Occasionally mucous polypi of the nasal cavity are seen in dogs. These tumors retain the elements of the mucous membranes from which they arise. Certain catarrhal symptoms are associated with their formation, but their presence can rarely be positively determined until they can be plainly seen. They are soft jelly like masses which in time fill up the entire nasal passage, closing the opening. Polypi arise and run their course without pain.

Treatment

One author says, " the treatment is simple, and consists in the removal of the polypus, by tying a strong silk thread or piece of fine silver wire round the neck. This must be tightened daily for a few days till the neck is cut through and the tumor drops off". Very excellent advice and apparently a ready solution of the whole matter. But let the operation be undertaken, and the difficulty between theory and practice will be at once appreciable.

The writer advises when a polypus exists, that its removal be entrusted to a physician, who will in many cases need all his skill and experience in performing the operation.

It is stated by some authors "that ozaena is an affection rarely seen in the dog". While the severest forms of the disease are certainly seldom met with, the milder types it is believed are more common.

Causation

A. low state of the system, impoverished by neglect or disease invites the affection. Under such conditions, the cause is usually found in successive attacks of catarrh, and sometimes in distemper. Diseases of bone, ulcerations, foreign bodies, and abnormal growths, like polypus within the nose are commonly associated with ozaena.

Symptoms

The secretion in this disease varies much in quantity and appearance. The amount in some instances is profuse, in others scanty. The discharge is of a purulent character which decomposes, and a peculiar stench is produced giving rise to the name of the disease. The discharge has a tendency to crust formations deep within the nose, as well as about the outer openings, which are usually found coated with a greenish deposit. Constant sneezing is a marked symptom and the breathing through the nose is considerably obstructed.

Prognosis

If the disease is of recent origin it can be cured but the gain will be slow. Much will depend upon the general state of the system and its reparative powers.

Treatment

Efforts must be directed to restore the mucous membrane to its normal condition. Local treatment is the first essential. The nose should be injected every day with the following mixture. -

℞ Acidi Carbolici gr. xx.

Acidi Tannici gr. xx.

Glycerinae ℥ i.

Aquae ℥ iij.

Ft. Mist. Sig. Inject.

In some instances the frantic struggles of the animal will render nasal injections impossible. In such cases suppositories must be used. Each of these should contain one grain of iodoformum incorporated in cacao butter. The druggist consulted to prepare them,can use the common "rectal molds" in their manufacture. One suppository should be introduced daily, into each nasal passage for two days, then for a day omitted. They should be gently forced back, by some round, smooth instrument, as far as possible without causing pain, and there allowed to melt. For a few moments the dog may need restraint.

Quinine, iron, or cod liver oil should be given internally as the case demands, and a generous diet allowed. The importance of pure fresh air and sufficient exercise cannot be exagerated.