SYMPTOMS.—Chilling and high temperature, two to four degrees above
normal, the dog generally refuses to eat, and acts dull. Pain is a
noticeable sign, and when the sides of the chest are pressed with the
hand the dog will flinch; this is very noticeable during the early stage
of the inflammation, and may cause a dog to act restless. When breathing
the ribs are always held rigid. The breathing movements are mostly in
the muscles of the flanks, the dog getting his breath in short jerks.
Later, when fluids collect in the chest cavity, the breathing is more
labored, and all of the abdominal muscles are used. On absorption of this
fluid, the movements of the lungs may again become jerky in case the
inflammation becomes chronic. The character of the pulse beats varies,
and in some cases is very weak. In the early stage of the disease,
friction sounds, caused by the dry inflamed membranes rubbing against
each other, are detected on placing the ear against the chest walls.
Later, the collection of fluids around the lungs may deaden all lung
sounds, especially towards the lower part of the chest. In a mild case
of Pleurisy, the inflammation is localized to just part of the lungs, or
pleura. A lameness in both front limbs and stiffness in moving about are
the most noticeable signs in this form of disease. In Chronic Pleurisy
a dog is usually very weak and depressed. He is seen frequently lying
on his side, and shows great difficulty in walking. The course of Acute
Pleurisy is from six to eighteen days; the chronic form may run a course
of two or three months, or longer. This form is unsatisfactorily treated,
and the dog eventually dies.
TREATMENT.—Place the dog in clean, warm, comfortable surroundings; fresh
air is very beneficial, but omit any drafts. Internally, administer the
following: Quinine Sulphate, two drams; Potassium Iodide, two drams;
Carbonate of Ammonia, one dram; Potassium Nitrate, four drams. Mix and
make into thirty-two capsules. Give one capsule every three or four
hours. This dose is based on a dog weighing forty pounds; to smaller
or larger dogs give the same medicine, but in doses proportionate to
their weight. Feed the dog raw eggs, pure fresh milk, cooked vegetables,
finely chopped beef or beef broth, and in some cases I believe it is very
beneficial to give the dog small doses of brandy. Over the lungs apply
the following liniment: Aqua Ammonia Fort., one ounce; Oil of Turpentine,
one ounce; Sweet Oil, two ounces. Shake well and apply like a shampoo
once daily.
PILES
(_Prolapse of the Rectum_)
CAUSE.—Overfeeding with too stimulating food, deficiency in exercise,
constipation, causing straining; consequently, Piles frequently follows.
This condition sometimes occurs in weak, debilitated dogs, due to a
relaxed condition of the intestines.
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