Observations on Hydrophobia, Produced by the Bite of a Mad Dog, or Other Rabid Animal.

THACHER, James. Observations on Hydrophobia, Produced by the Bite of a Mad Dog, or Other Rabid Animal. With an Examination of the Various Theories and Methods of Cure, Existing at the Present Day; and an Inquiry into the Merit of Specific Remedies. Also, a Method of Treatment Best Adapted to the Brute Creation. Plymouth, MA: Joseph Avery, 1812. Austin 1880. Shaw & Shoemaker 26864. Presentation inscription form the author on front freeendpaper: "Mr. William Perry with the friendly regards of the author." Additionally inscribed at the head of the title page: "Mr. Perry's from The Author." A notable early American work, being an extensive examination of the nature and treatment of rabies. Thacher discusses the symptoms of the disease in dogs, the symptoms in humans, theories of the nature of the disease, and proposed cures. Fourteen case studies are included, and Thacher draws on the work of several other notable physicians, including Benjamin Rush, James Mease, and John Redman Coxe. The colored plate shows the Skull-cap plant, which Thacher proposed as a treatment for rabies. James Thacher (1754-1844), who served as a surgeon during the Revolution, was America's first medical biographer.