Paralysis may affect the entire muscular system, or only certain groups of muscles. The most frequent paralysis is that which involves the hind legs, and which is more especially met with as a complication, or sequel of distemper.

Symptoms

The loss of muscular power and the weakness in walking are generally gradual in their development; in some rare cases, however, the dog is suddenly struck with paralysis. Wasting of the affected limbs and general emaciation follow. Paralysis varies from simple muscular weakness, causing tottering and feebleness in walking, up to absolute palsy, and then the dog drags the hind legs after him along the ground. Somewhat similar symptoms attend rheumatism of the muscles of the back - a disease that is sometimes confounded with true paralysis.

Treatment

Begin with Nux vomica - one grain of the first cent. trit. night and morning, ceasing at the end of a fortnight, or sooner if twitching of the limbs should appear; and resuming the course two or three days afterwards.

Electricity is an invaluable remedy when the paralysis does not depend on advanced structural disease. A Pulvermacher's chain might be conveniently applied, or worn.

Belladonna, and afterwards Rhus, should be administered, if the above means fail.