic bronchitis
consists of a cough during the winter months, which comes on after
changes in the temperature, and is attended with shortness of breath and
wheezing.
TREATMENT.—Give, at first, and during the feverish stage, a dose, of
A.A., one to three drops, according to the size of the dog. After the
more urgent symptoms have been relieved, E.E., may be given, in
alternation with the A.A.
ACCESSORY MEANS.—The dog should be kept in the house, and in one
temperature, as nearly as possible. A pail of boiling hot water may be
placed in the kennel from which the steam will evaporate and keep the
air moist; this will be found very beneficial. Milk, or bread and milk,
constitute the best diet; farinaceous food, but no meat; fresh supplies
of cold water. Meat broth may be given in cases of great debility and
old age.
Asthma
This disease, which most nearly resembles broken wind in the horse, is
characterized by difficult breathing, with intervals of free
respiration.
CAUSES.—Close confinement, want of outdoor exercise, excessive feeding;
it is observed almost wholly among fat and petted dogs, from four to
seven years old.
SYMPTOMS.—The disease is insidious in its invasion; it begins with a
slight cough, which returns at irregular intervals, and is therefore
likely to escape observation. It, however, becomes more frequent and
troublesome; is harsh, dry and sonorous, and may give the mistaken
impression that there is a bone in the throat. It is then provoked by
every change of temperature, food or posture; becomes almost incessant;
disturbs sleep; produces nausea and sickness; but nothing is expelled
besides mucus from the respiratory passages, where its presence is a
cause of irritation. Meanwhile the breathing is affected, and is not
unfrequently very labored and painful. The digestion may be impaired;
the appetite slight or morbid; the breath offensive; the teeth covered
with tartar; the coat rough; the skin mangy. In some cases the dog is
worn down by the irritation of the cough; in others the pulmonary
congestion arrests respiration, and causes suffocation; or cardiac
difficulties cause accumulation of blood in the head, and consequent
convulsive fits. But the disorder generally ends in hydrothorax or
ascites—generally the latter. In these cases the body wastes, the
abdomen is enlarged, the legs swell, the coat is staring, the breathing
very laborious, till, ultimately, suffocation puts an end to the
animal’s existence.
TREATMENT.—If the disorder be treated judiciously in the early stage, it
is curable; but if it has continued for any length of time, only
palliation can be looked for. Give E.E., a dose, according to size of
dog, two or three times per day. For a fit of asthma or bad breathing,
give A.A., every hour. For old, bad cases, try I.I., three times per
day.
ACCESSORY MEANS.—Exercise should be regularly taken in the open air,
except when the weather is cold, or damp, or sultry. The food should be
of the best and most nutritious quality, given frequently, but in small
quantities at a time.
Inflammation of the Chest, Pneumonia or Pleurisy
Inflammation of the chest usually involves both the pleura or lining
membrane of the chest, and the substance of the lungs, so that they may
be advantageously treated. It is usually the result of cold and exposure
after being heated; it may also be produced by wounds.
SYMPTOMS.—Shivering chill, followed by heat and thirst; the sides are
painful when pressed upon; stitches are observed; the dog sits upon his
haunches, with the fore legs separated from each other, and the head
held forward; the breath hot; cough short and painful; breathing
frequent, labored and heaving; pulse full and quick; tongue hangs out of
the mouth; eyes thrust forward and red; finally drowsiness, and death.
Sometimes the effusion of water in the chest is very abundant, when the
legs swell, and breathing becomes difficult, labored and suffocating.
TREATMENT.—Give first, three or five drops, according to the size of the
dog, of the A.A., and repeat the dose every two hours for the first
twenty-four hours. Then alternate the E.E. with the A.A., at intervals
of two or three hours.
Cough
In most cases cough is symptomatic of disease, and often indicates the
commencement of some serious disorder of the respiratory organs, when it
should not be allowed to continue unheeded. Well fed dogs often have a
dry, searching cough, which, if they are old, degenerates into asthma.
Cough is sometimes consequent on obesity, when the amount of food should
be lessened, exercise taken, and J.K., administered. If it be caused by
the dog going into the water, or being washed with warm water in winter,
or being confined for some time in a low, damp situation, I.I., or E.E.,
are the remedies. Such a cough is generally harsh and hard, and
accompanied by vomiting of tough mucus. A dose two or three times per
day is sufficient.
CHAPTER V.—PART IV.
DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
Salivation
Mercury, in its various forms, is sometimes given to dogs by ignorant
persons, or by chemists and dog-fanciers, for some real or supposed
disease; or it is applied to them externally as an ointment for mange,
in either case resulting in salivation, with the following.—
SYMPTOMS.—Loss of appetite; sore, swollen gums, which are blueish,
easily bleed, and generally ulcerate; loosened teeth, which may even
fall out; constant dribbling of saliva from the mouth; offensive breath;
swelled glands; extreme weakness; hair falls off; and frequently
purging, attended with straining.
TREATMENT.—Give the A.A., a dose each morning and noon, and a
teaspoonful of HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH HAZEL at night, especially if
there is ulceration of the mouth or throat. If not improved after three
or four days, substitute I.I., three or five drops, morning and night.
Canker in the Mouth
This is a very troublesome affection, and often difficult to cure;
indeed, if the disease be the result of a long continued local
irritation, or the dog be old, it is generally considered to be
incurable.
SYMPTOMS.—The gums are swollen, and discharge purulent, bloody,
offensive matter; “proud flesh” is formed; bleeding ensues; there is
difficulty in eating; appetite and condition are lost; emaciation and
exhaustion follow.
TREATMENT.—When the disease is of recent origin, or the dog is young and
generally healthy, the mouth should be washed out once a day for several
days, with a solution of HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH HAZEL, half water; and
give J.K., say three times per day, two to three drops, according to the
size of the dog. It is usually promptly efficacious.
Diseases of the Teeth
The teeth are more frequently affected in the dog than in other domestic
animals. This may be the result of a variety of causes, among which are
the following: Eating or gnawing bones, by means of which the teeth may
be broken or ground down to the quick; healthy, well fed dogs only pick
their bones; rich, sweetened food, which has an injurious effect upon
the teeth; mercury, frequently given to dogs, which produces salivation,
loosening, and eventually falling out of the teeth. Teaching dogs to
carry or chase hard substances, stones, etc., frequently results in
diseased teeth, as they are thus rubbed down to the gum, and the stump
produces much mischief.
SYMPTOMS.—If the dog has a bad breath, seems to be in pain when he eats,
does not thrive or manifest his usual spirit, the mouth should be
examined. One or more teeth will be found worn down to the gum; the fang
produces irritation, and may result in an abscess; the sides of the
mouth are raw and ulcerated, and saliva dribbles from it.
TREATMENT.—Extraction is the sole remedy for loose, irregular or decayed
teeth.
Indigestion
DEFINITION.—Imperfect transformation of food into a state suitable for
the nourishment of the body.
CAUSES.—Improper food, or food in too large quantities; want of
exercise.
SYMPTOMS.—Restlessness; partial loss of appetite; frequently attempts to
vomit, sometimes bringing up only froth; at other times a mixture of
froth and green fluid; foulness of breath; irregular action of the
bowels; distention of the body; lying out at full length and rolling
over; the appetite is vitiated or impaired.
TREATMENT.—Give the J.K., for indigestion, a dose, one to three drops,
according to the size of dog, once in two, three or four hours. Often a
dose night and morning is sufficient.
ACCESSORY MEANS.—Attention to diet and regular exercise go a long way
towards curing and preventing this disease.
Vomiting
It is such an easy matter for dogs to vomit that the least thing which
disagrees with the stomach occasions it. It is rarely of any
consequence, as it does not interfere with the health; but there are
some cases of continued vomiting, in which it is necessary to administer
medicine.
TREATMENT.—When vomiting takes place daily for several days, and soon
after eating, it will most likely be remedied by changing diet; if it
continues after the diet has been changed, give a dose of J.K., morning
and night. Should the dog be bloated or full of gas, a dose of F.F.,
will be curative.
Colic
Colic is not unfrequent in the dog. It is often connected with
constipation, and may result from bad food, sudden change of food,
exposure to cold, or from worms. It is common in puppies.
SYMPTOMS.—The dog has sudden pain in the bowels; it comes on in fits, is
worse at one time than another. The dog is restless, frequently changing
his position; he extends himself and then draws himself in with arched
back, turns his head towards his sides, throws himself down, rolls
about, moans or whines when the pain is severe, with a short, rough
voice. There is rarely any fever in case of simple colic.
TREATMENT.—The F.F., should be given; a dose, from three to five drops,
according to the size of the dog, and repeated every half hour or hour,
as the urgency of the case demands.
Should it not promptly relieve, the A.A., or J.K., may be given
alternately with F.F.
Gastritis—Inflammation of the Stomach
CAUSES.—Drinking cold water when heated from running; damp kennels;
continued feeding with rich food; indigestion; poisons.
SYMPTOMS.—Great pain; the dog throws himself on the ground, kicks and
rolls; there is constant desire for cold water, but as soon as any food
or drink is swallowed, it is rejected; constant retching; dry and hot
nose; cold extremities; quick breathing; anxious countenance; lying on
the belly on the coldest ground the dog can find.
TREATMENT.—A.A., is the proper medicine. Give a dose as often as every
hour if in great distress, and at longer intervals as the patient
improves. From one to three drops, according to the size of dog.
ACCESSORY MEANS.—Nothing but cold water should be allowed till all the
symptoms have disappeared; even then great care must be exercised for
several days, as to the kind of food given; cold milk or oatmeal gruel
will then be suitable, in small quantities.
The treatment of gastritis produced by poisons consists in removing the
poison from the system and neutralizing its effect.
Enteritis—Inflammation of the Bowels
DEFINITION.—Inflammation of the bowels, either of their whole substance
or only the inside or lining membrane.
CAUSES.—Drinking cold water when heated; exposure of petted dogs to
cold; damp or sudden changes of weather; keeping the kennels of chained
dogs on a damp, sunless situation; too long continuance of animal food;
flatulent colic; obstruction of the bowels from hardened fæces, foreign
bodies, etc.
SYMPTOMS.—Violent pain, without cessation; great tenderness of the
abdomen, which is very hot; the pain is often so severe that the poor
animal throws himself violently down, howls, springs up again, walks
about for a few seconds, throws himself down again, rolls over and cries
out; these actions are repeated until relief is obtained, or, in fatal
cases, till a short time before death takes place. There is also
aversion of food, constant thirst, constipation, the excrement coming
away in small, hard pieces, during the first stage of the disease; the
evacuations afterwards become loose and bloody.
TREATMENT.—A. A., is the proper remedy, a dose of from one to three
drops, in a spoonful of water or milk, should be given, at first every
half hour, then, as he improves, every hour, and as improvement
progresses, at still longer intervals, until relief is obtained.
Sometimes interposing a dose of F. F., is beneficial, if there are
loose, bloody stools, or violent pain.
ACCESSORY MEANS.—Fomentations of hot water should be applied to the
body, and continued till the symptoms have abated; cold water given to
lap; milk and broth may be given when the severe symptoms have subsided.
Diarrhea
Excess of food, bad food, exposure to cold and wet, as well as a bilious
condition, may induce diarrhea in the dog. If slight it will cure
itself. It usually manifests itself by sickness, vomiting, thirst,
discharges more frequent and thinner than usual. If it continues, the
animal becomes thin, weak, does not eat his food, and his breath becomes
offensive.
TREATMENT.—The F. F., will be found effectual. Give three or four drops,
according to the size of the dog, three times per day.
Dysentery
SYMPTOMS.—Thirst, purging of fluid mixed with small pieces of dung,
attended with severe straining and pain; often the discharges are of
mucus mixed with blood. There is loss of strength and appetite, with
rapid wasting.
TREATMENT.—Give the F. F., two to five drops, every one, two or three
hours, according to the urgency of the case.
Constipation, or Bound Bowels
Constipation is more frequently observed than diarrhea in a dog. It may
be the result of a want of proper exercise, improper food, or some
disorder of the liver or other part of the digestive system. It is
manifested by frequent unavailing efforts to evacuate, attended with
groaning, trembling or other manifestations of pain.
TREATMENT.—Give J. K., three to five drops, according to size of animal,
three times per day.
Should this course not relieve, an injection of warm soap and water
should be given, and repeated, if necessary, until the result is
accomplished.
Worms
The entire animal kingdom is subject to numerous parasites or entozoa.
These have their abode either upon the surface, or along the intestinal
tract, or within the cavities, or even in the more solid substances or
muscles of the body. They are found in all animals and fish—those in
apparent health as well as those that are sick—and part they play in the
economy of nature is confessedly obscure. It is generally conceded that
it is only in peculiar or morbid conditions, or under a course of diet
and regimen unfavorable to health, that they multiply or increase to
such an extent as to become of themselves a source of irritation and
disease. It is under these conditions that INTESTINAL WORMS become the
subject of medical treatment.
No animal is so subject or so frequently tormented by worms as the dog.
This is doubtless owing to his highly artificial life and the great
variety of food given him. Intestinal worms are of four varieties; the
first is the Ascarides or round worm, white or light yellow in color and
common in puppies. The second is the Oxyaris Vermicularis, known as the
pin or thread worm and inhabiting the lower bowel. The third is the
Tenia or tape worm. The fourth is the Uncinaria Trigonocephalus or hook
worm.
SYMPTOMS.—All worm symptoms are questionable, except finding them in the
discharges. Their existence may be inferred if the dog has a short coat,
bound bowels or purging, turns of griping, wasting or fits.
TREATMENT.—For the first two classes of worms there are two systems of
treatment. The first is to give a Vermifuge; this kills the worms and
expels them from the system, however, it has done nothing to relieve the
morbid conditions that allowed the worms to accumulate in the first
place and they will return and have to be expelled etc. The other system
is to remove the morbid conditions which allowed the worms to accumulate
and the system will then expel the worms of its own accord. This is
naturally a slower process than the first but its effects are much more
lasting. D. D. belongs to the latter class of remedies.
GIVE D. D., two to five drops, according to size of dog, two or three
times per day. Its continuance will not fail to eradicate them from the
system.
The TAPE WORM consists of a head not larger than a pin’s head, in which
there are four sucking cups and their armature; a neck, which is an inch
or more in length, very slender and without joints; and the body,
consisting of a long row of flat, ribbon like segments, each of which in
rectangular in shape and increasing in size towards the caudal
extremity. These segments have each the male and female organ, and at
the caudal extremity the ripe eggs; there may be several hundred of
these segments, each half or three-quarters of an inch in length, and
the entire animal measure several yards. From time to time, the lower
segments or joints as they are termed, ripen, and are pushed off, and
appear in the evacuations.
THE HOOK WORM or UNCINARIA TRIGONOCEPHALUS is a small thread like worm,
from one-quarter to three-quarters of an inch long, white, with a black
line down the body, the head has a bell shaped mouth provided with six
hook like teeth; by means of these hooks the worm buries its head in the
lining of the intestine from which it sucks blood. These worms are quite
prevalent in the Southern States also in Southern Europe and Asia. They
are found more frequently in packs of hunting dogs than in individual
house dogs.
SYMPTOMS.—The disease develops gradually with weakness and wasting
followed by colic and alternating constipation and diarrhea. A discharge
of bloody mucus from the nose and swelling of the limbs is
characteristic of the disease. Death follows at a considerable interval.
TREATMENT.—Both the Tape Worm and the Hook Worm are very tenacious
parasites and are not expelled by Homeopathic Remedies nor by the
ordinary Vermifuge. Oil of Chenipodium has lately come into prominence
as a Vermifuge for worms of all kinds; this is an American drug commonly
called “Worm Seed” and was used by the Indians before the days of
Columbus and later was very popular among the Southern “Mammies” for the
elimination of round worms. It has lately returned to favor particularly
for the treatment of Hook Worms.
The Oil can be obtained at any drug store, 16 drops is the dose for a
dog of 40 pounds or over, this should be reduced in proportion to the
weight of the dog. The dog should be starved for at least 12 hours,
preferably 24 hours; he should then receive three doses with intervals
of two hours between the doses. Two hours after the last dose give a
tablespoonful of castor oil with a teaspoonful of chloroform (reduce in
proportion to size of dog).
Be careful to give the medicine exactly according to the directions. A
Vermifuge is a drug that is strong enough to kill or paralize the worms
without killing or paralizing the animal; however too large a dose, or,
too short an interval between the doses, or, too many doses may kill or
paralize the animal as well as the worms.
If during the treatment the dog appears unusually depressed, stop the
medicine and give castor oil to move the bowels and strong hot coffee as
a stimulant.
Thread Worms (Filaria Immitis)
These thread worms inhabit principally the heart, lungs, and sometimes
the throat and air-passages of the dog. They are sometimes found in
bundles, slowly unrolling themselves when the part is cut open, or are
found stretched out along the surface.
The characteristic symptom is a peculiar cough exhibited by any
movement, especially after sleeping, ending in a violent effort to bring
up something, emaciation, difficult breathing. When affected, the dogs
run violently; they fall down, become stiff, insensible, and after a
time get up and renew the chase.
Gastro-Duodinal Catarrh—Jaundice
This disease is occasionally found in dogs, more particularly in fat
ones. It may be the result of excess of food and deficient exercise, or
exposure to cold or moisture.
SYMPTOMS.—The dog vomits, at first a yellow fluid which may afterward
become greenish and have streaks of blood in it, eats little and is
thirsty, the white of the eye, gums, lips and parts of the skin not
covered with hair are yellow; hence the name Jaundice or yellows. He is
sometimes hot, at others cold, the urine is dark and the dung clay
colored, is dull, sleepy, shrinks from notice and becomes thin. These
symptoms all increase until the dog becomes thin as a skeleton and at
last dies, quite worn out.
TREATMENT.—Give the A.A., alternately with J.K., a dose of three to five
drops, according to the size of the dog, every three or four hours, as
the urgency of the case may demand. Old cases of liver complaint simply
require a dose of J.K., morning and night.
Foreign Bodies in the Esophagus—Choking
A dog sometimes swallows a bone or piece of gristle, which sticks in his
throat. He begins to cough, is restless, cannot swallow, puts his paw to
the side of his head as if to pull something away; the eyes are red and
prominent; mucus escapes from the mouth and nose.
TREATMENT.—The mouth should be opened as wide as possible, and warm
water poured in till the dog vomits, when the intruder may come away; or
it may be removed with a forceps. But if removal in this direction be
impracticable, an attempt may be made to push the foreign body into the
stomach with a piece of whalebone, cane or willow, protected at the end
with a piece of sponge dipped in oil. If this fails, it will be
necessary to open the esophagus. If this tube has been injured, two or
three drops of arnica should be given in water, twice a day. For several
days, milk or soup diet only should be given.
CHAPTER VI.—PART IV.
DISEASES OF THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE SYSTEMS
Nephritis
DEFINITION.—Inflammation of the kidneys sometimes ending in an
alteration of the secretions. It is not a very common disease, but when
it occurs it is very dangerous.
CAUSES.—Exposure to cold and wet; seasoned food; over-exertion; strains;
injuries; the presence of calculus; the administration of cantharides
and turpentine in excessive doses, or as a result of infectious
diseases.
SYMPTOMS.—Tenderness of the loins; stiffness of the hind legs, which are
carried wide apart when moving; hot and dry mouth and nose; great
thirst; frequent turning of the head toward the flanks; the urine is
passed in small quantities, with straining, highly-colored, like blood,
or thick and glairy; bound bowels; feces hard and dry; sometimes
vomiting; the appetite is lost; there is disinclination to move, and
when the dog is obliged to stir the back is arched.
TREATMENT.—Give H.H., from one to three drops, according to the size of
the dog, once in three hours at first, and then at longer intervals as
the animal improves. A.A. may be sometimes called for as an intercurrent
remedy, or to give between doses of the H.H.
ACCESSORY MEANS.—Cloths wrung out of hot water and laid across the loins
will be beneficial; nothing but milk must be given for several days.
Inflammation of the Bladder, Cystitis
This disease, which is a very dangerous and painful one, may be caused
by stones in the bladder, injuries, fall upon the bladder when it is
full of water, or similar accidents. As a result of infectious diseases,
or diseases of the kidneys, also too long retention of urine in the
bladder (dogs kept in the house too long).
SYMPTOMS.—Hot, dry skin; pain in the back and flanks; thirst; no
appetite; restlessness and signs of pain; frequent attempts to pass
water, in which either one or only a few drops are passed at a time; the
water may be clear, or thick and mixed with blood.
TREATMENT.—Give first two or three doses of the A.A., at intervals of
two hours, then give the H.H., a dose of three or five drops, according
to the size of the dog, at intervals of two to three hours, until
entirely relieved.
ACCESSORY MEANS.—Liquid diet should be given such as milk or broth.
Gonorrhea, Gleet
This disease, which is essentially an inflammation of the urethra,
generally arises from taking the disease by connection with other
animals that have it, or from repeated acts of sexual connection, which
induces irritation, followed by a gleety, discharge; or it may arise in
a modified form from uncleanliness.
SYMPTOMS.—Discharge from the internal surface of the sheath and urethra,
or canal through which the water flows, consisting of matter having a
yellowish or greenish color, glueing together the parts or hair about
them; the surface looks red and angry, and is attended with swelling and
pain; there is frequent desire to pass water; sometimes the swelling and
pain are but slight.
TREATMENT.—Give the H.H., a dose of three or five drops, according to
the size of the dog, four times per day.
In old cases, a dose of the J.K., given nightly, will be of decided
benefit.
Inversion of the Womb
This sometimes occurs after parturition, either from disease of the
womb, or from straining to void the placenta. The treatment consists in
carefully washing the womb with tepid water, and then with the fingers
(oiled) returning it to its proper position. The womb in these cases is
turned inside out, so that what is the inside when in its proper
position becomes the outside when it protrudes from the vagina.
Therefore, to replace it, the pressure must be from the part furthest
from the vagina, and made with careful, gentle pressure. The replacement
is easily affected, especially if an assistant holds the bitch up by the
hind legs. After the organ is replaced, a little HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY
OIL may be applied or poured into the vagina, and a dose or two of A.A.
given. Afterwards, if there are symptoms of straining, the bitch must be
made to stand or walk about, and G.G., must be given.
Inflammation of the Teats
This generally comes on a few days after the bitch has pupped. At first
there will be found small lumps at the base of the teats, which are very
tender; the swelling soon increases, and extends all around the teats;
they then become very hot, and of a deep red color. The sucking of the
pups causes so much pain that the bitch refuses to allow it. When this
is the case, the inflammation soon extends over the whole udder, and if
it be not arrested, suppuration takes place, and an abscess forms at the
base of one or more of the teats.
TREATMENT.—Give A.A., a dose of one to three drops, once in say three
hours at first, then once in six hours, and bathe the teats in
HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH HAZEL or if cracked or very sore, apply
HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY OIL, morning and night.
CHAPTER VII.—PART IV.
DISEASES OF THE SKIN AND EXTREMITIES, AND MECHANICAL INJURIES
Eczema—Surfeit—Blotch
DEFINITION.—A non-contagious, vesicular disease of the skin, not
occasioned by the presence of parasites, but dependent on constitutional
predisposition. It is sometimes termed mange, but is distinguished from
that disease by the absence of _acari_. Foul mange is an aggravated form
of eczema.
CAUSES.—Hereditary constitution; insufficient exercise; gross diet; food
too spare or too full in quantity, or unwholesome in quality; close
kennel; dirty bedding, too hard or too luxurious a bed, etc. Flesh food
will produce it; so, also, will sleeping on barley straw.
SYMPTOMS.—The disease begins with irritation of the skin, which causes
the dog to be continually scratching; from inflamed patches a serous
fluid exudes, which mats the hair and forms scabs; these fall off
together, leaving the skin bare, inflamed, red, and discharging a thin,
watery fluid. This fluid dries in thin scales, which cause considerable
irritation. The scabs and scales are scratched and rubbed by the dog,
and are thus aggravated till pustular and vesicular eruptions give the
appearance of general ulceration. The patch usually occurs on the back,
at the root of the tail, outer surface of thighs or rump.
In other cases, in fat, over-fed animals, the skin is devoid of hair, is
greatly thickened (especially along the back or before the tail), and is
almost devoid of sensation. The dog is very foul, and smells very
offensively; the skin is wrinkled, chapped, cracked, ulcerated, emitting
disgusting serum or pus; thick, yellowish crusts are formed; and the dog
lies dull all day long, sleeping, licking, scratching, biting its sore
places, a disgusting object to look at.
The disease may be confined to certain parts, when it receives the name
of the part attacked. In sporting dogs there is frequently an eczematous
eruption between the toes and at the roots of the nails, which causes
redness, swelling and tenderness of the feet, together with lameness.
Puppies almost invariably inherit the disease when it has occurred on
one of the parents.
As it is a constitutional disease, its duration is uncertain, its cure
difficult, and its return probable.
TREATMENT.—In old cases, give the I.I., each morning, and the J.K., at
night, and anoint, once per day, the sore, rough or scabby places, with
ZINC OINTMENT. In urgent recent cases, the remedies above referred to
may be given, four doses in a day. But in general the treatment first
named will suffice.
ACCESSORY MEANS.—Strict attention must be given to diet; flesh must be
utterly prohibited, except in the case of weak puppies, or when the
disease has occasioned great debility, and then broth will be better
than solid flesh. To gross dogs a few days’ abstinence will do no harm;
they may thus become willing to take boiled rice, which should be
offered fresh every day; but if declined, withdrawn at once. If the dog
refuse to eat more than three days, an ounce or two of meat (according
to his size) may be given to keep him alive, without satisfying his
hunger. Vegetable or farinaceous food should still be offered sparingly,
and when taken, the morsels of flesh should be discontinued. Do no more
washing than is necessary. Dirt scabs, etc., should be removed with
olive oil. The dog’s bed should be repeatedly changed, and his kennel
well ventilated; he should have free, moderate exercise in the open air,
and be fully supplied with fresh water.
Boils—Furuncles
Boils, which may appear on any part of the body, are small, round, red,
hard, painful tumors, with raised centers, from which they supperate.
When ripe, the boil should be opened and the pus pressed out. Warm
fomentations will hasten the ripening.
TREATMENT.—Give A.A., a dose three times per day, one to three drops,
according to the size of the dog. If the boil is red and painful, apply
HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY OIL, two or three times per day. The boils should
be opened when they have come to a head.
Louse—Tick—Flea
The dog louse (_trichodectes latus_), the dog tick (_irod ricinus_), and
the dog flea (_pulex canis_) are sources of no little torment. They
cause considerable irritation, which induces the dog to scratch and rub
himself; small pimples are formed, their heads are rubbed off, serum
exudes, perhaps matter, and thus sores are produced. Lice are found in
every part of the body, but particularly on the head and about the eyes
and lips. They do not live on man. Ticks do not infest house dogs.
TREATMENT.—Fleas are best removed by means of Persian Insect Powder
(Flores Pyrethri), this may be dusted on the dog or better dissolved in
alcohol or water and sprinkled or rubbed on, another convenient way is
to dust on the powder after a bath and before the hair has entirely
dried. As this powder renders the fleas insensible rather than killing
them, means should be taken to prevent the fleas getting back on the dog
after they have recovered.
For house dogs a convenient way is to stand the dog on newspapers while
dusting on the powder and hold him there for a few minutes until the
fleas have dropped off; then carefully gather up the papers and burn
them.
For larger dogs in the country the powder may be dusted on out-doors and
away from stables, kennels, etc., and the dog kept out until the fleas
have left him.
The sleeping quarters of the dog must also be carefully attended to, the
box or basket should be washed with creoline or lysol solution or may be
washed with water and dusted with the powder while still damp; the
bedding should be washed in boiling water if possible or if a pillow is
used it may be placed in an oven sufficiently hot to kill the fleas but
not hot enough to scorch pillow.
If the dog is very young or feeble brush the powder off after it has
been on for 15 minutes.
Lice and ticks are readily killed by Kerosene (Coal Oil). For small
house dogs, Spirit of Anise or Oil of Anise, with 10% of Olive Oil, is
probably a better remedy. Any of these should be applied night and
morning, for two days and then washed off. Then the dog should be
carefully combed to remove the eggs which adhere to the hair paying
particular attention to the face, around the eyes etc.
Do not attempt to pick lice or ticks off dogs, as very often the head
remains in the skin, causing a small sore. Wait until the application
has killed him and he will drop off. The bedding should be treated as
for fleas.
Mange
Mange differs from eczema in being contagious and caused by parasites.
The eruption in each case looks the same to the layman; however mange
usually comes on those parts of the body where the hair is short and the
skin tender, such as, the head, chest and abdomen, the inside of the
thigh. White eczema usually does the opposite and attacks the back and
outer parts, where the hair is long and the skin thick.
TREATMENT.—The acari must be killed by an external application of some
sort, Creoline or lysol are excellent, these may be bought at any drug
store, and diluted according to the directions on the bottle. For small
house dogs, Peruvian Balsam is undoubtedly the best application, but it
is expensive; any of these should be applied twice a day for several
days, means should be taken to keep the dog from licking off the
ointment.
In addition, give the I.I., three to five drops, night and morning, to
relieve the itching and promote a healthy growth of hair and skin.
Sore Feet
These may be occasioned by injuries, long traveling over rough and
frozen ground, or in very dry weather.
SYMPTOMS.—The foot is swelled, and small, hard, painful lumps are felt
in it; there is much pain, and the animal cannot bear its weight upon
them. The skin becomes red, and the nails fall off. There is usually
considerable fever and no desire to eat.
TREATMENT.—Bathe the feet three or four times per day in HUMPHREYS’
MARVEL WITCH HAZEL, or apply HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY OIL, and give,
morning and night, a dose of three or five drops of A.A.
If matter forms, a poultice may be applied, and the abscess afterwards
opened.
Fractures
Simple fractures of the leg are very readily cured in young and vigorous
dogs. It may be readily known by the distortion of the limb, by the ends
of the bone grating upon each other, lameness, etc.
TREATMENT is very simple. Extend the limb and put the bones in place,
and apply splints with a firm bandage, wetting the limb with HUMPHREYS’
MARVEL WITCH HAZEL. Examine them from time to time to see that they are
kept in place. After three or four weeks they may be removed, and the
animal trusted to use its limbs. Give B.B., night and morning, for a few
days, three or five drops, according to the size of the animal.
Hemorrhage
Occasionally dogs discharge blood from the nose, mouth or anus, after a
long run, after going uphill, or after blows or other external injuries.
Consideration should be given to the specific cause. Arnica, internally
and externally, will often be found curative, or a dose of A.A. For an
alarming hemorrhage, give a spoonful of HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL, WITCH HAZEL,
and repeat it every hour if necessary.