Poisoning By Arsenic

Very small quantities of this drug are capable of bringing on a fatal inflammation of the stomach and bowels, and it is only prescribed in the most minute doses.

Fowler's Solution of Arsenic is the compound generally selected for administration of the drug in the liquid form, the average dose of it for the larger sporting dogs being 10 drops. Arsenious acid or white arsenic is an extremely cheap compound, and one that enters largely into the composition of many sheep-dips, a fact that it may be worth while to bear in mind should a dog be poisoned in a manner, suspiciously regarded.

This same poison is not uncommonly used for the destruction of rats and other vermin, though the facilities for obtaining it are, to a great extent, a barrier against its frequent employment for such purposes.

Arsenic is a corrosive and irritant poison, producing vomiting, dysentery, acute pain within the belly, thirst, prostration, and a speedy but painful death.

As a rule, dogs poisoned by arsenic die, only the mildest forms making recovery.

Under any circumstances it is advisable to seek the assistance of a M.R.C.V.S., acting in accordance with his instructions.

In the absence of professional aid, provided the animal is not too much exhausted, an emetic should be given, and for this purpose there is nothing more suitable than 20 grains of white vitriol (sulphate of zinc), or the same quantity of blue vitriol (sulphate of copper), mixed with a couple of tablespoonfuls of tepid water. If neither of these agents are handy, use mustard, salt, and water.

Teaspoonful doses of brandy, mixed with the same quantity of olive or salad oil, can be given at frequent intervals.

Twenty-drop doses of chlorodyne, may be added if the pain is severe.

Hot fomentations to the belly will do good.