This condition may be the consequence of an accumulation of tartar, or of a congested state of the liver and bowels.

The gums are swollen, spongy and tender, and bleed at the slightest touch. In such oases the breath is usually very offensive, and other evidences of bilious and digestive disturbances are apparent.

The affection is more commonly met with in house pets, over indulged and deprived of sufficient exercise. The dispositions in such cases become materially changed, the animals growing obstinate and sulky. A condition absurdedly attributed to the giving of meat, whereas, it is due to confinement and an absence of common sense in feeding. Such dogs it will bo observed, have very little appetite, preferring dainties and condiments rather than wholesome food.

Treatment

Dietotio influences are the first to be observed. In a recent publication one author states: "it used to be the custom of the older practitioners to commence the treatment of such cases by two or three days, starvation. This treatment is terribly cruel, and any one who should prescribe such should be punished by law.'* The writer believes the "old practitioners" did rot go so very fax astray in their treatment. Two days denial of food, in such cases, is far from "cruel" but rather merciful. Few indulgent owners can be convinced of this however, and the extreme must be modified.

The treatment may be wisely commenced with a dose of castor oil or syrup of buckthorn or both. No more than two meals daily at the utmost should be allowed, and at each a little milk be given at first. This may be followed by broths, and raw meat occasionally.

Exercise must be strictly enforced, the animal being walked a mile in the beginning, then two miles a day, later run behind a carriage. As be becomes stronger and more active the diet may be more generous, meat in some form entering largely into it.

The teeth should be looked to, tartar removed, and the gums rubbed with a little tincture of myrrh. Patience and common sense are certain to overcome the affection unless the dog be too old.