CAUSE.—Derangements of the digestive canal, dogs recovering from distemper, or a bitch after whelping, is predisposed to Eczema. Dogs exposed to a sudden chilling of the surface of the body, when heated, frequently develop Surfeit. Sometimes dogs confined to poorly ventilated, damp kennels develop Eczema, or Surfeit. In fact, any condition that tends to cause a sluggishness of the circulation produces impure blood, and eruptions of the skin naturally follow as a result.
SYMPTOMS.—This disease generally affects the neck, back, inside the thighs, arms and the abdomen. The skin becomes red, painful to the touch, small pimples form and serum oozes from them. This gradually spreads and the skin becomes raw and ulcerated. The dog will continue to scratch and bite himself violently, producing further irritation, if not properly treated.
TREATMENT.—Internal treatment is just as essential as applications to the skin. Digestive and blood disorders must be eradicated before the outer surface of the body will yield to a treatment. Internally, give Fowler’s Solution of Arsenic, two to eight drops, three times daily in the food. The drug should be given at first in small doses and gradually increased as tolerance is established. If the bowels are sluggish, give one to three grains of Calomel. This will relieve any irritant in the alimentary canal. Feed food that is easily digested, as vegetables, Cod Liver Oil, etc. Beef Broth is beneficial, but a heavy meat diet should be discontinued. To the irritated surface of the skin, the following is soothing as well as healing: Zinc Oxide, one ounce; Pisis Liquid, one ounce; Mercurial Ointment, one ounce. Mix and apply sparingly once a day. Poisons are readily absorbed through the skin, therefore, be very careful when using powerful antiseptics over a large surface of the body.
CAUSE.—Direct or indirect injuries, as a blow from a whip, dust, sand or chaff in the eye, or may be due to extreme cold, or heat, or foul air.
SYMPTOMS.—An inflammation of the superficial structures of the eye, with a partial or complete closure, and a watery discharge due to the overstimulation of the lachrymal glands, the fluid being secreted so abundantly that it is impossible for the tear duct to carry it away, hence there will be a continuous flow of tears running down the side of the dog’s face. The formation of a film or a scum over the eyes need not cause alarm if the eyeball shows no sign of being lacerated or punctured.