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 Common
Diseases
of Companion
Animals
This page intentionally left blank
 Common
Diseases
of Companion
Animals
Fourth Edition

ALLEICE SUMMERS, MS, DVM

Retired Professor, Veterinary Technology
Summers Mobile Veterinary Services
Waxahachie, Texas
COMMON DISEASES OF COMPANION ANIMALS,
FOURTH EDITION ISBN: 978-0-323-59657-2

Copyright © 2020 by Elsevier, Inc. All rights reserved.

Previous editions copyrighted 2014, 2007, 2002

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or
mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without
permission in writing from the publisher. Details on how to seek permission, further information about the
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This book and the individual contributions contained in it are protected under copyright by the Publisher
(other than as may be noted herein).

Notices
Practitioners and researchers must always rely on their own experience and knowledge in evaluating and using
any information, methods, compounds or experiments described herein. Because of rapid advances in the
medical sciences, in particular, independent verification of diagnoses and drug dosages should be made. To the
fullest extent of the law, no responsibility is assumed by Elsevier, authors, editors or contributors for any injury
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or operation of any methods, products, instructions, or ideas contained in the material herein.

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 To my husband, Rich Summers, and my parents, Clark and
Margaret Toldan, who told me I could do anything I set my mind
to and stood behind me while I tried.
PREFACE
Veterinary technicians serve a wide variety of functions
in the clinical setting. Although they are not diagnosti-
cians, they do assist the veterinarian, through assess-
ment and laboratory procedures, in arriving at a
diagnosis. Perhaps their most important functions are
in treatment planning/implementation and client/
patient follow-up and compliance. To perform these
duties effectively, they need a strong understanding of
diseases.
While teaching a course on small-animal diseases for
veterinary technology students, I discovered there was
no text written expressly for the veterinary technician
that covered this material. I realized that a handy refer-
ence was needed that offered a description of the most
common diseases encountered in companion animals,
including clinical signs, diagnostic tests and laboratory
work, treatment, prevention, and client information.
Just as important, this book seeks to delineate the role
of the technician in all phases of diagnosis, treatment,
and client communication.
This fourth edition of Common Diseases of Compan-
ion Animals has been expanded. It now covers how basic
anatomy and physiology affects the development of dis-
ease in many species of companion animals, including
horses, goats, reptiles, birds, pet pigs, chickens, and
small mammals. The equine section has been expanded,
and all chapters have extra questions and more color
pictures. The book is a collection of both clinical and
practical information concerning diseases seen fre-
quently in clinical practice. Tech Alerts are included
vi
throughout the text to emphasize the role of the techni-
cian in the total care of the patient. This book is written
as a text for veterinary technology students and as a ref-
erence for daily clinical practice. It is not intended to be a
comprehensive medical text; rather, the goal of this work
is to acquaint veterinary technicians with disease pro-
cesses and their treatments so they may better educate
their clients.
Organization
The 72 chapters of this book are organized according to
organ system. In each chapter, specific diseases that
affect each system follow an introductory section.
Included in each section are clinical signs, suggested
diagnostic tests, treatments, and information for clients.
The client information section is designed to help the
technician discuss the disease, including treatment and
prevention, with the client. The book is written in an
informal style, with clinical signs, diagnostic tests, and
treatments displayed in monograph form for easy refer-
ence. Because this book is a reference, students are often
asked to review anatomy, physiology, surgery, and clin-
ical pathology texts and other works for additional infor-
mation. It is hoped that the information presented in
this book will partner with the education provided to
the technician by the veterinarian to give the technician
a fuller appreciation of the disease processes seen in
companion animals.
Alleice Summers
 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I would like to thank my colleagues who so generously gave their time to make suggestions
for improvements to this book. I would like to remember all of my wonderful professors at
The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine who expanded my horizons by
encouraging me to become a veterinarian. Thanks also to all of my editors who kept asking
me to do this fourth edition. I thank my clients and their wonderful pets that, over the past
40 years, have provided me with many laughs, tears, and experiences that I will never forget.

Alleice Summers

vii
CONTENTS
Introduction: The Body Defense Systems—The Body’s 28 Diseases of the Endocrine System, 299
Response to Disease, x 29 Diseases of the Eye and Ear, 302
30 Hematological and Immunological Diseases, 306
31 Diseases of the Integumentary System, 309
SECTION 1 Dogs and Cats 32 Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System, 315
33 Diseases of the Nervous System, 322
1 Diseases of the Cardiovascular System, 1 34 Pansystemic Diseases, 325
2 Diseases of the Digestive System, 21 35 Diseases of the Respiratory System, 332
3 Diseases of the Endocrine System, 58 36 Diseases of the Urogenital System, 335
4 Diseases of the Eye, 73
5 Hematologic and Immunological Diseases, 87
6 Diseases of the Integumentary System, 99
7 Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System, 122 SECTION 4 Snakes, Iguanas, and Turtles
8 Diseases of the Nervous System, 140
9 Pansystemic Diseases, 157 37 Overview of Reptiles as Pets, 340
10 Diseases of the Reproductive System, 172 38 Diseases of the Cardiovascular System, 350
11 Diseases of the Respiratory System, 182 39 Diseases of the Digestive System, 352
12 Diseases of the Urinary System, 202 40 Diseases of the Endocrine System, 364
41 Diseases of the Special Senses, 366
42 Diseases of the Integumentary System, 370
43 Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System, 380
SECTION 2 Ferrets, Rodents, and Rabbits 44 Diseases of the Nervous System, 385
45 Diseases of the Reproductive System, 389
13 Overview of Ferrets, Rodents, and Rabbits, 219 46 Diseases of the Respiratory System, 394
14 Diseases of the Cardiovascular System, 226 47 Diseases of the Urinary System, 400
15 Diseases of the Digestive System, 231
16 Diseases of the Endocrine System, 241
17 Diseases of the Eye, 244
18 Hematological and Immunological Diseases, 248 SECTION 5 Horses
19 Diseases of the Integumentary System, 251
20 Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System, 259 48 Diseases of the Cardiovascular System, 405
21 Diseases of the Nervous System, 262 49 Diseases of the Digestive System, 413
22 Diseases of the Reproductive System, 265 50 Diseases of the Endocrine System, 424
23 Diseases of the Respiratory System, 270 51 Diseases of the Eye, 428
24 Diseases of the Urinary System, 276 52 Hematologic Diseases, 433
53 Diseases of the Integumentary System, 435
54 Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System, 444
55 Diseases of the Nervous System, 456
SECTION 3 Birds 56 Diseases of the Reproductive System, 462
57 Diseases That Affect the Neonate, 469
25 Overview of the Bird as a Patient, 281 58 Diseases of the Respiratory System, 472
26 Diseases of the Cardiovascular System, 287 59 Diseases of the Urinary System, 479
27 Diseases of the Digestive System, 290

viii
 CONTENTS ix

SECTION 6 Sheep and Goats SECTION 7 Farm Animals

60 Sheep and Goat Husbandry, 482 71 Chickens, 518

61 Diseases of the Digestive System, 484 72 Pot-Bellied Pigs and Other Pet Pigs, 528
62 Diseases of the Endocrine System, 491
63 Diseases of the Eye, 493
64 Hematologic and Lymphatic Diseases, 495 Answers to Review Questions, 544
65 Diseases of the Integumentary System, 498 Glossary, 552
66 Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System, 501 Bibliography, 558
67 Diseases of the Nervous System, 505 Index, 561
68 Diseases of the Reproductive System, 509
69 Diseases of the Respiratory System, 512
70 Diseases of the Urinary System, 515
INTRODUCTION: THE BODY
DEFENSE SYSTEMS—THE BODY’S
RESPONSE TO DISEASE
Animals, and their humans, live their lives in an
unfriendly, hostile environment. They are continually
assaulted by hordes of microorganisms such as bacteria,
viruses, protozoans, fungi, and parasites. Internally,
abnormal cells produced by cellular division must be
continually removed from the body. If allowed to sur-
vive, they become tumors. Some of these tumors may
become malignant and spread throughout the body. Tis-
sues within the body are continually being repaired or
replaced as they wear out or become damaged. With
all this activity going on in the body, it is a wonder that
animals and humans survive in this environment.
IMMUNITY
The animal body has developed an efficient system of
defense against disease-producing agents: the immune
system. Components of the immune system patrol the
body 24 hours a day looking for foreign and internal
enemies. The activities of this system are called immu-
nity; without it, animals could not survive. Immunity
can be divided into two large categories: nonspecific
immunity and specific immunity.
Nonspecific Immunity
Nonspecific immunity is composed of several elements:
species resistance, mechanical and chemical barriers, the
inflammatory response, interferon, and complement.
The term nonspecific means that the system responds
to all antigenic insults in the same manner, not specifi-
cally to any one type of pathogenic organism.
Species Resistance
Species resistance refers to the genetic ability of a par-
ticular species to provide defense against certain path-
ogens. For example, canines do not acquire feline
leukemia virus, and felines do not contract canine dis-
temper virus. Neither species can contract plant dis-
eases. Knowledge of species resistance can allow a
clinician or veterinary technician to focus on the
x
group of diseases seen in that animal species and
not spend time ruling out those conditions that do
not appear.
Mechanical and Chemical Barriers
The animal’s internal body is protected by a mechanical
barrier: the skin and the mucous membranes. If unbro-
ken, this barrier prevents the entry of microorganisms,
protecting the underlying tissues from injury. The skin
also produces substances such as sebum, mucus, and
enzymes that act to inhibit or destroy pathogens. Dam-
age to this barrier allows organisms to reach the internal
structures of the body and produce disease. Healthy skin
is the animal’s best defense against the world of micro-
organisms. It is called the “first line of defense.”
Inflammatory Response
If bacteria or other invaders do gain access to the body,
a “second line of defense,” known as the inflammatory
response, exists. When a tissue is invaded by microor-
ganisms or injured in any way, the cells that make up
that tissue release enzymes called mediators; these
mediators attract white blood cells to the area (chemo-
taxis), dilate blood vessels, and increase the permeabil-
ity of the vessels in the area. The characteristic signs of
inflammation—heat, redness, swelling, and pain—
occur as a result of the release of these chemical sub-
stances. Specific types of white blood cells (usually neu-
trophils) attracted to the area will begin to “gobble up”
the invading foreign material in a process known as
phagocytosis. The increased blood flow to the area will
increase the temperature of the tissue, inhibiting the
growth of new organisms. It also brings in raw mate-
rials for repair of the damaged tissue and clotting fac-
tors to assist in hemorrhage control. With time, the
body is able to clean up the damage and return the tis-
sue to its normal state.
Interferon and Complement
Chemicals produced by cells invaded by viruses also
make up part of nonspecific immunity. Interferon is a
 INTRODUCTION: THE BODY DEFENSE SYSTEMS—THE BODY’S RESPONSE TO DISEASE
substance that interferes with the ability of viruses to
cause disease by preventing their replication within
the host cell. Complement, another group of enzymes,
is activated during infection. Complement binds to
the invading cell wall, producing small holes in the
membrane. This results in rupture, or lysis, of the
foreign cell.
Specific Immunity
Specific immunity, the “third line of defense,” is con-
ducted by two types of white blood cells called lympho-
cytes. There are two main categories of lymphocytes,
B- and T-cell lymphocytes. B-cell lymphocytes produce
antibodies in response to specific antigen stimulation.
This is known as the humoral response. T-cell lympho-
cytes interact more directly with the pathogens by com-
bining directly with the foreign agent and destroying it
or rendering it incapable of causing disease. Because this
response is more direct than that of the B cell, it is known
as cell-mediated immunity.
Cell-Mediated Immunity
T cells originate in the bone marrow of the animal. After
leaving the bone marrow and entering the circulation,
they arrive at the thymus, a glandular structure found
in the mediastinum just cranial to the heart. The thymus
is the primary central gland of the lymphoid system and
is quite large in young animals, but decreases in size as
the animal matures. Here the T cells “go to college,”
where they are programmed to recognize the markers
that are unique on the cells of that specific animal
(self-recognition). After “graduation,” the T cells move
out to the spleen and lymph nodes and circulate through
the body, constantly on the lookout for invading
substances.
Macrophages, a type of white blood cell, also travel
through the tissues looking for foreign substances.
When they find one, they attach to it and take the
invader to the T cell. The T cell then attaches to the
receptor site on the invading cell and divides repeatedly.
All the new T cells then migrate to the site of the infec-
tion and begin to destroy the invading organisms. T-cell
response is rapid and deadly to pathogens.
Humoral Immunity
B-cell response (humoral) is a slower type of immune
response. Like T cells, B cells originate within the
xi
animal’s bone marrow or in the bursa of Fabricius in
some species. Young, inactive B cells produce anti-
gen-combining receptor sites over the surface of their
cell membranes. On contact with a specific antigen,
the cell divides repeatedly, producing a clone of identi-
cal B cells. Some of these B cells become plasma cells
and are stimulated to produce large protein molecules
called antibodies; others remain as memory cells,
which have the ability to recognize the antigen if it is
ever again presented to them. Each clone of B cells,
and hence each antibody, is specific for only one
antigen. The antibody produced is a large protein
molecule (immunoglobulin) whose chemical structure
contains an area that is able to lock onto the antigen
(Fig. I.1). Combining with the antigen may result in
rendering the antigen harmless to the body, may cause
antigens to clump together (agglutinate) and be
removed from solution, or may result in the destruction
of the antigenic cell. This humoral response is not
immediate. It takes time for the B cells to clone and
begin to produce antibodies. Within 7 to 10 days after
the initial infection, antibodies can be found in the
body. However, if the animal has been exposed to
the antigen previously and memory cells are present,
this period is shorter.
B- and T-cell immunity can be further classified
according to the manner in which they develop. Inher-
ited immunity occurs as a result of genetic factors that
influence the developing animal before birth. Acquired
immunity is resistance that develops after the animal
is born. Acquired immunity may be either natural or
artificial. Natural immunity occurs every time the ani-
mal is exposed to a pathogen. It is a continual process
in the animal world. Artificial immunity is usually the
result of deliberate exposure to a pathogen such as with
vaccinations. Both natural and artificial immunity can
be further divided into either passive or active immu-
nity. In passive immunity, antibodies formed in one
infected animal are transferred to another animal that
is not infected. This transfer provides the uninfected ani-
mal with protection against the pathogen. Active immu-
nity occurs when the animal’s own immune system
encounters a pathogen and responds by producing an
immune response.
The ultimate result of both specific and nonspecific
immunity is that the body eliminates foreign substances,
whether they are bacteria, viruses, protozoa, parasites, or
the body’s own cells that have become harmful. If this
xii INTRODUCTION: THE BODY DEFENSE SYSTEMS—THE BODY’S RESPONSE TO DISEASE

VH Antigen
VH
binding s

s
sites s

s
s

s
CH s V

s
VL CH s L

s
s

s
s s s

s
s s

s
s
CL s CL

s
s s Light (L) chain

Hinge region s s
CH C Carbohydrate
s s H chain

s s
CH C Heavy (H) chain
s s H

Fig. I.1 Chemical structure of the immunoglobulin G class of antibody. Each molecule is composed of four
polypeptide chains (two heavy and two light) plus a short carbohydrate chain attached to each heavy chain.
The variable chain gives the immunoglobulin its specificity. C, Constant region; CH, constant region of heavy
chain; CL, constant region of light chain; s-s, sulfur-sulfur bonds; V, variable region; VH, variable region of
heavy chain; VL, variable region of light chain.

system fails or is overwhelmed, disease occurs. Many
factors affect the proper functioning of the immune
system, such as nutrition, stress, sanitation, and age.
Concurrent disease can also weaken the immune system,
allowing other organisms to gain access to the body.
Veterinary technicians must be familiar with the effects
these elements have on the health of the animals in their
care and be able to educate pet owners in the areas essen-
tial for the healthy life of their pets.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THE SYSTEM
DOES NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY?
This book discusses some of the most commonly seen
diseases of domestic animals. The technician should
keep the function of the immune system in mind as
these diseases are discussed. Disruption of the normal
functioning of the immune system results in the clinical
illnesses seen in our patients.
 Common
Diseases
of Companion
Animals
This page intentionally left blank
 SECTION 1 Dogs and Cats

1
Diseases of the Cardiovascular System

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
When you have completed this chapter, you will be
able to:
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of the
anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular
system.
• Explain to clients how cardiovascular disease affects
the patient.
• Explain diagnostic and treatment plans to clients.
• Answer clients’ questions concerning the
medications needed by the patient.

OUTLINE
Anatomy and Physiology 2 Persistent Right Aortic Arch and Other
The Pump 2 Vascular Ring Anomalies 13
The Vessels 3 Surgical 13
Heart Failure 3 Maintenance 13
Cardiomyopathies 4 Acquired Valvular Heart Disease 13
Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy 4 Chronic Mitral Valve Insufficiency 13
Canine Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy 5 Laboratory Findings 14
Boxer Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy 5 Medical 14
Physical Examination 6 Dietary 14
Laboratory Findings 6 Tricuspid Valve Insufficiency 14
Imaging 6 Cardiac Arrhythmias 14
Feline Dilated Cardiomyopathy 6 Atrial Fibrillation (Supraventricular Arrhythmia) 15
Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy 7 Ventricular Tachycardia (Ventricular
Thromboembolism 7 Arrhythmias) 15
Congenital Heart Disease 8 Ventricular Fibrillation 17
Patent Ductus Arteriosus 9 Sinus Arrhythmia 17
Atrial and Ventricular Septal Defects 10 Sinus Bradycardia 17
Stenotic Valves (Pulmonic and Aortic Stenosis) 10 Heartworm Disease 18
Subaortic Stenosis 11 Canine Heartworm Disease 18
Medical 11 Adulticide Treatment 18
Tetralogy of Fallot 11 Treatment of Toxicities 18
Surgical 12 Feline Heartworm Disease 19
Medical 12
1
2 SECTION 1 Dogs and Cats
KEY TERMS
Bradycardia Endocarditis
Cardiomyopathy Myocarditis
Congenital Holosystolic
Echogenicity Hypertrophic
Embolism Hypervolemia
The cardiovascular system plays an important role in
maintaining homeostasis throughout the body. It per-
forms this function by regulating the flow of blood
through miles of vessels and capillaries. It is in capillaries
that vital nutrients are transported into the body cells
and removal of waste materials from the cells occurs.
To understand cardiovascular disease, one must first
study the anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular
system (refer to an anatomy and physiology text for a
detailed description). Simply stated, the cardiovascular
system is composed of a pump (the heart) and pipes
(vessels). The pump circulates fluid (blood) through ves-
sels, where it delivers its content to the cells and removes
waste products. This system is a “closed” system—that
is, change in one portion of the system affects other por-
tions of the system.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
The Pump
At the center of the cardiovascular system is the heart, a
four-chambered pump designed to contract, pumping
blood to all parts of the body. Two atria (right and left)
sit on top of two ventricles (also right and left). The right
atrium is separated from the right ventricle by the right
atrioventricular valve, also called the tricuspid valve
because it has three leaflets. The left atrium is separated
from the left ventricle by the left atrioventricular valve,
or the mitral valve. The atrioventricular (AV) septum
divides the entire right side of the heart from the left
side. Lining tissue of the heart, the endocardium, also
covers these valves. Specialized cardiac muscle cells,
located in the sinoatrial (SA) node just inside the right
atrium, generate an electrical impulse that spreads
across both atria and then down the septum to the
AV node, where it is slowed down. From there, the
impulse travels into the Bundle of His (the AV bundle)
and then out to the ventricles along the Purkinje fibers.
The arrival of this electrical impulse results in the con-
traction of the atria and ventricles simultaneously
Hypovolemia
Precordial thrill
Tachycardia
Taurine
Thrombus
(systole). Blood from the right atrium fills the right ven-
tricle by gravity (80%) and by contraction (20%). Blood
from the left atrium fills the left ventricle. The closing of
the AV valves produces the first heart sound. Contrac-
tion of the ventricles pushes blood into the pulmonary
artery through the pulmonic valve on the right side of
the heart and into the aorta through the aortic valve
on the left side and returns blood to the right heart from
veins. Closing of the pulmonic and aortic valves creates
the second heart sound. This electrical activity can be
measured as it moves across the surface of the body
by using an electrocardiograph (Fig. 1.1). The electrocar-
diographic instrument measures the electrical activity
generated by the heart by the placement of electrodes
at specific points on the body surface. Each mechanical
contraction of the heart is preceded by an electrical wave
front that stimulates heart muscle contraction. This
Fig. 1.1 Example of correct positioning and lead placement for
performing electrocardiography (ECG). Note that the dog is in
right lateral recumbency, the limbs are perpendicular to the body,
and the white electrode is on the right forelimb, the black elec-
trode on the left forelimb, the green electrodes on the right hin-
dlimb, and the red electrode on the left hindlimb. (From Bassert
J, Thomas J. McCurnin’s clinical textbook for veterinary techni-
cians. 8th ed. St Louis, MO: Saunders; 2014.)
 CHAPTER 1 Diseases of the Cardiovascular System
II
Fig. 1.2 Six-lead electrocardiogram documenting normal sinus rhythm with a heart rate of approximately 150
beats/min. (Modified from August JR. Consultations in feline internal medicine. Vol 6. St. Louis, MO: Saunders;
2010.)
electrical wave front begins at the SA node and travels to
the muscle cells of the ventricle through the cardiac con-
duction system. These wave fronts are recorded as the
electrocardiogram (ECG). Fig. 1.2 shows a normal
ECG of a dog. Fig. 1.3 represents the normal pathway
for electrical conduction through the heart.
The electrical activity of this pump is automatic but
can be adjusted by input from the neuroendocrine system
to meet the demands of the animal’s body. Both the sym-
pathetic and the parasympathetic nervous systems aug-
ment the rhythmic contraction of the heart.
Many cardiac diseases involve a failure of this pump
to function properly. Congestive heart failure (CHF),
cardiomyopathy, valvular disease, and congenital malfor-
mations can all affect the pumping efficiency of the heart
and, ultimately, the function of the entire body.
SA node
AV node
Left bundle
Bundle branch
of His
Purkinje
Right fibers
bundle
branch
Fig. 1.3 Normal pathway for electrical conduction through the
heart. AV, Atrioventricular; SA, sinoatrial. (From McBride DF.
Learning veterinary terminology. 2nd ed. St. Louis, MO: Mosby;
2002, by permission.)
3
The Vessels
Connected to the pump are a series of vessels. Arteries
carry oxygenated blood at high pressure (the systolic
blood pressure) to arterioles and onto capillaries, where
exchange of nutrients and gases occurs. Blood then
moves into venules, through veins, and is returned to
the right side of the heart via the vena cava. Excessive
fluid remaining in the tissue surrounding capillaries is
returned to the vascular system via the lymph vessels.
Arteries, whose walls contain a large amount of smooth
muscle, are capable of dilation and constriction, routing
blood to areas where it is needed and away from those
areas not in need. Constriction serves to increase blood
pressure, and dilation serves to decrease it.
TECH ALERT
The pulmonary artery is the only artery in the body carry-
ing unoxygenated blood, and pulmonary veins are the
only veins carrying oxygenated blood!
Vascular diseases affect the flow of blood through the
body and, ultimately, its return to the heart. If the vol-
ume of blood returning to the heart is abnormal, the
heart will compensate by altering the rate of contraction,
the strength of contraction, or both to return homeosta-
sis to the circulatory system.
Heart Failure
When the blood returning to the heart cannot be
pumped out at a rate matching the body’s need, heart
failure occurs. Many causes for heart failure exist, and
the disease is often difficult to explain. The clinical signs
of the disease and treatment regimens depend on the
diagnosis and evaluation of the individual animal. The
veterinarian must determine whether the failure is the
result of myocardial dysfunction (pump failure) or circu-
latory failure (lack of circulating fluid volume).
4 SECTION 1 Dogs and Cats
Myocardial dysfunction is seen in diseases such as the
following:
• Cardiomyopathy
• Myocarditis
• Taurine deficiency in cats
Circulatory failure results from the following
conditions:
• Hypovolemia (shock, hemorrhage, dehydration)
• Anemia
• Valvular dysfunction
• Congenital shunts or defects
TECH ALERT
Technicians should train themselves to always listen to
the heart, not just for heart rate, but also for any arrhyth-
mias or abnormal sounds so they can alert the doctor.
You should always listen for 1 full minute for rate and
arrhythmias.
Heart failure is termed CHF when the failing heart
allows fluid congestion and edema to accumulate in
the body. Most heart failure will become “congestive”
as the pump progressively fails.
Today, it is possible for researchers to look into the
myocardial cells themselves, even to the level of the
deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) within the nucleus to
explain the physiological changes seen in patients with
heart failure. To understand these diseases, the techni-
cian needs an understanding of the workings of the
myocardial cell in general.
The myocardial cell is striated and involuntary. Each
cell contains parallel sarcomeres containing myosin
and actin fibers just like skeletal muscle. Movement
of these fibers over one another results in a shortening
of the cell and contributes to muscle shortening or con-
traction. Unlike skeletal muscle, myocardial cells have a
very small sarcoplasmic reticulum for calcium storage
and hence they are dependent on blood calcium for
contraction. The myocardial cells are linked to other
myocardial cells through strong electrical intercalated
discs. This network of myocardial cells is able to react
as one electrically coupled unit. Cardiac muscle cells
have a longer refractory period than skeletal muscle
cells to allow for filling of the chambers of the heart
during diastole. Researchers have found that disarray
of these sarcomeres within the cardiac muscle is often
responsible for problems seen in patients with heart
failure.
CARDIOMYOPATHIES
Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is one of the most com-
mon acquired cardiovascular diseases of dogs. It is pri-
marily a disease of older, male, large- and giant-breed
dogs such as Scottish Deerhounds, Dobermans, Boxers,
Irish Wolfhounds, St. Bernards, Newfoundlands,
Afghans, and Old English Sheepdogs. The disease has
also been seen in English and American Cocker Spaniels.
It is rare in dogs weighing less than 12 kg.
The pathology of the disease involves dilation of all
chambers of the heart. This dilation (caused by weak,
thin, and flabby cardiac muscle) results in a decrease in
cardiac output and an increase in cardiac afterload (blood
left in the heart in diastole). The cause of this disease is
unknown, although its onset often follows myocardial
insult from viral, bacterial, nutritional, or immune-
mediated diseases. DCM results in impaired systolic
function of the ventricles and, therefore, decreased stroke
volume (the volume of blood ejected from the heart with
each contraction). The effect on the animal is one of low-
output circulatory failure, exhibited by weakness, exercise
intolerance, syncope, or shock.
Dogs with DCM frequently experience development
of atrial fibrillation (AF), which further contributes to a
decrease in cardiac output. Signs of AF include rapid,
irregular heart rhythms or sudden death. Patients may
remain normal until the atria dilate excessively. The
enlarged atria are unable to contract normally, and clin-
ical signs of heart disease become evident. The cause of
this dilation appears to be breed related. In Dobermans,
the disease appears to be familial, related to an autoso-
mal dominant gene. Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds
also demonstrate a genetic predisposition for this dis-
ease. In Cocker Spaniels, a taurine deficiency results in
DCM. The disease in Cocker Spaniels appears to be
related to diets high in lamb meat and rice and low in
taurine. Although DCM is primarily a disease of older
dogs, Portuguese Water Dogs exhibit a juvenile onset
of the disease, which is also genetic. Puppies anywhere
from 2 to 32 weeks of age can be affected.
Clinical Signs
• Giant- or large-breed male dogs; 4 to 10 years of age
• Right-sided heart failure: ascites, hepatomegaly,
weight loss, abdominal distension
• Left-sided heart failure: coughing, pulmonary edema,
syncope
 CHAPTER 1 Diseases of the Cardiovascular System
• Exercise intolerance
• Murmur of mitral regurgitation heard best on
left chest
• +/– gallop rhythm
• +/– tachyrhythm
Diagnosis
• Radiographs: may be normal early in the disease. May
show enlarged heart later in the disease time line; left
ventricular enlargement, enlargement of both atria
may be visible
• Echocardiology: test of choice for examination of the
heart; will demonstrate left and right atrial wall thin-
ning along with left ventricular dilation
• ECG: may show widened QRS and P waves, rhythm
disturbances but is fairly insensitive to changes seen
in DCM
Laboratory Tests
• The use of cardiac biomarkers is gaining in popular-
ity for diagnosis of DCM. These tests look for myo-
cardial cell injury seen in DCM.
• Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic
peptide (BNP), and pro-BNP blood tests are com-
mercially available. In DCM, these values will be sig-
nificantly increased.
• Troponin 1 (cTn1) will also be increased. (Whole
blood is recommended over plasma for this test,
but technicians should check with local laboratory
before sample collection.)
Treatment
• No cure exists for DCM; treatment is aimed at keep-
ing the dog comfortable
• Diuretics: furosemide to decrease fluid load and
reduce work of the heart
• Enalapril: angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)
inhibitor prevents the formation of angiotensin II,
a potent vasoconstrictor; helps decrease vascular
resistance and improve cardiac output
• +/ beta-blockers (β-blockers): metoprolol, pro-
pranolol, esmolol are examples
• Pimobendan: a calcium sensitizer with inhibitory
properties. It increases the calcium binding capability
at cTn1 sites. The result is a more forceful contraction
of the myocardial cell. The drug also has an antith-
rombotic effect and is a positive inotrope. Its use
has been shown to slow the progression of the disease
and to improve survival times
5
Information for Clients
• DCM is a progressive disease that is almost
always fatal.
• Most dogs will die within 6 months to 2 years.
• Dogs may die suddenly of malignant cardiac arrhyth-
mias. Avoid excessive exercise in these animals.
• The disease does appear to be more prevalent in cer-
tain breeds of dogs and has been proven to run in
families of many dog breeds. Biomarkers may be of
use to diagnose the disease early on.
Canine Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
In the rare canine disease hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
(HCM), the left ventricular muscle hypertrophies or
thickens, decreasing the filling capacity of the ventricle
and often blocking the outflow of blood during systole.
The cause appears to be heritable.
Clinical Signs
• Fatigue
• Cough
• Tachypnea
• Syncope
• Presence or absence of cardiac murmurs
• Sudden death
• Some animals may be asymptomatic
Diagnosis
• Echocardiology: indicates concentric thickening and
hypertrophy of the left ventricle
Treatment
• None routinely used
Information for Clients
• Sudden death and CHF may occur in dogs
with HCM.
• The disease may run in families of certain breeds:
German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Dalmations, Cocker
Spaniels, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus.
Boxer Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy
This cardiomyopathy occurs in adult Boxer dogs that
present with ventricular arrhythmias, syncope, and sud-
den death. This is a genetic disease seen within families
of Boxers and appears to be an autosomal dominant
trait with variable penetration. Some dogs may show
no signs of the disease, whereas others may have
varying signs.
6 SECTION 1 Dogs and Cats
Clinical Signs
• Syncope—may be associated with exercise
• Sudden death
• Some dogs will present with left or biventricular heart
failure
Diagnosis
Physical Examination
• Many dogs will have a normal physical examination
• Tachyarrhythmias, ascites, and murmurs may be
present
Laboratory Findings
• Biomarkers may be of value in diagnosing this disease
• Cardiac cTn1 levels will be elevated
• Clinical serum chemistries may be within normal
limits
Imaging
• ECG: a short recording may be normal. However,
these dogs will have ventricular premature contrac-
tions on an ECG if the recording is long enough to
see them
• Holter monitor: will allow the veterinarian to more
accurately diagnose this disease. Increased numbers
of ventricular premature complexes (VPCs) should
indicate a problem
• Radiographs: usually normal but may show left ven-
tricular enlargement
• Echocardiology: will show left ventricular dilation
and systolic dysfunction. Some dogs will have right
ventricular enlargement
Treatment
• Mexiletine: to decrease the VPCs
• Pimobendan, ACE inhibitors, if ventricular dilation
is present
• Owners should be warned that sudden death of these
dogs can occur usually with exercise or excitement
TECH ALERT
When monitoring anesthesia on Boxer dogs, be alert for
the presence of VPCs on the ECG monitor. They should
not occur in normal dogs. If they are present, this may
indicate the dog needs a further cardiac workup.
Feline Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Before the late 1980s, feline DCM was one of the most
frequent cardiac diseases reported in cats. After the
association of the disease with taurine deficiency, addi-
tional taurine was added to commercial diets, and the
incidence of the disease significantly decreased. The
pathological condition is similar to DCM in dogs. Evi-
dence has been found of a genetic predisposition to
DCM in cats fed taurine-deficient diets.
Clinical Signs
• Older, mixed-breed cats
• Dyspnea
• Inactivity
• Anorexia
• Acute lameness or paralysis, usually in the rear limbs
• Pain and lack of circulation in the affected limbs
• Hypothermia
Diagnosis
• Clinical signs
• ECG: increased QRS voltages, wide P waves, ventric-
ular arrhythmia
• Echocardiology: dilated heart chambers
Treatment
• Oral taurine supplementation: 250 to 500 milligrams
twice per day (mg/day)
• Furosemide: to reduce fluid load on the heart
• Oxygen: to increase oxygen levels to the cells
• Digoxin: to increase cardiac contractility and
improve cardiac output
• Enalapril: ACE inhibitor to prevent the formation of
angiotensin II and decrease vascular resistance;
improves cardiac output
• Pimobendan
• Hydralazine: relaxes vascular smooth muscle and de-
creases peripheral resistance; improves cardiac output
• Anticoagulants can be used to dissolve or prevent fur-
ther blood clots
TECH ALERT
Avoid intravenous (IV) fluid replacement in cats until pul-
monary edema or pulmonary effusion is under control.
Information for Clients
• The most dangerous time during treatment of feline
DCM is the first 2 weeks.
• Cats that survive the first 2 weeks and respond well to
taurine supplementation have a favorable prognosis.
 CHAPTER 1 Diseases of the Cardiovascular System
• Cats that do not respond to taurine supplementation
have a poor long-term prognosis.
TECH ALERT
• Be extremely careful when handling these cats. The
cat may die suddenly while you are attempting to col-
lect laboratory samples or obtain radiographs.
Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
HCM in cats is similar to the disease in dogs, with left
ventricular hypertrophy being the predominant pathol-
ogy. This disease is the most common cardiomyopathy
seen in cats. Of the feline cardiac cases, up to 35%
involve HCM. Neutered male cats between 1 and
16 years of age have been found to be most at risk. This
disease is more common in Main Coon and Ragdoll
breeds. The cause of the disease may be related to abnor-
mal myocardial myosin or calcium transport within the
myocardial cells. The left ventricle becomes thickened
and stiff. Mitral regurgitation and aortic embolization
occur frequently.
As the atria dilate, the endothelium lining the cham-
bers is damaged, resulting in the release of clotting
enzymes, which can result in clot formation. The cats
that form thrombi also show evidence of hypercoagul-
ability of their platelets. Thromboembolism occurs in
about 16% to 18% of feline HCM cases. Although the
thrombus can lodge in any artery, it appears that the tri-
furcation of the aorta is a frequent spot resulting in a
decrease in circulation to both rear legs.
Clinical Signs
• A soft, systolic murmur (grade 2–3 or 6)
• Gallop rhythms or other arrhythmia
• Acute onset of heart failure or systemic
thromboembolism
Diagnosis
• Radiographs: may show a normal-size heart or mild
left atrial enlargement. May see the “valentine” heart
shape in the dorsoventral view
• ECG: increased P-wave duration, increased QRS
width, sinus tachycardia
• Echocardiology: increased left ventricular wall thick-
ness and a dilated left atrium
• Biomarkers: BNP, pro-BNP, and CTn1 will be
increased
7
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): most accurate
method of diagnosis
Treatment
• ACE inhibitors
• +/– Propranolol, Atenolol: β-blocker; used to
decrease myocardial oxygen demand, decrease sinus
heart rate
or
• Diltiazem: calcium channel blocker; inhibits cardiac
and vascular smooth muscle contractility; reduces
blood pressure and cardiac afterload
• ACE inhibitors
• Low-dose heparin or low-dose aspirin
• Diuretic: furosemide
TECH ALERT
Monitor ECG, heart rate, and blood pressure; may see
bradycardia and hypotension at higher doses.
Information for Clients
• Cats with HCM may experience heart failure, arterial
embolism, and sudden death.
• Cats with heart rates less than 200 beats/min have a
more favorable prognosis compared with cats whose
rates are greater than 200 beats/min.
• The median survival time is about 732 days.
Thromboembolism
Thrombus formation is a common and serious compli-
cation of myocardial disease in the cat. It is estimated
that between 10% and 20% of cats with HCM will expe-
rience development of thrombi on the left side of the
heart, which may dislodge and become trapped else-
where in the arterial system. Cats appear to have inher-
ently high platelet reactivity, making clot formation a
more likely sequel to endothelial damage and sluggish
blood flow occurring with myocardial disease. Approx-
imately 90% of these emboli lodge as “saddle thrombi” in
the distal aortic trifurcation, resulting in hindlimb pain
and paresis. Rarely will a thrombus lodge at other arte-
rial sites such as the renal artery, the coronary arteries,
the cerebral arteries, or the mesenteric artery.
The goal of treatment is to dissolve the thrombus and
restore perfusion to the area. Several drugs have been
tried with varying results. Tissue plasminogen activator
(tPA) has shown some success, but it is expensive.
8 SECTION 1 Dogs and Cats

Heparin has also been used with some success. Low-dose Many malformations have a genetic basis. Breed pre-
aspirin therapy can be used prophylactically in cats with dilections for congenital heart disease are listed in
myocardial disease. Table 1.1. The diagnostic approach for congenital heart
disease should include a detailed history, with special
Clinical Signs
• Acute onset of rear leg pain and paresis accompanied
by vocalization TABLE 1.1 Canine Breed Predilections
• Cold, bluish foot pads (decreased circulation) for Congenital Heart Disease
• Lack of palpable pulses in rear limbs Breed Defect(s)
• History or clinical findings of myocardial disease Basset Hound P
Beagle PS
Diagnosis Bichon Frise PDA
• Clinical signs Boxer SAS, PS, ASD
• Nonselective angiography, if available Boykin Spaniel PS
Bull Terrier MVD, AS
Treatment Chihuahua PDA, PS
• TPA (Activase [Genentech]): serves as a fibrolysin Chow Chow PS, CTD
resulting in the breakdown of clots already formed Cocker Spaniel PDA, PS
in the vasculature Collie PDA
or Doberman Pinscher ASD
• Heparin: acts on coagulation factors in both the English Bulldog PS, VSD, TOF
English Springer Spaniel PDA, VSD
intrinsic and extrinsic coagulation pathways, inhibits German Shepherd SAS, PDA, TVD, MVD
the formation of a stable clot German Shorthaired Pointer SAS
• Prophylaxis: low-dose aspirin Golden Retriever SAS, TVD, MVD
Great Dane TVD, MVD, SAS
TECH ALERT Keeshond TOF, PDA
Aspirin use in cats can cause toxicities because of their Labrador Retriever TVD, PDA, PS
inability to rapidly metabolize and excrete salicylates. Maltese PDA
Cats must be dosed carefully and monitored carefully Mastiff PS, MVD
when receiving aspirin therapy. Newfoundland SAS, MVD, PS
Pomeranian PDA
Poodle PDA
Information for Clients Rottweiler SAS
• Cats experiencing painful, cold, or paralyzed rear legs Samoyed PS, SAS, ASD
should be seen at the hospital immediately. Schnauzer PS
• The prognosis for cats with thromboembolism is Shetland Sheepdog PDA
Terrier breeds PS
guarded to poor.
Weimaraner TVD, PPDH
• Surgical removal of the thrombus is difficult.
Welsh Corgi PDA
West Highland White Terrier PS, VSD
CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE Yorkshire Terrier PDA
AS, Aortic stenosis; ASD, atrial septal defect; CTD, cor
Although malformations of the heart and great vessels triatriatum dexter; MVD, mitral valve dysplasia; PDA, patent
represent a small cause of clinical heart disease, it is ductus arteriosus; PPDH, peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic
important to identify them in newly acquired pets or hernia; PS, pulmonic stenosis; SAS, subaortic stenosis; TOF,
those to be used for breeding. Technicians should be tetralogy of Fallot; TVD, tricuspid valve dysplasia; VSD,
encouraged to use their stethoscopes to routinely listen ventricular septal defect.
From Oyama MA, Sisson DD, Thomas WP, Bonagura JD.
to the heart. With practice, subtle changes will become Congenital heart disease. In Ettinger SJ, Feldman EC, eds.
noticeable, allowing the technician to note abnormalities Textbook of veterinary internal medicine. 6th ed. Vol 2. St. Louis,
in the patient’s record. MO: Saunders; 2005.
 CHAPTER 1 Diseases of the Cardiovascular System 9

attention paid to the breed, sex, and age of the patient.
Clinical signs of CHF include failure to grow, dyspnea,
weakness, syncope, cyanosis, seizures, and sudden
death; however, many animals with congenital malfor-
mations may be asymptomatic.
Most cases of congenital abnormalities are identi-
fied during the first visit to the veterinarian after the
pet has been purchased. On examination, a loud mur-
mur often accompanied by a precordial thrill (a vibra-
tion of the chest wall) may be heard. With some
defects, the clinician may observe pulse abnormalities,
cyanosis, jugular pulses, or abdominal distension. Lab-
oratory test results may all be normal. Radiography
may suggest cardiac disease in some animals; however,
echocardiography can provide an accurate diagnosis of
the defect.
Causes of congenital heart disease include genetic,
environmental, infectious, nutritional, and drug-related
factors. More is understood of the genetic factors
than the other causes. Studies suggest the defects are
polygenetic in nature and that they might be difficult
to eliminate entirely from a specific breed.
This section discusses the most commonly seen con-
genital defects. See additional cardiology texts for more
detailed descriptions of each defect.
Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Failure of the ductus arteriosus to close after parturition
results in blood shunting from the systemic circulation
to the pulmonary artery. Normally, the ductus carries
blood from the pulmonary artery to the aorta during
fetal development. The increase in oxygen tension in
the blood at birth results in closure of the path in the
first 12 to 14 hours of life. If the ductus remains
open, blood will hyperperfuse the lung, and the left
side of the heart will become volume overloaded
(Fig. 1.4). The resulting cardiac murmur is often
referred to as a “machinery murmur”; this type of mur-
mur is heard best over the main pulmonary artery high
on the left base.

A B
Fig. 1.4 (A) Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in the feline. (B) The apex of the heart is shifted to the right
with HCM. (From August J. Consultations in feline internal medicine. 5th ed. St. Louis, MO: Saunders; 2005,
by permission.)
10 SECTION 1 Dogs and Cats
Clinical Signs
• Usually, female dogs are most commonly affected,
especially Chihuahuas, Collies, Maltese, Poodles,
Pomeranians, English Springers, Keeshonds, Bichons
Frises, and Shetland Sheepdogs
• Presence of loud murmur heard best over left
thorax
• Some puppies may be asymptomatic
Diagnosis
• ECG: will reveal left ventricular dilation, aortic and
pulmonary artery dilation
• Radiographs: overcirculation of the pulmonary tree
with left atrial and ventricular enlargement
Treatment
• Surgical duct ligation before 2 years of age
• Coil or Amplatz embolization
Information for Clients
• The prognosis is excellent with surgical correction.
• It has been estimated that 64% of dogs with patent
ductus arteriosus (PDA) will be dead within 1 year
of diagnosis without surgical correction.
• These dogs should not be used for breeding.
Atrial and Ventricular Septal Defects
During fetal development, the atria and the ventricles
are joined as a common chamber. The atria are parti-
tioned by two septa and a slitlike opening (the foramen
ovale) that allows right-to-left shunting of blood in the
fetus. The ventricular septum is formed from several pri-
mordial areas. Eventually, the atrial septum and the ven-
tricular septum join in the area of the endocardial
cushions. Defects in the structure of these septae result
in patencies of the AV septum. This defect is fairly com-
mon in the cat. With atrial septal defects (ASDs), blood
will typically shunt from left to right, overloading the
right side of the heart. In ventricular septal defects
(VSDs), the left side of the heart is usually overloaded
and enlarged (Fig. 1.5).
Clinical Signs
• Typical breed
• ASD: soft, systolic murmur, split-second heart sound
• VSD: harsh, holosystolic murmur, right
sternal border
• Signs of CHF before 8 weeks of age
Ao
LA
PA
RA
LV
RV
Fig. 1.5 Circulation in a dog with a large left-to-right shunting pat-
ent ductus arteriosus. The shunt results in pulmonary overcircu-
lation and left ventricular volume overload. Ao, Aorta; LA, left
atrium; LV, left ventricle; PA, pulmonary artery; RA, right atrium;
RV, right ventricle.
Diagnosis
• Radiology: reveals right-sided heart enlargement
with ASD, increased pulmonary vascularity, left
atrium normal to slightly enlarged; in VSD, pulmo-
nary overcirculation, left atrium and ventricle
enlarged, variable right ventricular enlargement
• Echocardiology: demonstrates the septal defect
Treatment
• ASD: medical management of CHF
• VSD: medical management of CHF
Information for Clients
• Repair of these defects requires open-heart surgery or
cardiopulmonary bypass. This is uncommon in dogs
or cats.
• Most of these animals will eventually experience
development of CHF and require treatment.
Stenotic Valves (Pulmonic and Aortic
Stenosis)
Pulmonic stenosis results when the pulmonic valves are
dysplastic or malformed. The lesion results in a narrow-
ing of the outflow tract from the right ventricle. Obstruc-
tion to right ventricular outflow causes an increase in
ventricular systolic pressure resulting in right ventricu-
lar hypertrophy. The right atrium also becomes
enlarged. Severe stenosis limits cardiac output during
exercise.
 CHAPTER 1 Diseases of the Cardiovascular System
Clinical Signs
• Specific breeds (Chihuahuas, Samoyeds, English
Bulldogs, Miniature Schnauzers, Labrador Retrievers,
Mastiffs, Chow Chow, Newfoundlands, Basset
Hounds, Terriers, and Spaniels)
• Age: older than 1 year
• Syncope (fainting)
• Exercise intolerance
• Right-sided congestive heart disease
• Prominent jugular pulse
• Left basilar murmur
• Palpable right ventricular enlargement
Diagnosis
• Radiographs: right ventricular enlargement, postste-
notic dilation of the pulmonary artery, pulmonary
underperfusion
• ECG: right ventricular hypertrophy and enlargement,
increased echogenicity of the pulmonary valves, dila-
tion of the main pulmonary artery
Treatment
• Balloon valvuloplasty to relieve the obstruction
• Valvulotomy or partial valvulectomy to open the
outflow tract
• Patch graph over the outflow tract to alleviate the
obstruction
• Medical management of CHF
Information for Clients
• These dogs should not be used for breeding.
• Dogs with mild-to-moderate pulmonic stenosis can
live normal lives.
• Sudden death may occur in dogs with moderate-to-
severe pulmonic stenosis.
Subaortic Stenosis
Subaortic stenosis (SAS) occurs predominantly in large-
breed dogs. The Newfoundland, Boxer, German Shep-
herd, Golden Retriever, and Bull Terrier are the most
commonly affected. In the Newfoundland, support
exists for a genetic basis most compatible with an auto-
somal dominant mechanism. The lesion develops dur-
ing the first 4 to 8 weeks of life. The lesion consists of
thickening of the endocardial tissue just below the aortic
valve. The fibrous thickening results in obstruction to
outflow producing left ventricular hypertrophy, left
atrial hypertrophy, and dilation of the aorta. Coronary
11
artery circulation may also be affected. Severe SAS
may lead to left-sided CHF or sudden death.
Clinical Signs
• Typical breed
• Soft to moderate ejection murmur in the fourth left
intercostal area
• Exercise intolerance
• Syncope
• Left CHF
• Sudden death
Diagnosis
• Radiology: normal or left ventricular hypertrophy,
widened mediastinum (from aortic dilation)
• ECG: left ventricular hypertrophy, subvalvular
fibrous ring, poststenotic dilation of the aorta
• Echocardiography: in advanced stages may indicate
left ventricular hypertrophy
Treatment
• Restricting exercise
• Balloon catheter dilation of the stenotic ring
Medical
• Propranolol for dogs with syncope and increased
pressure gradients
Information for Clients
• These dogs should not be used for breeding.
• Most will experience development of left-sided CHF;
the onset may be sudden.
• Sudden death is not uncommon in these dogs.
• Endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart)
is a risk in all cases of SAS.
Tetralogy of Fallot
Tetralogy of Fallot is a polygenic, genetically transmitted
malformation of the heart. Components include right
ventricular outflow obstruction (pulmonic stenosis),
secondary right ventricular hypertrophy, a subaortic
VSD, and overriding aorta (Fig. 1.6). This condition is
seen in the Keeshond and the English Bulldog and in
cats. It occasionally occurs in other breeds. Symptoms
may vary with the severity of the defects.
The presence of these malformations results in
increased right-sided resistance and pressure and a
right-to-left shunt between the pulmonary and systemic
circulations. Because of this pressure gradient,
12 SECTION 1 Dogs and Cats

Ao Ao

LA LA
PA PA

RA RA
LV LV
RV RV

A B
Fig. 1.6 (A) Circulation in a dog with a large left-to-right shunting atrial septal defect. The shunt results in right
ventricular volume overload (not shown) and pulmonary overcirculation. There is mild systolic pulmonary hyper-
tension. (B) Medium-sized ventricular septal defect. The diameter of the defect is less than the diameter of the
aorta (Ao), so it imposes resistance to blood flow. LA, Left atrium; LV, left ventricle; PA, pulmonary artery; RA,
right atrium; RV, right ventricle.

deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle shunts Treatment

through the VSD to mix with oxygenated blood in Surgical
the left ventricle. Blood flow to and from the pulmo- • Creation of a systemic to pulmonary systemic shunt
nary vasculature is minimal. This shunting results in has been successful in increasing pulmonary circula-
hypoxemia, cyanosis, and secondary polycythemia tion, venous return, left-side heart size, and oxygen
(increased numbers of red blood cells [RBCs]). Right saturation in the systemic circulation.
ventricular hypertrophy occurs. The murmur of pul- • Valvuloplasty to decrease pulmonic stenosis and
monic stenosis usually can be detected on the left hemi- increase oxygen delivery to circulation
thorax, and less often, the VSD murmur can be heard Medical
as well. • Phlebotomy to maintain the packed cell volume
between 62% and 68%. Blood volume removed
Clinical Signs should be replaced with crystalloid fluids to prevent
• Typical breed hypoperfusion. Hypoxia can be treated with cage rest
• Failure to grow and oxygen.
• Cyanosis; decreased SpO2 • Hydroxyurea to decrease polycythemia
• Exercise intolerance, shortness of breath
• Weakness
• Syncope, seizures TECH ALERT
• Sudden death Animals with tetralogy of Fallot may react adversely to
• PCV >50% sedatives and tranquilizers, acquiring a bradycardia that
• Arterial blood gases does not improve with supplemental oxygen therapy.

Diagnosis
• Radiology: normal-size heart, decreased pulmonary
circulation
• Echocardiography; color Doppler flow
• ECG: right ventricular hypertrophy, small left cham-
bers, large subaortic VSD, and right outflow obstruc-
tion; bubble or Doppler studies indicate right-to-left
shunting
Information for Clients
• This is a genetically transmitted disorder. These ani-
mals should not be used for breeding.
• Sudden death is common, but some animals can tol-
erate the defect for years.
• CHF rarely develops from this disorder.
• Limit stress and exercise for these animals.
 CHAPTER 1 Diseases of the Cardiovascular System
• Tranquilizers and sedatives may have an adverse
effect on these animals.
• Regular phlebotomy (blood drawing) will be required
to maintain a normal RBC level.
Persistent Right Aortic Arch and Other
Vascular Ring Anomalies
Persistence of the right fourth aortic arch is a common
malformation. The defect results in regurgitation of
solid food in weanlings because of obstruction of the
esophagus by the retained vascular arch. It is a common
defect in German Shepherds, Irish Setters, and Great
Danes and is frequently seen in other large breeds.
Clinical Signs
• Regurgitation of solid food
• Aspiration pneumonia, fever, dyspnea, cough
• Weight loss
Diagnosis
• Barium swallow indicates constriction of the esoph-
agus near the base of the heart on radiographs. Solid
food can be mixed with barium to also indicate con-
striction and retention of the food in the esophagus.
Treatment
Surgical
• Surgery should be done early for a more favorable
prognosis. Similar to surgery for PDA because the
ductus arteriosus is part of the vascular ring anomaly.
Maintenance
• Feed less solid diet or pelleted diet (small amounts
frequently)
• Feed from a height to avoid food buildup in the
esophagus
• Antibiotics for respiratory infections
Information for Clients
• Without early surgical correction, the prognosis
is poor.
• Even with surgical correction, some amount of
esophageal dilation will persist. This may result in
vomiting if large boluses of food are consumed.
• These dogs should not be used for breeding.
ACQUIRED VALVULAR DISEASES
Chronic Mitral Valve Insufficiency
Chronic mitral valve insufficiency (CMVI), now called
myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD), is the most
13
commonly encountered cardiovascular disorder in the
dog. The prevalence of this disease increases with age,
and it is estimated that as many as 75% of dogs older
than 16 years of age are affected. MMVD is rare in
the cat. This disease is a progressive disorder, resulting
in an estimated 95% of all cases of CHF in small-breed
dogs. The tricuspid and the pulmonic and aortic valves
may also be affected.
The lesion consists of proliferation of fibroblastic tis-
sue within the structure of the valve leaflets. This results
in the nodular thickening of the valvular free edges,
which then contract and roll up. The stiff, malformed
leaflets fail to close sufficiently during systole, resulting
in regurgitation of blood back into the left atrium. The
chordae tendinae are stretched and rupture. There is
endothelium loss on the valve surface. The left atrium
and infrequently the left ventricle dilate. The dilated
atrium may result in pulmonary congestion and com-
pression of the left mainstem bronchus, producing
coughing and dyspnea.
Chronic periodontal disease can increase the progres-
sion of mitral valvular insufficiency in older animals.
Bacteria (mostly gram-negative anaerobes) living in tar-
tar in periodontal pockets are showered into the blood-
stream, colonizing the valve leaflets, which become
thickened as a result. When the valve leaflets become
inflamed and thickened, they fail to close properly,
which results in leakage of blood back into the left ven-
tricle. The overload can then result in heart failure
over time.
Clinical Signs
• Small-breed dog or toy breed; male; frequently seen
in Dachshunds and King Charles Spaniels
• Age older than 10 years
• Cough: deep, resonant, and usually worse at night or
with exercise
• Dyspnea, tachypnea
• Decreased appetite
• Systolic murmur, left apex; “whooping” quality
Diagnosis
• Radiology: if pulmonary edema is present, venous
engorgement will be present (vein diameter will be
greater than that of the arteries). “Cottonlike” alveo-
lar densities or air bronchograms will be present.
Without edema, left atrial and ventricular enlarge-
ment, elevation of the thoracic trachea, and loss of
the “cardiac waist” can be seen on the lateral view.
14 SECTION 1 Dogs and Cats
In the dorsoventral view, the enlarged left auricle can
be seen as a bulge in the cardiac silhouette at the 2- to
3-o’clock position
• Echocardiology: shows increased diameter of the left
atrium and left ventricle. There is marked reduction
in left ventricular contractility. The mitral valve leaf-
lets may be thickened or prolapsing
Laboratory Findings
• May have mild increases in liver enzymes
• May demonstrate prerenal azotemia
• Serum cTn1 levels increase with progression of the
disease
• BNP levels will also increase as disease progresses
Treatment
• The main goal of treatment is to improve the length
and quality of life for the patient. No therapy will pro-
long survival or delay the onset of clinical signs.
Treatments are adjusted as the disease progresses,
thus varying combinations of medications may
be used.
Medical
• Diuretics (furosemide): to reduce the circulatory
blood volume to the left side of the heart
• Arterial dilators (hydralazine, enalapril): to decrease
systemic resistance
• +/– Digoxin: to decrease the heart rate to less than
160 beats/min in small dogs
• ACE inhibitors
• Cough suppressants such as butorphanol,
hydrocodone
• Pimobendan
Dietary
• A diet low in sodium will decrease the fluid load in
the patient. Overweight patients will experience more
problems with respirations; therefore, weight should
be maintained within a normal range.
Information for Clients
• MMVD is a progressive disease. The animal will need
be reevaluated periodically and medications adjusted
to provide it with adequate relief of symptoms.
• No cure exists for this problem.
• A low-salt diet will aid in preventing fluid accumula-
tion in the body. Treats and table foods containing
salt should be avoided.
• Eventually, a point will be reached when medications
will not relieve the clinical symptoms.
Tricuspid Valve Insufficiency
This disease is exactly similar to mitral valve insuffi-
ciency, but the signs are predominantly those of right-
sided heart failure: pleural effusion, abdominal disten-
sion, hepatomegaly, or gastrointestinal signs such as
vomiting, diarrhea, or anorexia. Treatment is basically
the same as for mitral valve insufficiency. Repeated
abdominocentesis often is required. As the right atrium
dilates, animals may develop tachyrhythmias such as
AF. Hepatomegaly may be palpated. Cats are more
prone than dogs to pleural effusion. Tricuspid valve
insufficiency may be secondary to heartworm disease.
CARDIAC ARRHYTHMIAS
Arrhythmias may be defined as deviations from the nor-
mal heart rate rhythm or rhythms originating from
abnormal locations within the heart. Many times there
is no observable anatomical pathology in the myocar-
dium that correlates with the rhythm disturbance.
Alterations in normal rhythm result from either
abnormal impulse formation or abnormal impulse con-
duction within cardiac muscle fibers. (Refer to a physi-
ology text to review nerve conduction and muscle
contraction.) Altered impulse formation may occur as
a result of ischemia (decreased supply of oxygenated
blood), hypocalcemia (low calcium levels), cardiomyop-
athy, hypercalcemia (high calcium levels), excess cate-
cholamines, or reperfusion injury. Conduction
disturbances result when alternate pathways develop
for depolarization of cardiac muscle.
Arrhythmias affect the hemodynamics of the body.
Cerebral blood flow is reduced as much as 8% to
12% by premature beats, 14% by supraventricular
(originating above the ventricles) tachycardia (rapid
rates), 23% by AF, and 40% to 75% by ventricular
tachycardia (VT).
Many arrhythmias can be easily auscultated and
confirmed by ECG. Treatment involves correcting
the underlying cause when possible or controlling the
arrhythmia when it is not possible to correct the
underlying cause.
Supraventricular arrhythmias may be atrial (P-wave
positive but abnormal) or junctional (P-wave negative
in lead II). This class of arrhythmias includes:
• Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)
• Atrial premature contractions
• AF
Another random document with
no related content on Scribd:
llorar hasta el tintero. ¡Qué hubiera sido de mí sin la pensión que me
dio durante tres años el señor de Araceli, y sin el favor de personas
generosas como usted y otras, a quienes viviré eternamente
agradecido!... Pero me callo, positivamente me callo, porque s
hablando siguiera...
—Una persona de tantas tretas como usted —manifestó Jenara
poco atenta a las lamentaciones del curial— puede ingeniarse para
que yo vea satisfecho mi deseo. Estoy segura de no queda
descontenta.
—En estos tiempos, señora, ¿quién es el guapo que puede dar una
seguridad? ¿No ve usted que todo está sujeto al capricho?
Jenara, vagamente distraída, contemplaba el cefalópodo formado
por la humedad sobre el retrato del Monarca. De repente sonaron
golpes en la puerta, y una voz gritó:
—El señor presidente.
—Con perdón de usted, señora —dijo levantándose—. Ya está ah
ese Judas Iscariote. Tengo que ir al despacho.
El licenciado salió un momento como para curiosear, y al poco rato
volvió corriendo con su pasito menudo y vacilante.
—Señora —dijo a su amiga en tono de alarma—. Con Chaperón ha
entrado el señor Garrote, su digno esposo de usted.
—¡Jesús, María y José! —exclamó la dama llena de turbación—
Me voy, me voy... Señor Lobo, ¿por dónde salgo de modo que no
encuentre...?
—Por aquí, por aquí... —manifestó el curial guiándola fuera de la
pieza por oscuros pasillos, donde había alcarrazas, muebles viejos y
esteras sin uso...—. No es muy bueno el tránsito; pero saldrá usted a
la calle de los Autores sin tropezar con bestias cornúpetas grandes n
chicas.
—Ya, ya veo la salida... Adiós; gracias, señor Lobo. Vaya usted
luego por mi casa —dijo la señora recogiéndose la falda para anda
más ligera.
Al poner el pie en el callejón, pasaba por delante de ella, tocándola
una figura imponente y majestuosa.
Cruzáronse dos exclamaciones de sorpresa.
—¡Señora!
—¡Padre Alelí!...
 Era un fraile de la Merced, alto, huesudo, muy viejo, de vacilante
paso, cuerpo no muy derecho, y una carilla regocijada y con visos de
haber sido muy graciosa, la cual resaltaba más sobre el hábito blanco
de elegantes pliegues. Apoyábase el caduco varón en un palo, y a
andar movía la cabeza, mejor dicho, se le movía la cabeza, cual si su
cuello fuera, más que cuello, una bisagra.
—¿A dónde va el viejecito? —le dijo la señora con bondad.
—¿Y usted de dónde viene? Sin duda de interceder por algún
desgraciado. ¡Qué excelente corazón!
—Precisamente de eso vengo.
—Pues yo voy a la cárcel a visitar a los pobres presos. Dicen que
han entrado muchos ayer. Ya sabe usted que auxilio a los condenados
a muerte.
—Pues a mí me ha entrado el antojo de visitar también a los presos
—¡Oh magnánimo espíritu!... Vamos, señora... Pero, tate, tate; no
mueva usted los piececillos con tanta presteza, que no puedo seguirla
Estoy tan gotoso, señora mía, que cada vez que auxilio a uno de estos
infelices, me parece que veo en él a un compañero de viaje.
Después de recorrer medio Madrid con la pausa que la andadura de
su paternidad exigía, entraron en la cárcel. Al subir por la inmunda
escalera, la dama ofreció su brazo al anciano, que lo aceptó
bondadosamente, diciendo:
—Gracias... Si estos escalones fueran los del cielo, no me costaría
más trabajo subirlos... Gracias; se reirán de esta pareja; ¿pero qué nos
importa? Yo bendigo este hermoso brazo que se presta a servir de
apoyo a la ancianidad.
 XX

Chaperón entró en su despacho con las manos a la espalda, los

ojos fijos en el suelo, el ceño fruncido, el labio inferior montado sobre
su compañero, la tez pálida y muy apretadas las mandíbulas, cuyos
tendones se movían bajo la piel como las teclas de un piano. Detrás
de él entraron el coronel Garrote (de ejército) y el capitán de
voluntarios realistas Francisco Romo, ambos de uniforme. En e
despacho aguardaba, perezosamente recostado en un sofá de paja, e
diestro cortesano de 1815, Bragas de Pipaón.
A tiro de fusil se conocía que el insigne cuadrillero del absolutismo
estaba sofocadísimo por causa de reciente disgusto o altercado. ¡Ay
de los desgraciados presos! ¡Si los diablillos menores temblaban al ve
a su Lucifer, cómo temblarían los reos si le vieran!
Garrote y Romo no se sentaron. También hallábanse agitados.
—No volverá a pasar, yo juro que no volverá a pasar —dijo
Chaperón dando una gran patada—. ¡Por vida del Santísimo
Sacramento!..., vaya un pago que se da a los que lealmente sirven a
trono.
Hubiérase creído que la estera era el trono, a juzgar por la furia con
que la pisoteaba el gran esbirro.
—Todavía —añadió mirando con atónitos ojos a sus amigos— le
parece que no hago bastante, que dejo vivir y respirar demasiado a los
liberales. ¿Ha se visto injusticia semejante? «Señor Chaperón, usted
no hace nada; señor Chaperón, las conspiraciones crecen y usted no
acierta a sofocarlas. Los conspiradores le tiran de la nariz y usted no
los ve...». «Pero señor Calomarde, ¿me quiere usted decir cómo se
persigue a los liberales, a los comuneros, a los milicianos, a los
compradores de bienes nacionales, a los clérigos secularizados, a
toda la canalla, en fin? ¿Puede hacerse más de lo que yo hago?
¿Cree usted que esa polilla se extirpa en cuatro días?...». Pues que
no: que para arriba y para abajo, que yo soy tibio, que soy benigno
que dejo hacer, que no tengo ojos de lince, que se me escapan los
más gordos, que me trago los camellos y pongo a colar los mosquitos
Y vaya usted a sacarlos de ahí. Convénzales usted de que no es
posible hacer otra cosa, a menos que no salgamos a la calle con una
compañía y fusilemos a todo el que pase... Esta misma noche he de
procurar ver a Su Majestad y decirle que si encuentra otro que le sirva
mejor que yo en este puesto, le coloque en lugar mío. Francisco
Chaperón no consentirá otra vez que don Tadeo Calomarde le llame
zanguango.
—No hay que tomarlo tan por la tremenda —dijo Garrote con su
natural franqueza, apoyándose en el sable—. Si el ministro y el rey se
quejan de usted, me parece injusto... Ahora, si se quejan de la
organización que se ha dado a la Comisión militar, me parece que
están acertados.
—Eso, eso es —afirmó Romo sin variar su impasible semblante.
—No lo entiendo —dijo don Francisco.
—Es muy sencillo. Las Comisiones están organizadas de tal modo
que aquí se eternizan las causas. Papeles y más papeles... Los presos
se pudren en los calabozos... ¡Demonio de rutina! Para que esto
marchara bien, sería preciso que los procedimientos fueran más
ejecutivos, enteramente militares, como en un campo de batalla... ¿Me
entiende usted?... ¿Se quiere arrancar de cuajo la revolución? Pues no
hay más que un medio. (Al decir esto se puso en el centro de la sala
accionando como un jefe que da órdenes perentorias). A ver, tú: ¿has
conspirado contra el gobierno de Su Majestad? Pues ven acá... Ea
fusilarme a esta buena pieza. A ver, tú: ¿has gritado «Viva la
Constitución»? Ven acá, te vamos a apretar el gaznate para que no
vuelvas a gritar... Y tú, ¿qué has hecho? ¿Compraste bienes del clero?
Diez años de presidio... Y nada más. Entonces sí que se acababan
pronto las conspiraciones. Juro a usted que no se había de encontra
un revolucionario, aunque lo buscaran a siete estados bajo tierra.
Chaperón hundía la barba en el pecho, acariciándosela con su
derecha mano.
—Lo que dice el amigo Navarro —afirmó Romo— no tiene vuelta de
hoja. Nosotros los voluntarios realistas hemos salvado al rey. Los
franceses no habrían hecho nada sin nosotros. Somos el sostén de
trono, las columnas de la fe católica. Pues bien: dígase con franqueza
si tenemos las preeminencias que nos corresponden. Los liberales nos
insultan y no se les castiga.
Chaperón hizo un brusco movimiento. Iba a responder.
—Quiero decir que no se les castiga como merecen —añadió e
voluntario realista—. En vez de tener absoluta confianza en nosotros
se nos quiere sujetar a reglamentos como los de la Milicia nacional
Nos miran con desconfianza..., ¿y por qué? Porque no permitimos que
se falte al respeto a Su Majestad y a la fe católica; porque estamos
siempre en primera línea cuando se trata de sofocar una rebelión o de
precaverla. Nuestro criterio debiera ser el criterio del gobierno. ¿Y cuá
es nuestro criterio? Pues es ni más ni menos que exterminio absoluto
no perdonar a nadie, cortar toda cabeza que se levante un poco
aplacar todo chillido que sobresalga. ¡Ah, señores!, si así se hiciera
otro gallo nos cantara. Pero no se hace. Aunque el señor Chaperón se
enfade, yo repito que hay lenidad, mucha lenidad; que no se castiga a
nadie; que las causas se eternizan; que dentro de poco los negros han
de reírse en nuestras barbas; que así no podemos vivir; que peligra e
trono, la fe católica... Y no lo digo yo solo: lo dice todo el instituto de
voluntarios realistas, a que me glorio de pertenecer... Y estamos
trinando, sí, señor Chaperón, trinando porque usted no castiga como
debiera castigar.
El hombre oscuro emitió su opinión sin inmutarse, y las palabras
salían de su boca como salen de una cárcel los alaridos de dolor sin
que el edificio ría ni llore. Tan solo al fin, cuando más vehemente
estaba, viose que amarilleaba más el globo de sus ojos y que sus
violados labios se secaban un poco. Después pareció que seguía
mascullando, como en él era costumbre, el orujo amargo de que
alimentaba su bilis.
—Todo sea por Dios —dijo Chaperón, alzando del suelo los ojos y
dando un suspiro—. ¡Y de tantos males tengo yo la culpa!... Ya verán
quién es Calleja.
Diciendo esto se encaminó a la mesa. Ya el licenciado Lobo
ocupaba en ella su puesto.
—A ver, despachemos esas causas —dijo al leguleyo.
—Aquí tenemos algunas —repuso Lobo poniendo su mano sobre
un montón de infamia— a las que no falta sino que vuecencia falle.
 —A ver, a ver. Con bonito humor me cogen. Vamos a prepararle su
trabajo al fiscal.
Lobo tomó el primer legajo y dijo:
—Número 241. Esta es la causa de aquel comunero que propuso
establecer la república.
—Horca —dijo Chaperón prontamente y con voz de mando, como
un oficial que a las tropas dice «¡fuego!»—. Sea condenado a la pena
ordinaria de horca.
—Número 242 —añadió Lobo tomando otro legajo—. Causa de
Simón Lozano por irreverencias a una imagen de la Virgen.
—Horca —gruñó Chaperón, cual si se le pudriera la palabra en e
cuerpo—. Adelante.
—Número 243. Causa de la mujer y de la hija de Simón Lozano
acusadas de no haber delatado a su marido.
—Diez años de galera.
—Número 244. Causa de Pedro Errazu, por expresiones
subversivas en estado de embriaguez.
—El estado de embriaguez no vale. ¡Horca! Añada usted que sea
descuartizado.
—Número 245. Causa de Gregorio Fernández Retamosa, por habe
besado el sitio donde estuvo la lápida de la Constitución.
—Diez años de presidio... No, doce, doce.
—Número 246. Causa de Andrés Rosado, por haber exclamado
«¡Muera el rey!».
—Horca.
—Número 247. Causa del sargento José Rodríguez, por habe
elogiado la Constitución.
—Horca.
—248. Causa de su compañero Vicente Ponce de León, por habe
permanecido en silencio cuando Rodríguez elogió la Constitución.
—Diez años de presidio, y que asista a la ejecución de Rodríguez
llevando al cuello el libro de la Constitución, que quemará el verdugo.
—249. Causa de don Benigno Cordero y de su hija Elena Cordero
por conspiración...
—¡Alto! —gritó una voz desde el otro extremo de la sala.
Era la de Pipaón, que se adelantó extendiendo su mano como una
divinidad protectora.
 —Si es criminal perdonar al culpable, criminal es, criminalísimo
condenar al inocente —dijo con énfasis—. Yo me opongo, y mientras
tenga un hálito de vida alzaré mi voz en defensa de la inocencia.
—Vaya, recomendación habemos —observó Garrote riendo—. Eso
no puede faltar en España. Favorcillo, amistades, empeños... Mientras
tengamos eso, no habrá justicia en nuestro país... ¡Recomendación
Yo empezaría por ahorcar esa palabra. Me repugna.
—No se trata aquí de recomendar a un amigo a la generosidad de
don Francisco —dijo el cortesano poniéndose rojo de tanto énfasis—
Es que la inocencia de don Benigno está ya tan clara como la diáfana
luz del día. ¿Le consta a usted que no?
—A mí no me consta nada —repuso Navarro alzando los hombros
—. Si no le conozco... Pero me ha llamado la atención una cosa, y es
que se han sentenciado en este mismo momento varias causas po
desacato, por exclamaciones, por besos, por sacrilegio, sin que
hayamos oído una voz que se interese por los criminales; pero
aparece una causa de conspiración (al decir esto dio una gran
palmada), y en seguida vemos venir la recomendación. Si no hay
gente más feliz que los conspiradores... Yo no sé cómo se las
componen, que siempre encuentran amigos.
—Hablemos claro —dijo el cortesano tragando saliva—. Yo no
recomiendo a un conspirador: solamente afirmo que el señor Cordero
no ha conspirado jamás. ¿No está el señor Chaperón convencido de
ello? ¿No se ha demostrado que los verdaderos culpables son otros?
—Este es un caso extraño —afirmó don Francisco—. Cierto es que
los Cordero son inocentes.
—Bueno, si hay realmente inocencia, no digo nada —objetó
sonriendo Navarro—. Pero es particular que solo los que conspiran
resultan inocentes.
—Solo los que conspiran —añadió Romo en tono del más perfecto
asentimiento.
—¿Pues qué? —dijo Pipaón con mayor dosis de énfasis y
encarándose con el voluntario realista—. ¿No será usted capaz de
sostener que nuestro amigo don Benigno y su hija son inocentes de
crimen que les imputó un delator desconocido?
Romo miró a todos, uno tras otro, impasiblemente. Jamás había su
rostro aparecido más frío, más oscuro, de más difícil definición que en
aquel instante. Era como un papel blanco, en cuya superficie busca en
vano la observación una frase, una línea, un rasgo, un punto.
—Bien conocen todos —dijo con tranquilo tono— mi carácter leal
mi amor a la veracidad. Para mí la verdad está por encima de todos
los afectos, hasta de los más sagrados. Soy así y no lo puedo
remediar. ¿Por qué me llaman los compañeros el voluntario de
bronce? Porque soy como de bronce, señores: a mí no hay quien me
tuerza, ni me doble, ni me funda. ¿Se trata de una cosa que es
verdad? Pues verdad y nada más que verdad. (Romo hizo tal gesto
con el dedo índice, que parecía querer agujerear el suelo). Si mi padre
falta y me lo preguntan, digo que sí. No significa esto que sea
insensible, no. Yo también tengo mis blanduras. Soy de bronce, y
tengo mi cardenillo... (El hombre duro y lóbrego se conmovía). Yo
también sé sentir. Bien saben todos que quiero mucho a don Benigno
Cordero. Bien saben todos que trabajé porque volviera a Madrid. Pues
bien, supongamos que me preguntan ahora si creo que don Benigno
Cordero conspiraba. Yo responderé... que no lo sé.
Díjolo de tal modo, que dudando afirmaba. Lo que el hombre de
bronce llamaba su cardenillo, si para él era un afecto, para los demás
podía ser un veneno.
—¡Que no lo sabe! —exclamó Pipaón con ira—. Por fuerza usted ha
perdido el juicio.
—No lo sé —repitió el voluntario mirando al suelo—. Si no lo sé
¿por qué he de decir que lo sé, faltando a mi conciencia? ¿Qué
importan mis afectos ante la verdad? Yo cojo el corazón y lo cierro
como se cierra un libro prohibido, y no lo abro aunque me muera...
porque no tengo que fijar los ojos más que en la verdad..., y la verdad
es antes que nada, y maldito sea el corazón si sirve para apartarnos
de la verdad.
—El amigo Romo —dijo Navarro— nos da un ejemplo de honradez
que es muy raro y tendrá muy pocos imitadores.
—Pues yo —afirmó Pipaón subiendo todavía algunos puntos en la
escala de su énfasis— digo que si la verdad está sobre el corazón, la
caridad está sobre la verdad... Pero no necesitan los Cordero implora
la caridad, sino alegar su derecho, porque son inocentes. Señor don
Francisco Chaperón, ¿no cree usted que son inocentes?
—Yo creo que sí —replicó el presidente con acento de convicción
—. El delito que a ellos se imputaba ha sido cometido por otras
personas. Así consta por declaración de los mismos reos. La delación
ha sido equivocada.
—¿Lo ven ustedes? —dijo Bragas rompiéndose las manos una con
otra.
—Por lo que veo, el delito no desaparece —indicó Garrote—. Lo
que hay es un cambio de delincuente.
—Eso es, sustitución de delincuente.
—¿Y se castigará? —preguntó con incredulidad el coronel de
ejército de la fe.
—¡Bueno fuera que no!... ¿Estamos en Babia?... A fe que tengo hoy
humor de blanduras. Siga usted, Lobo.
—Causa de don Benigno Cordero...
Chaperón meditó un rato. Después, tomando un tonillo de
jurisconsulto que emite parecer muy docto, habló así:
—Absolución. Solamente les condeno a dos meses de cárcel, po
no haber denunciado las visitas de Seudoquis al piso segundo de su
misma casa.
—¡Qué bobería! —murmuró por lo bajo Pipaón, arqueando las
cejas.
—Número 251. Causa de don Ángel Seudoquis —cantó e
licenciado.
—Diez años de prisión y pena de degradación militar, por no habe
dado parte a la autoridad de la llegada de su hermano a Madrid... Las
cartas que se le han encontrado son amorosas... No hay la meno
alusión a cosas políticas. Adelante.
—Número 252. Causa de Soledad Gil de la Cuadra y de Patricio
Sarmiento.
—Es la más rara que se ha conocido en esta Comisión.
—Sí, la más rara —añadió Romo—, porque presenta un caso nunca
visto, señores; el caso más admirable de abnegación de que es capaz
el espíritu humano. Figúrense ustedes una joven inocente que po
salvar a dos personas que le han hecho favores se declara culpable..
Mentira pura..., una mentira sublime, pero mentira al fin.
—Abnegación —indicó Chaperón con cierto aturdimiento—. ¿Qué
entendemos nosotros de eso? Cosas del fuero interno, ¿no es verdad
Lobo? Al grano, digo yo; es decir, a los hechos y a la ley. El delito es
indudable. La prueba es indudable. Tenemos un reo convicto y
confeso. Caiga sobre él la espada inexorable de la justicia, ¿no es
verdad, Lobo?
El licenciado no decía nada.
—Pero aparecen ahí dos personas —dijo Navarro.
—Una joven y un viejo tonto. Ella parece la más culpable. De
mentecato de Sarmiento no debemos ocuparnos. Sería gran mengua
para este tribunal.
—Si tras de lo desacreditado que está —dijo Navarro con sorna—
da en la flor de soltar a los cuerdos y ajusticiar a los imbéciles...
—Nada, nada. Adelante —manifestó Chaperón con impaciencia—
Despachemos eso.
—Soledad Gil —cantó Lobo.
—Pena ordinaria de horca. Y sea conducido don Patricio a la casa
de locos de Toledo. Esto propondré a la Sala pasado mañana.
Miró a sus amigos con expresión de orgullo, semejante a la que
debió tener Salomón después de dictar su célebre fallo.
—Me parece bien —afirmó Garrote.
—Admirablemente —dijo Pipaón, tranquilizado ya respecto a la
suerte de sus amigos, y fiando en que le sería fácil después librarles
de los dos meses de cárcel.
—Y yo digo que habrá no poca ligereza en el tribunal si aprueba
eso —insinuó con hosca timidez Romo.
—¡Ligereza!
—Sí; averígüese bien si la de Gil de la Cuadra es culpable o no.
—Ella misma lo asegura.
—Pues yo la desmentiré, sí, señor, la desmentiré.
—Este es un hombre que no duerme si no ve ahorcados a sus
amigos.
—Aquí no se trata de amigos —afirmó Romo con cierto calor que se
podía tomar por rabia—. Yo no tengo amigos en estas cuestiones; yo
no soy amigo de nadie, más que del rey y de la sacratísima fe católica
Romo, el voluntario de bronce, solo tiene amistades con la justicia y
con la verdad. Y ya que hablamos del señor Cordero, digo que dejé de
frecuentar su casa desde que vi en ella ciertas cosas.
—¿Qué ha visto usted? —preguntó vivamente el cortesano, tan
sofocado por su enojo como por su collarín metálico, que le
condenaba elegantemente a garrote.
 —No tengo para qué decirlo ahora —repuso el voluntario volviendo
la espalda—. Está sentenciada la causa; ¿para qué añadir una palabra
más?
—Me parece —dijo Bragas en tono de sarcasmo— que el amigo
Romo está durmiendo y ve visiones, como las veía el que delató a
nuestros amigos.
—¿Se sabe quién los ha delatado? —preguntó Navarro a
presidente de la Comisión—. ¿Es persona que merece crédito?
—Dos individuos de nuestra policía. Generalmente obran po
indicaciones de personas afectas a Su Majestad.
—Esas personas son entonces los verdaderos denunciadores.
—En efecto, esas son —dijo Romo—. A esas personas hay que
agradecer el expurgo que se está haciendo, y al cual deberá su
tranquilidad el reino. ¿Quién se atrevería a vituperar a los médicos
porque dijeran: «Córtese usted ese dedo que está gangrenado»?
—Pues si aquí no ha habido una mala inteligencia, ha habido una
infame intención —replicó Bragas firme en su puesto—. Mi amigo
Cordero ha sido víctima de una venganza.
—Usted no sabe lo que dice —afirmó Romo con desprecio—. En
las oficinas del Consejo y en los gabinetes de las damas se entenderá
de intrigar, de entorpecer la marcha de la justicia; pero de purificar e
reino, de hacer polvo a la revolución...
—¿Y cómo se purifica el reino? ¿Atropellando a la inocencia
condenando a un hombre de bien por la delación de cualquie
desconocido?
—Repito que usted no sabe lo que habla —dijo Romo, presentando
en su rostro creciente alteración, que le hacía desconocido—. Los que
pasan la vida enredando para poner en salvo a los mayores
delincuentes; los que se entretienen en escribir billetes de
recomendación para favorecer a todos los pillos, no entienden n
entenderán nunca la rectitud del súbdito leal que en silencio trabaja
por su rey y por la fe católica. Mírenme a la cara (el señor Romo
estaba horrible), para que se vea que sé afrontar con orgullo toda
clase de responsabilidades. Y para que no duden de la verdad de una
delación por suponerla oscura, se aclarará, sí, señores, se aclarará..
Mírenme a la cara (cada vez era más horrible); yo no oculto nada
Para que se vea si la delación de Cordero es una farsa, declaro que la
hice yo.
 Al decir yo, diose un gran golpe en el pecho, que retumbó como una
caja vacía. Brillaban sus ojos con extraño fulgor desconocido; se había
transfigurado, y la cólera iluminaba sus facciones, antes oscuras. E
lóbrego edificio donde jamás se veía claridad, echaba por todos sus
huecos la lumbre amarillenta y sulfúrea de una cámara infernal
Haciendo un gesto de amenaza, se expresó así:
—El que sea guapo que me desmienta.
Y salió sin añadir una palabra. Pipaón, que era hombre de muy
pocos hígados, como se habrá podido observar en otras partes de
esta historia, se quedó perplejo; pero afectaba la indecisión de un
valiente que medita las atrocidades que ha de hacer. Chaperón dijo:
—No se decida nada sobre esas dos causas. Quédense para otro
día.
Un diablillo menor entró muy gozoso, diciendo a su jefe:
—Acabamos de recibir una gran noticia de la Superintendencia
Rafael Seudoquis ha sido preso en Valdemoro. Esta noche llegará a
Madrid.
—¡Suceso providencial! —exclamó don Francisco con júbilo—
Cayó el principal pez. Vea usted, señor Pipaón, de qué manera vamos
a salir pronto de dudas. Sobre ese sí que no habrá dimes y diretes
Apunte usted, Lobo... Horca, ¡tres veces horca!
—Saldremos de dudas —indicó Pipaón, decidiéndose a aflojar la
hebilla de su collarín metálico, cuya presión se le hacía insoportable—
Ese hombre es la providencia de mis amigos.
 XXI

Decir cuánto padeció el magnánimo espíritu del presidente de la

Comisión militar en aquellos días, fuera imposible. Había en el fondo
muy en el fondo de su alma, perdido entre el légamo de abominables
sentimientos, un poco de equidad o rectitud. Verdad es que esta virtud
era un diminuto corpúsculo, un ser rudimentario, como las moneras de
que nos habla la ciencia; pero su pequeñez extraordinaria no
amenguaba la poderosa fuerza expansiva de aquel organismo, y a
veces se la veía extenderse tratando de luchar en las tinieblas con e
cieno que la oprimía, y de abrirse paso por entre la masa de hierbas
inmundas y groseras existencias que llenaban todo el vaso de la
conciencia chaperoniana.
Convencido de la inocencia de Cordero y de su hija, don Francisco
sentía que la monera de su alma le gritaba con vocecita cas
imperceptible que les pusiera en libertad. Sus compañeros de
Comisión, aunque generalmente deliberaban y votaban por fórmula
dejándole a él toda la gloria de la iniciativa (y reservándose solo los
sueldos), opinaban también que Cordero debía ser absuelto. Los
últimos escrúpulos de don Francisco se disiparon con las
declaraciones de Rafael Seudoquis, el cual, si al principio se mostró
reservado, después, por la virtud de un hábil interrogatorio capcioso
echó gran luz sobre el suceso de las cartas, dejando ver la
inculpabilidad absoluta del tendero de encajes y de su hija.
La declaración de Soledad, la de Seudoquis, la opinión de todos los
individuos de la Comisión militar, las gestiones del habilidoso Bragas y
su propia conciencia (guiada esta vez por el mísero corpúsculo que
crecía en el fondo de ella), decidieron a don Francisco a firmar la
orden de excarcelación, novedad inaudita en aquellas diabólicas
regiones, cuya semejanza con el infierno se completaba por la
imposibilidad de que salieran los que entraban.
Pero aquí comenzaron las tribulaciones del funcionario absolutista
(y no es forzoso ponernos de su parte), porque el mismo día en que
dictara la excarcelación recibió tales vejaciones y desaires de sus
amigos los voluntarios realistas, que estuvo a punto de reventar de
cólera, aunque la desahogaba con votos y ternos, asociando la vida
del Santísimo Sacramento a todas las picardías habidas y por haber
Al ir por la mañana al tribunal para oír misa, vio un pasquín infamante
en la esquina de la parroquia de San Nicolás, en el cual documento se
hablaba de las onzas de oro que percibía el brigadier tragamuertos por
cada preso que soltaba. Recibió diversos anónimos amenazándole
con descubrir sus artimañas, y supo que en el cuerpo de guardia
habían pintado los voluntarios su simpática imagen pendiente de la
horca, con amenos versículos al pie.
«Esos bergantes, a quienes se permite la honra de parecerse a los
soldados —decía para sí midiendo con las piernas, al modo de
compás, el suelo de su despacho—, se van a figurar que reinan con
Fernando VII... Sí..., como no les corten las alas, ya verán qué bonito
se va a poner esto... ¿Tenemos aquí otra vez la Milicia nacional?
Porque es lo mismo, llámese blanco, llámese negro, es exactamente lo
mismo. Miserables saltimbanquis, ¿de qué me acusáis? ¿De que no
castigo a los conspiradores? ¿Pues qué he de hacer, marmolejos con
fusil, sino castigarlos? ¿Entendéis vosotros de ley, borrachos? ¡Que no
castigo las conspiraciones!... ¡Que desde que sucedió lo de Almería y
Tarifa no ha sido condenado ningún conspirador! ¿Pues no está ah
Seudoquis? ¿No están también sus cómplices, sus infames
cómplices?... ¡Porque estos sí que son malos! Ahí les tenéis, presos
por conspiración. ¿Queréis más, ladrones de caminos? Ahí tenéis a
Seudoquis, a quien veréis en la horca; ahí tenéis a la muchachuela, a
quien veréis en la horca... ¿Queréis más carne muerta, cuervos? ¡Po
vida del Santísimo! ¿Queréis también al imbécil?...».
—Señor Lobo, a ver esa causa.
Lobo, que silenciosamente cortaba su pluma, diole las últimas
raspaduras, y hojeó después varios legajos.
—Al punto voy, excelentísimo señor —dijo melifluamente.
Aquel día se notaba en el licenciado un extraordinario
recrudecimiento de amabilidad y oficiosa condescendencia.
 —Esa endiablada causa, excelentísimo señor..., aquí la tenemos
Abulta, abulta que es un primor. Ya se ve: como que está llena de
picardías... No vaya a creer vuecencia que consta de dos o tres
pliegos, como algunas. Esto es un archivo. Y que he trabajado poco en
gracia de Dios... No, no es tan fácil hinchar un perro.
—De Seudoquis no se hable —dijo Chaperón tomando asiento
frente a su asesor, e implantando los dos codos sobre la mesa para
unir las manos arriba, de modo que resultaba la perfecta imagen de
una horca—. Ese está juzgado. En cuanto a la joven, su culpabilidad
es indudable, y yo creo que debemos ahorcarla también. ¿Qué le
parece a usted, licenciado de todos los demonios?
—¿Quiere vuecencia que le hable como jurisconsulto o como
amigo? —preguntó Lobo con cierto misterio.
—Como usted quiera, hombre, como usted quiera, con tal que hable
claro.
—¿Como jurisconsulto?
—¡Dale...!
—Como asesor opino... Señor don Francisco, haga usted lo que
más le acomode. Ahora, si me consulta vuecencia como amigo..
¿Quiere que le hable con completa claridad y confianza?
—Sí.
—Pues, en confianza, si la Comisión ahorca a esa madamita, me
parece que hace una gran barbaridad.
—¿Eh?
—Una barbaridad de a folio.
—¿Por qué?
—Porque es inocente.
—¿Esas tenemos?... ¡Por vida del Santísimo! —exclamó con ira—
Como usted no tiene la responsabilidad de este delicado cargo; como
a usted no le acusan de tibieza, ni de benignidad, ni de venalidad... Ya
les echaré yo un lazo a mis detractores... Pero vamos al caso. ¿Dice
usted que es inocente?
—Sí, y lo pruebo —repuso Lobo tomando la más solemne expresión
de gravedad judicial.
—Lo prueba, lo prueba... —dijo Chaperón con sarcástica bufonería
—. Lo que usted probará será el aguardiente, si se lo dan. Grandísimo
borracho, escriba usted, escriba usted mi fallo.
 —Escribiremos, excelentísimo señor —dijo Lobo resignadamente
como el que, habiendo recibido una coz, no se cree en el caso de
devolver otra.
Chaperón encendió un cigarro. Después de la primera chupada
dijo:
—La condeno a pena ordinaria de horca.
Luego se quedó un rato contemplando la primera bocanada de
humo que salía del horrendo cráter de sus labios.
 XXII

La primera noche de su encierro, don Patricio y su compañera de

cárcel no durmieron. La prisión no pecaba ciertamente de estrecha
pero en luces competía con la noche absoluta, siendo difícil asegura
quién llevaba la ventaja, si bien al filo del mediodía parecía vencer la
cárcel a su rival, a causa de ciertas claridades que se entraban por e
enrejado ventanillo, temerosas y sobrecogidas de miedo, y embozadas
misteriosamente en espesas capas de telarañas. Dichas claridades
recorrían con pasos de ladrón el techo y las paredes, miraban con
cautela a los negros rincones y al piso, y a eso de las dos o las tres
volvían la espalda para retirarse, dejando la fúnebre pieza a oscuras
Dos sillas, una tarima pegada a la pared y una mesa constituían e
mísero ajuar. Los ladrillos del suelo respondían siempre a cada pisada
de los presos con un movimiento de balanza y un sonido seco, señales
ciertas de su disgusto por verse molestados en su posición horizontal
Seguramente ellos, como toda la casa, habrían vuelto con gozo a
poder de los padres del Salvador, sus antiguos dueños, hombres
pacíficos que jamás lloraban, ni hacían escándalos, ni pateaban
desesperadamente, ni pedían a gritos que les sacaran de allí.
La primera noche, como hemos dicho, Sarmiento y su amiga, no
muy bien avenidos con su residencia en tan ameno lugar, no
durmieron nada y hablaron poco. El viejo, como si su entusiasta
locuacidad delante del tribunal le hubiera agotado las fuerzas y secado
el rico manantial de sus ideas, estaba taciturno. Los excesos de
espontaneidad producían en él una reacción sobre sí mismo. Después
de divagar por el exterior, libre, sin freno, cual andante aventurero que
todo lo atropella, se metía en sí como cartujo. Soledad también sufría
la reacción correspondiente a una espontaneidad que sin duda le
estaba pareciendo excesiva. Pero su espíritu estaba tranquilo; su
pensamiento, pasada revista con cierto desdén a los sucesos
próximos, se remontaba orgulloso a las alturas desde donde pudiera
descubrir horizontes más gratos y personas más dignas de ocuparlo
Había llegado a adquirir la certidumbre de un trágico fin; pero lejos de
sentir el terror propio de tales casos, muy natural en una débi
muchacha inocente, se sobrepuso con ánimo grandioso a la situación
supo mirar desde tan alto su propia persona, su prisión, su proceso
sus verdugos, las causas e incidentes de aquella lamentable aventura
que fue creciendo, creciendo, y bien pronto cuanto la rodeaba, incluso
Madrid, la nación y el mundo entero, se quedó enano. ¡Admirable
resultado del espíritu religioso y de la elasticidad del corazón, cuya
magnitud, cuando él se decide a crecer, se pierde en lo infinito!
Al día siguiente, don Patricio, que había llegado ya al límite de su
tétrico silencio, y no podía permanecer más tiempo mudo, se expresó
así:
—Hija mía, me parece que esto es hecho.
—¿Por qué no te echas a ver si duermes un ratito? —le dijo Sola
con bondad—. La tarima no es como las camas de casa; pero a falta
de otra cosa...
—¡Dormir..., dormir yo! —exclamó Sarmiento con voz lastimera—
Ya el dormir profundo está cercano. Te digo que esto es hecho.
—Sí; esto no puede ser más hecho... Ya que no quieres levantarte
del suelo, al menos tiéndete de largo y recuesta esa pobre cabecita
sobre mis rodillas.
Sola, que estaba sentada en la silla, se puso en el suelo, dando
después una palmada sobre su falda para indicar que podía servir de
blanda almohada. Don Patricio, sentado contra la pared, con las
rodillas en alto, los brazos cruzados sobre aquellas y la barba sobre
los brazos, formando con su cuerpo dos ángulos opuestos y muy
agudos, no quiso dejar tan encantadora postura de zigzag.
—No, niña mía; aquí estoy bien. Lo que te digo es que esto es
hecho.
—Se me figura que estás cobarde, viejecillo tonto.
—¡Cobarde yo! —exclamó Sarmiento con un rugido—. No me lo
digas otra vez, porque creeré que me insultas..
—Como te he visto tan parlanchín delante de los jueces, y ahora
tan callado... —dijo la reo extendiendo su mano en la oscuridad para
palpar la cabeza del anciano.
 —Es que el alma humana tiene grandes misterios, niña querida
Desde que entramos aquí estoy pensando una cosa.
—Con tal que no sea algún disparate, deseo saberla.
—Pues verás... Me ocurre que esto es hecho, quiero decir, que se
cumple al fin mi altísimo destino, que las misteriosas veredas trazadas
por el autor de todas las cosas y de todos los caminos, me traen al fin
a la excelsa meta a donde yo quiero ir. Pero...
—Veamos ese pero, abuelito Sarmiento. Hasta ahora no había
peros en ese negocio del destino.
—Pero... hay una cosa en la cual yo no había pensado bien hasta
que salimos de aquel endiablado tribunal. Respecto de mi suerte no
hay duda... Pero ¿y tú?
—No tengo yo dudas respecto a la mía —dijo Sola con seriedad—
Los dos moriremos.
—¡Tú..., tú también!
Oyose un bramido de horror y después largo silencio.
—Eso no puede ser, eso es monstruoso, inicuo —gritó el precepto
agitando en la oscuridad sus brazos.
—Ahora te espanta, viejecillo, y cuando estábamos en el tribunal te
parecía natural. ¿No decías: «moriremos los dos, somos mellizos de la
muerte...»? ¿No dijiste también: «vamos a la horca; mientras más alta
sea, mejor. Así alumbraremos más. Somos los fanales del género
humano»?
—Verdad que tales cosas dije; pero has de tener en cuenta que yo
me hallaba entonces en uno de esos momentos de inspiración, en los
cuales pronuncio las sorprendentes piezas de oratoria que me han
dado tanta fama. Yo no esperaba encontrarte allí... ¡Ay, cuando te v
presa y condenada por conspiradora..., porque tú has conspirado, niña
de mis ojos..., sentí una alegría tan grande...! Me pareció que Dios te
destinaba también al martirio; pero ahora veo que esto no debe ser
Calmada aquella estupenda exaltación, la voz de la naturaleza ha
resonado en mí, diciéndome que no debo asociar a mi muerte a
ningún otro ser. Tú eres una muchacha oscura, y tu sacrificio no puede
ser de gran beneficio a la causa santa.
—¡Ah! —dijo Soledad sonriendo, pero sin que nadie pudiera ver su
sonrisa, como no fueran las mismas tinieblas—, ya comprendo: tienes
envidia de que vaya a quitarte un poquito de esa gloria.
 —Tonta, pero tonta —replicó el anciano muy expresivamente—, s
toda has de heredarla tú, toda, toda. Si no es preciso que tú mueras
como yo, ni eso viene al caso.
—Los jueces no creerán lo mismo.
—¡Pues son unos bribones, unos...! —exclamó Sarmiento ronco de
ira, moviendo sus piernas para levantarse—. Yo les diré que eso no
puede ser... Les convenceré, sí; pues no he de convencerles...
Soledad se echó a reír.
—Te ríes... Pues esto es muy serio. Yo no creo que te condenen
pero si te condenaran...
Oyose un chasquido que bien podía ser causado por una gran
manotada que el preceptor se dio en la cabeza.
—Sí, me condenarán —porque mi delito de recoger y repartir las
cartas está más que probado, y si no, con la declaración tuya...
—Yo declaré... ¿Qué declaré yo?
Soledad repitió a Sarmiento lo que él mismo había dicho respecto a
las cartas y a las personas que las recibieron.
—¡Yo declaré todo eso, yo! —dijo el patriota muy perplejo, como un
beodo que va poco a poco recobrando el sentido—. ¿Y por eso dices
que te condenarán?... Me parece que no estás en lo cierto. De ahí se
desprende que el delincuente, según ellos, soy yo, yo el conspirador
yo el apóstol y el agente secreto de la libertad; y como yo tengo
además la nota de Demóstenes constitucional, y de haber revuelto a
media España con mis conmovedoras arengas, de aquí que yo sea e
condenado y tú no.
—Me parece —dijo la huérfana tocando el hombro de Sarmiento—
que mi viejecito ve las cosas al revés. Yo seré condenada, y él irá a un
sitio donde se vive muy bien y tratan caritativamente a los pobres.
—¡Por vida de ochenta millones de chilindrainas! —gritó Sarmiento
poniéndose de un salto en pie—. No me digas que tú serás condenada
a muerte sin mí, porque me vuelvo loco, porque soy capaz de derriba
de un puñetazo esas férreas puertas, y hacer añicos a Chaperón y los
demás jueces, y demoler a puntapiés la cárcel y pegar fuego a Madrid
entero... ¡Tú condenada a muerte!
—Somos los fanales del género humano.
—No, no; esa es una figura de retórica, tonta —dijo el fanático
pasando del tono trágico al familiar—. Aquí no hay más fanal que yo
Tú me acompañas en mi última hora, me acompañas, ¿entiendes?...