(See Rheumatism, also.) - This is a rheumatic affection of the forequarters, and particularly of the muscles connecting the shoulder-blade with the trunk. It is caused by exposure to wet and cold, and generally by the dog being kept in damp or draughty kennels. The symptoms are stiffness and soreness of one or both shoulders. This is most noticeable when the. dog is running down hill, or when jumping, as of course then practically the whole of the weight of the body is on these parts. Left to himself, the dog shows an indisposition to move, and experiences pain if the hand is passed over his shoulders; indeed, even when a attempt is made to touch him, he shrinks from the hand with a snarl or anticipatory cry of pain. In long-standing cases power of movement of the forequarters is almost lost, and many are incurable.

The treatment most advised is to give a warm bath, and after thoroughly drying, rub the parts well with a liniment composed of equal parts spirit of turpentine, spirit of hartshorn, and laudanum. If that should fail to give relief the following should be tried:

Liniment For Rheumatism

Take liniment of aconite, 1 part; compound camphor liniment, 2 parts; mix, and rub into the affected parts continuously for half an hour at a time, using considerable friction. The rheumatic liniment is expensive, also a powerful poison, so that great care must be used with it.

The dog's coat should be wiped dry after applying it, and it is advisable that he should wear a canvas-faced muzzle. The bowels should be freely acted on, and the Compound Podophyllin Pills (find prescription under Asthma) will be the best aperient. This pill given once will probably be enough. A little warm broth after given will assist its action. The following mixture should also be given:

Mixture For Rheumatism

Take iodide of potassium, 1.2 dram; sweet spirit of nitre, 1/2 ounce; water, 3 1/2 ounces. Give one to two dessertspoonfuls for a dose, twice a day.

Even more useful than the mixture recommended, is salicylate of sodium in 10 grain to 30 grain doses, in water, three times a day. If this fail, then try 5 grains to 15 grains of benzoic acid in pill form, twice a day.

The food should be sloppy and nourishing, and the dog be kept in a warm, dry place, free from draught.