DOG. PNEUMONIA.
Breeds most liable. Causes, over-exertion, cold baths, clipping, exposure in cold, distemper. Symptoms, chill, fever, disturbed breathing, cold extremities, cough. Treatment, dietary, nursing, laxative, nauseant, febrifuge, moist jacket, mustard, stimulants, tonics, heart tonics and careful nutrition during convalescence.
This is a frequent affection in hounds. In hunting or coursing dogs the causes are like those operating in the horse. The clipping of long haired dogs in inclement weather, swimming dogs in winter without afterwards drying or heating them by exercise, and shutting them out of doors at night, when accustomed to a warm dwelling are occasional causes. It sometimes occurs epizootically and frequently supervenes during distemper.
The chief symptoms of chill, fever, and difficulty in breathing are like as in other animals, while the results of auscultation and percussion are more satisfactory than in any other domestic animal. The dog sits on its haunches to facilitate breathing; his elbows turned out, his mouth open and his tongue protruded. Coldness of the ears and a short quick cough are usually marked symptoms.
Treatment. The general care applicable to other animals is equally demanded here. The diet should consist of mild broths, or farinaceous foods with a little gravy if necessary to render it palatable.
Bleeding from the jugular has been recommended and may be admissible at the outset of the disease in a very few appropriate cases. If costiveness exists a tablespoonful of castor oil may be given (more or less according to the size of the animal), following this up by the tartar emetic, nitre and sugar recommended for bronchitis. The poultice jacket is of great value. Mustard poultices may later be applied to the sides of the chest. Stimulants, tonics and nourishing diet may be required during convalescence, or when the disease assumes a low type.