Class iLM3. Book h ~ Gopyiight N? COHYHIGHT DEPOSIT. Animal Castration A Book for the Use of STUDENTS AND PRACTITIONERS 240 Pages with over 200 Halftone Illustrations from Original Photographs BY GEORGE R. WHITE, M.D., D.V.S. Graduate Columbian University (Veterinary Department), and University of Nashville (Medical Department) MEMBER American Veterinary Medical Association Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association American Medical Association Tennessee Medical Association Nashville Academy of Medicine, and Davidson County Medical Society Tennessee Academy of Science, United States Live Stock Sanitary Association, etc. Professor Veterinary Medicine — Knapp School of Country Life TEACHER SURGICAL RESTRAINT AND CASTRATION AND SPAYING Chicago Veterinary College Terre Haute Veterinary College Indiana Veterinary College, and Alabama Polytechnic Institute (Veterinary Department) Author ''Restraint of Domestic Animals," etc. PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHOR NASHVILLE, TENN. 1914 Copyrighted 1914 by George R. White OEC 26 1914 1914 FOSTER & PAKKES COMPANY, Nashville, Tenn. 'nuani 1 H9 the average busy and active practitioner of veterinary surgery. Each species of our domestic animals is endowed with one or more means of defense. These are oftentimes — in individuals of certain temperament — converted into weapons of offense. The horse will strike, kick and bite ; the ox will gore and kick ; the dog and hog will bite. It is with these weapons of offense that we are called upon to contend and overcome by restraint. These animals must be rendered harmless by the means of restraint which we have at hand. Of course the particular method em- ployed depends largely upon the animal and the degree of re- straint necessary. While we constantly find it necessary to employ methods of restraint in order to confine the animal, we should always do so in as humane a manner as possible. Humanitarian treatment applies here as well as elsewhere in the practice of veterinary science. We should never take advantage of an animal when confined in order to cause torture or to inflict unnecessary pain of any kind. The surgeon is confronted with problems pertaining to re- straint or some method of subjection almost every hour of each day of his professional career. Not only does the restraint problem confront and concern the surgeon alone, but his client and patient are also directly inter- ested to a well marked degree. The surgeon owes it to his client, his patient and himself to become proficient in properly and se- curely restraining animals for examination and operation. With- out efficient means of restraint the surgeon is in constant dan- ger of great bodily harm; the animal in danger of self-inflicted in- juries as a result of its own efforts at resistance, thereby causing the owner financial loss, which could and should have been avoided by proper methods of procedure. In order to cast and secure an animal properly and success- fully the operator should possess a level head associated with plenty of courage and confidence. He should retain his equili- brium in spite of any untoward accident or emergency which may chance to take place. Self-confidence and good judgment are both valuable assets in performing work of the character which this book undertakes to illustrate and describe. The surgeon should get control and remain in control from the time the twitch is placed on the animal preparatory to applying the hobbles or easting harness until the animal is again on its feet. Experience and dexterity are nut to be underrated in the operator who is to undertake the task of securing and properly confining the larger of our domestic animals. Do not allow yourself to become excited or unduly alarmed or aggravated should everything not transpire as smoothly as you expect or desire, for in so doing the surgeon is not in possession of his mental faculties sufficiently to do justice cither to himself, his patient or his client. Perfect, or even good, surgery is impossible without perfect re- straint. The surgeon is no better than the restraint method which he uses. It is rare to see a surgeon handle a knife any more skillfully than he handles his restraint technique. Imperfect re- straint means an imperfect operation. The particular methods of restraint necessary for each oper- ation and the details pertaining to same will be specifically de- scribed under the proper headings. Gr. R. W. TABLE OF CONTENTS. Chapter I. Chapter II. Chapter III. Chapter IV. Chapter V. Chapter VI. Chapter VII. Chapter VIII. Chapter IX. Chapter X. Chapter XI. PART I. Castration. Castration of the Stallion. Castration of the Colt. Castration of the Mule. Complications Encountered, in Castrating — viz. : Inguinal Hernia, Scrotal Hernia, Cryptorchid, Monorchid, Orchitis, and Hermaphrodite. Sequelae of Castration — viz.: Septic Infection, Tetanus, Prolapse of the Omentum, Injuries from Casting, Peritonitis, Colic, Prolapse of the Intestine, Azoturia, Hemorrhage, Oedema of Sheath, Schirrous Cord, Exuberant Gran- ulations, and Hydrocele. Castration of the Bull. Castration of the Boar. Castration of the Earn. Castration of the Dog. Castration of the Cat. Caponizing. Chapter I. Chapter II. Chapter III. Chapter IV. Chapter V. Chapter VI. Chapter VII. Chapter VIII. PART II. Spaying. Mare Spaying. Cow, Heifer and Calf Spaying. Sow Spaying. Sheep Spaying. Bitch Spaying. Cat Spaying. Poulardizing. Deodorizing the Skunk. PART I. CASTRATION. Definition — Orchectomy; excision of one or more testicles. The term castration is also applied to removal of ovaries from the female. However, when the word castration appears in this vol- ume — with exception of title — it has reference to unsexing the male animal. History — Castration is one of the most ancient of surgical op- erations upon animals. It was advocated and practiced as eariy as seven centuries before the Christian era. Time and tradition have not lessened its application or usefulness. In fact, during recent years the popularity of the operation has rapidly in- creased until now it is considered one of the most useful and valuable in animal surgery. It is practiced without hesitancy upon all domestic and wild animals, and its economic value cannot be overestimated. The earlier modes of operating were as follows: Martelage, Tearing, Scraping, Torsion, Firing, Bistournage, Ligature and Clamps. These ancient methods were extremely painful, and by some considered cruel and inhumane. They have all been super- seded by less painful and more modern ones, the most recent of which are Emasculator, Vasectomy, Bisection, Vaso-Ligation and lastly Vas-occlusion recently advocated by Dr. Napoleon Berdozzi, of Italy. While the above have been mentioned simply from an historic viewpoint, one of them, viz., Emasculator, stands out prominently as the best, most widely practiced and satisfactory method of operating, and on this account the "Emasculator meth- od" will be adhered to in all instances where it is applicable in this volume. 14 Animal Castration CHAPTER I. Castration of the Stallion. Objects and Indications — While the operation is most often practiced as an economic procedure in order to increase the ani- mal's monetary value and usefulness to mankind, it is nevertheless valuable as a corrector of many acquired vices, such as masturba- tion, viciousness, etc. It is also indicated in impotency, some dis- eases of penis, scrotum, spermatic cord, and testicle. Its effect is both mental and physical. The operation has a decided tendency to render the animal quiet and docile and to alter the conformation in some material respects such as lessening development of the shoulders, chest, neck and withers. While on the other hand the development of the hind quarters is stimulated. < 'astrated stallions are known as geldings. Age — Stallions may be safely castrated at any age provided they are in good physical condition. St ason- Spring and early fall. Preparation — The intestinal tract should be practically empty .it lime of castration. This is attained by withholding food for 24 to 30 hours before operating. By heeding the above admonition the danger of rupturing internal viscera during the operation ;i!id colic afterwards will be obviated. CASTRATING IX THE RECUMBENT POSTURE. /,'■ tfraint- When it has been decided to cast the animal, we should, first <•!' .-ill, carefully survey the surroundings and select the mosl sal Lsfactory Location. Of course circumstances and exist- ing conditions play an important role in making our selection. When the weather will permil the operat ion being performed out of doors there is no place better adapted than an open field or lawn. It is here thai we have ample room to manipulate our re- straint technique without interruption. When we have selected Animal Castration 15 the location, the next problem which confronts us is the "casting bed." The ideal operating mat or mattress is a plot of green grass grown upon smooth ground. Always avoid the manure heap or the "rotten straw pile" whenever possible. They are both hot- beds of all forms of bacterial growth and are directly responsible for many cases of fatal septic infections. If we are forced to cast an animal inside of doors, then we must make the best of our misfortune and get busy in devising means and methods to best overcome that handicap. Select the place — be it hallway, stall Fig. 1 — Stallion Cast on Left Side With Conkey Self-Lock Buckle Hobbles. Leg P Drawn from Over Field of Operation by Rope R. S. or operating room — where the most room is available. Then a proper bed must be prepared. This may be done by the use of tanbark, soft wood shavings, straw, hay, excelsior, sawdust, etc., or a specially constructed mattress or pad may be used. Lead animal to proper position, put on twitch, apply the Con- key self -lock buckle hobbles and cast him on the left side. (See Fig. 1.) When cast, the off hind leo: should be released from hobble 16 Animal Castration strap and with a 15-foot rope looped above ankle (P) and passed over withers (Q) and under neck then back above hock (R) the Leg is drawn from over field of operation. In this position the largest stallion can be castrated without difficulty. INSTRUMENTS. 1. Knife — Of course a properly constructed knife is the first essential instrument required in performing this operation. The Williams all-metal stiff-handle auseptic castrating knife (Fig. 2 is entirely satisfactory for castrating stallions in the recumbent posture. Fig. 2 — Williams' All-Metal Stiff Handle Anseptic Castrating Knife. 2. Emasculator — The only other instrument necessary is an emasculator for the purpose of crushing the spermatic cord in such manner as to assist nature in controlling hemorrhage. There are many designs of emasculators on the American mar- ket; however, many of them are inferior and unsatisfactory both in design and workmanship. In order for an emasculator to perform the task for which it is intended it must first of all be ennst rueted with straight cutting and crimping edges. (See D, C, !— A Perfectly .Made and Well De- Fig. 4— An Imperfectly Made and Badly signed Emasculator. Designed Emasculator. Pig. 3.) This simply means that the lower or female jaw must be <>n a straight line. When thus constructed the cord is grasped and crushed before it is severed. Any emasculator made with curved cutting and crimping edges (see A, B, Fig. 4), which Animal Castration 17 means that the lower or female jaw is on a curved line, is not dependable in controlling hemorrhage, hence is unsafe and un- satisfactory. Fig. 5 illustrates an emasculator of proper design and good construction. Fig. 5 — A Safe and Satisfactory "Single Crimp Emasculator." The "triple crimp emasculators" (Figs. 6, 7 and 8) are some- what safer in controlling hemorrhage than the "single crimp' ' instrument, as it crushes the cord in three directions. The author has used a "triple crimp" instrument for several years with good results. Many of the "triple crimp emasculators" now on the market are imperfectly constructed and unsatisfactory in that not enough space has been left between the male (upper) crush- ing plate and the female (lower) plate — when the instrument is closed — to receive the cord of a large stallion. Figs. 6, 7 and 8 illustrate two "triple crimp" emasculators both of which are satisfactory. Fig. 8 is equipped with a self-adjusting auxilliary attachment. The block attached to the male blade and longi- tudinally serrated, is self-adjusting, by which means the com- pressing surfaces maintain a parallel position when operated, thereby preventing the cord and arteries from being mashed, cut or torn at point nearest the hinge of the instrument. The spring device operating the auxiliary attachment permits 18 Animal Castration automatic expansion, thereby making the instrument adjustable to large cords, which in many cases cannot be cut by other forms of "triple crimp" emasculators in which the crushing block is not expansible. Fig. 6 — "Triple Crimp Emasculator." (Front View.) "Triple Crimp Emasculator." (Hack View.) Animal Castration 19 Fig. S — Anseptic Triple Crimp Emasculator With Self-Adjusting Auxiliary Attachment. Anatomy — A comprehensive knowledge of the anatomy of the inguinal and scrotal regions is imperative if a man is ever to be anything like a thrilling success in performing the various neces- sary operations that are to be described later. However, on ac- count of the limited space at my disposal it will be impossible to go into minute details here. For complete and detailed anatomical description the reader is respectfully referred to Sisson, Chau- reau and Strangeway 's text-books on Veterinary Anatomy. Scrotum — Is a sac or bag made up externally by a layer of skin which has been continued from the sheath, abdomen and flanks. This skin is smooth, soft and hairless compared with the other integument on the body. The scrotum consists of two cavities divided by a longitudinal raphe ("median line"). Below the skin 20 Animal Castration is the dortos which forms the scrotal tunic proper and consists of thin clastic tissue and muscle. The dortos is a continuation of the abdominal fascia. Under the dortos is the spermatic fascia which is a continuation of the external oblique muscle. This muscle is attached to the external abdominal ring. Inside is the cremasteric fascia, an expansion of the cremaster muscle which passes through the inguinal canal over the cord and surrounds Pig. 9— Internal and External Generative Organs of the Stallion: A, Scrotum; B, Skin; C, Tunica Vaginalis; D, Dortos; E, Cremaster Muscle; P, Left Vas Deferens; G, Bulbona Portion of Vas Deferens; H, Vesicula Seminalis; I, Postate Gland; J, Cow- pers Gland; K, Sheath; L, Meatus Crinarius; M, Retractor Muscle of Penis; N, Acceler- ator Muscle Surrounding Urethra; O, Erector Penis Muscle; P, Glans Penis; Q, Corpus Cavernosuin; R, Right Internal Abdominal Ring; S, Left Internal Abdominal Ring; T, Symphysis Pubis; U, Peritoneal Told Through Which the Spermatic Blood Vessels and Xerves Pass; V, Right Vas Deferens; W, Bladder; X, Rectum. Animal Castration 21 the testicle. Deeper we have the funnel-shaped infundibuliform fascia which originates at the internal abdominal ring. This fascia is simply a sheath over the testicle, the cord and their tunics. Inguinal Canal — This canal is situated obliquely between the crural arch and the internal oblique muscle. The arch forms its posterior and the muscle its anterior wall. It is compressed lat- erally and through it pass the spermatic cord and the pudic artery. Its external orifice is termed the external abdominal ring. This ring is oval in shape and its direction is backwards and upwards. The internal abdominal ring is a small aperture in the abdom- inal wall and is situated at the uppermost part of the inguinal canal, which is about 8 to 10 inches above the external abdom- inal ring. The contents of the inguinal canal pass through the internal abdominal ring in making their exit from the abdominal cavity. Sheath — The sheath is a loose conglomeration of skin extending from the scrotum forward, and contains the free portion of the penis. The anterior loose double fold of sheath is known as the prepuce or foreskin, which is corrugated to accommodate the penis during erection and protrusion. Opening into the sheath are ducts from the glandulae odorif erae which secrete an odorous matter peculiar to the sheath. The sheath is suspended from the abdominal walls by suspensory ligaments. Spermatic Cord — The testicle is suspended in the scrotum by the spermatic cord which migrates through the inguinal canal from the abdominal cavity to the scrotum. The following structures enter into its formation: Spermatic venis, spermatic artery, nerves, vas deferens, lymphatics, cremaster muscle and tunica vaginalis. The vas deferens is situated in the posterior part of the cord and is enclosed in a special fold detached from the inner surface of the tunica vaginalis. 22 Animal Castration pjo- 10 — External View of Left Testicle and Spermatic Cord: A, Testes; B, Globus Major; C, Globus Minor; D, Body of Epididymus; E F, Spermatic Cord. Testicle — The testicle is a compound tubular gland, ovoid in form, suspended by the spermatic cord and occupying space in the scrotum, inguinal canal or abdominal cavity. When in the scrotum it is contained in a sac known as the tunica vaginalis. They vary much in size in different subjects and are often of unequal size in the same individual. The epididymus (D, Fig. 10) is an elongated body extending along upper border of the testes ( A). It consists of a body (D), a head or globus major (B), and a rail or blobus minor (C). 1 'as \)( ft rens — The vas deferens is a firm hard tube which, after leaving the globus minor, ascends the back of the spermatic cord through the external abdominal ring, inguinal canal, and internal abdominal ring to the abdominal cavity, where it enters the pelvis, passing to the antero-lateral aspect of the bladder, where it is joined by the duct of the vesicula seminales. This union of ducts takes place in the vicinity of the postate gland. NTATURE s Millions OF CONTROLLING HEMORRHAGE. It is well to always bear in mind the fact that nature is a great factor in controlling arterial hemorrhage. To understand exactly what nature causes to lake place when an artery is severed is knowledge which is never harmful to the surgeon, to say the least of it. 'Hi.' following happens as soon as an artery is severed: Animal Castration 23 (1) Contraction of the mouth of the vessel (see B, Fig. 11) ; (2) retraction of the vessel into its sheath (see C, Fig. 11) ; (3) clot formation (see D, Fig. 11) ; (4) syncope. Fig. 11 — Diagramatic Illustration Showing Three of Nature's Methods of Con- trolling Arterial Hemorrhage; A, Severed Artery; B, Contraction; C, Retraction; D, Clot Formation. The function of the emasculator is to assist nature in prevent- ing primary and secondary hemorrhage. This is done by crush- ing the cord which crimps or closes the spermatic artery to the extent of making the field more favorable for clot formation. Never place an emasculator on a cord in any position except at right angle to the cord. (See Fig. 12.) If the cord is severed at any other angle (see Fig. 13) fatal hemorrhage is liable to occur. Warning — Before beginning to operate always carefully ex- amine the animal for inguinal and scrotal hernia ("rupture"), abnormalities in development and diseases of the scrotum testicle and cord. It is also well to look out for constitutional diseases which would have a tendency to endanger the life of the animal or interfere with convalescence. Never castrate if the animal is 24 Animal Castbation ■ ' ^^^^^ Pl^^ji i^^^ ■!" mil— — "- ■■■■■■— h^te. Wti^^^ Fis. 12 — Correct Position of Emasculator on the Spermatic Cord. Fig. 13 — Incorrect Position of Emasculator on the Spermatic Cord. affected with strangles, influenza, pleurisy, pneumonia, bronchitis, catarrhal fever, or purpura haemorrhagica. Be careful in cast- ing and tieing, and above all satisfy yourself that the testicles are actually in the scrotum. Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands It' good results are to be expected all instruments should be ster- ilized by boiling for 15 to 20 minutes; after boiling immerse them in .-i porcelain bowl or granite pan into which has been put one tablespoonful of either Lysol or Cresol Compound U. S. P. to each quari of water. In the absence of the above, carbolic acid '" - per cenl solution is permissible. Where there are several animals to be operated upon it is not practicable nor is it neces- sary or desirable to boil the instruments between each operation. Eowever, they should be washed and placed back in the anti- septic solution. The operator's hands should be thoroughly with soap and warm water — using a scrub or nail brush — ng a job of castrating and he should wash them in Animal Castration 25 an antiseptic solution between operations. The cleaner you are with your work the fewer cases of sepsis you will have to follow. Operative Technique — After the animal is cast and tied and the instruments and hands of the operator prepared, the field of opera- tion and the surrounding parts should be thoroughly washed with Lysol or Cresol Compound U. S. P. in the strength of one table- spoonful to each quart of water. I will here take advantage of this opportunity to condemn in the strongest and most emphatic terms possible "sheath washing" at time of castrating. What is here meant by "sheath washing" is washing or undertaking in any manner to cleanse the interior of the sheath. Washing the sheath at or immediately before castration will not only contaminate the field of operation and thereby increase the danger of sepsis, but it invariably encourages the early development of aggravated cases of oedema and oftentimes paraphimosis. The sheath should be washed several days before operating or it should be let alone until after the animal has completely recovered. With the animal, Fig. 14 — General External View of Scrotum and Sheath. AA, Incisions %-inch on each side of Median Line, 4 inches long and parallel to the line. 26 Animal Castration instruments and operator's hands prepared, the scrotal incision is made by grasping both testicles in the left hand and with two bold strokes of the knife cut through skin of scrotum and testicular coverings without hesitation. Expose both testicles to view. The larger the incision the better the results. They should not be less than 3i/o to 4 inches long and about % to 1 inch on each side of the raphe ("median line") and parallel to it (see Fig. 14). The testicles are now exposed. Grasp one of them with the left hand, being careful not to touch the cord above where it is to be severed. Place the emasculator on the cord, being careful to see 1 hat the crimping side is next to the scrotum. Now lift the testicle upwards at direct right angles to the animal by making from two to three pounds — depending upon size of horse — tension on the cord, at the same time pushing the emasculator well down against the scrotum and at right angles to the cord, after which close the instrument quickly and firmly until the cord and all its cover- ings are severed as close to the scrotum as possible. (See Fig. 15.) 15— Severing Spermatic Cord with the Emasculator. A, Left Testicle; B, Right Testicle; C, Emasculator Applied to Spermatic Cord. Animal Castration 27 As soon as the cord is severed quickly release it and hasten to remove the opposite testicle. It is a useless waste of time and energy to allow the cord to remain in the instrument for several minutes as some operators advocate. The quicker the cord is released the less the pain and the quicker the blood will clot about mouth of artery. By the time the jaws of the emasculator have come together the instrument has done all for the cord that it can possibly do. Why procrastinate in removing it ? By reference to Fig. 16 you will observe the correct position of the emasculator on cord; also exactly what structures are severed. Fig. 16 — Spermatic Cord and its Coverings Severed with the Emasculator. F, Left Hand of Operator; G, Right Hand of Operator; H, Emasculator; I, Body of Epididymus; J, Tunica Vaginalis; K, Incised Portion of Tunica Vaginalis Retracted on Cord; L, Spermatic Cord. The all too common practice of "cord dissection" is also an unnecessary and uncalled for waste of the operator's time and 28 Animal Casteation energy to say nothing of the additional pain inflicted upon the patient as a result of prolonged surgical interference. After Cart and Treatment. — A small per cent of stallions after castration will become unusually and uncomfortably restless and suffer what appears to be excruciating pain. Sometimes this pain is inter-abdominal and sometimes not. In such cases Fluid Ex- trad Cannabis Indica should be administered in ounce doses at two-hour intervals. The animal should be frequently observed for appearance of secondary hemorrhage and other sequelae which may arise. The diet should be limited, and plenty of exer- cise allowed. Best to run at pasture during recovery and con- valescence. Endeavor to keep them away from stable and barn- yard manure. If the lips of the incisions should adhere together to the extent of stopping free drainage from the scrotum, the pails should be thoroughly washed and reopened by forcing one or more clean fingers through the scrotal incisions. In some in- stances it becomes necessary to "open up" every two days for six or seven days. However, so long as the wounds are draining ••opening up" is unnecessary. After castration it is not necessary to protect stallions, colts and mules from flies, as this class of animals prevent "fly con- tamination" of the scrotal wounds by the free and well-directed use of their tails. Even in the midst of "fly time" we never have maggots develop in their serotinus. Contrary to the teachings of some, the author's experience would indicate that warm showers and even rains on animals after cas- tration are not harmful and are to be greatly preferred over allowing the animals to remain in the barn and barnyard in con- stant danger of wound contamination from manure, dirt, etc. Treatment of the various sequelae of castration will be taken up in subsequent pages. Prognosis- Tinier parallel conditions and surroundings there appears to be vht little or no more danger in castrating aged stallions than colts. However, on the other hand, when we face the fact thai a large percent uf sta 11 ions a re a If eeted with cord, scrotal, ticular and other diseases which must be taken into considera- tion in comparing the danger of castrating stallions with that of colts v«- are constrained to slate the danger to old stallions far i hat of younger animals. Animal Castration 29 CASTRATION OF THE STALLION IN STANDING POSTURE. Objects and Indications — See page 14. Age — Any time after testicle has descended into the scrotum, preferably in aged stallions. Season — See page 14. Best raint — A well-made and property applied twitch in the hands of a fearless and physically strong assistant. Instruments — 1. Emasculator. (See Figs. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8.) 2. Knife. It is necessary to have a knife with a sharp point and devoid of "belly" in order that it may be easily thrust into the testicle. Eobinson's Castrating Knife (Fig. 17) and Wil- liams' Castrating Knife (modified) (Fig. 18) are probably the most satisfactory ones for performing this operation. Fi| -Robinson's Knife. Fig. 18— Williams' Castrating Knife (Modified). The extremely sharp point, short cutting surface and roughened handles of the Robinson knife are its meritorious features. The author's modification of the Williams castrating knife makes it a desirable instrument for castrating in the standing posture. It will be observed by comparing this knife with the original Williams' (Fig. 2) that the " belly" has been ground out and the point sharpened in order to facilitate thrusting it into the testicle. Anatomy — See pages 19-21. 30 Animal Castkation Warn hi g — Before undertaking to operate take the time and precaution to satisfy yourself on the following points: 1. That the animal is not of a disposition or temperament which would make operating in the standing posture counter- indicated. 2. That the testicle is actually in the scrotum. 3. That no hernia is present. 4. That the animal is not affected with those local diseases of the scrotum, testicle or cord which would counter-indicate the operation. 5. That he is not suffering from any specific constitutional disease whieh would cause the operation of castration by any method to hazard his life. 6. That you have a dependable — preferably an experienced — assistant in charge of the twitch and be sure the twitch is a good one. Stt rili nil ion of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — See page 24. Pn paration of Patient — At first thought it would be considered proper to disinfect the field of operation by some form of wash- ing with one of the many excellent antiseptic preparations. How- ever, experience and close observation lead me to state that the advisability and practicability of undertaking the disinfection of the tield of operation at this particular juncture — after the twitch Ls applied — is, to say the most of it, a debatable question. Au- septic or even antiseptic surgery would suggest it, but the author is willing to chance running the gauntlet of criticism by here going on record as opposing disinfection of the operative field. His only reason for so doing is simply on account of the fact that it' a man is to do a satisfactory and successful operation with the animal in the standing posture it is imperative that the opera- tion begin as soon as the twitch is applied and end at the earliest sible moment, otherwise the twitch as an implement of sub- jection is nol a success and, of course, the violent struggles and efforts to escape on pari of the animal would make the operation a failure. I realize that in making the above statement I "run counter" to some eminent authority, but since I have never yet a single successful operator on stallions in the standing pos- Animal Castration ture who procrastinated to the extent of disinfecting the field of operation immediately prior to operating I am ready and will- ing to suffer the consequences. Such procedure is not practicable, neither is it necessary or even desirable. If the operator's hands are clean and his instruments sterile, there is not near the danger of septic infection from the unwashed scrotum as there is from a bunglesome and imperfect operation on account of struggles on the part of the animal occasioned by delay in beginning and finish- ing the operation. Operative Technique — With the twitch applied and the animal forced into the corner of a box stall or fence the operator ap- proaches from the left side — if he be right-handed — at the same time instructs the assistant, who is holding the twitch, to at all hazards keep the animal forced well back into the corner. The operator stands slightly out of the range of a kick with his head and shoulders firmly pressed into the left flank of the animal. (See Fig. 19.) Fig. 19 — Side View Showing Position of Patient and Operator Castrating in the Standing Posture. 1 32 Animal Castration Fig. 20 — Posterior View of Stallion While Undergoing Castration in Standing Posture. A, Scrotum; B, Knife; C, Left Hand; D, Right Hand. Willi the Left hand firmly grasp the scrotum above both testicles, at the same time do not underestimate the strength of the cremas- ter muscles. Expect to hold nil to your scrotal grasp regardless of the ma- neuvers or antics of the animal. Since you have already agreed with your assistant to hold the scrotum as long as he holds the twitch you are honor bound to do so, and by so doing you will come out victorious in nineteen out of twenty attempts. With Animal Castration 33 Fig. 21 — Side View with Animal in Standing Posture Showing Positions of Right Hand, Knife, Left Hand and Scrotum Prior to Making Incisions. Observe that the knife is thrust into the testicle well forward on the scrotum. The incision is made by a single sweep of the knife backwards. knife in right hand begin well forward on scrotum and with two quick bold sweeps of the knife make backward slashes which will expose, or a better term would be "drop," both testicles from the scrotum before you turn loose. These slashes should be parallel to the raphe or median line. Now with the emasculator which is handed you by a second assistant, or better still carried in a specially constructed pocket in your overalls, sever the sper- matic cords as high up in the flank as possible, after which release the animal. If you have been dexterous and have not "loafed on your job" you have consumed the whole of six to ten seconds' time. However, if you have been engaged as long as fifteen or twenty seconds you need have no remorse of conscience, as often- times it takes — what otherwise would be considered a fairly good veterinary surgeon — as long as twenty minutes to finally succeed, after much effort and a great fight, in removing as many as two testicles from the scrotum of a stallion in the standing posture, and some of them even after graduation and many years' ex- 3-1- Animal Castration perience in practice cannot do it at all. Console yourself with the thought that there are others. Care and Treatment — See page 28. Prognosis — See page 28. Sequelae— See under proper heading in subsequent pages. Advantages of Operating in Standing Posture — (1) Conserva- tion of time and energy on the part of the operator, as it is pos- sible for an experienced and dexterous operator to castrate a stallion in the standing position in six to fifteen seconds' time, provided the animal behaves well. Whereas in the recumbent posture it requires from six to fifteen minutes to cast, tie and castrate. It is much easier on the operator to castrate in the standing posture as less work and exertion are required. (2) Safety and comfort to the patient, since the danger of casting and tying is obviated and the animal is not exerted or "heated up" near to the extent which he would be were he cast, tied and castrated in the recumbent posture. (3) By castrating in the standing posture — provided same is done with dexterity — the sur- geon makes a favorable and lasting impression upon his client, an impression which will "not wear off." (4) Since the operator is not called upon to handle dirty ropes, etc immediately before operating and the operative field itself is not on or in close prox- imity to the manure and dirt — as is the case in recumbent posi- tion — there is no doubt but what less wound contamination takes place in standing method. Disadvantages — (1) Danger to the operator has been heralded to the four winds of this country as argument against castrating stallions in the standing posture. The author's twenty years or more experience with operating in both the standing and recum- benl postures leads him to believe, in fact know, that the danger to the operator has been highly colored and over-exaggerated with reference to east rating in the standing posture unless the operat- ing surgeon was an amateur or an extremely awkward and care- Less person. Of course it could not reasonably be expected that everyone could, even by time and practice, become an adept at such an undertaking. In order to he a success it is necessary for the operator to possess a level head, a steady nerve, plenty of self- fidence, and more than average courage, together with a re- Animal Castration 35 serve of physical strength and activity. He should retain his equilibrium in spite of any untoward accident or emergency which may chance to take place. Good judgment is never amiss at any stage of the operation. The author has never been kicked or in- jured in any way while castrating stallions in the standing pos- ture. He cannot say as much in relating his experience operating in the recumbent posture, for many is the time when he has re- ceived the kick while applying the hobble straps and a few while releasing the animal. (2) Difficulty of securing the testicles has been urged against the standing operation. Such embarrassment is never encountered if the testicle has descended into the scrotum and the mere fact of the testicle not being in the scrotum is a counter-indication to operating in the standing posture. By all means and at all hazards cast this class of animals and castrate them in the recumbent posture. (3) Prolapse of bowel or mesen- tery from the scrotal incision on account of previously existing scrotal or inguinal hernia. A careful manual examination of the scrotal region prior to operating would obviate such embarrass- ment to the operator and danger to the patient. If you decide to operate in the standing posture make it routine practice to examine the scrotum prior to operation. (4) Impossibility of operating upon many wild and vicious animals. We must admit that every animal cannot be castrated in the standing posture, and foolish indeed would the surgeon be who would undertake such a hazardous and impossible task. If you encounter such an animal, have no hesitancy in casting and operating in the recumbent pos- ture. Do not attempt the dangerous, the impracticable or the impossible. Exercise a little good judgment here as well as else- where in the daily affairs of life. 36 Animal Castration CHAPTER II. CASTRATION OF THE COLT. Definition — What is here meant by castration of colts is un- sexing male animals of the equine species less than twenty months of age. Objects and Indications — Same as stallion. (See page 14.) Age — The testicle does not nsnally descend into the scrotum to a noticeable degree until the colt is at least eight or ten months old. From the standpoint of danger the earlier the operation the safer. From the viewpoint of development and symmetry it is not well to operate too early. Viewing the problem from every angle, the preferable age at which to castrate a colt is ten to twelve months. However, it may be done earlier or even later. Season — Spring and early fall. Preparation — Same as stallion. (See page 14.) Restraint — Since colts should usually be castrated in the re- cumbent posture — primarily on account of the uncertainty of de- scent of testicle into scrotum — it becomes necessary to cast and tie them. Of all the casting harness and hobbles used for this class of operation there is no doubt but what the "Miles' Colt Hobbles" possess many advantages over all others. Hence the M Lies method of casting eolts is recommended and will be described. "Farmer" Mites' Method of Casting a Colt — Fig. 22 represents the Miles' colt hobbles applied (first position). The hobbles of Miles' consist of four loop hobbles and a main rope. These are of the loop variety. The material used in making the loops may be either rawhide (plaited), leather, or rope. These hobbles are each from fifteen to eighteen inches long and are applied by looping. The main rope is three-fourths inch cotton, and eighteen feet long. Animal Castration 37 Fig. 22 — Miles' Colt Hobbles Applied— First Position. Upon one end is a two-inch metal "D." Tins main rope is also used as the master hobble. It will be observed that there is one hobble rope on each hind pastern and two hobble ropes on off fore leg — one around pastern and the other below the knee. The main rope is applied around pastern of near fore leg (F). It is now passed across through hobble ring on off fore pastern (K), then backward to off hind (L), thence across to near hind (M), and back to hobble ring (N) below off knee. The object of this arrangement of the ropes (two hobbles on off fore leg) is that when traction is made on free end of main rope (O) the off fore foot is raised or lifted off the ground. This in itself unbalances an animal and puts it to a decided disadvantage, besides by lift- ing the off fore foot the animal will go down on the shoulder of that side and will in all probability receive an easy fall. The animal is cast as illustrated in Fig. 23 (second position), and secured by taking two or more half hitches with the main rope around uppermost hind pastern. This is done by an assistant. The operator stands opposite the assistant and behind the animal 38 Animal Castration Fig. 23 — Miles' Colt Hobbles — Second Position. Fig. 24— .Miles' Colt Hobbles— Third Position. Animal Castbation 39 and is handed the main rope (W) by the assistant (after it is fixed about the upper hind pastern). The rope is carried over the loins and under the colt, thence to the lower hind pastern. Now by rolling colt on his back (Fig. 24, third position) and mak- ing downward pressure on the off hind foot with the left hand, at the same time drawing the rope tight by upward pull with the right hand, the hocks are flexed and all four feet brought down close to the abdomen. The Miles' method affords us a light, portable, strong, con- venient, safe, and in every respect an efficient and satisfactory means of casting and securing the colt. The colt is held balanced in the dorsal position by an assistant on each side, in which posi- tion the field of operation is accessible and extremely convenient, and so long as the colt is balanced on back he is absolutely helpless. Instruments — (1) Emasculator: same as stallion (see Figs. 5, 6, 7, 8, 12 and 13). (2) Knife: The knife recommended for colt castration is "Farmer" Miles' hook knife (Fig. 25). Many hook Fig. 25— "Farmer" Miles' All-Metal Stiff Handle Hook Castrating Knife. knives of improper design and inferior construction are on the market ; on this account it is well for the reader to know the exact essentials of a properly designed hook knife. The main essential is that the cutting surface of the blade be at an angle of 45 degrees to the handle and that the cutting surface be sharp up to the handle. It is necessary that the blade cut, not tear. With a blade thus constructed good work can be done. The blades with a de- cided hook are never satisfactory. Such knives drag or tear through the tissues instead of cut. Avoid them. To the beginner a hook knife is awkward to handle ; however, after some practice he usually finds it to be an indispensable instrument. Anatomy — Same as stallion. (See pages 19-21.) Warning — Same as stallion. (See page 23.) Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Same as stallion. (See page 24.) 40 Animal Castration Operative Technique — With the colt cast and tied and balanced on his back (Dorsal position) by one or more assistants (see Fig. 25), the scrotum, hands of the operator, etc., disinfected, the ani- mal is now ready for operation. Pig. 26 Castrating the Colt. 9, Left Hand; 10, Scrotum; 11, Beginning of Left Scrota] Incision; 12, End of Left Scrotal Incision; 13, Beginning of Right Scrotal In- cision; ii. End of Right Scrotal Incision; 15, Knife; 16, Right Hand. Proceed .-is follows: With left hand (9) grasp sheath (10) and with forward and upward traction stretch the scrotum to the extent of making it taut. With knife (15) in right hand (16) begin lefi incision (11-12) well forward on scrotum (10) and ex- tending backward for -> ] L > to 4 inches. The right incision (13-14) Animal Castration 41 is made likewise. These incisions should be parallel to each other, three-fourths inch on each side of the raphe or "median line" and parallel to it. The object of drawing the scrotum upwards is to form a cavity between the skin and subcutaneous connective tissue of scrotum above and the scrotal plesus of veins below. This cavity or space protects the scrotal plexus of veins from being knicked by point of the knife while the incisions are being made. Release hold on sheath and grasp each testicle in turn and with a knick of the knife open the tunica vaginalis and allow the testicles to escape. Fig. 27— Castrating the Colt. 17, Left Hand; IS, Testicle; 19, Spermatic Cord, 20, Tunica Vaginalis; 21, Scrotum; 22, Emasculator; 23, Right Hand. 42 Animal Castration The next step is to grasp the left testicle (18, Fig. 27) with the left hand (17) and draw testicle upwards — at direct right angles to the animal — at the same time producing from one to 1 wo pounds traction on the cord. With the right hand (23) apply the emasculator (22) to the cord (19) and force instrument well down against the scrotum (21) in such a manner as to sever the spermatic cord and all of its coverings as close to the skin incision as possible. The right testicle is removed in like manner and the animal released. By reference to Fig. 16, page 24, the reader may observe the exact position of the emasculator on the cord and what structures are severed in operating. After Care and Treatment — Same as stallion. (See page 28.) Prognosis — (See page 28.) Animal Castration 43 CHAPTER III. CASTRATION OF THE MULE. Objects and Indications — Since the mule is a hybrid and value- less for service as a breeding animal it falls to his lot to undergo castration without exception. Without castration — before the age of two years — the mule becomes exceedingly disagreeable and troublesome among other classes of live stock and oftentimes vicious and dangerous to the owner. Apparently the only object in castrating the mule is to cause his sexual desire to permanently subside to the extent of making him a useful farm animal. Age — "Yearlings," never later unless unavoidable. Season — Preferably spring. Preparation — Same as stallion. (See page 14.) Restraint — Same as colt. (See pages 36-39.) Instruments — Same as colt. (See page 39.) Anatomy — Same as stallion. (See pages 19-21.) Warning — Same as stallion. (See page 23.) Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Same as stallion. (See page 24.) Operative Technique— The operative technique in mule castra- tion resembles in most material respects that of colt castration as outlined on pages 36-41. The only material difference being the manner in which the coverings of the spermatic cord are severed and the extent of them removed. With the mule cast, tied and balanced on his back, Dor- sal position (Fig. 27) he is ready for operation. The scrotal region and hands of operator are washed with Lysol or Cresol Compound IT. S. P. in the strength of one tablespoonful to the quart of water. With left hand (M) grasp the sheath (N) and with forward and upward traction stretch the scrotum until it 44 Animal Casteation Fit Castrating the Mule. M, Left Hand; N, Scrotum; O P, Scrotal Incision; Q, Knife; R, Right Hand; S, Raphe or "Median Line." is taut. Willi knife (Q) in right hand (R) make the two scrotal incisions (O, P) beginning well forward (O) and extending back- ward (IV) from 314 to 4 inches. These incisions should be three- fourths inch from and parallel to the raphe or "median line" (S). Release hold on sheath and -rasp each testicle in turn and with a knick of the knife open the tunic vaginalis and allow the testicles to escape. After the testicles are released from the tunica vaginalis one of them is grasped with the Left hand (T) (Fig. 29) and drawn up- ward at direct right angles to the body of the animal by making from one to two pounds traction on the cord. With the right hand ' Y 1 a pply emasculator (Z) to the cord and force instrument down- ward againsl the scrotum (X) in such manner as to sever the spermatic cord and all of its coverings as close to the skin incision as possible. Sec to it that yon cut off not less than one inch of the tunica vaginalis in order to avoid that all too frequent sequelae Animal Castration 45 Fig. 29— Castrating the Mule. T, Left Hand; U, Testicle; V, Spermatic Cord; W, Tunica Vaginalis; X, Scrotum; Y, Right Hand; Z, Emasculator. Fig. 30 — Proper Position of the Emasculator and Relation of Testicle, Spermatic Cord, Tunica Vaginalis and Scrotum in Mule Castration. 46 Animal ( 'astration of mule castration, viz.: hydrocele ("water bag"), a condition invariably produced by severing the cord below— with mule in standing posture— the tunica vaginalis. Of course the opposite testicle is removed in like manner and the animal released. Figs. 30 and 31 are worthy of careful study on the part of all who con- template castrating mules. They graphically and plainly illus- trate all the important essentials in handling the emasculator in such a manner as to avoid hydrocele ("water bag"). Fig. 31 — Testicle of Mule After Removal. A, Tunica Vaginalis Covering Spermatic Cord; B B, Incised Portion of Tunica Vaginalis Deflected on Cord. It will be observed that at least one inch of this tunic has been removed. C, Epididymus; D, Testes. After Care and Treatment — Same as stallion. (See page 28.) Prognosis — Same as stallion and colts. (See page 28.) Animal Castration 47 CHAPTER IV. COMPLICATIONS ENCOUNTERED IN CASTRATION. Inguinal and Scrotal Hernia {Rapture) . Definition — Inguinal hernia is a condition where a loop of the intestine and sometimes mesentery migrates or protrudes through the internal abdominal ring into the inguinal canal. (See Fig. 32.) .4 1 ^^L Fig. 32 — Inguinal Hernia (Rupture). A A, Internal Abdominal Wall; B, Internal Abdominal Ring; C, Spermatic Cord; D D, Intestine; E, Loop of Intestine in tbe Inguinal Canal; F, Spermatic Cord in the Canal; G, Scrotum. Scrotal hernia is a condition where a loop of the intestine and sometimes mesentery migrates or protrudes through the internal 48 Animal Castration abdominal ring, inguinal canal and external abdominal ring into the scrotum. (See Fig. 33.) Fig. 33— Scrotal Hernia (Rupture). A A, Internal Abdominal Wall; B, Internal Abdominal Ring; C. Spermatic Cord; D D, Intestine; E, Loop of Intestine in the Scrotum; F, Spermatic Cord in Inguinal Canal; G, Scrotum; H, Testicle. Most all scrotal hernias were originally inguinal hernias. Diagnosis — The presence or absence of hernia is determined by carefully feeling the scrotum and close scrutiny of its size and shape. It is oftentimes — in fact most times — impossible to diag- nose inguinal hernia except on post-mortem examination. Indications for Operation — The mere fact that the presence of hernia lias been determined is sufficient indication for opera- tion unless there be a good reason for postponing surgical inter- ference until a later dale. Tn all instances the operation necessi- sacrifice of the testicle and of course since this be true the Animal Castration 49 ideal time to operate is at time of castration. If the surgeon is aware of the presence of hernia and is prepared for the opera- tion, then the reduction of hernia by surgical interference is a comparatively easy task. However, if the reverse is true — no knowledge of its existence and non-preparedness — then he is up against what is referred to as "the real thing," an attitude most of us have been caught in to our chagrin and sorrow. So long as hernia does not interfere with the health and usefulness of a stallion in service it ma} T not be advisable to operate. The ideal age to operate is eight to twelve months. Oftentimes scrotal hernias in "sucklings" disappear spontaneously before they are a year old. Restraint — The animal should be cast and tied, and placed in the dorsal position. For colts the ordinary "Farmer" Miles' method of casting (Figs. 22, 23 and 24, pages 36-39) is ideal. For older animals more secure restraint is necessary, such as Knowles' Casting Harness, described and illustrated on pages 55-57. Instruments — (1) Emasculator, Figs. 5, 6, 7, and 8. (2) Miles' hook knife, Fig. 25. (3) Curved probe point Bistoury. (4) Me- dium size curved needle. (5) Chromicized catgut (fourteen day) largest size. (6) Needle holder (Richter's), Fig. 34. (7) Small trocar and canula. (8) Curved scissors (six-inch), Fig. 35. (9) Haemostatic forceps. Fig. 34. — Richter's Needle Holder. 50 Animal Castration Fig. 35 — Curved Scissors (6-inch). Preparation — Empty the intestinal tract by withholding food for twenty-four to thirty hours. If constipated, oil in sufficient amount to purge several days before operating. SU rilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Sec page 24. Operative Technique — Cleanse and disinfect field of operation by washing with Lysol or Cresol Compound U. S. P. in the strength of one tablespoonful to each quart of water. With Miles' hook knife cautiously make incision into scrotum, being careful not to open the tunica vaginalis. The scrotal incision should begin well forward and extend backward for five to six inches parallel to the raphe or "median line" and one to one and a half inches from it. The sac (tunica vaginalis) containing the testicle should now be isolated or detached by blunt dissection and tearing up the inguinal canal to within about two inches of the internal abdom- inal ring. Before proceeding further all blood vessels of sufficient size should be ligated. The sac (tunica vaginalis) should now be opened ;ind ihe testicle taken charge of and held with one hand while the loo]) of intestine (.1 ) is gradually replaced through the interna] inguinal ring (P) (See Fig. 36) into the abdominal cavity. The testicle itself is now removed with the emasculator in the usual way. The stump of spermatic cord (K) is now placed into the abdominal cavity and the tunica vaginalis (L) ligated with chromicized catgut (fourteen day) largest size (M) as close to tin- internal abdominal ring as possible. The loose portion of the tunica vaginalis is now removed by severing below the liga- Animal Castration 51 Fig. 36 — Diagramatic Sketch of Operation for Inguinal and Scrotal Hernia (Rupture). I, Internal Abdominal Wall; J, Loop of Intestine Replaced Into the Abdominal Cavity; K, Stump of Spermatic Cord from Which the Testicle Has Been Removed; L, Tunica Vaginalis in Close Proximity to the Internal Abdominal Ring; M, Ligature; N, Inguinal Canal; P, Internal Abdominal Ring. ture. Sometimes it becomes necessary to enlarge the internal abdominal ring before the hernia can be reduced. This can be readily done with probe point bistoury passed np the inguinal canal. If loop of bowel happens to be distended by gas it should be punctured with a small trocar and canula. The scrotum may be packed with sterile gauze if considered advisable. However, scrotum packing is not usually necessary. A-fter Care and Treatment — Same as castration. (See page 28.) Castration of the Cryptorcliid and Mon orchid ("Ridgling"). Definition — A cryptorcliid is an animal in which both testicles have failed to descend into the scrotum. A monorchid is an animal in which only one testicle has failed to descend into the scrotum. Classification — Since the degree of descent of the testicle varies in different animals it becomes necessary to classify "ridglings" 52 Animal Castration into at least three groups or classes. They were formerly classi- fied by "Farmer" Miles as— No. 1. Testicles not in scrotum but in inguinal canal. Such testicles ran be felt on deep pressure. ("Low flanker.") No. 2. Testicles high up in inguinal canal — too high to be felt even upon deep pressure. ("High flanker.") No. 3. Testicles inside abdominal cavity. No. 4. Testes inside abdominal cavity with part of the sper- matic cord and sometimes epydidimus protruded through internal abdominal ring into the inguinal canal. Nil 5. Pathological ("diseased") testicles. While i he above classification by Miles is not what may be termed anatomically and surgically scientific, it was nevertheless valu- able in arriving at the exact status of a "Ridgling" case. While acknowledging the value of the work done by my first teacher — •• Parmer" Miles — and the usefulness of his classification of ridg- ling horses into Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, nevertheless such classification was crude and in this day of progress and development would not pass muster Prom a scientific viewpoint. The anatomical classifi- cal ion possesses many advantages and will be adhered to in hand- ling this subject. Miles' No. 1 cannot properly be classed as a cryptorchid (" Ridg- ling ") in any respect. (a) Supra scrotal is a condition where the testicle with sper- matic cord is in the inguinal canal, however too high to be felt even on deep pressure. ("High flanker.") This is the class oftenesl encountered in young animals and corresponds with Miles' No. 2. The testicle is usually firm and fairly well developed. [ntra-abdominal is a condition where the testicles are lo- cated inside the abdominal cavity. This is a genuine cryptorchid ("Ridgling") in fact as well as in name. In such cases the tes- ticles are usually soft and flabby and not of the characteristic shape met with in stallions. This variety corresponds to Miles' No. 3. (c) [ntra-inguinal is a condition in which the testes is inside abdominal nw itv with a portion of the spermatic cord and some- Time^ epididymus high up in the inguinal canal. (See Fig. 50, Animal Castration 53 page 67.) This corresponds to Miles' No. 4. Such cases are usually very confusing to the operator; especially is this true if the operator belongs to the amateur fraternity. (d) Anomalous cryptorchids is a condition wherein abnormally developed or ''diseased" testicles are encountered, viz.: hyper- trophy, cysts — including dermoid and dentigeous — solid tumors (sarcocelous), atrophy and adhesions of testicle to the parietal peritoneum, etc. Some of the above enumerated anomalies and curiosities encountered in cyptorchid castration complicate the operative technique and have a tendency to cause the operator no little anxiety, annoyance and oftentimes embarrassment. Objects and Indications — All "Bidgling" should be castrated for the principal reason that they are sterile as breeding animals and a public and private nuisance among other classes of live stock. Some of them even acquire viciousness, in which event they are dangerous both to the owner and other animals. The mere fact that the testicle is inside the abdominal cavity, small, undeveloped and sterile does not in any way reduce the sexual desire of its possessor. On the other hand it appears that sexual desire is abnormally stimulated. A horse with undescended tes- ticle is as undesirable as a mare affected with nymphomania. They are useless as service or breeding animals. There is no argu- ment why they should not be castrated and every reason why they should. Diagnosis — By all means secure an accurate history of the sub- ject if possible, as this is a necessary adjunct to operating satis- factorily and successfully. Ascertain the following: 1. If any previous unsuccessful attempt has been made to operate. 2. If either testicle has been successfully removed. If so, on which side was it located and how long since removal? The information obtained is not always trustworthy, so as an additional precaution the operator is not justified in proceeding with the operation until he has personally carefully examined the animal. 1. Search scrotum carefully for cicatrix ("scar") of former operation. If the operation was performed by either the ecraseur 54 Animal Castration or emasculator — some time previously — there may be no distinct scar present. 2. Examine inguinal canal for stump of cord. If the previous operation was performed at an early age the stump of cord may be atrophied to such an extent that its presence in the canal cannot be determined. If after questioning the owner or attendant and examining the patient you are still in doubt as to which testicle is unde- scended, the proper method of procedure would be to invade the left, as four-fifths of all monorchicls are leftsided. If you should make a mistake and invade the wrong side, proceed at once to turn the patient over and go in on the other side. The diagnostic value of rectal exploration at any time is doubtful. But such rectal examination immediately before operating is bad practice and not justified. Age — Ordinarily the question of age is not one left to the choice of the operator. He is forced to take them at any age he finds them. It is not well to operate upon a ridgling until he is at least two years old. The ideal age is three years, as at this time the animal is larger and better developed, which, of course, means that there is much more room in the inguinal canal and groin in which to work. Besides, at three years old the abdominal wall is thicker and stronger and there is less liability of rupturing the internal and external oblique abdominal muscles with the operat- ing hand. Ridglings at any age above three years are acceptable for operation. Season — Preferably spring and early fall. Preparation — The main object to be attained in preparing the patient is to have an unirritated and empty alimentary (intestinal) tract at time of operation. This is usually accomplished by with- holding food for thirty hours before castration. No physic should be allowed, as an empty bowel irritated by purgative medication is a predisposing cause of dangerous sequelae such as colic, peri- tonitis, volvulus, etc. An empty alimentary tract is desirable on account of affording greater intra-abdominal room and lessening the possibility of bowel protrusion through the inguinal canal. Restraint — There are many kinds and stvles of restraint har- Animal Castration 55 ness and ropes with which a ridgling horse may be cast and tied satisfactorily. The main object to be constantly borne in mind is the fact that first of all the restraint must be safe and secure. The animal must be tied in such a manner that the latitude for movement is minimized as much as possible. Position must also be considered. One of the simplest and most satisfactory casting harness for castration of "Ridglings" is that of Knowles'. The Knowles' harness have been used for several years by the author with satisfactory results. ■^< -W * . 4 •- Hr / *wy*w * Ws ■ ^^^"^ — \1 ^Mfj^M^^MMttHR '/'»jB| 1^HS| ! Bgfc? i ' ' ! ,. "% *%!&■ t ; \^>'y,~^~ C \ : ~' : ' . /;,::.; >;-. -\ ':•:/;■: . Fig. 37 — Knowles' Casting Harness Applied. The casting and securing harness illustrated in Fig. 37 were designed by W. F. Knowles. These harness are made in large and small sizes. The large size fits horses weighing 900 pounds or more,, and small size harness fits those of from 400 to 900 pounds. This apparatus is light, compact, and convenient to carry. When properly used it affords ample restraint for all ordinary purposes. It consists of a flat webbing collar, two main ropes and two hobbles. The collar (B) is in two sections ; each section is connected on each side of the horse by heavy double rings, one of which is of special design to afford easy passage of the two main ropes (D, G). The ropes (D, G) are each five-eighths inch in 56 Animal Castration diameter and thirty feet long. One end is securely fastened into the inner ring of the webbing breast collar. Around each pastern (E, H) is placed a webbing hobble. In each end of this webbing hobble is fixed a specially constructed metal, rounded "D" through which the ropes pass. To apply this harness the breast collar is placed over the head and adjusted to the shoulders. One section fits over the withers and the other section is dropped down below point of shoulders (K). The free end of the ropes (D, G) pass downward to and through each "D" of webbing hobble, then up- ward to and through "D" of breast collar. If desired to cast horse on off side, the off fore foot is to be raised and secured by some form of knee strap. The free end of main rope on near side should be carried backward over back and held by two assistants. The free end of main rope (I) on off side should be carried for- ward, well in front of the animal, and there held by two assistants. T<> cast the animal traction is made on each rope, and at the same time the animal is forced backward a step by assistant in charge of the head. The head is pulled to the right and the animal is cast on off side. Fig. 38— Animal east and Secured with Knowles' Harness. In order to securely tie the animal after he is cast (see Fig. 38) the main ropes ( N", N) are fastened around pasterns by two half Animal Castration 57 hitches. They are then passed behind hocks (P, P) in figure 8 fashion a couple of times, after which fix them about pasterns (O, O) by half hitches. The opposite side is secured likewise after the animal is turned over. See to it that the hocks are completely flexed and that the feet are not extended too far forward. After the hind legs are secured apply knee strap (M) to off fore leg. The Miles' spreaders (Fig. 39) are now applied, after which the animal is secured for operation. Whlie I do not dispute the possibility of castrating a "Riclg- ling" horse on the operating table, nevertheless its practicability is seriously doubted. Fig. 39 — Miles' Ridgling Spreaders. Position — Lateral recumbent position with side of undescended testicle uppermost. Hocks completely flexed. Hind feet not too far forward and thigh complete abducted. Instruments and Equipment — (1) Miles' all-metal hook castrat- ing knife (see Fig. 25). (2) Peritoneum perforator (see Fig. 40). Fig. 40 — Peritoneum Perforator. 58 Animal Casteation The peritoneum perforator referred to here is a piece of nickel- plated steel wire sixteen inches long with handle on one end and right angle hook on the other. This hook is one inch in length and its perforating surface is slightly dulled. The function of this instrument, as its name indicates, is to make the opening through the thin abdominal wall. (3) Ecraseur. The most satisfactory ecraseur yet offered to the veterinary profession in this country is shown in Fig. 41. This instrument is strong, well constructed and its design ideal. The advantages of this instrument over others consists of an ar- Fig. 41 — Dunn's Ecraseur. rangement by which, with the thumb and linger of one hand (the other hand left free) the ecraseur can be held, and the slack of the chain taken up at once without drawing out the screw or lengthening the instrument. The thumb-piece, on the end of which the female thread is cut, works automatically, engaging the screw at all times until re- leased by the pressure of the thumb; this insures perfect safety, as the chain cannot slip from imperfect or careless adjustment, which often occurs in other ecraseurs. It is also thoroughly asep- tic, as it can be taken apart without the aid of a screwdriver in a few seconds' time by a half turn of the collar near the handle. Made with or withoul the improved head. Get the one with im- proved head. (4) Surgeon's needle threaded for purpose of suturing up scrotum after packing. (5) Sterile gauze to use in packing scrotum. (6) Carbolized olive oil for lubricating parts. (7) Antiseptic solution in plentiful amount. As a precaution against some untoward accident or emergency it is well to fortify yourself by having in reserve the following: (1) Vulsellum for- Animal Castration 59 ceps (see Fig. 55) ; (2) haemostatic forceps; (3) extra ecraseur; (4) needles containing ligatures and sutures; (5) trocar and canula (ordinary horse size). Anatomy — Same as for stallion castration. (See pages 19-21.) Warning — Before beginning to operate, diagnose the case if possible. Examine inguinal and scrotal regions for hernia (rup- ture), abnormalities in development, diseases of the scrotum, etc. Look out for constitutional diseases which would have a tendency to endanger the life of animal or interfere with convalescense. These diseases are strangles, influenza, pneumonia, pleurisy, bron- chitis, catarrhal fever, purpura hemorrhagica, etc. Don't thrust your whole hand through the abdominal wall, be- cause your index and second finger will do enough damage to the wall and besides they are ample inside the abdomen. Don't explore the whole abdominal cavity in an effort to locate the testicle. You wouldn't recognize it if you found it. Better feel for the spermatic cord — something you can recognize if you feel it — which is within two inches of the abdominal incision, pro- vided you puncture the abdominal wall at the right place. Let the testicle take care of itself until later. Take your time and do the operation well at all hazards. Be careful in casting and tying and above all else don't get excited. Remember that it is not you that is being operated upon. It is the horse, and he does not even belong to you. If you should happen to make a failure, remember that you are not the only one whom such a misfortune has befallen. Sterilisation of Instruments — Same as for castration of the stal- lion. (See page 24.) Cleansing and Disinfecting the Field of Operation — Of all the operations in the domain of veterinary surgery where cleanliness stands out prominently as being pre-eminently important it is in "Ridgling" castration. With tincture of green soap, warm water and scrub brush thoroughly wash — by diligent scrubbing — the in- guinal and scrotal regions, also inner aspect of the thighs. After washing, sponge parts with absolute alcohol. Then paint scrotum with tincture iodine and allow it time to dry before making in- cisions. 60 Animal Castration Operative Technique as Applied in Castrating the Intra-Abdom- inal "Ridgling" {Miles' No. 3). (a) Scrotal Incision — With rubber glove on left hand (R) and Miles' hook castrating knife (T) in the right hand (S), the point of sheath (V) is grasped with the left (R) and traction made upward and forward. (See Fig. 42.) Beginning well forward «»n scrotum the knife is drawn backward, making incision (U) through skin, subcutaneous connective tissue and dartos only. This incision (U) should be five inches long, parallel to and one Fig. 42— Making Scrotal Incision. R. Left Hand; S, Right Hand; T, Knife; 1'. Scrotal Incision: V, Point of Sheath. inch to the side of raphe or "median Line." (See Figs. 42 and 43.) When the incision or Incisions are completed remove rubber glove from previously washed Left hand and. it' necessary, rewash both hands before proceeding further. (b) Opening and Entering the Inguinal Canal — With the four fingers of each hand, placed hack to back, separate, by tearing, the tissues down to the external abdominal ring, which is the entrance to inguinal canal. The next step is to lubricate the scrotal wound Animal Castration 61 and operating hand with carbolized olive oil. Then proceed, by fix- ing fingers in shape of cone (see Fig. 44) and using a limited Fig. 43 — Scrotal Incisions. amount of force, to open and enter the inguinal canal until the internal abdominal ring is reached. Remember the direction of the canal is upwards and backwards. This ring is our landmark for site of entering the abdominal cavity. You may expect to find the ring at a distance of six to ten inches above the scrotal incision, depending, of course, on size of animal. Fig. 44 — Position of Fingers in Opening and Entering the Inguinal Canal. 62 Animal Castration Fig. 45 — Entering the Abdominal Cavity by Perforating the Thin Abdominal Wall. A, Right Hand in the Inguinal Canal; B, Peritoneum Perforator in Action; C, Incision; D, Left Hand Manipulating Perforator. (c) Entering Abdominal Cavity front Inguinal Canal — With the internal abdominal ring as one guide, we select a site one inch above and one inch in front of it, where we proceed with peri- toneum perforator to rupture through the thin abdominal wall, which at this point consists of the transversalis fascia and peri- toneum, as we are now above the upper border of the internal oblique muscle. This affords us access to the abdominal cavity. This perforation should not exceed one inch in length. (d) Locating the Spermatic Cord — With the index and second finger enlarge, by stretching, the abdominal perforation sufficiently to admit both fingers (see Pig. 4(>). The cord (C) is almost in- variably located within two inches of the abdominal perforation (F). To find the cord, pass the second finger downwards against Animal Castration 63 Fig. 46 — A Diagramatic Illustration Showing Important Facts Relative to "Ridgling" Castration. This and the next cut illustrate far better than words could describe some of the covered steps of the operation. A, Rectum; B, Cord of Right Descended Testicle; C, Cord of Left Undescended Testicle; D, Right Internal Abdominal Ring; E, Left In- ternal Abdominal Ring; F, Incision through the Abdominal Wall 1 inch above and 1 inch in front of the Internal Abdominal Ring. Observe index and second finger protruding through incision searching for Spermatic Cord. G G, Internal Abdominal Walls; H, Un- descended Testicle floating loose in Abdominal Cavity attached to end of the Spermatic Cord. internal abdominal wall (G) and the index finger directly forward, slightly upward toward center of abdominal cavity. By bringing these two fingers together (Fig. 47) the cord (C) is caught be- 64 Animal Castration tween them. In order to distinguish it (cord) from other ab- dominal viscera it is rubbed between the fingers and the vas def- erens— a hard, wire-like cord— is plainly felt. Nothing else in- side the abdominal cavity has this wire cord like feel, and when it is felt between the fingers the cord is positively identified. Fig. 47— A, Rectum; B, Cord of Right Descended Testicle; C, Cord of Left Un- descended Testicle; D, Right Internal Abdominal Ring; E, Left Internal Abdominal Ring; F, Abdominal Perforation through which is protruded index and second nnger of the operating hand grasping cord (C) of Undescended Testicle; G G, Internal Ab- dominal Walls; H, Undescended (Left) Testicle. Animal Castration 65 (e) Removing Testicle From the Abdominal Cavity — With the cord (C) — and identified as such — between the two fingers mod- erate traction is made and the unattached end of the cord con- taining the testicle will follow through the abdominal perforation (F) into the inguinal canal and out through scrotal incision. Removing Testicle From Cord — Grasp testicle with left hand, with right hand apply chain or ecraseur to cord. With two pounds traction on cord force the ecraseur chain well up in scrotum — at right angles to the cord — take up slack of chain and proceed to sever cord. Fig. 48 — Removing the Testicle from Cord. E, Testicle; F, Ecraseur. (f) Final Step — Wash scrotum and surrounding parts with antiseptic solution, being careful to remove all blood clots, etc., after which pack — scrotum only — using one yard sterile gauze, 66 Animal Castration and suture skin incision securely with uninterrupted suture. Packing the scrotum cannot do any harm and there is a possi- bility, in fact a probability, of this precaution saving the life of a patient. Especially is this true should colicky pains ensue within Fig. 49 — Testicle of a "Ridgling" Horse. twelve hours after operating, in which event the rolling and tumb- ling of the animal would have a tendency to cause bowel protru- sion. As a precautionary measure I cannot too strongly recom- mend packing the scrotum before the animal is allowed to rise to his feet. If a m< >norchid, your job is completed ; if a cryptorchid, turn the animal over and proceed to repeat the operation on the other side without delay. Never attempt to remove both testicles from the one abdominal opening, as in doing so it is necessary to enlarge the opening sufficiently to admit the whole hand; such a large abdominal wall perforation is dangerous and such procedure would be considered bad practice. Intra-Inguinal "Ridgling." This is the variety in which the testicle (testes) is inside the abdominal <-;i\ ity while a portion of the spermatic cord and some- times the epydidimus is in upper part of the inguinal canal, of course surrounded by the tunica vaginalis. (See Fig. 50.) This corresponds to Miles' No. 4. This is the class which is calculated to confuse the inexperienced operator. Objcds and indications, age, season, preparation, restraint, posi- tion, instruments, anatomy, washing, sterilization of instruments, cleansing operator's hands and disinfection of operative Held are all the same as are employed in castrating the intra-abdominal ridgling, Animal Castration 67 Fig. 50 — Intra-Inguinal Cryptorchid (Bayer). A, Testes Inside Abdominal Cavity; B B, Internal Abdominal Wall; C, Spermatid Cord Inside Inguinal Canal; D, Tunica Vaginalis; E E, Dotted lines indicate outlines of Spermatic Cord; F, Internal Abdominal Ring; G, Inguinal Canal. Operative Technique — The incisions are made and the scrotum and inguinal invaded in the same manner as that employed in the intra-abdominal variety. Location of the Testicle — The testicle is located by proceeding carefully up the inguinal canal, at the same time making strict search for the tunica vaginalis containing the spermatic cord and sometimes the epididymus. As soon as tunic is encountered ex- amine it carefully in order that no mistake in diagnosis be made. When satisfied that you are in possession of the tunica vaginalis, pass hook knife up the canal sufficiently high to knick the tunic and allow its contents — be they what they may — to escape into the inguinal canal. You are now in possession of the spermatic cord and are justified in applying a limited amount of traction in an effort to bring the testicle from the abdominal cavity through the internal abdominal ring into the inguinal canal. If successful, 68 Animal Castration then all that remains to be done is to sever the spermatic cord with the ecraseur and allow the animal to rise to his feet. Oftentimes the amount of traction which can safely be applied to the cord will not suffice to bring the testicle out of the abdominal cavity. The proper method of procedure in such a case is to perforate the abdominal wall with the peritoneum perforator (Fig. 40) one inch above and one inch forward of the internal abdominal ring. With the index and second finger in the abdominal cavity return the cord, and such other parts of it or the testicle as are in the inguinal canal, to the abdominal cavity, after which the cord can easily be brought through the abdominal perforation into the in- guinal canal and there is no way for the testicle to fail to follow. In other words, we make an intra-abdominal "ridgling" out of the intra-inguinal " ridgling" and castrate him as described in detail on pages 51-62. Supra Scrotal "Ridgling" — This is the variety where the testi- cle and spermatic cord are in the inguinal canal, however, too high up to be felt even on deep pressure ("High flanker"). This class is the usual one encountered in young animals, and corre- sponds to Miles' No. 2. Not being in possession of knowledge which would indicate to us in advance that the testicle is not actually in the abdominal cavity we are forced to proceed accordingly and prepare patient, sterilize instruments, cast and tie, disinfect field of operation, make scrotal incisions, invade scrotum and inguinal canal, the same as we would for a "ridgling" of the intra-abdominal va- riety. However, encountering the tunica vaginalis containing the testicle high up in the inguinal canal — outside of abdominal cav- ity — we are spared the effort and the animal the danger of per- forating the abdominal wall. All that is necessaryy to be done is to pass the hook knife up the canal, knick the tunica vaginalis, allow the testicle to escape, sever the cord with emasculator, and allow the animal to rise to his feet. Secondary Operation — Oftentimes a previous attempt — by an incompetent operator — has been made to remove an undescended testicle. In such cases the scrotum and groin are filled with sear tissue to the extent of complicating the entrance to inguinal canal and abdominal cavity and otherwise making the operation diffi- cult, unpleasant and unsatisfactory. In such cases the conva- Animal Castration 69 lescence is prolonged besides the mortality is greater than it would have been had this unsuccessful previous attempt not been made. In operating upon this class of cases the scrotum is entered in the usual way, after which cut through and break down scar tissue in the canal until the internal abdominal ring is reached. In doing this it often becomes necessary to control profuse hemor- rhage by ligation. When the internal abdominal ring is reached we use it as a landmark and proceed to finish the operation in the usual manner. Such cases are referred to as "Repeats." (d) Anomalous "Ridgling" — This is the variety in which path- ological ("diseased") testicles are encountered, and corresponds to Miles' No. 5. The diseased conditions most often observed are as follows: Hypertrophy, Cysts — including dermoid, simple se- rous, and dentigeous varieties — Solid Tumors (Sarcocelous), etc. In operating upon "ridglings" belonging to this class the same general principles are employed as apply in castrating intra- abdominal "ridglings" with exception of size of the perforation through the abdominal wall and methods of removing the testi- cle therefrom. Instead of making a perforation only sufficiently large to admit two fingers, it is usually necessary to make one that will admit the whole hand. When cystic testicles are encoun- tered it oftentimes becomes necessary to free them of their fluid contents by use of trocar and canula before they can be withdrawn through abdominal incision. In removing large, solid tumors which are too voluminous to be brought down the inguinal canal then the flank method of operating must be resorted to. The operative tech- nique must be modified step by step as the circumstances and con- dition met justify. The operator must solve the problems as tfiey arise. No fixed modus operandi applicable to such pathological conditions can be intelligently outlined. It is "up to the individ- ual operator," and my best advice is for you to "go to it" and do your best. After Care and Treatment — Place animal in a sanitary, well- bedded box stall immediately after operation is completed. Halter head up in such manner as to prevent him from lying down for 24 hours. If suffering severe pain (colicky) 1 ounce fluid extract Cannabis Indica may be given in capsule at 2-hour intervals, Al- low plenty of water, but no feed during first 12 hours. At the ex- 70 Animal Castration piration of 24 hours remove packing, imhalter animal, and if possible turn him to pasture. Turning to pasture is advocated for two reasons, viz.: first, for exercise, which is a very essential part of the after treatment ; second, to get the patient away from the dirt and manure around the barnyard and stable, thus avoiding the greatest danger of wound contamination. Moderate daily exercise is essential even should it become neces- sary to force the patient to take it. Violent exercise is harmful, and is not called for at any stage of the game. Usually as soon as the swelling appears and the soreness develops — the very time they need exercise most — there is a tendency on part of the pa- tient to stand still in one place for hours without moving. Should such happen, the animal must be led in a walk at end of halter rein about a mile morning and night until after the eighth or ninth day. If lips of skin wound adhere together in such man- ner as to interfere with free inguinal and scrotal drainage, then the parts and the operator's fingers should be thoroughly washed and the scrotum opened, after which irrigate the wound. Keep bowels lax by bran mashes and green food. Sequelae— Septic Infection (see page 74). Tetanus (see page 74). Abscess of Scrotum and Inguinal Canal (see page 74). Colic (see page 77). Prolapse of Intestine (see page 76). In- juries from Casting (see page 76). Peritonitis (see page 77). Primary and Secondary Hemorrhage (see page 79). Oedema of Sheath and Ventral Surface of Abdomen (see page 79). Para- phimosis (see page 81). Azoturia (see page 77). Schirrous Cord i see page 82.) Remarks — -If the foregoing illustrations and description of the "ridgling" operation are not plain and self-explanatory, then the author must confess that he is incapable of imparting knowledge or information of this character. An extra effort was purposely and honestly made to dispense with much superfluous "stuff" often termed "information" widely used by some in describing the modus operandi of "ridgling" castration. The reader is here assured that the author's only object was to level the technique down to a plain, solid, practical basis in order that this most nec- essary economic operation could be learned and more generally practiced for the benefit of mankind in general and the American horse raising industry in particular. Animal Castration 71 Orchitis — Both acute and chronic orchitis are not infrequently encountered in castration operation. Definition — Inflammation of the testicle. Symptoms — (a) Ante Orchitis — Swelling of testicle accompa- nied by heat, also pain on pressure. Arching the loins, stiffness and straddling gait are usually observed, (b) Chronic Orchitis — Enlargement and hardening of the testicle accompanied by adhe- sion of that organ to the tunica vaginalis. Advisability of Castration — (a) Acute Orchitis — When an acute case of orchitis is encountered and its presence recognized before the scrotum is opened it is always advisable to postpone operation until a later date in order to give the inflammation time to subside. (b) Chronic Orchitis — There is no special reason why an animal cannot be safely castrated while affected with chronic orchitis, even though the case be an aggravated one. In such event the testicle itself would be quite voluminous in size and completely surrounded by adhesions firmly connecting it to the tunica vag- inalis. The method of procedure when such a complication as this is encountered is to proceed as you would in castrating a stallion in normal condition, with the exception that it will be found neces- sary to detach the testicle from the tunica vaginalis by tearing and blunt and sharp dissection of the adhesions. Sometimes the hemorrhage from blood vessels in the tunic is quite profuse and must be controlled by hemostatic forceps and ligatures. Adhesions — See Chronic Orchitis above. HERMAPHRODITE. Definition — An animal affected with hermaphrodism, a condi- tion in which both sexes are manifested. Objects and Indications — In those cases of hermaphrodism in which the male genitals are most developed the animal will have the same habits and exhibit most of the objectionable qualities observed in the "ridgling." In such cases it is oftentimes ad- visable to undertake the removal of the testicles. In fact, the vet- erinarian is called upon to perform this operation much oftener than is usually imagined. 72 Animal Castration Age — Same as castration of the stallion. (See page 14.) Season — Spring and fall. Preparation— Same as castration of the stallion. (See page 14.) Restraint — Same as castration of the "ridgling." (See page 54.) Anatomy — The general anatomy of the parts is, of course, the same as that of the stallion. (See pages 19-21.) However, the testicles in this class of animals are indefinitely located. There is no hard and fast rule with reference to their location which would be a definite guide in finding them. They are usually outside the abdominal cavity. Most frequently in the inguinal canal, but in Fig. 51 — Hermaphrodite Horse. Animal Castration 73 some instances they are in posterior part of scrotum. Figure 51 illustrates one of the author's cases where one testicle was high up in the inguinal canal and the other in the scrotum. Instruments— Same as castration of the "ridgling." (See pages 57-59.) Position — Dorsal. Sterilisation of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Same as castration of the stallion. (See page 24.) Operative Technique — With animal cast a careful search should be made in every conceivable direction and in every logical loca- tion for the testicles. If they can be felt then the operation is greatly simplified. If they are concealed then the proper course to pursue is to open the scrotum and proceed up the inguinal canal as you would in castrating a ' ' ridgling. ' ' When found the testicles should be brought out of scrotal incision provided the spermatic cords are not too short to permit it. If cords are short, then pass the ecraseur up the canals and sever them. After Care and Treatment— Same as "ridgling." (See page 69.) 74 Animal Castration CHAPTER VI. SEQUELAE OF CASTRATION. Septic Infection — Contamination of the wound either during operation or afterwards may result in Septicaemia, Pyaemia, Peritonitis, Tetanus, Abscess, etc. Abscess of Scrotum and Inguinal Canal — This condition arises as a consequence of septic infection associated with the skin inci- sions adhering together too early after the operation. Treatment — Evacuation by lancing in such site and manner as to afford free drainage. Followed by daily irrigation with any reliable antiseptic solution is the extent of treatment. Tetanus ("Lock Jaw") is the most frequent sequelae of cas- tration in the Southern States, and from all information at hand I am inclined to believe that this sequelae is no less frequent in other sections of the United States. Cause — We know that tetanus is caused by the Tetanus Bacillus gaining access to the wound. This may take place either at time of operation or later. Whenever a case of tetanus develops after castration the owner will invariably censure the operator. How- ever, experience has led me to conclude that the operator should be held blameless in the great majority of instances. At least ninety per cent of animals which develop tetanus after castration contract the infection from lying down in manure and dirt, thus contaminating the wound, after the actual operation has been performed. In every castration operation there is a possibility of post-operative infection. Period of Incubation — The period of incubation varies from 8 to 30 days. Symptoms — Stiffness and contraction of all the voluntary mus- cles, more especially those of the tail and jaws. As a result of this muscular stiffness the tail and head are protruded, the jaws stiff — partial or complete — straddling and awkward gait. When tlie head is raised the nictitating membrane ("haw") protrudes over the eyeball. (See Fig. 52.) Animal Castration 75 Fig. 52 — A Colt with Tetanus 18 Days After Castration. Treatment — Is both prophylactic and curative. Prophylactic treatment consists in the administration of 1,500 units of tetanus antitoxin immediately after each castration operation. Curative treatment consists of casting the animal, opening- up the scrotal wound and swabbing it out thoroughly with tincture of iodine, afer which place him in a quiet box stall away from other live stock and noise and administer 30 grains powdered ex- tract Cannabis Indica three times a day. The diet should consist of sloppy foods. Mortality — The mortality will vary from 30 to 75 per cent, ] > rola})se of the Omentum — While prolapse of the omentum is a rare sequelae of castration, nevertheless, it does sometimes occur, and when it does take place prompt and heroic measures in the way of treatment are imperative if the life of the animal is to be saved. Usually when the omentum protrudes from the scrotal incision it is simply a forerunner of what is to happen later, viz.: protrusion of the intestine and death of the animal unless intelli- gently directed relief measures are promptly institued. 76 Animal Castration Operative Technique — Cast and secure patient in Dorsal posi- tion, after which cleanse parts and hands of the operator by care- fully and thoroughly washing with antiseptic solution. Sever protruding portion of omentum with the emasculator, after which replace that portion which remains in the inguinal canal back through the internal abdominal ring into the abdominal cavity. If there is evidence of the internal abdominal ring being abnor- mally enlarged it is safest, in fact advisable, to gather up the tunica vaginalis and ligate it as near the internal abdominal ring as possible with chromicized catgut (14 day) large size. Proceed same as for inguinal and scrotal hernia, pages 47-51. If thought advisable there is no special objection to packing scrotum with sterile gauze and suturing up. Remove sutures and packing in 24 to 30 hours and irrigate the canal and scrotum once daily for 8 days with Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of 1 tablespoonful to each quart of water. Daily exercise at pas- ture or to halter is advisable. Prolapse of Intestine — This is another rare though dangerous and annoying sequelae of castration, one which is always fatal unless treated promptly and properly. Operative TecJmique — Same as outlined above for treatment of prolapse of omentum with the exception that if the loop of intestine is distended by gas it should be allowed to escape by use of small trocar and canula. If internal abdominal ring is con- tracted or too small to permit return of intestinal loop then it be- comes necessary to enlarge the ring (Kelotomy) by using probed point bistoury. Injuries as Result of Casting — It is possible for the animal to receive halter burns, lacerations and abrasions of different kinds. Rupture of muscles and tendons sometimes occur. The vertebrae and other bones may become fractured. Some horses present rad- ical paralysis as a sequelae of casting, while others become ex- hausted and never rise after being released. The correct treat- ment of the above will be left to the judgment of the operator. They are mentioned here more as a warning to him to exercise care, good judgment, and discretion in manipulating his restraint technique than for any other reason. "Safety first" should be the watchword. Animal Castration 77 Colic — Post-operative colic characterized by abdominal and scrotal pain, and not infrequently by more or less flatulence is a by no means rare occurrence, especially in old stallions and crypt- orchids. Treatment — Choral hydrate or fluid extract Cannabis Indica in 1 ounce doses at 2-hour intervals until pain subsides. Peritonitis — Septic infection is the direct cause of peritonitis as a sequelae of castration. The infection can be introduced at time of operation by contaminated instruments or hands of the operator or it may be of post-operative origin as a result of wound infection from manure and dirt in barnyard or pasture. Peritonitis develops most often as a sequelae of cryptorchid ("ridgling") castration than otherwise. It is one of if not the must serious sequelae of castration. Symptoms — Peritonitis as a result of sepsis usually ensues 2 to 5 days after operation. Its development is characterized by chilly sensations, indisposition to move about, and in the event of moving there is a well marked stiffness and soreness of gait. Restlessness, pawing with the fore feet, and striking at abdomen with hind ones. Abdomen and flanks tucked up and decidedly rigid. Constipation is usually evident, and colicky pains may be shown. Tenderness on pressure to the abdominal wall, partic- ularly shown when this pressure is made in the flank region. Ele- vated temperature (102 to 105 degrees F.), quick breathing, hard and wiry pulse. If death does not ensue in a short time, there is usually an extensive effusion of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Treatment — Purgatives should never be administered. If nec- essary to secure bowel movement better resort to and depend en- tirely upon enemas. To allay the pain there is nothing better than tincture opium 1 ounce given in capsules at intervals of 4 hours. A mustard plaster applied to abdominal wall is indicated in the majority of cases. Pro gnos is — Un f a vor abl e . Azoturia — This is a disease caused by hyper-nutrition and lack of bodily exercise, the development of which — as a sequelae of castration — is extremely embarrassing to say the least of it. Azo- turia never develops where daily exercise either at work or in pasture is allowed. However, with animals that have been well 78 Animal Castration fed and kept confined in stall it is a condition which we may en- counter at any time when casting and confining such animal. On account of the danger of azoturia it is well to know whether the animal has had sufficient exercise before you undertake to operate. Symptoms — After the operation is completed and the restraint apparatus removed the animal may fail to rise to his feet alto- gether, or upon rising may be stiff in one or more legs — most fre- quently the hind legs — perspiring freely, evincing pain by pawing, and restlessness. If urine is voided we observe the characteristic " coffee color." Swelling and rigidity of muscles of haunch (Grlu- tius Maximus) knuckling in hind ankles, etc., are diagnostic symp- toms of this affection. Pre ven tion — Daily exercise. Treat nt cut — Catheterization. Stimulating liniments rubbed on affected muscles. Internally, F. E. belladonna % ounce, sweet spirits nitra 1 ounce, in capsules, at 2-hour intervals. An aloes purge is sometimes beneficial. If the case is a mild one and the animal can stand upon its feet it is advisable to halter head up to prevent lying down. POST-OPERATIVE HEMORRHAGE — PRIMARY AND SECONDARY. (a) Primary Hemorrhage — May ensue immediately after the operation from failure of emasculator to close the spermatic artery or from the scrotal plexis of veins being severed with point of knife at time incision is made. Treatment — It is only in extremely rare instances that it be- comes necessary to artificially control hemorrhage of this source and character. Nature will, as a rule, relieve the surgeon of such responsibility, provided he will be patient for 20 to 30 minutes and allow her time to do it. It is more often necessary to treat the owner while his animal is bleeding than it is to treat the animal itself. During twenty-one years' experience, in which time more than 14,000 stallions, colts and mules were castrated, not a single animal died as a result of primary hemorrhage, and not a single cord was ligated nor a scrotum packed. If you pro- cure a properly constructed emasculator the next thing is to impose the utmost confidence in it, in which event you will not Animal Castration 79 become unduly alarmed every time a stallion or colt bleeds freely for a few minutes after castration. Remember that it is impos- sible to do a bloodless operation with the emasculator. If you are expecting a bloodless job you will as a rule be disappointed ex- cept in extremely enemic colts. If you are afraid of hemorrhage, remember that the only method of operation in which you do not get more or less blood is the antiquated ligature. If a stallion bleeds freely after castration operation the best way to proceed is to place him in a box stall, shut the door and go with the owner to dinner. After dinner take a leisurely smoke with the owner — this usually consumes about an hour's time— after which examine the patient and you will find that nature has come to your rescue and hemorrhage has ceased. (b) Secondary Hemorrhage — This form of hemorrhage inva- riably ensues from the spermatic artery and contrary to primary hemorrhage is dangerous, and may result in death of animal un- less controlled. It usually occurs from one to six hours after castration; however, it sometimes occurs several days after oper- ation. Hemorrhage of this character is usually caused by dis- eased conditions of the arteries (Haemophilia), increased heart action, sloughing of spermatic cord, etc. The blood comes in spurts directly from the artery in a good size stream. Treatment — Nature cannot be depended upon to control tins class of hemorrhage. Sometimes it is possible to apply haemo- static forceps to mouth of the bleeding vessel. When this can- not be done with the animal in standing posture then cast and secure the patient in dorsal position, thoroughly cleanse the parts with antiseptic solution and make an effort to ligate the artery. This should always be done with chromicized catgut (10 day). If silk or any other form of unabsorbable ligature material is used a scrotal fistula is liable to result. In the event it is found impos- sible to locate and ligate the artery, then you would be justified in packing the canal and scrotum with sterile gauze and suturing the skin incision. Remove the packing in 24 hours, after which irrigate parts once daily with antiseptic solution. Oedema of Sheath and Ventral Surface of Abdomen — Oedema as a sequelae of castration (See Fig. 53) is a condition which we may reasonably expect in the great majority of instances, espe- 80 Animal Castration cially may we expect it in aged stallions and those which are kept stabled and not allowed the requisite amount of exercise. Unless the sheath and abdominal swelling is associated with a local or systemic septic infection or it becomes so voluminous as to cause interference with voiding the urine, it is harmless and requires no treatment aside from free scrotal drainage and exercise. The swelling begins to appear on the third day and gradually enlarges until the sixth day, after which it begins to recede rapidly until the eighth or ninth day, at which time complete recovery has usually taken place. Treatment — When treatment is required the first thing to be done is to wash the scrotal and inguinal and sheath regions with Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of one tablespoonful to each quart of water. Cleanse the hands in like Fig. 53 — Oedema of Sheath Fourth Day. After Castration. Animal Castration 81 manner. With twitch applied and held by an assistant, two fingers are introduced into the scrotal wound by forcing the lips of the incision apart sufficiently to afford free scrotal and inguinal canal drainage, after which irrigate the parts with antiseptic so- lution. With a sharp-pointed bistoury the point of sheath (an- terior portion) may be punctured at the several dependent sites in order to allow the accumulated fluid to escape by oozing out. In scarifying the sheath the blade of the knife should be guarded with the thumb in such a way as to prevent too deep puncturing. Paraphimosis— Prolapse of the penis (See Fig. 54) may re- sult from extensive inflammation and swelling of the spermatic Fig. 54 — Paraphimosis Eight Days After Castration. cords (folliculitis) and extensive oedema of the sheath, (ien- erally the penis protrusion is merely a temporary affair, and as soon as the swelling and inflammation of the spermatic cords, 82 Animal Castration . sheath and scrotum subsides the penis assumes its normal posi- tion in the sheath. Treatment — The first essential is to support the pendulent penis, as its great weight and position are unfavorable for absorption of the fluid and reduction of the swelling. Bathe the swollen parts with plenty of warm water to which has been added sugar of lead (plumbii acetate) in the strength of one ounce to each gallon of water. With a properly constructed suspensory a warm pack saturated with the above solution may be kept applied to the parts, Schirrous Cord or Chronic Funiculitis (Champignon) — Is an enlarging and hardening of the stump of the spermatic cord. It sometimes reaches enormous proportions, sufficiently large in some instances to fill and distend the whole inguinal canal and groin. In long standing chronic cases the cord is surrounded by dense adhesions. A genuine schirrous cord never reduces in size spontaneously, but has a tendency to grow larger and be- come harder. Cause — There are two principle reasons for this sequelae of castration : 1. Operator leaving stump of cord sufficiently long to be caught between lips of scrotal incisions during the healing process. This, of course, strangulates the cord and causes it to enlarge and harden. 2. Infection either actinomycotic, streptococcic, or botryomy- cotic. This accounts for the constant pus discharge and numerous abscesses which make their appearance from time to time. Either ignorance or carelessness on the part of operator is responsible for this unappreciated condition. By removing enough cord and practicing cleanliness at the outset schirrous cord would be to a large degree eliminated. The development of schirrous cords was largely reduced when the emasculator superceded the old-style clamp method of operating. Trail incut — In the acute stage of development — which means two to six weeks after castration — the scrotal region should be frequently cleansed by washing. The scrotal wound itself should be painted once every two days with tincture iodine. During this T)eriod it is well to give iodide potash in 4-drachm doses once a day. Animal Castration 83 Fig. 55 — A Well Developed Schirrous Cord. If at the end of six weeks the tumefaction still persists, then the radical operation — which consists in total ablation — is justi- fied and in fact indicated. Restraint— Same as for ridgling castration, sec page 54. Position — Dorsal. General Anaesthesia is always indicated when possible, as the operation is extremely painful and usually prolonged for a con- siderable length of time in order to control hemorrhage. Instruments, ete. — 1. Ecraseur (Figs. 5, 6, 7, and 8). 2. Threaded needles for ligating blood vessels, suturing skin incision and ligating cord if for any reason the ecraseur ■ fails to sever it. 84 Animal Castration 3. Sterile gauze in liberal amount. 4. Haemostatic forceps (several pairs) 5. Sharp scalpel. 6. Vulsellum forceps (Fig. 56.) 7. Thumb tissue forceps. Fig. 56 — Vulsellum Forceps (8-inch). Pig. 57— Schirrous Cord. Showing Skin Incision. B, Old Cicatrix with Imprisoned End of Cord; C, Scrotum; D, Elliptical Skin Incisions tor Ablating the Growth. Animal Casteation 85 Sterilization of Instruments, Cleansing Operator's Hands and Fwld of Operatwn-Same as castration of the stallion. (See page 24.) w~c Operative Technique-With field of operation, operator's hands and mstrmnente sterile and animal in dorsal position, proceed to operate as follows: With scalpel in right hand make two curved <• h P h,al incisions (D, Fig. 57 , 5 inches long with th oZ mal cicato (scar B as the center. These incisions should pen- etrate skn, and subcutaneous connective tissue onl y . liv careful faction (both diarp and blunt) the cord is gradually sened ''"" l ^tedby breaking down the numerous dense adherens surrounding it. The elliptical sect f skin which is removed on end of cord should be sufficiently large to include all external Fig n> 1 58 ~ I I emov i n - Schirrous Cord with B Chain Around * : r. v=,u^„S B: ^Seu?; WSSt&SflUss- 86 Animal Castration diseased tissue, such as scars, granulations, etc. The tumor is now grasped with the vulsellum forceps (Fig. 58.) These are held by an assistant in such manner as to afford considerable direct upward traction. With the cord tense from traction the careful dissection is continued up the inguinal canal until a point is reached well above the diseased or indurated portion of the cord. If the entire cord is diseased, then we should proceed up the canal to a point in close proximity to the internal abdominal ring. Usually after the cord is released from its scrotal adhe- sions the remainder of the dissection process can be completed by tearing with the fingers. All freely bleeding blood vessels — except tlmse in cord itself — should be ligated as you proceed. When the growth is freed from all surrounding attachments the ecraseur chain should be placed around it as high up as necessary and with continued traction from vulsellum forceps the cord is quickly severed. If cord is too large to be severed by the ecraseur, then the ligature must be resorted to. In such event the cord should be transfixed and ligated in several sections. The scrotal wound should now be irrigated thoroughly with bichloride mercury solu- tion in the strength of 1-1000, after which pack tightly with for- malized gauze and suture up securely. After Treatment — If upon completion of the operation decided shock is imminent the animal should have strychnine y 2 grain, nitro-glycerine y± grain, hypodermically. If a large amount of blood has been lost normal saline solution injected intravenously is indicated. Remove packing in 36 hours and irrigate the wound daily with Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of a tablespoonful to each quart of water. Exuberant Granulations — On account of some mishap in oper- ative technique or some character of infection, exuberant granula- tions sometimes appear as a sequelae of castration. They are, of course, first acute and in most instances disappear without treat- ment. However, if a cure is not effected in the acute stage, then they assume a chronic form and may reach enormous proportions in size. (See Fig. 59.) They are usually extra-scrotal. Animal Castration 87 ^^r Fig. 59 — Exuberant Granulations Which Have Assumed the Chronic Form and Reached Enormous Size. If not attached to cord their removal and after treatment is a simple matter, consisting in removing the skin by dissection well around their base, controlling cutaneous hemorrhage and daily washing the wound with antiseptic solution. Hydrocele {"Water Bag")— Is simply an accumulation of se- rous fluid in the testicular sac (tunica vaginalis), from which the testicle itself has been removed. Cause — There is only one cause for this condition. It may be directly attributed to either the operator's carelessness or igno- rance. The only reason for the development of hydrocele as a sequelae of castration is leaving too much of the tunica vaginalis 88 Animal Castration in the scrotum at time of severing the spermatic cord. If at least one inch of the tunica lie removed then there is no occasion, in fact, no possibility of a hydrocele developing. Frequency — It is rare to see hydrocele in the stallion and colt, however, the reverse is true as regards the mule. Hydrocele is decidedly the most frequent sequelae of mule castration, and noth- ing reflects quite so much — in mule raising centers — upon a man's ability and qualification as having numerous mules which he cas- Fig. 60— Well Developed Hydrocele ("Water Bag") i.\ a Three-Year-Old Mule. A, Hydrocele. trates turn up later with "water hags." While they do not inter- fere in the least with the general health and usefulness of the animal they are nevertheless great "eye sores," and depreciate the animal's marketable value, hence should in every instance be Animal Castration 89 removed by surgieal interference. They may be unilateral or bilateral. Preparation — Same as for castration of the stallion. (See page 14.) Sterilization of Instruments and () iterator's Hands — Same as for castrating the stallion. (Sec page 24.) Restraint — For small mules, same as for castration of the cult. (See page 36.) For large mules, same as for castration of the "ridgling." (See pages 54-56.) Position — Dorsal. Instruments — 1. Miles' hook castrating knife. (Sec Pig. 25.) 2. Vulsellum forceps. (See Fig. 56.) 3. Ecraseur. (See Fig. 41.) 4. Haemostatic forceps. Fig. 61 — Hydrocele Showing Skin Incisions. B, Hydrocele: C, Incisions; D, Knife; E, Right Hand of Operator. 90 Animal Castration Sterilization of Field of Operation — Same as castration of the stallion. (See page 24.) Technique of Operation — With Miles' hook castrating knife in right hand (E) two curved or elliptical incisions are made (C, Pig. 61) to the right and left of the most prominent part of the hydrocele (B). This means that the old cicatrix (scar) is in cen- ter of section of skin removed. These incisions should be made from 4 to 5 inches long— depending upon size of the hydrocele. They should extend through skin and subcutaneous connective tis- sue only. With the vulsellum forceps grasp elliptical section of Fig. 62 — Hydrocele Showing .Method of Removal by the Ecraseur. F, Left Hand of Operator; G, Vulsellum Forceps; H, Hydrocele; I, Ecraseur; J, Right Hand of Operator. skin which is to be removed with the hydrocele. Have assistant make upward traction while the superficial subcutaneous adhesions are being carefully broken down by sharp dissection. These ad- hesions never extend deep and are readily broken down. If neces- sary ligate spurting blood vessels as you proceed. As soon as the scrotal adhesions are removed from around tunica vaginalis the Animal Castration 91 operator takes charge of the vulsellum forceps with his left hand and with fingers of the right tears the tunica vaginalis loose from its delicate fascia attachments until a point is reached on the spermatic cord well above where it was formerly severed. The chain of the ecraseur is now applied to tunica ("sac") and the same, including the stump of spermatic cord, is severed. It is rarely over necessary to pack the scrotum in order to control hem- orrhage. Fig. 63 — Hydrocele After Removal. After Care and Treatment — About all this is necessary is daily observation in order to see that everything proceeds well. Tf sequelae arise they must be treated as outlined under their re- spective headings. 92 Animal Castration CHAPTER VII. CASTRATION OF THE BULL. Objects and Indications — The operation is usually performed for purely economic purposes. However, in some instances, on account of diseased conditions of the scrotum, testicle and sper- matic cord, it becomes necessary to castrate. On the other hand some bulls become vicious to the extent of being a source of danger and annoyance to their owners and attendants, in which event castration must be resorted to. As an economic operation —especially in young' animals — its value is beyond estimate. Cas- tration increases physical development and hastens early growth as well as improving the texture, odor, wholesomeness and nutri- tive properties of the beef. Bulls are also castrated for the pur- pose of making work oxen. Castrated bulls are known as "steers." Age — From several days to several years. The younger the better. Most calves are submitted to the operation at about two to three months old. Season — Early spring, late fall and winter. The bull or calf should never be submitted to castration operation during "fly time." Bovine animals do not possess the same instinct in pro- tecting themselves from flies — by warding them off with tail — as does the equine species. On this account late spring, early fall ;i!id summer are unfavorable seasons for castrating this class of animals. Bulls are castrated in both the standing and recumbent posture. Preparation — No special preparal ion is necessary unless the ani- mal is to be cast and tied, in which event have the alimentary tract empty by withholding feed tor 24 hours before operating. CASTRATION OF THE BULL IX Till', RECUMBENT POSTURE. Restraint — When it becomes necessary to cast and tie the ani- mal For this operation an excellent method of doing so is with the Conkey self -lock buckle hobbles. (Eig. 64.) Animal Castration 93 J. Fig. 64 — Conkey's Self Lock Buckle Hobbles Applied. These hobbles have the advantage of being strong, safe, quick to apply and easy to remove. The degree of restraint afforded by them is ample, especially when used in conjunction with a 15-foot rope. In applying hobble straps to cattle always buckle or 1i> them above the ankles, otherwise there is a tendency for them to slip over the foot and off. The hobbles arc applied as follows (Fig. (>I) : With an assistant (C) at the head, a "holder" in the nose (A) and rope around horns (B) buckle a hobble strap above ankles of both hind (G, II) and the right fore (I' 1 .). Buckle master hobble strap above left Fore ankle (B). Pass the end of rope through hobble strap (G) then through (H), then through (E), and lastly across through self-lock buckle (F). By making tension on rope (I) from (J) — at direct right angles to the animal — he is cast on the right side. After the animal is cast (See Fig. 65) the uppermost hind ankle (N) is released from its hobble strap and the end of a 15-foot rope looped on instead of the hobble strap. This rope (P) is passed over withers (O) under neck (Q) and above hock (E) in such manner as to draw the foot against the abdomen and flex the hock to a certain degree. In this position of the animal the operation can be pro- ceeded with without danger to either the operator or patient. Calves may be held without tieing by one or more assistants. 94 Animal Oastkation Fig. 65 — Bull Cast and Tied for Castration Operation. Instruments — The emasculator (Figs. 5, 6, 7, and 8) and cas- trating knife are the only instruments needed. The Miles hook castrating knife (Fig. 25) and the Williams castrating knife (Fig. 2) are equally satisfactory for this operation. ANATOMY. 4 h\ order to operate intelligently some knowledge of the anatomy of the scrotum, testicle and inguinal canal is necessary. However, lack of space prevents going into details here. By reference to Fig. 66 a general idea of the relation and position of the generative or reproductive organs of the bull may be had. Testicle — The testicle is a compound tubular gland ovoid in shape and well developed with its long axis vertical. On the epididymus is a well developed globus major. Penis — The penis is round in shape and long in length. It pro- jects far under the abdomen and possesses the well recognized S- shape curve. Its gland is small and pointed. Prepuce — The prepuce is located well under the abdomen. It is simply an elastic sheath, surrounded at its external opening by long stiff hairs. Its cavity is from 10 to 15 inches long. Scrotum — The scrotum is long and pendulous, and has a well marked neck. It is suspended between the thighs somewhat fur- ther forward than in the stallion. Animal Castration 95 Fig. 66 — Generative or Reproductive Organs of the Bull. A, Ejaculator Seminis; D, Intrapelvic Portion of Urethra; C. Urinary Bladder; D, D, Ureters; E, E, Intra- Abdominal Portion of Spermatic Cords; F, S-Shape Curve in Penis; G, Retractor Muscles of Sheath; H, H, Tunica Vaginalis; 1, Penis; J, Prepuce; K, Scrotum; L, L, Testicles; M, M, Internal Abdominal Rings. Spermatic Cord — The spermatic cord and its covering — tnnica vaginalis — is much longer than in the stallion. Inguinal (/anal — This canal is long and narrow, and directed almost perpendicular to the scrotum. 96 Animal Castration Fig. 67— Testicle of Bull. A, Spermatic Cord; B, Testes; C, Globus Major of Epididy- ruus; D, Epididymus. Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Same as castration of the stallion. (See page 24.) Disinfection of the Operative Field — While this step in the op- erative procedure is usually ignored entirely or if done at all it is usually done in a perfunctory manner, nevertheless such neg- lect is inexcusable. On account of the danger of sepsis and other sequelae known to follow hull castration, the operator should take the time and precaution necessary to disinfect the field of opera- tion. This may be quickly done as follows: (a) Scrub scrotum and inside of thighs with soap and warm water until all visible dirt is removed. (b) AYasli parts with Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of one tablespoonful t<> each quart of water. Operative Technique — There are two methods of making the Animal Castration 97 scrotal incision, (a) lateral or side incisions (see Fig. 68) ; (b) end incision (see Fig. 69). Lateral or Side Incision — This method is the most popular one, as after recovery there is less mutilation of the scrotum. Fig. 68 — Method of Making Lateral or Side Scrotal Incisions. A, Right Testicle in Scrotum; B, Scrotum; C, Knife; D, Right Hand; E, Left Hand; F, Incision. Grasp left side of scrotum in left hand and by compressing ii force right testicle to the right until the skin of scrotum is stretched tight. With sterilized knife in right hand begin in- cision 4 inches above apex of scrotum and bring it down to near the apex. The incision should be made through the skin, subcuta- neous connective tissue dartos and tunica vaginalis. This exposes the testicle. Grasp the testicle with the right hand and with the left strip the attached scrotal tissue from the cord until the cord itself is isolated well up to summit (top) of scrotum* The final 98 Animal Castration step of the operation consists in grasping testicle with left hand and making two pounds tension on its cord. With right hand apply emasculator to the spermatic cord and force it (emasculator) well to the summit (top) of scrotum. By bringing handles to- gether the cord and its coverings are severed. The opposite testi- cle is likewise removed. Fig. 69 — Method of Operating in Which Apex (Bottom) of Scrotum Is Removed. G, H, Testicles in Scrotum; I, Knife; J, Right Hand; K, Left Hand; L, Incision. (b) The other method <>f scrotal incisions (Fig. 69) consists in grasping apex (bottom) of scrotum with left hand and by com- pressing it force the testicles upward until the lower one-third of the scrotum may be severed without injuring them. With knife in right hand it is an easy affair to remove the lower one-third of the scrotal sac. The tunica vaginalis containing the testicles drops outside the Animal Castration 99 remaining portion of scrotum. By knicking the tunic the testi- cles themselves are exposed. With right hand grasp one of them and make two pounds traction on the cord, with left hand strip the scrotal tissue from the cord until it is isolated well up to summit (top) of scrotum. Next grasp testicle with left hand and make two pounds traction on cord. With right hand apply the emasculator and force it upward to summit (top) of scrotum in order that a sufficient amount of spermatic cord will he re- moved. By bringing handles of emasculator together the cord and all its coverings are severed. This method has the advantage of affording ideal scrotal drainage. Fig. 70 — Severing Spermatic Cord with Emasculator (Recumbent Posture). T, Right Hand; U, Testicle; V, Spermatic Cord and Its Coverings; W, Emasculator X, Left Hand; Y, Opposite Testicle. After Care and Treat aunt — Turn to pasture and make daily observation to see that all is going well. If the scrotal wound closes in such manner as to interfere with drainage and cause extensive swelling, then it should be opened and the scrotum irri- gated with antiseptic solution. 100 Animal Castration CASTRATION OF THE BULL IN STANDING POSTURE. Restraint — If the animal possesses horns a strong rope may be looped around them and his head drawn close up to a post. In most instances this is all the restraint employed. Contrary to the prevalent popular opinion the bull can actually kick backwards about as hard as he can sidewise. In castrating most bulls in the standing posture the operator must either stand out of range of the hind feet, confine them by means of ropes, or take his chances on the kicking proposition. In castrating young bulls (3 to 6 Fig 71— Castration of the Bull in;Stnnding Posture. E, Post; F, Rope; G, Left Hand; H, Scrotum;' 5, ilncision; J, Right Hand; K, Knife. Animal Castration 101 months of age) the standing posture is ideal and injury to the operator by kicks is extremely rare. The same instruments, preparation, disinfection of site of operation, sterilization of instruments, scrotal incisions, etc., are employed here as castrating bulls in the recumbent posture. The operator should — while making scrotal incision — have his knife under thorough control as at this time there is almost invariably an abrupt movement on part of the animal which might result in the knife coming in contact with the tendo-achillis ("hamstring") and doing irreparable damage. Calves are castrated in the same man- ner as bulls. castration of the cryptorch id and monorchid ("ridgling") rull. Compared with the horse and hog, cryptorchidism in cattle is extremely rare. However, such a complication does actually exist, and it behooves those who are expected to perform such classes of operations to qualify themselves for this one. Objects and Indications — Same as castration of the bull. See page 92. Age — Six to twelve months. Preparation — Withhold all food for twenty-four hours previous to operating. Position — Standing. Restraint — A simple, quick and efficient method of handling a bull fortius operation is illustrated in Fig. 72. With a rope around horns (B), if "polled' 1 use halter, and holder in nose (A), the head is made fast to gate post (C). While assistant continues to hold rope attached to nose the second assistant grasps tail (D) and draws it between slats of gate or fence (E). With animal in this position and thus secured he can be castrated with little annoy- ance in so far as body movement is concerned. If stocks are avail- able of course they should be used in preference to this method. Instruments— 1. Miles' hook castrating knife. (Fig. 25.) 2. Emasculator. (Figs. 5, 6, 7 and 8.) 3. Hair clippers. (Fig. 145.) 4. Spraying needle. (Fig. 152.) 5. Strong flax or braided silk for flank sutures. 102 Animal Castration Fig. 72 — Ridgling Bull Confined for Castration. Sterilization of Instruments and ( 'lean-sing Hands of Operator — The instruments should be boiled for 15 to 20 minutes. Operator's hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and warm water, using scrub brush, after which wash in Lysol or Cresol Compound. U. S. P., in the strength of one tablespoonful to each quart of water. Preparation of Operative Field — With clippers the hair in flank region should be removed, after which thoroughly wash parts with son)) and warm water, using scrub brush, then with Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of one tablespoonful to each quarl of water. As a further precaution against septic infection the skin should be painted with tincture iodine. Operative Technique — The most popular and satisfactory method of operating is flank laparotomy, which is as follows: With Miles' hook castrating knife make flank incision in the same manner and the same size as for heifer spaying. All the details of this incision are well illustrated and described under head of heifer spaying, and the render is strongly advised to refer to this reference before reading further in regard to the technique of the operation. Animal Castration 103 Fig. 73 — Removing" Testicle of "Ridgling" Bull with Emasculator. G, Flank Incision; H, Emasculator; I, Testicle; J, Hand. Fig. 74 — Flank Incision Closed by Three Interrupted Sutures. K, Sutures. 104 Animal Castration The flank incision itself is by far the most important step of the operation, and remember that there is only one proper way to make it. Learn how it should be made and make it that way. If we are invading the left flank the operator's left hand should be forced through the abdominal incision and a careful search made — toward the pelvic region — for either the testicle or sper- matic cord. One or both of them will soon be encountered. Bring the testicle outside the abdominal cavity if the cord is sufficiently long to permit it. Then sever cord with emasculator and drop stump of cord back into the abdominal cavity. If the cord is not long enough to permit testicle being brought out of abdomen, then the emasculator or ecraseur may be passed through the incision and cord severed inside. The wound is now sponged off with antiseptic solution and closed by three interrupted sutures. After Care and Treatment — Limited diet for five days. Re- moval of sutures at expiration of eight days. If stitch abscess forms the suture may be removed at an earlier date. Animal Castration 105 CHAPTER VIII. CASTRATION OF THE BOAR. Objects and Indications — Pigs are castrated in order to facili- tate their growth and fattening. Aside from the above the opera- tion has a tendency to improve their behavior when associated with other hogs, especially sows. Older hogs (boars) are often castrated when having reached the limit of usefulness as breeding animals, it is decided to prepare them for market. Even when castrated, boars never make choice meat. However, they take on flesh (fat- ten) very readily and their characteristic odor disappears to a de- cided degree. Castrated boars are known as "stags." Castrated pigs are referred to as "barrows" and it is a well-recognized fact that "barrows" command a higher market price than do boars. Castration is an operation which is universally practiced wher- ever swine are raised. Age — Pigs are best castrated either two weeks before or two weeks after weaning. If the operation is performed at or near weaning time it has a tendency to retard their growth and de- velopment. If allowed to run too long they become " boar is b" besides the operation is more painful than it would have been if they had been operated on younger. Season — Hogs should not be castrated during the summer months while flies are prevalent. Best to operate during late fall, winter and early spring. Preparation — No special preparation is necessary unless it be to have the animals empty, which would lessen the danger of injury from handling. Restraint — In castrating large boars it is necessary to take ad- vantage of the animal to a very decided degree. This is essential, first, on account of the great strength of the animal compared to its size, and, second, on account of there being no favorable part or appendage of the hog by which a firm hand hold can be taken. Satisfactory restraint may be had by several different 106 Animal Castration Fig. 75 — Restraint for Castration. Fig. 76— Restraint of Large Boar for Castration. Animal Castration 107 methods. Fig. 75 illustrates easting and tying the animal by bring- ing three feet together. To thus secure a large hog requires considerable time and much effort besides the services of several assistants. A favorite method of the author for handling large boars for this operation is graphically illustrated in Fig. 76. It consists in placing the loop of a half or three-quarter inch rope over the neck and behind one shoulder, after which throw the rope over beam above and allow the assistant to draw the fore- feet of the hog off the floor by tension on the rope. This renders the animal absolutely helpless. By such a method the operator with one assistant can handle the largest size hog. Another quick method of restraint for operation of this char- acter is illustrated in Fi and monorchid dog. ("rtdgling.") Objects and Indications— On account of the universally recog- nized fact that cryptorchidism in animals is transmitted by heredity, it is very important that such a dog should not be used for stud purposes. This applies more particularly to the monor- chid than it does to the cryptorchid. On account of the former- Fig. 106 — Severing Spermatic Cord with Emasculator. A, Table: B, Muzzle; C, Legs Fixed Together with Cord; D, Left Testicle; E, Right Testicle; F, Emasculator. 136 Animal Castration with one testicle descended— being able to propagate his species while the latter — both testicles inside the abdominal cavity— is incapable of reproduction. In order to cause the breed of such animals to cease castration should be resorted to. Aside from the above reason for castration the operation is valuable in causing a dog to remain contented at home. Age— All ages, preferably young dogs. Season — All seasons. Preparation— It is essential to have the alimentary tract empty. This is accomplished by withholding food for 24 hours previous to operating. Fig. 107 — View of Internal Abdominal Organs. G, Descended Testicle; H, Rectum; T, Urinary Bladder; J, Undescended Testicle Located in the Sub-Lumbar Region; K, Intestines. Animal Castration 137 Restraint— Preferably on operating table elevated to perpen- dicular position or in the absence of a table the animal may be hung up to a wall or post. In either event the tape muzzle is ap- plied as a protection against bites. Instruments— 1. Miles' hook castrating knife. (Figure 25.) 2. Emascnlator. (Figures 102 and 103.) 3. Richter's needle holder. (Figure 34.) 4. Surgeon's needle (full curved ) carrying 20 inches of No. 12 braided silk for sutures. Anatomy— A comprehensive idea of the location and relation of Fig. 108 — Abdominal Incision. 138 Animal Castration the parts concerned in this operation can be had by reference to Figure 107. Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Boil instruments for 15 to 20 minutes, after which immerse them in Lvsol or Cresol Compound U. S. P., in the strength of one table- spoonful to one quart of warm water. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, using scrub brush. Disinfection of Operative Field — Clip or shave hair from field of operation after which wash with soap and warm water until parts are visibly clean. Sponge off with antiseptic solution and paint with tincture iodine. Operative Technique— If left testicle is the one undescended a Fig. 109 — Severing Spermatic Cord with the Emasculator. B, Testicle; C, Emasculator. A, Incision; Animal Castration 139 point is selected to the left of the median line of the abdomen and about midway between brim of pelvis and prepuce (See Figure 108). " The incision is made 2 1-2 inches long— through all coats of the abdominal wall. Through this incision the index finger of right hand is passed and a search made in the sub-lumbar region for the spermatic cord. This cord is usually easy to locate. Withdraw cord through abdominal incision and the testicle follows natur- ally. Sever cord with the emascnlator (Figure 109) and replace its stump in abdominal cavity. All that remains to he done is to suture up abdominal incision. This is done by two "through and through" interrupted sutures. See Figure IK). Fig. 110— Incision Closed with 3 Interrupted Sutures. D, Sutures; E, Incision. 140 Animal Castration After Care and Treatment -The dog should be placed in sani- tary close quarters for 6 or 7 days ; during this period no exercise must be allowed and the diet should be of a light, easily digestible character, and limited. The two end sutures may be removed on the third day and the middle one on the fifth day. Animal Castration 141 CHAPTER XI. CASTEATION OF THE CAT. Objects and Indications— In order that they will remain con- tented at home. Age— The operation can be done safely at any age. Season — All seasons. Preparation— Same, as for castration of the dog. Restraint — Remember that a cat will scratch as well as bite and we must take the necessary precautions to protect ourselves from both. Two favorite methods of restraint— either of which are satisfactory— are as follows: (a) With all four feet tucked up against the abdomen, wrap the animal in a towel, leaving its posterior portion exposed. See Figure 111. Fig. Ill— Castration with Cat Wrapped in Towel. 142 Animal Castration (b) Place animal in an ordinary rubber boot with bind legs thrust through the finger straps. See Figure 112. Position— Dorsal. Instruments— Same as for castration of the dog. See page 131. Anatomy — Similar to that of the dog except on a smaller scale. Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands— Same as for castration of the dog. See page 133. Preparation of Operative Field — Same as that for castration of the dog, with the exception that special pains must be taken to see that the hair from scrotum is removed. See page 133. Operative Technique— Same as for castration of the dog. See pages 133-134. Fig. 112 — Castration with Cat in a Rubber Boot. A, Boot; B, B, Finger Straps; C, Severing Spermatic Cord with the Emasculator. Fig. 113 — Testicle After Removal. After Care and Treatment— Daily observation for the appear- ance of sequelae of castration. Animal Castration* 143 CHAPTER XII. CAPONIZING. Definition — Caponizing is a term applied to castrating fowls. In this country the operation is practiced almost exclusively on male chickens (••roosters"), and sometimes turkeys. Such fowls when castrated are known as capons. The capon bears the same relation to the " rooster" as the " steer" does to the bull, the ''bar- row" to the boar, etc. History— It is impossible to say just how long the operation of caponizing has been performed. It seems quite certain, how- ever, that the practice was familiar to the Chinese more than two thousand years ago. Later it was practiced by the Greeks and Romans and through medieval times, by the people of middle and southern Europe, until in recent years it has been introduced into America. At present capons are most universally known and ap- preciated in France, although within the last few years the busi- ness of producing them has advanced rapidly in this country. Much of the larger part of the industry is confined to that portion of the United States east of Philadelphia, though increasing num- bers of capons are being raised in the North Central States. Dur- ing the winter months '-capon" is regularly quoted in the markets of the larger eastern cities. Massachusetts and New Jersey are the great centers for the growing of capons, while Boston, New York and Philadelphia are the great markets. Objects and Indications — Caponizing changes a male chicken's disposition to the extent that he no longer shows an inclination to fight, becomes sluggish and quiet and more doeile than formerly. The true capon never crows. The comb and wattles cease growing. His society is not sought by other chickens— either roosters or hens— he becomes an outcast and on this account oftentimes takes up with baby chicks even to the extent of becoming a mother to them; scratch and work for them by day and hover them by night. On account of the more peaceful disposition of the capon his body develops rapidly and he grows larger and takes on fat more readily 144 Animal Castration than the ordinary male bird. At same time the body is developing the texture of the flesh is improving, and it is now a well recognized fact that the flavor and texture of the flesh of a capon is as much improvement over that of a rooster as the meat of a steer is over that of a bull. Hence capons are entitled to and do command a higher market price than either roosters or hens. Capons are less trouble to care for and to keep within prescribed bounds than other chickens. The economic value of caponizing justifies its more general practice. Selection of Breeds— Always select from the large breeds, viz: Light Brahmas, Cochins, Plymouth Rocks, Langshans, Wyan- dotts, Orpingtons, etc. Age — Two or three months is the best age at which to operate. The chicken should weigh from 1 1-2 to 2 pounds. Never operate after five months old. The mortality is low in young fowls and in- creases with age. Season — Summer— June, July and August. Fig. 114 — Restraint of the Fowl for Caponizing. A, A, Weight at Ends of Cords; B, Cords Looped Around Legs; C, Cord Looped Around Wings. Animal Castration 145 Restraint— The most economical and at the same time most satisfactory method, of restraint is illustrated in Figure 114. With a barrel or box used as an improvised operating table one cord is looped around the wings and another around the legs. The length of these cords will depend upon the size of box or barrel being used. To the free end of each cord a weight— one half brick— is attached. The fowl is now laid on table and the weights will produce suffi- cient traction on cords to hold it in proper position. Another method of restraint favored and used by some is a specially constructed board. See Figure 115. It will be observed that a self -locking staple is used to confine the wings, while the legs are confined by a loop strap with a weight suspended at its end. The holes through board makes it adjustable to all size fowls. Fig. 115 — Caponizing Board. A, Board; C, Feet Imprisoned in Strap Loop; B, Weight on End of Strap; E, Wings Imprisoned in Staple. Instruments — several different styles and kinds of instruments for performing the caponizing operation are on the American 10 146 Animal Castration market. Most of them are satisfactory after the operator becomes accustomed to handling them. They consist of: 1. Knife for making abdominal incision. 2. Spreaders or retractors for separating the ribs. 3. Appliances for removing the testicle. Some of the best of each of these are illustrated below. The operator should make his own selection. The author's preference is the " Farmer" Miles set. Fig. 116— Miles" Caponizing Knife. Fig. 117 — Miles' Spreaders. Fig. 118 — Spring Spreader Animal Castration 147 Fig. 119— Wire Spring Spreader. Pig. 120— Miles' Forceps. Fig. 121 — Scoop and Hook. Fig. 122— Clipping Knife, Scoop and Hook. Anatomy— The testicles are situated in the abdominal cavity. They are small, bean-shaped, sett, very friable and light colored. Their location is on each side of the vertebral column, immediately behind the lungs and in front of the kidneys. See Figure 123. They are opposite the last intercostal space." Above them is the aorta and vena cava. 148 Animal Castration Fig. 123— View of Testicles. Preparation— The most essential step connected with caponiz- ing is to have the fowls entirely empty at time of operating. This is accomplished by withholding food and water for 30 hours. Never attempt to operate upon a "full" chicken unless you are looking for trouble. Operative Technique— Unless a satisfactory artificial light is available the proper time of day at which to operate is between the hours of 10 a. m. and 2 p. m., as at this time the sun is high and in proper position to reflect its bright light into the abdominal cavity. Good light is one of the essentials. Never attempt to operate without it. With fowl properly confined and in such posi- tion as will enable the sunlight to illuminate the abdominal cavity — operate out of doors— instruments and hands of operator clean, proceed as follows: 1. Pluck feathers from field of operation. 2. Chill parts by glass full of ice water being slowly poured over skin. This chilling process lias a good influence in preventing cutaneous h em < > rrha ge. Animal Castration 149 3. With knife in right hand make abdominal incision by incis- ing the muscles in last intercostal space (between last two ribs). Since the intercostal artery passes along the posterior (back) bor- der of the ribs, this incision should closely follow the anterior (front) border of the last rib. The first incision includes all layers of the abdominal wall with exception of the peritoneum. 4. Insert spreaders and spread the ribs apart sufficiently to ad- mit scoop or forceps. 5. Knick peritoneum. This will open the abdominal cavity. 6. The testicles are now located and if both are to be removed from one abdominal incision the lowermost one should be removed first, otherwise the hemorrhage incident to removing the upper one would interfere with removal of the lower. There is not serious objection to operating from both sides, in which event the upper- most testicle is removed first. Cord; D, Vertebral Column; E, £2iAMr2&S^ 150 Animal Castration With scoop or forceps applied to the spermatic cord— care be- ing taken not to include the aorta or vena cava— the testicle is removed by twisting the cord with several turns of the instrument. Be sure and remove the entire testicle as if any portion of it is left, the fowl will crow, and be what is known as a " slip. " " Slips ' ' are not capons and are undesirable. 7. Remove the spreaders. This allows the ribs to come together and close the abdominal wound. If a mistake has been made by severing either the aorta or vena cava the fowl will die in a very few minutes from internal hemorrhage. Should death occur from such source the fowl can be used for food. Fig. 125 — Removing Testicle with Scoop. E, Abdominal Incision in Last Inter- costal Space; F, Scoop Applied; G, Spreaders Applied. On account of the almost complete immunity of the chicken from septic infection, healing of wound usually takes place by first intrusion and the fowl makes a quick and satisfactory re- covery. After Care and Treatment— Upon being released from the operating table the capons are usually put in a closed yard where they can find shelter, food and water and can be kept quiet. No roosts are provided, as the less flying and jumping they do the sooner will the wound heal. The capons seem to be very little Animal Castration 151 Fig. 126 — Removing Testicle with Miles' Forceps. J, Spreaders Applied; K, Forceps Applied; L, Abdominal Incision. inconvenienced by the operation, and water and soft feed mixed with sweet skim milk can be given immediately. Some feeders give this in unlimited quantity, while others feed more sparingly for a time. if' For a week or ten days the newly made capons should be care- fully observed to see whether they become '"wind puffed." This is a condition caused by air gathering under and puffing out the skin near the wound. When observed it can be readily relieved by pricking the skin with a needle or knife and pressing out the air. Mortality— About 1 to 2 per cent. 152 Animal Castration PART II. SPAYING. Synonyms — Ovariectomy, Oophorectomy, Ovariotomy. Definition — Spaying is a term applied to the operation of im- sexing the female. Animal Castration 153 CHAPTER I. MARE SPAYING. Objects and Indications — The principle indication for remov- ing the ovaries from mare is to correct the disagreeable and dan- gerous vice known as nymphomania, the symptoms of which are as follows: Usually when such animals are touched, especially while applying harness and saddles, they squat, switch their tails, kick, bite, urinate, etc., while at the same time the clitoris moves actively. This behavior of the clitoris is similar to its action dur- ing oestrum (heat) . Some nymph* unaniac mares are affected with such behavior continuously, while in others it is periodical. The intensity of the vice also varies in degree in different individuals. Some are affected to the extent of actual viciousness. Such ani- mals are a public and private nuisance, undesirable to own and dangerous to the attendant. Usually removal of the ovaries from this class of mares will correct the trouble. The results of the operation are not immediate. In fact, even apparent improvement may not be had until several weeks — possibly several months — have elapsed. The improvement is gradual and oftentimes slow, even after it actually begins. Spaying is always justified in mares of this class. Age — Spay regardless of age when operation is indicated. Season — Spring, winter and fall. Preparation — It is necessary for the intestinal tract — rectum in particular — to be empty. This is usually accomplished by with- holding feed for 30 hours previous to operating. To make sure that the rectum is empty it is well to administer an enema imme- diately previous to operating. Douche out the vagina and wash aniSj vulva, tail and surrounding parts with Lysol or Cresol com- pound U. S. P., in the strength of one tablespoonful to each quart of water. Bandage upper one-third of tail. Chloral or cannabis Indica administered 30 or 40 minutes before operating is helpful in most instances. Posil ion — Standing. 154 Animal Castration Restraint — If a suitable operating stock is available it should be used. In lieu of the stocks a narrow box stall and slings are the next best method of restraint for spaying operation. When nar- row stall and sling are used it becomes necessary to confine the hind feet in such a way that the operator is not subjected to the danger of kicks. The simplest method which will answer the pur- pose is illustrated in Figure 127. It consists of the nose twitch applied and held by an assistant; also an 18-foot %-inch cotton rope and one hobble strap. Loop end of rope around off hind pastern, then pass it through D of near hind, then upwards and forwards between fore legs, over withers and under main rope behind elbow. Another method is the Hippo Lasso. (See Figs. 135 and 136.) Fig. 127 — Restraint for Spaying in Standing Posture. While the last two methods described are simple and will answer the purpose, there is at least one quite serious objection to them, viz: The animal may in her struggles cast herself, or she may voluntarily lie down, which greatly interferes with the progress Animal Castration 155 of the operation. Whenever possible it is always advisable to for- tify yourself against the animal lying- down. Instruments— 1. Colin 's Scalpel (Fig. 128) is decidedly the most satisfactory knife for vaginal spaying. This knife possesses a heavy blade with wide belly guarded by an easily manipulated sliding shield. A knife thus constructed can be safely handled in- side the vaginal canal. Fig. 128— Colin's Scalpel. 2. Williams' Ratchet Spaying Ecraseur ( Fig. 129). This in- strument is so constructed that it takes up very little space in the vaginal canal, and is sufficiently long to reach the ovaries of the Fig. 129 — Williams' Ratchet Spaying Ecraseur. largest mare or cow. The ratchet handle enables operator to manip- ulate the instrument with one hand while the other hand remains in the cavity. If an extra assistant is available for the purpose of handling the instrument on the outside, then Dunn's spaying ecraseur (Fig. 130) is an excellent instrument. Fig. 130 — Dunn's Spaying Ecraseur. 3. Vaginal spaying speculum. There are two satisfactory spavin- speculums now on the market. A, Williams' Speculum (Fig. 133); B. Paseley's Speculum (Fig. 134). 156 Animal Castration Anatomy — In order to spay mares satisfactorily it is essential that a general idea of the anatomy of vulva, vagina, uterus and ovaries be possessed. Lack of space here forbids going into minute detail. However, the more important points will have attention. Vulva — The vulva is the external opening of the genital and urinary tracts. It is an ovoid slit situated in the perineal region Fig. 131 — View of Internal Genitals. A, Rectum,; B, Vagina; C, Uterus; D, D, Cornua; E, E, Ovaries; F, F, Broad Ligaments; G, G, Abdominal Walls. below the anis, and consists of two lips and two commissures. The space between the vulva below and the anis above is the perineum. In a depression on its floor (Fossa Navicularis) lies the clitoris. Animal Castration 157 In virgin mares the hymen separates the vulva from the vagina. Inside, on the floor of the vulva, opens the meatus urinarius, which is the outlet from the bladder. The mucous membrane lining in- side of vulva is rose colored, and the skin covering.it externally is soft, thin and devoid of hair. Vagina— The vagina is situated between the rectum and blad- der, and is tubular in shape. It extends horizontally through the pelvic cavity from the cervix to the vulva. Its walls are capable of great distension. The vagina varies in length in different indi- viduals. It is usually from 8 to 10 inches long. Superiorly it is related to the rectum, inferiorly to the bladder, laterally to the pelvic wall. Uterus— The uterus (womb) is a musculo-membranous sac situated partly in the pelvic region. It consists of a body and two Fig. 132— External and Internal Genital Organs of Mare. A. Vulva; Cerv lx (neck of womb) ; D, D, Horns and Fallopian Tubes; E, E, Ovaries; F, Fundus. cornua. Superiorly it is related with the rectum, which passes between its horns while it is suspended laterally by the broad ligaments. Inferiorly it is related with the bladder and convo- lutions of the intestines. Its anterior extremity is known as the fundus, and is continuous with the cornua. Its posterior extremity is continuous with the vagina, constituting the cervix or neck of 158 Animal Castration the womb. This cervix is round, hard and thick. In its center is a tube like opening (Fissure). The cornua spring laterally from the anterior extremity of the uterus and pass upwards and forwards, and to these the suspensory ligaments are attached. At their summit the fallopian tubes enter. The uterus has three open- ings, viz : Ostium Internum leading through the cervix, and the Ostium Uterinum at the end of each horn. Fallopian Tubes — These are prolongations of the uterus and are for the purpose of conveying the ovum from the ovaries to the uterus. They are 10 to 12 inches long and extend from the ovaries above to the cornua below. At the upper outlet of the fallopian tubes is the fimbriated extremity, which is funnel-shaped and re- ceives the ovum direct from the ovary. Ovaries — The ovaries are bean-shaped and weigh from 1 to 3 ounces. They are situated in the sublumbar region of the ab- dominal cavity about 4 to 5 inches behind each kidney. They hang about 2 to 3 inches to each side of center of vertebral column. They are attached above in the sublumbar region by the anterior part of the broad ligament. In old animals the ovaries are usually hard and fibrous. However, cysts are by no means uncommon. The ovarian artery supplies nutrition to the ovary. Warning — The rectum must be empty, otherwise it is liable to injury from point of knife when thrust through vaginal roof. In making incision be sure and press the cervix downwards and for- wards with spaying speculum. This is done in order to get site of incision away from rectal wall. Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands -The instruments should be boiled for 15 to 20 minutes, after which place them in Lysol of Cresol Compound U. S. P., in the strength of one tablespoonful to each quart of water. The oper- ator's hands should be thoroughly washed with tincture green soap, using scrub brush, after which wash them in above men- tioned antiseptic solution. Operative Technique — 1. With right hand lubricated with carbolized olive oil, carry the spaying speculum (Fiffs. 133 and 134) into the vagina, and insert its tip into the cervix (neck of womb). Animal Castration 159 2. Withdraw the hand, and with Colin 's scalpel reenter the vagina. Fig. 133 — Williams' Spaying Speculum, Showing Hand and Knife in Position for Making the Vaginal Incision. Fig. 134 — Paseley's Spaying Speculum, Showing Position of Hand and Knife for Making the Vaginal Incision. 3. With left hand elevate handle of speculum and make suffi- cient pressure downwards and forwards to stretch the roof of the vagina. 4. With blade guarded it is pressed against the roof of the vagina directly over the cervix. 160 Animal Castration Fig. 135 — Mare Confined by Hippo Lasso. A, Right Hand Carrying Colin's Scalpel; B, Left Hand Manipulating Spaying Speculum. 5. Unguard and thrust the blade through the roof of the vagina. 6. Reguard the blade and withdraw the knife, at the same time spaying speculum should also be withdrawn. 7. With left hand enter the vagina and enlarge the opening- Fig. 136 — Removing Ovaries. D, Right Arm; E, Spaying Ecraseur; F, Left Arm. Animal Castration 161 d^St^ flngerS Unti ' ^ Wh ° ,e hMd wi " — the ab- aw ova , y , and Ja , s^iftar -— ^ *2^*1SLEr^. , W I fff i * Vt '™' * ™*: D Vniva- E Vagina; N, Vaginal Incision. ° " y ' M ' Pomt ot K ""e Throat TI,roughT„ of ' of 11 162 Animal Castration manipulated back and forth until the ovary is severed. With- draw severed ovary from abdominal cavity and drop it in the vagina. The opposite ovary is then severed in like manner, after which withdraw both ovaries and the ecraseur. The operation is now completed. By reference to Figures 137 and 138 a compre- Fig 138— Removing the Ovary with Ecraseur. A, Right Arm; B, Uterus; C, Anis; O, Vulva; E, Ecraseur; F, Vagina; H, Urinary Bladder; J, Broad Ligament; M, Vaginal Jn'cision;N, Right Hand; P, Rectum; S, Ovary. Animal Castration 263 stained 3 " "^ '" ^ C ° Vel ' ed St6PS ° f the °P eration ^ -1/to- Care and Treatment-Keep head haltered up for 24 JSi*^? J*«. *>!"•, T ^ vaginal wound require no tu utmeiit. The mare is simply placed in a sanitary box stall ' aldt: n fr'wTT" f01 ' 10 t0 12 da - VS ' aft - wMch she should be put back to hard, steady work until the habit is for- Sequelae— Colic and Peritonitis. 164 Animal Castration CHAPTER II. Cow, Heifer and Calf Spaying. cow spaying. Objects and Indications — Cows are spayed for two principal reasons: 1st, to correct that disagreeable condition known as nymphomania ; 2d, to increase duration of lactation period. Spay- ing is the only rational treatment for nymphomania, and cows thus affected should always be submitted to the operation or else sent to the butcher. While the operation has not been generally and extensively practiced as a means of controlling lactation, nevertheless it is a well recognized fact that spaying a milch cow during the height of lactation will not only cause her lactation period to last for from 2 to 3 years — uninterrupted by oestrum and pregnancy — but the quantity and quality of the milk is increased and improved. Milk from spayed cows contains an increased amount of cream, caseine and sugar. It is more palatable and more wholesome than milk from unspayed cows. When lactation final- ly ceases a spayed cow readily takes on fat and is easily put in shape for the butcher. The results attained wherever the opera- tion has been practiced justifies its more general adoption. Age — For treatment of nymphomania they are spayed regard- less of age. For increasing duration of lactation period it is best to operate after the udder has attained its full development and while at height of lactation. This would mean when the second or third calf is about 3 to 4 weeks old. Some cows are in their prime with second calf, while others are not until the third calf. The udder never develops and the milk flow never increases after spaying, hence it behooves the operator not to make a mistake in selecting the proper time to operate. Never operate during the period of "heat." Season — Since the vaginal operation is the method recom- mended the season does not play an important part. They may be spayed with safety at any season. Preparation — The alimentary tract, especially rectum, should Animal Castration 165 Fig. 139 — Spaying Chute and Stocks. Fig. 140 — Cow Fixed to Fence by Means of Ropes for Spaying Operation. 166 Animal Castration be empty. Hence it becomes necessary to withhold feed for 30 hours previous to operating. Immediately before operating the rectum should be emptied of its contents either by "back raking" or a copious enema. Restraint — The operation should always be performed with animal in the standing posture. Stocks (Fig. 139) are preferable when they are available. However, when stocks are not at hand the animal may be quickly fixed to wall or fence with ropes (Fig. 140) . The head is first fastened to post, after which a 30-foot rope is looped around body and fastened to fence or wall as shown. In this position the animal can be readily spayed without lying down, etc. Position — Standing. Instruments — 1. Colin 's Scalpel. (Fig. 128.) 2. Williams' Ratchet Spaying Ecraseur (Fig. 129), or Dunn's Spaying Ecraseur (Fig. 130). 3. Williams' Spaying Speculum (Fig. 133), or Paseley's Spaying Speculum (Fig. 134). 4. Injection pump. Anatomy — The anatomy of internal and external generative organs of cow similate those of mare to some extent. However, in order that the comparative may be studied, we will take up briefly each organ separately. Vulva — The vulva possesses two thickened labia and two sharp commissures, the lower of which is pointed and contains a num- ber of long, stiff hairs. The clitoris is small and located in lower commissure of the vulva. Pig. 141— Internal and External Genitals of the Cow. A, Vulva; B, Vagina; C, Uterus; D, D, Horns; E, E, Ovaries. Animal Castration 167 Vagina — The vagina is larger and longer than that of the mare, varying in length from 8 to 14 inches. Its wall is thick. The meatus urinarius opens into its floor about 5 inches from vulva. Uterus — The uterus is short and lies almost entirely in the abdominal cavity. Its cornua are very long and gradually taper toward the fallopian tubes. The cervix is 4% to 5!/2 inches long and possesses a thick, tough wall. Its lumen (cervical canal) is spiral shaped and small. The internal wall of uterus and horns are studded with cotyledons. These are oval in shape and about 80 to 90 in number. Fallopian Tubes — The tubes are longer than in mare. Their junction with cornua are not so abrupt as in marc. Ovaries — The ovaries are very small when compared to size of animal. They are oval in shape and situated usually a little above the middle of the lateral margin of the pelvic inlet. How- ever, it is by no means uncommon to find them several inches from this location. Warning — Unless the rectum is empty and the cervix forced downward and forward with spaying speculum, the rectal wall is liable to be punctured with point of knife. Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Every instrument used in connection with this operation should be sterilized by boiling 15 to 20 minutes, after which place them in Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of 1 table- spoonful to each quart of water. The operator's hands should be thoroughly washed with tincture green soap, using scrub brush, after which wash them in above specified antiseptic solution. The operator should not be required to assist in handling the animal. Better leave this to assistants. Ope rat ire Technique — 1. Douche out vagina thoroughly with antiseptic solution, using injection pump. 2. Wash upper one-third of tail, rectum and vulva with anti- septic solution, using cotton sponges. 3. Lubricate right hand and arm with carbolized olive oil. 4. "With handle of spaying speculum in left hand the right is passed into vagina and the tip of speculum is placed in cervix. 5. Withdraw right hand, and with ( John's scalpel reenter the 168 Animal Castration vagina and place knife — with bladed guarded — against roof of vagina immediately over the cervix. (See Fig. 142.) 6. With left hand raise handle of spaying speculum and make downward and forward pressure sufficient to stretch walls of vagina taut. 7. Unguard blade of knife and thrust it through the vaginal /E.\ ir ^ s Fig. 142 — Making Incision Through Vaginal Roof. A, Right Arm; B, Uterus; C, Rectum; D, Vulva; E, Spaying Speculum; F, Vagina; G, Cervix; H, Urinary Bladder; I, Broad Ligament; J, Rectum; K, Left Hand; L. Ovary; M, Point of Knife; N, Perfora- tion in Roof of Vagina. Animal Castration 169 roof, including peritoneum, after which re-guard blade and drop knife on floor of vagina. 8. With index and second finger enlarge the perforation by stretching and tearing until the whole hand can be thrust into the abdominal cavity. (See Fig. 143.) 9. With left hand pass ecraseur into vagina, where its chain is grasped with right hand and carried into abdominal cavity. One ^ V ( \ ) ■ //£ j ib :A K - Fig. 143— Severing Ovary with Ecraseur. A, Right Arm; B, Uterus- E Ecraseur- F J, Right Hand; P, Rectum; S. Ovary. 170 Animal Castbation of the ovaries is now located, the chain loop placed above it, and by ratchet movement of handle the chain loop is closed and the ovaries' attachment severed. The opposite one is removed in like manner, and both are brought out when hand and ecraseur are withdrawn. After Care and Treatment — Sanitary quarters and limited diet for several days constitute the necessary after care and treatment. HEIFER SPAYING. Objects and Indications — Heifers are spayed for the sole pur- pose of growing them for desirable beef animals. Spaying ap- pears to modify or alter the whole organism, especially as regards external symmetry and muscular development. There is a de- cided tendency to quicker growth, and spayed heifers are prone to take on fat rapidly at most any age. Such animals can be grown to maturity without the inconveniences of "heat" and pregnancy, and command the same price on the market as steers. They may be allowed to comingle with other animals in the herd — including bulls — with the assurance that pregnancy will not occur. The operation has been practiced extensively for years on the Western ranches with gratifying results. It should be encouraged and more widely practiced everywhere beef cattle are grown. As an economic operation its value is hard to overestimate. It is in- deed a simple and easy operation to perform, and is accompanied by a low mortality rate. Where once introduced its many merits will usually commend its more general practice. Age — The most preferable age is 8 to 12 months, care being taken to spay before the heifer becomes pregnant. Season — Spring and fall. Spaying should be done in the spring before flies appear, and in the fall after they disappear. Not ad- visable to operate during fly time. Preparation — Withhold feed for 24 hours previous to operat- ing in order to have alimentary tract comparatively empty. Water in limited amount may be allowed. Position — Stan ding. Restraint — Spaying stocks (Fig. 139) are ideal means of re- straint. When stocks are not available the quickest and at the Animal Castration 171 same time one of the best methods of restraint is to tie head to gate post and have an assistant draw tail between slats of gate above the animal. (See Fig. 144). The object in using crack above the animal is to prevent lying down. A good strong assistant by trac- tion on tail can hold animal against gate in such manner as to limit movement from side to side and up and down. In this position the flank region is readily available for operation. Fig. 144 — Restraint of Heii'er for Flank Operation. Instruments — 1. Hairclippers. (Fig. 145.) 2. Curved head spaying emasculator. (Fig. 146.) This is by far the most satisfactory instrument yet devised for flank spaying. It is easy to handle, takes up very little space in the incision and abdominal cavity, besides controls hemorrhage perfectly. Two other spaying emasculators (Figs. 147 and 148) are fairly satis- factory. Especially is Figure 147 a good one. 3. "Farmer" Miles' hook castrating knife ( Fie. 25), or Jami- son's spaying knife (Fig. 149). The author prefers the Miles' knife. 4. Suturing fork. (Fig. 150.) The object of this fork is to hold edges of skin wound while the needle is being thrust through. 172 Animal Castration It is also provided with a knife for purpose of cutting suture material. 5. Suturing needle. There are two needles suitable for pur- pose of closing the wound: (a) Miles' palm needle (Fig. 151), and Mooy's ring handle needle (Fig. 152). The author prefers the Miles' needle. However, in the West many spayers use the other style needle. 6. Curved scissors. (Fig. 35.) 7. Suture material. This may be either linen or silk. The author prefers No. 15 braided silk. Fig. 145 — Hair Clipper. Fig. 146 — Curved Head Spaying Emasculator. Animal Castration 173 Fig. 147 — Spaying Emasculator. Fig. 148 — Spaying Emasculator. Fig. 149 — Jamison's Spaying Knife. Fig. 150— Suturing Fork. 174 Animal Castration Fig. 151 — Miles' Palm Needle. Fig. 152 — Mooy's Needle. 4 1 natomy — The anatomy of internal and external genital organs are same as cow. (See page 166.) The flank region possesses a well defined triangle, through the center of which the abdominal incision is made. The tissues penetrated by this incision are as follows: Skin, subcutaneous connective tissue, fascia, external and internal oblique abdominal muscles and peritoneum. Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator — Same as for cow spaying. (See page 167.) If the operator is right-handed, it is best to invade the left flank. If left-handed, the right flank should be invaded. Operative Technique — 1. Clip hair from site of operation. 2. Wash parts with soap and warm water, using scrub brush. Special care should be taken to remove all loose hair from the field, and sponge off with antiseptic solution. As a further precaution against septic infection it is well to paint skin with tincture iodine. Iodine. 3. With knife in right hand, beginning 2 inches below trans- verse process of lumbar vertebrae, a slightly diagonal incision 3y 2 inches long should be made through the skin only. The exact site of this incision is through middle of triangle between the ex- ternal angle of the illium and posterior border of the last rib. (See L, Figs. 153 and F, 154.) Animal Castration 175 Fig. 153 — Making Skin Incision. L, Incision; M, Knife; N. Right Hand. Fig. 154 — Skin Incision. F, External Oblique Abdominal Muscle. 176 Animal Castration 4. In the center of this skin incision the knife point should be thrust through the abdominal wall, making a perforation large enough to admit one finger only. The knife is now put aside, as you have no further use for it. 5. One finger of the operating hand is thrust through the ab- dominal wall perforation, and by stretching the wound two fingers are admitted — index fingers of each hand. With these two fingers tear the muscular fibers apart sufficiently to admit the whole hand. 6. With left hand inside the abdominal cavity the body of the uterus is located, after which follow its right cornua upwards and backwards until right ovary is encountered. 7. With right hand the emasculator is now passed along the Fig. 155 — Severing the Ovaries. O, Left Arm; P, Incision; Q, Emasculator; R, Right Hand. left arm through the incision, and its head placed above the ovary, and by bringing the handles together the ovary is severed from its attachment. (See Fig. 155.) 8. The left ovary is now located by following the right cornua Animal Castration 177 back to the body of uterus where the left cornua is encountered. By following it upwards and backwards the left ovary is encoun- tered and severed in like maimer. 9. Withdraw the hand — containing both ovaries — with instru- ment. When this is done the fibers of the internal and external oblique abdominal muscles come together and anatomically close the wound with the exception of the skin incision. 10. With 3 interrupted sutures the skin incision is closed and the operation is completed. (See Fig. 156.) Fig. 156 — The Skin Incision Closed by Three Interrupted Sutures. X, Sutures; O, Incision, Incision Illustrated and Explained — The exact method of in- vading the abdominal cavity through the flank incision is of special importance if successful spaying is to be done. Undoubtedly the incision is the most important step of the whole operation. It is made and closed as follows: (See Figs. 157, 158 and 159. Study these illustrations carefully.) With knife in right hand the skin incision G. G, (Fig. 157) is made. Thrust point of knife through 12 178 Animal Castration . Fig. 157 — E, Muscular Fibers of Internal Oblique and External Oblique Slightly Divided; F, F, External Oblique Abdominal Muscle; G, G, Lips of Skin Incision. remaining portion of the abdominal wall (external oblique and in- ternal oblique abdominal muscles and peritoneum). With fingers this perforation (A, Fig. 158) is enlarged by tearing the fibers of the external oblique apart B, B, and at the same time those of the internal oblique C, C are separated in the opposite direction until the whole hand is admitted. When the hand is withdrawn the muscular fibers anatomically come together (see Fig. 157) and practically close the wound with exception of the skin incision. With three interrupted sutures the skin incision is closed and the operation completed (see Fig. 159). This method of making flank incision far excels in every re- spect the one which requires cutting through the abdominal mus- cles. When these muscle fibers are cut you have a large gaping wound which requires weeks and oftentimes months for healing. Animal Castration 179 Fig. 158. With fibers divided by tearing, the skin alone is sutured and the whole wound heals rapidly. After Care and Treatment — Place animals on pasture or in sanitary quarters. The wounds should be observed from day to day for stitch abscesses, etc. Should abscesses develop the suture should be removed and the pus allowed to escape. The sutures should be removed, when possible, about the eighth day. Often- times the sutures are not removed, in which event they finally slough out. CALF SrAYING. Objects and Indications — Calves are spayed for the same pur- poses that heifers are spayed, viz.: the operation hastens their growth and development, besides improves the texture and nutri- tive properties of the meat. Spayed calves may be raised to full maturity without the bother of either "heat" or pregnancy. An- 180 Animal Castration Fig. 159— Skin Incision Closed by Three Interrupted Sutures. H, H, Lips of Skin In- cisions; I, J, K, Sutures. other reason for calf spaying is that the mortality rate is less in young than in older animals. There are two approved methods of spaying calves, viz. : belly method and flank method. Age — The favorite age for calf spaying is two to four months old. Season — Spring and fall. Preparation — Same as heifer spaying. Position — Lateral, recumbent or hanging, depending upon whether the belly or flank is to be invaded. Restraint — For flank operation the calf is simply stretched full length on the ground by rope looped above hind and fore ankles. (See Fig. 160.) For belly operation the animal is sus- pended by cord or small size rope looped over both hocks and Animal Castration 181 attached to a beam or hook above. The site of incision should be about opposite breast of the operator. Instruments— Same as heifer spa vino-. (See pages 171-173.) Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Same as for heifer spaying. (See page 174.) Fig. 160— Calf Cast and Tied for Spaying Operation. (Flank Method.) Operative Technique— (Flank Method.) The hair is clipped from over site of incision. Parts washed with soap and warm Fig. 161-Removing Ovary from Calf (flank method). K, Ovary; L, Emasculator- M Hand. 182 Animal Castration water, after which sponge off with antiseptic solution. As a fur- ther precaution against septic infection it is well to paint the skin with tincture iodine. The incision is made similar to that em- ployed in heifer spaying (pages 177-179) with the exception that in the calf a much smaller one is used since only the index and sec- ond finger are introduced into the abdominal cavity, whereas in heifer spaying the whole hand is inserted. With the two fingers inside the abdominal cavitv a search is made for the uppermost * A A Fig. 162— incision (Belly Method). fallopian tube or ovary. One or the other of these is usually found with little difficulty by wiping downwards and backwards towards pubic brim. When located the ovary is brought up into the incision and its attachments severed with the emasculator. Animal Castration 183 The opposite ovary is located and removed in like manner. (See Fig. 161.) The skin incision is closed by two interrupted sutures. Operative Technique (Belly Method) — With calf suspended in hanging position the hair is clipped from site of incision and the parts thoroughly washed and disinfected the same as for spay- ing by the flank method. With knife in right hand begin the incision two inches below the brim of the pubis in the median line and extend it downwards for three inches, penetrating all the coats of the abdominal wall. (See Fig. 162.) With index and second finger inside the abdomen the ovaries are readily located and brought into the incision and their attachments severed with the emasculator. (See Fig. 163.) The incision is now closed by three or four " through and through" sutures. (See Fig. 164.) After Care and Treatment— Same as heifers. (See page 179.) Fig. 16o— Removing Ovary (Belly Method). C, Incision; D, Ovary; E, Emasculator. 184 Animal Castration Fig. 164 — Incision Closed by Interrupted Sutures. Sequelae of Cattle Spaying — -Hemorrhage, septic peritonitis, abscess, general sepsis, hernia and bloating are the most usual sequelae. Animal Castration 185 CHAPTER III. SPAYING SOWS. Objects and Indications — The one and only beneficial result of this operation is to facilitate growth, fattening, marketing and slaughter without the handicap of early pregnancy. The economic importance of sow spaying is well recognized by many swine owners. Formerly the operation was more generally practiced than it is at the present day. This may be accounted for by the fact that what would have formerly been termed revolutionary methods are now in vogue in the great swine-raising sections of the Middle West and Central States in raising and marketing hogs. This practice enables swine owners to grow, fatten and market hogs as early as six to ten months of age, and is becom- ing more universal each and every year. Of course under such circumstances spaying would not be an essential operation. How- ever, in the South and Southwest the older methods of swine- raising still prevail to a limited degree, hence it is in this section that the operation of spaying is still practiced to a limited extent. Age — The operation is best performed at four months. How- ever, it is permissible to operate any time from sixty days to ma- turity, or even old age. Season — Sows should not be spayed during kfc tiy time" or in extremely cold weather. Best to operate in the fall, early winter and spring. Preparation — One of the most important essentials to success in spaying sows is to have the alimentary tract absolutely empty before undertaking to operate. This can best be done by with- holding the feed for from twenty-four to thirty hours previously. During this time there is no special objection to allowing the ani- mal free access to water. The danger of septic infection can be greatly minimized by providing (dean quarters before and after operation. Another essential is to not allow the boar access to the sows previous to spaying. Tt is not best to operate dining the 186 Animal Castration period of "heat." Pregnancy is a counter-indication to success- ful spaying. Restraint — Proper restraint technique is as much an essential in spaying operation of sows as it is in most any operation in animal surgery. This operation calls for the simple and easily applied rather than the complicated and intrinsic methods often- times employed in other operations. The method of restraint used must of course depend upon whether the flank or the belly opera- Fig. 165— Restraint for Spaying (Belly Method.) tion is to be performed. If the abdominal cavity is to be invaded from below (belly) the most simple and satisfactory method of restraint would consist in looping a strong cord (window sash cord) or small size rope above the hocks, by which the animal can be readily suspended to a post or wall in the hanging posture (Fig. 165.) Tf the flank incision is to be resorted to then it is necessary Animal Castration 187 for the animal to be confined in the recumbent posture at an angle of about thirty degrees on either right or left side, depending upon which flank is to be invaded. One of the best and most satis- factory methods the author has ever employed is as follows : Pr< >- cure a piece of three-eighths inch soft rope about six feet long. Tie the free ends together, forming a loop as shown in Fig. 166. Fig. 166— Restraint for Spaying (Flank Method.) First Step. A, Board with End Elevated; B, Rope Suspending the Board; C, Rope Loop; D, Right Hand; E, Left Hand. Next secure a 2 x 14 inch plank about 12 feet long: place one end on the floor or ground as the case may be, cither spike the other end fast to the wall or suspend it by means of a rope from above. Now make your rope loop fast to the upper end of the plank with a screw eye or a spike (A), or it may be fastened by boring a hole through the plank large enough to allow the rope to be drawn up through and held secure' by a Large knot in its ends. This should 188 Animal Castration be so arranged that when the hog is fastened to the plank it is to be about waist high to the operator as shown in the following illustrations. The plank should assume a position of about thirty degrees. The operator standing facing the plank with his right hand towards the lower end passes right hand (D) through the loop (C) and instructs assistant to grasp right legs of the hog and bring the hog to him placing it on the board. As the assistant approaches with the hog pass your left hand under the right hand and rope, grasping left hind leg (E), while your right hand grasps the right hind leg (Fig. 167). Now guide the left leg to your right hand, which grasps it. The left hand now contains both hind feet, while the right hand grasps the loop from over left wrist and carries it back, dropping it above ankles. As you drop the rope back of the ankle you are to say "pull," meaning that your assistant is to pull the hog downward on the plank, making Fig. 167— Restraint for Spaying Operation (Flank Method.) Second Step. F, Board; G, Rope; H, Rope Loop; I, Left Hand; J, Right Hand. Animal Castration 189 Fig. 16S — Restraint for Spaying Operation (Plank Method.) Third Step. K, Board; L, Rope; M, Rope Loop; N, Hind Legs Fixed; O, Flank Incision. the rope taut as shown in Fig. 168. With a little practice a sow- can be secured by this method in less than five seconds. Instruments — 1. Curved scissors (Fig. 35) for dipping hair from site of incision. 2. Miles' hook knife (Fig. 25). 3. Swine and sheep emasculator (Fig. 80). 4. Hagedorn's needle (half circle) No. 3 (Fig. 84). 5. Bichter's needle holder (Fig. 34). 6. Braided silk No. 12 or linen for sutures. Anatomy — It is well to remember that the fallopian tubes and horns of uterus in sows are extremely long in comparison to size of animal and that their course is decidedly tortuous in the pelvis and abdominal cavities. The importance of the above can be more thoroughly comprehended and appreciated if you will carefully observe these parts and their relation, which is plainly 190 Animal Castration Fig. 169 — Internal Genital Organs of Sow. A, Rectum; B, Vagina; C, Bladder; D, Uterus; E, Left Fallopian Tube or "Horn"; F, Right Fallopian Tube or "Horn"; G, Ovary; H, Intestines; I, Kidney. illustrated, in a diagramatic way, in Fig. 169. The body of the uterus is unusually short when the length of its tubes are taken into consideration. The cervix (neck of womb) does not project into the vagina in such manner as is observed in most other domestic and wild animals. On the other hand, the vagina and uterus of the sow are continued into each other without any circumscribed limit intervening between them. The "horns" float loosely in the abdominal cavity and are found closely associated with the con- volutions of the intestines. The broad ligaments are mesenteric in conformation and character and are extremelv thin and lax. Fig. 170 — External and Internal Generative Organs of the Sow. A, Ovaries; B, Fal- lopian Tubes; C, Uterus; D, Vagina; E, Vulva. Animal Castration 191 The ovaries are decidedly tabulated and closely resemble grape cluster, being suspended to the right and left of the vertebral column near the median line of the body. Fig. 170 illustrates the external as well as internal generative organs of the sow. The abdominal wall in the Hank region is quite thick and con- tains much fat. This fat is encountered between the skin and the external oblique abdominal muscle. More fat is encountered in mature sows than in younger hogs. The skin is dense and tough in consistency, while the external and internal oblique muscles and peritoneum are comparatively thin and delicate in conformation. The above description applies equally as well to the belly wall at site of spaying operation except that the wall in the latter region is somewhat thinner. Methods of Operating — There are two standard methods, viz.: flank, and median line or "belly." Each have their advantages and disadvantages; however, taking everything into consideration the author greatly prefers the flank method. Operative Technique (Flank Method) — The animal should he properly secured as illustrated in Figs. 166, 167 and 168, and placed on the right side. Remove hair from flank by clipping with scissors. Wash hands of operator and left flank of animal with Lysol or Cresol Compound U. S. P. in the strength of one tablespoonful to each quart of water. With hook knife make oblique incision one inch to an inch and a half long, beginning high in flank, one to two inches posterior (behind) the last rib. This incision should run downward and backward at an angle of 45 degrees (see O, Fig. 168). The incision should penetrate skin, subcutaneous connective tissue, fat and external and internal oblique abdominal muscles. By this we mean all tissues down to the peritoneum (lining of the abdominal cavity). The peritoneum is now carefully punctured with the point of knife, after which stretch or enlarge the incision sufficiently to admit index finger of the left hand. With this finger inside of abdomen the left ( up- per) ovary is located by passing the finger backward near fungus of bladder and upward toward vertebra] column (backbone). The ovary can be readily distinguished from the other inter-abdominal viscera by its peculiar feel, as it consists of hard lobules arranged in cluster form simulating small grapes. The left ovary and its 192 Animal Castration accompanying fallopian tubes are drawn through the incision. In young sows the left tube is now withdrawn from abdominal cavity and followed back to the biflication where the right tube is encoun- tered. The right tube is withdrawn from abdominal cavity and followed until right ovary is located, after which draw the ovary out of abdomen through incision and place both ovaries (P) in emasculator and sever their attachments by closing handles of in- strument. The tubes (Q) are now washed and replaced in the abdominal cavity (see Fig. 171), after which the incision is closed by two interrupted sutures. These sutures should be made with a No. 3 half circle Hagedorn needle and No. 12 braided silk. They should extend through all layers of the abdominal wall, in- cluding skin and peritoneum, or in other words, should be what is known as the "through and through" sutures. (See Fig. 172.) Sponge off wound with antiseptic solution and release the animal. Fig. 171 — P, Ovaries; Q, Fallopian Tubes (Horns); R, Emasculator. In sows which have given birth to one or more litters of pigs the fallopian tubes are oftentimes so large that the left one must be replaced in the abdomen before the right one can be withdrawn. Tn such vent, of course, only one ovary can be removed at a time. However, both ovaries can always be removed through the same flank incision. Animal Castration 193 Fig. l72 -Abdominal Incision, Closed with Tw o Interrupted Sutures. S, T, Sutures. Fig. 173— Belly Incision. 13 194 Animal Castration Fig. 174 — F, Ovaries; G, Fallopian Tubes or "Horns"; H, Bmasculator. Operative Technique (Median Line or "Belly" Method) — Sterilize instruments and wash hands same as for flank operation. With the animal properly secured in the hanging posture (Fig. 173) the hair is removed from site of incision and parts cleansed same as for flank method. With hook knife begin incision two to three inches below brim of pubis and one-half inch to either right or left of the median line. This incision should be extended down- wards about one and one-half to two inches, and should include all la} r ers of the abdominal wall, down to the peritoneum. The peritoneum is now punctured with the point of the hook knife, after which enlarge incision to admit index finger of left Animal Castration 195 hand. With this finger the ovaries and tubes are readily located near the median line of the body. They are drawn through the incision (see Fig. 174) and removed with emasculator same as by flank method. The tubes are now sponged off with antiseptic solution, after which they are replaced in the abdominal cavity and the wound closed by two or three interrupted " through and through" sutures (see J, Fig. 175), using the same needle and the same size silk as flank method. The animal is now released. Fig. 175— Wound Closed (Belly Method). 196 Animal Castration n, ne-c^c o^w-^~*^»^" 0I 17 ° P ° UndS Animal Castration 197 CHAPTER IV. EWE SPAYING. Objects and Indications — Sheep spaying is rarely ever prac- ticed in this country on account of the ewe being more valuable as a breeding animal than she is for mutton purposes. Spayed ewes will mature earlier, grow larger and take on fat faster and more of it than will entire ewes. On this account they are some- times spayed for fat stock show and exhibition purposes. Age — 2Y2 to 3 months is the desirable age. Season — Late winter and early spring. Preparation— Empty alimentary tract by withholding feed for 24 to 30 hours previous to operating. Position — Hanging. Restraint — The ewe is exceedingly docile and submits kindly to operation. With a small rope or large cord looped above each hock the animal is suspended from a hook or beam above. The field of operation should be on a level with breast of operator. Instruments — 1. Curved scissors (Fig. 35) for clipping wool from site of incision. 2. Miles' hook knife (Fig. 25). 3. Swine and sheep emasculator (Fig. 80). 4. Hagedorn's needle y 2 cir- cle , No. 3 (Fig. 84). 5. Richter's needle holder (Fig. 34). 6. Braided silk No. 12 for suturing. Pig. 177 — External and Internal Genital Organs of the Ewe. G, Vulva; H, Vagina; I, Uterus; J-J, Horns; K-K, Ovaries; L-L, Broad Ligament. 198 Animal Castration Anatomy — The conformation and anatomical relation of the internal generative organs of the ewe are almost a facsimile du- plicate of those of the cow except on a much smaller scale. The abdominal wall at site of incision is very thin and exceedingly delicate. Fig. 178 — Abdominal Incision. Fig. 179 — Removing Ovary. M, Incision; N, Ovary; O, Emasculator. Animal Castration 199 Warning— On account of the thin and delicate structure of the abdominal wall exceeding care must be exercised in suturing the incision. Sterilization of Instruments and Chin/sin,/ Hands of Operator — Same as for calf spaying. Operative Technique— With ewe in the hanging posture the Fig. 180— Wound Sutured. E, Wound; F, Sutures. 200 Animal Castration wool is clipped from field of operation, after which it is cleansed by washing* with soap and water and disinfected by painting with tincture iodine. 1. With knife in right hand begin the incision in the median line 3 inches below the brim of pubis, and extend it downwards for a distance of 2% or 3 inches. (See Fig. 178.) This incision should penetrate all layers of the abdominal wall. 2. With index and second finger inside the abdomen the horns and ovaries are readily located, after which withdraw each ovary in turn and sever them from their attachments. (See Fig. 179.) 3. The abdominal incision is now closed by three interrupted "through and through" sutures, care being taken to see that each coat of the abdominal wall is in direct apposition. After Care and Treatment — The spayed animals should be turned to pasture if weather conditions are favorable, otherwise sanitary well bedded quarters are to be provided. If sutures do not slough out they should be removed about the eighth day. Animal Castration 201 CHAPTER V. BITCH SPAYING. Objects and Indications — Bitches are submitted to spaying operation for the purpose of preventing "heat" and pregnancy, both of which are necessarily preceded by obscene and vulgar behavior which is particularly objectionable to home folks as well as neighbors. A bitch in "heat" is an ideal illustration of a private as well as public nuisance. She is undesirable at home and unwelcome abroad. To obviate this, spaying is the only re- course. The spayed bitch is a more desirable animal in many respects than the unspayed one. She remains contented at home. She is always present and ready when called for. She is more kind, docile and reliable than the entire bitch. Age — In order to secure the best results it is advisable to spay the bitch puppy before she comes in heat the first time. The pref- erable age is 3 to 6 months. Aged bitches which have given birth to several litters of pups previous to spaying sometimes ' ' come in heat" after they are spayed. Whether or not such phenomenon is an acquired habit the author is unable to say. Season — Winter, spring and fall. Preparation — An empty alimentary tract is one of the most important adjuncts to spaying. Food should be withheld for 36 hours previous to time of operating, and if there is the slightest evidence of constipation a dose of castor oil should be administered 12 hours before spaying. Methods of Operating — There are two well defined methods of operating, viz. : Flank method and belly method. They both have their ardent advocates. Some good surgeons prefer and advocate the belly method while some better surgeons strongly indorse the flank method. The author greatly prefers the belly method. Anaesthesia — With qualified and trained assistants and hos- pital facilities at hand the operation should be performed under 202 Animal Castration general anaesthesia. However, when these safeguards and con- veniences are not available it is permissible to operate without anaesthesia. Instruments — 1. Miles' hook knife (Fig. 25). 2. Canine and feline emasculator (Figs. 102 and 103). 3. Wound retractor (Fig. 180 a) . While the wound retractor is not absolutely essential, nev- ertheless its application greatly facilitates locating the uterus and fallopian tubes by enabling the operator to view them inside the Fig. 180 a — Wound Retractor. (Actual Size.) Fig. 180 b— Surgeon's Full Curved Needle No. 5. (Actual Size.) abdomen. If these parts are seen they can be readily grasped with haemostatic forceps and withdraw, without introducing the finger haemostatic forceps and withdrawn, without introducing the finger ( Fig. 180 &), carrying 20 inches No. 10 braided silk for sutures. 5. Uterine sound (Fig. 180 c). 6. Haemostatic forceps. 7. Rich- ter's needle holder (Fig. 34). Fig. 180 c— Uterine Sound. Animal Castration l'o:; Fig. 181— External and Internal Genital Organs of Bitch. A, Vulva- B Vagina 1 C, Uterus; D-D, Horns; E-E, Ovaries. Anatomy— There is little or no doubt— on accounl of anatom- ical conformation— that the bitch is the most tedious and difficult of all domestic animals to spay unless it be one exception— the cat. In order to make satisfactory progres to any degree whatsoever in bitch spaying the operator must possess sonic familiarity with the anatomy of the organs and parts involved. Fig. 182— A, Broad Ligament; B, Rent in Ligament; C, Ovary; D, Fallopian Tubes- E-E, Ligatures; F, Horn; G, Artery. 204 Animal Castration Vulva — The vulva has thick labia which form a pointed infe- rior commissure. Vagina — The vagina is tubular in form and relatively long. Its walls are thick, consisting principally of circular muscular fibers. It is closely related with the rectum above and the bladder below. Uterus — The body of the uterus is exceedingly short, rarely exceeding one inch in le ngth. Its two cornua (horns) are long, and their diameter small. The}^ vary in length in different size sluts from 4 to 8 inches. They lie loosely inside abdominal cavity closely associated with the intestinal convolutions. Their biflica- Fig. 183 — View of Interior of Abdominal Cavity, Showing Internal Genital Organs and Their Relations. A, Urinary Bladder; B, Uterus; C-C, Horns; D, Biflications of Horns; E-E, Ovaries; F, Intestines. Animal Casteation 205 tion is V shaped, and takes place immediately under fundus of bladder. The broad ligaments are long, especially in their middle. (See Fig. 182.) The fallopian tubes are small in diameter and 1 to 2y 2 inches long. Ovaries — The ovaries are bean shaped and small in size. Their surface is smooth. They are enclosed in a peritoneal pouch (sac) and are attached immediately posterior to the kidneys. ( Fig. 1 s: 1 i . Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator — All instruments, sutures, ligatures, etc., used in connection with the operation should be sterilized by boiling for 15 or 20 minutes, after which immerse them in Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of one tablespoonf ul to each quart of water. The hands should be thoroughly cleansed with tincture green soap and Fk 184— Bitch on Table. A-B, Hind Hobbles; C-D, Front Hobbles; E, Incision; F, Tape Muzzle. 206 Animal Castration warm water, using scrub brush, after which rinse them in the above prescribed antiseptic solution. Preparation of Operative Field — Clip or shave hair from site of incision. Wash with tincture green soap and warm water, using scrub brush. Rinse with antiseptic solution, after which paint with tincture iodine. Restraint and Position (Belly Method) — Always apply the muzzle to begin with. If suitable operating table is available it should be utilized. What we mean by suitable table is one in which top will elevate to the perpendicular or almost perpendicular posi- tion. Tables made with stationary tops have no place in this oper- ation. If a table is not used then an inexpensive as well as a safe and satisfactory method is that designed, taught and prac- ticed by "Farmer" Miles (see Fig. 185), as follows : A tape muz- zle (F) is applied. With a strong cord looped above hocks (B-B) and thrown over spike or hook (A) in post or wall (C) the animal Fig. 185 — "Farmer" Miles Method of Restraint for Spaying Operation. Animal Castration 207 is suspended sufficiently high for the site of operation to be on a level with operator's breast. With another strong cord (D) looped above elbows (E-E), the operator's leg (G) is placed through its loop for the purpose of making sufficient downward trad ion to limit movement of animal. In this position the intestines gravi- tate downward against diaphram, which greatly assists in locating and removing the ovaries. Operative Technique — A site is selected slightly to right or left of the median line about 2 to 3 inches below the pubic brim for the Fig. 186 — Abdominal Fig. 187 — Removing Ovaries Fig. 188 — Incision Closed with Incision. with Emasculator. I, Bit- 3 Interrupted Sutures, lication; J-J, Horns; K, Ovaries; L, Emasculator. beginning of abdominal incision. Tins incision should extend downwards for IV2 to 2 inches, and penetrate all coats of the abdominal wall, care being taken not to injure bladder with point of knife. (See Fig. 186.) If prefered there is no objection to 208 Animal Castration introducing the wound retractors, in which event if your bitch is empty and the light bright — either the body of the uterus or its horns can plainly be seen. With either tissue or haemostatic for- ceps the horn is picked up and drawn out abdominal incision where it is grasped between the index and second finger of the left hand. With index finger of right, follow the horn and tube down- ward to its attachment, and with a limited amount of traction on horn the ovary is torn loose with the finger nail and brought to the outside. With free end of tube and ovary in one hand the horn is followed up to its biflication. When biflication is reached the opposite horn is grasped and opposite ovary located and re- moved from abdomen in like manner. Both ovaries are now re- moved from their fallopian tubes with emasculator. The stump of tubes and horns are replaced in abdominal cavity. Recleanse the wound by sponging with antiseptic solution, after which close with two or three interrupted "through and through" sutures. The animal is now ready to release. If inexperienced it is well for the operator to insert uterine sound or probe into the vagina, as by this means the finding of uterus and horns is oftentimes greatly facili- tated. With the experienced operator the sound is superfluous. Restraint ( Flank Method) — The usual means of restraint when spaying by this method is the application of a tape muzzle and fixing the right hind and both fore feet together with a strong Fig. 189— Bitch Spaying (Flank Method.) A, Abdominal Incision; B, Knife; C, Left Leg; D, Three Legs Fixed Together; E, Muzzle. Animal Castration 209 cord. With one assistant at the head and another with left hind leg, the animal is sufficiently secure for the operation. Operative Technique — The site of incision is in triangle of flank. This triangle is bound superiorly by transverse processes of lumbar vertebrae. Anteriorly by posterior border of last rib and posteriorly by external angle of illium. The direction of in- cision should be slightly diagonal, extending downward and back- ward. About iy 2 inches is the usual length. (See Fig. 189.) This incision should penetrate all coats of the abdominal wall (skin, subcutaneous connective tissue, fascia, external and internal oblique abdominal muscles and peritoneum). With the index finger introduced into the abdominal cavity the uppermost horn is located and drawn out through incision. This horn and tube are followed up — with one finger— until its ovary is located. The ovary is torn loose from its attachment and brought outside the abdominal cavity. (See Fig. 190.) By making limited traction on this horn with one hand, and following it to the biflication with index finger on other hand, the opposite horn is located and drawn Fig. 190 — Bitch Spaying (Flank Method.) outside the cavity. With finger inside the cavity the ovary is torn from its attachment and brought outside. The tubes may now be severed with emasculator or they may be ligated with chromacized catgut (10-day). Thoroughly cleanse by sponging with antiseptic 14 210 Animal Castration Fig. 191 — Wound Closed by Interrupted Sutures. (P) Bitches after spaying should have the wounds protected as a safeguard against infection as well as tearing out sutures with the teeth. Two methods of wound protection are illustrated in Figs. 192 and 193. Fig. 192 — Protection of Wound After Spaying. Animal Castration 211 Fig. 193 — Protection of Wound After Spaying. solution everything that is outside the abdominal cavity, after which replace the stumps of tubes and suture up with two or three "through and through" sutures. (See Fig. 191.) Special care should be exercised to see that the peritoneum is included in sutures. Bitches after spaying should have the wounds protected as a safeguard against infection as well as tearing out sutures with the teeth. Two methods of wound protection are illustrated in Figs. 192 and 193. After Care and Treatment — The bitch should be confined in small sanitary quarters for 6 or 7 days. Exercise during this pe- riod is harmful and oftentimes dangerous. Remove sutures in from 3 to 5 days, depending upon condition of wound. Sequelae — The chief sequelae to be faced are septic peritonitis, shock, internal hemorrhage, hernia and anorexia. 1. Septic Peritonitis. The cause of septic peritonitis may be attributed to uncleanliness on part of surgeon while operating, un- clean hands, contaminated instruments, failure to properly cleanse and disinfect site of operation, etc. While the bitch possesses con- siderable more immunity to septic infection than some other ani- mals, nevertheless it behoves the operator to be on the constant 212 Animal Castration lookout for sepsis, and to take all reasonable precautions to pre- vent it. 2. Sliock. When the operation is unnecessarily prolonged and considerable blood lost, shock is by no means an unusual sequelae. Shock is not so liable to occur when general anaesthesia is em- ployed. If shock is of such a desperate character as to require treatment proceed as follows: Protect the body from cold by placing patient in a warm room and blanketing. Strychnine and nitroglycerine, or adrenalin chloride, may be administered hypo- derinically. Alcohol and ammonia internally. If reaction does not begin quite promptly resort should be had to normal saline solution subcutaneously or intra-veinously. 3. Internal Hemorrhage. If for any reason the emasculator fails to properly crush the artery internal hemorrhage to a lesser or greater degree may be reasonably expected. If at the time of spaying the bitch is in "heat," or in event of pregnancy, the horns and tubes are greatly congested and enlarged. In such cases the emasculator should not be depended upon to control the hemorrhage. The ligature should be resorted to. Nature will do much to prevent internal hemorrhage. However, death from such a cause sometimes occurs. Unless the hemorrhage is very profuse reopening the abdomen for purpose of controlling it is of doubt- ful value. Ordinarily, the best plan is to administer stimulants, consisting of strychnine, nitro-glycerine, adrenalin, chloride and saline solution, and leave the abdominal cavity alone. 4. Hernia. Careless or improper suturing and septic infection are the causes of hernia following spaying operation. By exer- cising extreme care in suturing the wound and fortifying against sepsis by taking the necessary auseptic and antiseptic precautions the occurrence of hernia will be extremely rare. 5. Anorexia. In a few instances it is extremely difficult — even in the absence of any perceptible grave systemic disturbance — to induce the recently spayed bitch to eat and drink. They sometimes actually die from starvation. Forced feeding with malted milk or coco-emulsion cod liver oil is indicated. Drugs are of little avail. Animal Castration 213 CHAPTER VI. CAT SPAYING. Objects and Indications — Cats are submitted to spaying opera- tion for the purpose of preventing "heat" and pregnancy, princi- pally the latter. After spaying they remain at home better and are more desirable pets than before. Age — The best results are attained if the cat is spayed before she "comes in heat" the first time (prior to pubity). On account of small size of cat — especially if an attempt is made at an early age — the operation is extremely tedious. Best to operate at 6 to 8 months old. Season — Winter, spring and fall. Preparation — Withhold food for 24 to 30 hours previous to operating in order that the alimentary tract may be empty. Methods — Flank method and belly method. The author pre- fers the belly method. Anaesthesia — On account of a natural as well as an acquired tendency to bite and scratch ferociously whenever submitted to operation of almost any character, general anaesthesia should be employed whenever possible. Instruments — 1. Miles' hook knife (Fig. 25). 2. Canine and feline emasculator (Figs. 102, 103). 3. Wound retractor (Fig. 180 a). 4. Surgeon's full curved needle No. 5 (Fig. 180 &), carry- ing 18 inches sterilized braided silk No. 10. 5. Long, slender probe. 6. Haemostatic forceps. Anatomy — The cat is the most difficult and tedious of all do- mestic animals to spay. The anatomical conformation and small size of the parts and organs concerned in the operation largely account for its extreme tediousness. As for the author's part he would greatly prefer spaying ten heifers to one cat. In fact, he would prefer spaying twice ten heifers to spaying one kitten. As a general proposition the internal generative organs of the cat 214 Animal Castration are similar in all material respects to those of th .WjM; course, those of cat are on a much smaller scale. Then contorm Fig. 194— External and Internal Genitals of Cat. • AhHnminai Cavity A, Biflication; B, Rectum; C, Bladder; Fig 195 -View of ™™™«£^£&°g?&e*?F, Intestines. Animal Castration 215 tion and anatomical relation are the same in both animals (See Figs. 194 and 195.) Sterilization of Intruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator — Same as for bitch spaying. See page 205. Preparation of Operative Field— Same as for bitch spaying See page 206. J h ' Restraint (Belly Method)— It is desirable to fix the cat securely to operating table (Figs. 196 and 197). In event table is not available a wide board may be used. Operative Technique— Same as for bitch spaying. Restraint (Flank Method) -Right hind and both fore legs are fixed together with strong cord. Left hind leg and head are held by assistant. ( See Fig. 1 98 ) . Fig. 196— Cat Fixed to Table for Spaying Operation. E, Abdominal Incision. 216 Animal Castration Fig. 197 — Incision Closed with Two Interrupted Sutures. Fig 198— Cat Tied and in Proper Position for Flank Spaying. A, Incision; B, Legs Fixed Together. Animal Castration 217 Fig. 199 — Cat Spaying (Flank Method). E, Emasculator; D, Ovary; F, Abdominal Incision. Fig. 200 — Wound Closed with Two Interrupted Sutures. F, Sutures. Operative Technique — Same as for bitch spaying. (See pages 207-209.) After Care and Treatment — Same as for bitch spaying. Sec page 211. Sequelae— Same as for bitch spaying. (See page 211.) 218 Animal Castration CHAPTER VII. POULAEDIZING. The operation of poulardizing simply means unsexing the female chicken. In other words, spaying the pullet. Objects and Indications — The primary object in making pou- larcles of pullets is for the purpose of growing them to quick ma- turity without the handicap of egg production. It is a positively known fact that poulardes mature and develop more rapidly than the entire pullet or hen. The texture, flavor and nutritive proper- ties of their meat is greatly improved. Poulardes meat bears the same relation to that of the hen as the meat of a spayed heifer bears to that of the old cow. The operation has been practiced on a large scale for many years in Prance and Germany, and to a limited extent in America. The results would justify its more universal adoption. The poularde never cackles, and like the capon becomes an outcast. Age — Two to three months. Season — Late spring, summer and early fall. Preparation — Withhold all food for at least 30 hours before operating. It is impossible to do a satisfactory operation on a pullet with full alimentary tract. To begin with a full abdominal cavity prevents locating and examining the egg cluster, to say nothing of its interference with the operation itself. Restraint — On a box or barrel acting as an operating table the pullet is confined for operation same as for that of caponizing. Two pieces of strong cord are procured, upon each end a loop is made. To one end a weight is attached (see A-A, Fig. 201), after which the free end of one cord is looped above feet and the other cord is looped around wings. The pullet is now stretched full length — left side uppermost — on table. This is a quick and inex- pensive method of restraint and at the same time a satisfactory one for the operation. Animal Castration 219 Fig. 201 — Restraint for Poulardeing. A-A, Weights at End of Cords; B, Leg of Fowl in Loop; C, Wings in Loop; D, Incision. Instruments — 1. Caponizing knife (Fig. 116). 2. Spreaders (Figs. 117, 118, 119). 3. Haemostatic or tissue forceps (small size). 4. Curved scissors (Fig. 35). Breeds — It is not profitable to attempt to make poulardes from the small breeds of chickens. Better select those of the larger breeds, viz.: Indian Games, Brahmas, Cochins, Langshans, Ply- mouth Rocks, Orpingtons, Wyandottes, etc. All make good pou- lardes. Anatomy — Some idea of the anatomy of the parts involved and their relation is necessary before progress can be made with this operation. Fig. 202 shows the egg cluster (E) which corresponds to the ovary in animals, and egg passage (F) which corresponds to the uterus in animals. This illustration was purposely made from a grown hen. One object in doing so was to enable the ama- teur operator to know the comparative between the internal geni- tals of a hen and those of a pullet of proper age and size for oper- 220 Animal Castration p , t >. ***«» i^*^*O i Fig. 202 — Internal Genital Organs of Hen. E, Egg Cluster; F, Egg Passage. Fig. 203— Internal Genitals of Hen. A, Egg Cluster; B-B, Egg Passage; C, Cloaca; D, Frimbriated Extremity of Fallopian Tube. Animal Castration 221 ation. Pig. 203 shows the organs removed from the abdominal cavity of hen. They consist of (A) egg cluster, (B-B) egg pas- sage, (C) cloaca, (D) fimbriated extremity of fallopian tubes. The egg cluster lies in close proximity to the vertebral column, slightly posterior to the lungs. From it the fallopian tubes and egg passage proceed backward — in close relation to the vertebral column, aorta and vena cava — to its outlet — cloaca. In the pullet the egg cluster and egg passage are small. (See Pig. 204.) Fig. 204 — Intestines Removed in Order to Show Position of Egg Cluster and Egg Passage. G, Egg Cluster; H, Egg Passage. In a pullet of proper age for operation the egg passage is no larger than an average size broom straw. The egg cluster in such a pullet is small and flat, and shows no evidence of egg formation. Beginners are urgently advised to kill and carefully examine these parts in a full grown hen, also a three-months-old pullet before operating. Warning — In removing section from egg passage caution should be exercised not to sever either the aorta or vena cava. Both are large and important blood vessels, and should either of them be severed death from internal hemorrhage is almost instan- taneous. It is important to have extra good light in order that the abdominal cavity be illuminated sufficiently to locate the parts. Bright sunshine is the ideal light for this operation. Out-of-doors is the place, and from 10 a. m. to 2 p. m. is the time. 222 Animal Castration Operative Technique — With left side uppermost the feathers are plucked from site of incision — last intercostal space. The skin is chilled by allowing a glass of cold water to slowly trickle over it. This chilling process has a tendency to reduce capillary hem- orrhage from the skin. With knife begin high between the last two ribs and make an incision 1 to IV2 inches long, severing through skin and both layers of intercostal muscle down to the transparent peritoneum. Since the intercostal artery follows closely the posterior (back) border of the rib this incision should be made as close to the anterior border (front) of the last rib as possible. The spreaders are now inserted. This opens the wound, Fig. 205 — Making a Poularde. E, Abdominal Incision; G, Spreaders; F, Thum Forceps. and through the transparent membrane (peritoneum) covering the intestines the egg cluster is examined. If there is evidence of advanced egg formation it is not profitable to make a poularde. More profitable to release her for egg production, in which event the abdominal cavity is not opened. The spreaders are simply removed and the fowl released. On the other hand, if, upon exam- ination of the egg cluster — through the transparent peritoneum — there is no evidence of egg formation the peritoneum is knicked sufficient to open the abdominal cavity. Beginning close to the Animal Castration 223 egg cluster a one-inch section of the egg passage is removed with forceps and scissors. This stops egg formation. By reference to Fig. 206 an idea may be had of the exact location of the egg pas- sage and the part of it to be removed in operating. The spreader is now removed. This allows the ribs to come together, which automatically closes the incision. r Fig. 206 — Removing Section from Egg Passage. I-J, Forceps; K, Egg Passage; L, The Section of Egg Passage Between Forceps is to be Removed ; M, Egg Cluster. After Care and Treatment — Upon being released from the operating table poulardes are usually put in a closed yard where they can find shelter, food and water, and can be kept quiet. No roosts are provided, as the less flying and jumping they do the sooner will the wound heal. The poulardes seem to be very lilth' inconvenienced by the operation, and water and soft feed mixed with sweet skim milk can be given immediately. Sonic feeders give this in unlimited quantity, while others feed more sparingly for a time. For a week or ten days the newly made poulardes should be carefully observed to see whether they become "wind-puffed." This is a condition caused by air gathering under and puffing out the skin near the wound. When observed it can be readily relieved by pricking the skin with a needle or knife and pressing out the air. 224 Animal Castration CHAPTER VIII. DEODORIZING THE SKUNK. While removing the scent from a skunk has not the remotest relation — either directly or indirectly — with animal castration, nevertheless, on account of its novelty and the dearth of reliable literature with reference to the subject the author considers it of sufficient interest and importance for brief mention in the conclud- ing pages of this volume. Objects and Indications — It should be remembered that the skunk has no effective means of protection or defense aside from the scent fluid which it possesses and uses without stint when it becomes necessary. Ordinarily, the fluid discharged by the skunk is amply sufficient to ward off most any character of attack and protect the animal from danger. The scent fluid is only discharged when the animal is alarmed or frightened, and contrary to the prevailing popular opinion, is not urine, and has no connection with the urinary apparatus. Skunks are deodorized for the pur- pose of converting them into desirable household pets. Such ani- mals never scratch and rarely ever bite. They are absolutely harmless. Age — They should be operated upon at an early age (15 to 30 days old), as the mortality rate following operation in the mature skunk is very high. Season — Whenever you can succeed in catching them. This is one animal at least you must catch before you can operate. Preparation — If possible the young animals (kittens) should be kept and fondled for several days before they are submitted to operation. They should become accustomed to being handled. By thus preparing them they may be handled through the prepara- tory stages of the operation without voiding the scent fluid. Restraint — The operation must be done under a glass in order to protect operator and assistants. A large pane of window glass Animal Castration 225 should be supported at each end and raised about 10 inches from the floor. Two assistants are necessary. Rubber gloves should be worn by the operator and both assistants. The animal is carefully placed under the glass, after which one assistant should grasp the head and fore feet and the other assistant grasp hind feet, and hold the posterior parts in such position as to cause the discha rged scent fluid to be deposited against under side of glass. Most of the fluid will at this time be discharged quite promptly. Very little will be kept in reserve. In fact, the operation could be proceeded with to completion without the glass. Instruments — 1. Scalpel. 2. "Rat tooth" haemostatic forceps. 3. Curved scissors (Fig. 35). Anatomy — The anis is a large irregular elliptical depression surrounded by loose flabby skin which bulges over site of anal (scent) glands. These glands are two in number located on each side (laterally) of the anis. There is about one-half inch space between the anis and center of the anal glands. Fig. 207— Diagramatic Illustration Showing Scent Secreting and Expelling Apparatus. A, Anis; B-B, Jet or Nipple-like Openings of Anal Ducts; C-C, Ducts; D-D, Anal Glands; E-E, Sacs or Reservoirs. The scent secreting apparatus is large, and consists of numer- ous small glands— closely associated — surrounding a sac or reser- voir for storing up the fluid. They are covered by skin, subcuta- neous connective tissue, and two thin layers of muscular fiber, viz. : Iscio cavernous and bulbo-cavernous muscles. The glandular organ is surrounded by a well defined envelope. Each gland is supplied with an excretory duct. These ducts project through the lateral walls of rectum immediately anterior to airis. Their open- ings are nipple or jet-like for the purpose of governing direction of the stream. Whenever the skunk considers itself in danger its behavior is as follows : 1 . Turns posterior parts toward the object of attack. 2. Elevates tail. 3. Inverts rectum which exposes 15 226 Animal Castration nipple-like openings of the ducts. 4. By voluntary muscular con- traction the sac or scent reservoir is compressed and the scent fluid expelled. This fluid may be thrown for a distance of 12 to 15 feet, and the direction of the stream is under thorough control of the skunk. Of course, the amount of fluid is quite limited, but it is usually sufficient to suffice. The character of the fluid is dirty brown and feted, and is slightly phosphorescent at night. Fig. 208— View of Posterior Aspect of Skunk. A, Anis; B-B, Anal Glands. Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — The instruments should be sterilized by boiling 15 to 20 minutes, after which immerse them in Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of one tablespoonf ul to each quart of water. Wash hands with tincture green soap, using scrub brush, after which rinse them with the above mentioned antiseptic solution. Preparation of Operative Field — Don't forget that the skunk is now supposed to be under the glass. Clip hair from around the rectum for a distance — in each direction — of at least one inch. Wash parts with antiseptic solution and paint skin over site of incisions with tincture iodine. 227 Fig. 209 — View Showing Incisions Over Site of Anal Glands. A, Rectum; B-B, Incision. Warning — In making incisions and dissecting out anal glands exercise extreme care in order to avoid injury to either rectal or anal walls, or to the genito-urinary passages. Operative Technique — Locate the glands — on each side of rec- tum — by palpitation. A perpendicular incision one inch long is made directly over center of most prominent part of each gland, about one-half inch from rectum (see Fig. 209). These incisions should penetrate skin and subcutaneous connective tissue only. With rat tooth haemostatic forceps or small size vulsellum forceps the glandular organ is grasped, and with limited traction applied by forceps the parts are isolated by careful dissection, after which sever the duct close to rectal wall and the operation is completed. The incision should be left open to heal by granulation. After Care and Treatment — About all that is necessary is to place the animal in warm sanitary quarters. The wounds will heal and complete recovery take place by the tenth day. INDEX. INDEX Page Abscess 71 Azoturia 77-78 Bitch Spaying 201-212 Objects and. Indications 201 Age 201 Season 201 Preparation 201 Methods of Operating- 201 Anaesthesia 201-202 Instruments 202 Anatomy 203-2( >5 Restraint (Belly Method) 206-207 Operative Technique (Belly Method) ..207-208 Restraint (Flank Method) ' 208-209 Operative Technique (Flank Method) . .209-211 Atf ter Care and Treatment 211 Sequelae 211-212 Boar — Castration of the 105-1 10 Objects and Indications 105 Age 105 Season 105 Preparation 105 Restraint 105-107 Instruments 107-108 Operative Technique 108-110 After Care and Treatment 110 Sequelae 110 Boar— Castration of the Monorchid and Crypt- orchid 111-115 Objects and Indications Ill Age HI Preparation Ill Warning 111-112 Restraint 112 Instruments 112 Operative Technique 113-114 After Care and Treatment 114-115 INDEX— Con tinued. Page Boar— Castration of the Ruptured 115-123 Objects and Indications 116-117 Age 117 Season 117 Preparation 117 Restraint 117 Instruments 117 Operative Technique 118-123 After Care and Treatment 123 Bull ( Iastration 92-101 Objects and Indications 92 Age 92 Season 92 Preparation 92 Anatomy 94-95 After Care and Treatment 99 Bull— Castration in Recumbent Posture .... 92-99 Restraint for 92-94 Operative Technique 96-99 Bull— Castration in the Standing Posture . .100-101 Caponizing 143-1 51 Definition 143 History 143 Objects and Indications 143-144 Selection of Breeds 144 Age 144 Season 144 Restraint 145 Instruments 145-147 Anatomy 147 Preparation 148 Operative Technique 148-150 After Care and Treatment 150-151 Mortality 151 Calf Spaying .." 179-184 Objects and Indications 179-180 Age 180 Season 180 Preparation 170 Restraint 180-181 Instruments 181 Operative Technique (Flank Method) .. 181-183 Operative Technique (Belly Method).. 183 Sequelae ' 184 INDEX— Continued. Page Casting— Injuries From 76 Castration— Definition of 13 History of 1 :; Amcient Methods of 13 Modern Methods of 13 Castration of the Boar 105-110 Objects and Indications 105 Age 105 Season 105 Preparation 105 Restraint 105-107 Instruments 107-108 Operative Technique 108-110 After Care and Treatment 110 Sequelae 110 Castration of the Cryptorchtd and Monorchid Boar 111-115 Objects and Indications Ill Age Ill Preparation Ill Warning 111-112 Restraint 112 Instruments 112 Operative Technique 113-114 After Care and Treatment 114-115 Castration of the Ruptured Boar 115-123 Objects and Indications 116-117 Age 117 Season 117 Preparation 117 Restraint 117 Instruments 117 Operative Technique 118-123 After Care and Treatment 123 Castration of the Bull 92-1 ( ; Preparation V,',(> Restraint j 37 Instruments 137 Anatomy ..'.'.'.'' .137-138 Operative Technique 138-139 After Care and Treatment 140 Castration of thf Hermaphrodite 71-73 Definition 7 1 Objects and Indications 71 A ge II Season 72 Preparation 14 Restraint 54-57 Anatomy 70 Instruments 57-59 Operative Technique 73 After Care and Treatment 69-70 Castration of the Mule 43-4(1 Objects and Indications 43 A 8'e 4:5 Season 4;; Preparation 14 Restraint for 36-:',!) Instruments for 35) Warning 23-24 Operative Technique 43-46 After Care and Treatment 28 Sequelae 74-91 Castration of the Ram 124-130 Objects and Indications 124 Age 124 Season 1 24 Preparation 124 Restraint 121 Instruments 124 Anatomy 125 Operative Technique 127-129 After Care and Treatment 129 INDEX— Con tinned. Page Castration of the Stallion 14-35 Objects and Indications 14 Age 14 Season 14 Preparation 14 Anatomy 19-22 ( '(implications in 47-73 After Care and Treatment 28 Sequelae 74-91 Prognosis 28 Castration of Stalliox in Recumbent Posture 14-28 Restraint for 14-16 Instruments for 16-19 Warning 23-24 Operative Technique 25-27 Castration of Stallion in Standing Posture. . 29-35 Restraint for 29 Instruments for 29 Warning 30 Operative Technique 31-34 Advantages 34 Disadvantages 34 Castration of the Cryptorchid and Monorchid Stallion 51-70 Definition 51 Classification 51-53 Objects and Indications 53 Diagnosis 53 Age 54 Season 54 Preparation 54 Restraint 54-57 Instruments 57-59 Anatomy 19-22 Warning 59 Cleansing and Disinfecting Field of Op- eration 59 Operative Technique 60-66 After Care and Treatment 69-70 Sequelae 70 ( !at — ( \\sti;atio\ of the 141-142 Objects and Indications 141 Age 141 INDEX— Continued. Page Season 141 Preparation 141 Restraint 141-142 Instruments 131 Anatomy 142 Operative Technique 133-134 After Care and Treatment 142 Cat Spaying 213-217 Objects and Indications 213 Age 213 Season 213 Preparation 213 Methods 213 Anaesthesia 213 Instruments 213 Anatomv 213-215 Restraint (Belly Method) 215 Operative Technique (Bellv Method) . .207-209 Restraint (Flank Method) " 215-217 Operative Technique (Flank Method) . .209-211 Sequelae 211-212 Colt — Castration of the 36-42 Objects and Indications \\ Age 36 Season 36 Preparation 14 Anatomy 19-22 Complications in 47-73 Restraint for 36-39 Instruments for 39 Warning 23-24 Operative Technique 40-42 After Care and Treatment 28 Sequelae 74-91 Prognosis 28 Colic 77 Coed— Schikrous 82-86 Cow Spaying 164-170 Objects and Indications 16 1 Age 164 Season 161 Preparation 164-166 Restraint 166 Instruments 166 INDEX— Continued. Page Anatomy 166-167 Warning 167 Operative Technique 167-170 After Care and Treatment 170 Deodorizing the Skunk 224-227 Objects and Indications 224 Age 224 Season 224 Preparation 224 Restraint 224-225 Instruments 225 Anatomy 225-226 Warning 227 Operative Technique 227 After Care and Treatment 227 Dog— Castration of the 131-135 Objects and Indications 131 Age 131 Season 131 Preparation 131 Restraint 131 Instruments 131 Anatomy 133 Operative Technique 133-134 After Care and Treatment 134-135 Dog— Cryptorcheo and Monorched, Castration of 135-140 Objects and Indications 135-136 Age 136 Season 136 Preparation 136 Restraint 137 Instruments 137 Anatomy 137-138 Operative Technique 138-139 After Care and Treatment 140 Ewe Spaying 197-200 Objects and Indications 197 Age 197 Season 197 Preparation 197 Restraint 197 Instruments 197 Anatomy 198 INDEK-Continued. Page Warning 199 Operative Technique 1 99-200 After Care and Treatment 200 Exuberant Granulations 86-87 Granulations— Exuberant 86-87 Heifer Spaying 170-179 Objects and Indications 170 Age 170 Season 170 Preparation 170 Restraint 170-171 Instruments 171-173 Operative Technique 174-179 Hemorrhage— Nature's Methods of Controll- ing 22-23 Primary 78-7!) Secondary 79 Hernia — Inguinal 47-51 Scrotal 47-51 Hydrocele 87-91 Hermaphrodite— Castration of the 71-73 Definition 71 Objects and Indications 71 Age 14 Season 72 Preparation 14 Restraint 54-57 Anatomy 72 Instruments 57-59 Operative Technique 73 After Care and Treatment 69-70 Infection — Septic 74 Inguinal Hernia 47-51 Injuries from Casting 76 Intestine— Prolapse of the 76 Mare Spaying 153-163 Objects and Indications 153 Age 153 Season 153 Preparation 153 Restraint 154-155 Instruments 155 Auatomy 156-158 Warning 158 INDEX— Continued. Page Operative Technique 158-163 After Care and Treatment 163 Sequelae 163 Mule— Castration of the 43-46 Objects and Indications 43 Age 43 Season 43 Preparation 14 Restraint for 36-39 Instruments for 39 Warning 23-24 Operative Technique 43-46 After Care and Treatment 29 Sequelae 74-91 Nature's Methods of Controlling Hemorrhage 22-23 Oedema of Sheath and Ventral Surface of Abdomen 79-81 Omentum— Prolapse of the 75-76 Orchitis 71 Paraphimosis 81-82 Peritonitis 77 Poulardizing 218-223 Objects and Indications 218 Age 218 Season 218 Preparation 218 Restraint 218-219 Instruments 219 Breeds 219 Anatomy 219-221 Warning 221 Operative Technique 222-223 After ( !are and Treatment 223 Primary Hemorrhage 78-79 Prolapse of Intestine 76 Prolapse of Omentum 75-76 INDEX— Continued. Page Ram— Castration of the 124-130 Objects and Indications 124 Age 124 Season 124 Preparation 124 Restraint 124 Instruments 124 Anatomy 125 Operative Technique 127-129 After Care and Treatment 129 Ruptured Boar — Castration of 115-128 Schirrous Cord 82-86 Scrotal Hernia (Boar) 115-123 (Stallion) 47-51 Secondary Hemorrhage 79 Septic Infection 74 Sequelae of Castration 74-91 Sheath— Oedema of the 79-81 Skunk— Deodorizing the 224-227 Objects and Indications 224 Age 224 Season 224 Preparation 224 Restraint 224-225 Instruments 225 Anatomy 225-226 Warning 227 Operative Technique 227 After Care and Treatment 227 Spaying the Bitch 201-212 Objects and Indications 201 Age 201 Season 201 Preparation 201 Methods of Operating 201 Anaesthesia 201-202 Instruments 202 Anatomy 203-205 Restraint (Bellv Method) 206-207 Operative Technique (Bellv Method) . .207-208 Restraint (Flank Method) 208-209 Operative Technique (Flank Method). .209-211 After Care and Treatment 211 Sequelae 211-212 16 INDEX— Continued. Page Spaying the ( !alf 179-180 Objects and Indications 179-180 Age 180 Season 180 Preparation 170 Restraint 180-181 Instruments 181 Operative Technique (Flank Method). .181-183 Operative Technique (Belly Method) . . 183 Sequelae 184 Spayixg the Cat 213-217 Objects and Indications 213 Age 213 Season 213 Preparation 213 Methods 213 Anaesthesia 213 Instruments 213 Anatomy 213-21 5 Restraint (Belly Method) 215 Operative Technique (Bellv Method) . .207-208 Restraint (Flank Method) ' 215-217 Operative Technique (Flank Method). .209-211 Sequelae 211-212 Spaying the ( low 164-170 Objects and Indications 164 Age 164 Season 164 Preparation 161-166 Restraint 166 Instruments 166 Anatomy 166-167 Warning 167 Operative Technique 167-170 After ( Jare and Treatment 170 Spaying the Ewe 197-200 Objects and Indications 197 Age 197 Season 197 Preparation 197 Restraint 197 Instruments 197 INDEX— Continued. Page Anatomy 198 Warning 199 Operative Technique 199-200 After Care and Treatment 200 Spaying the Heifer 170-179 Objects and Indications 170 Age 170 Season 170 Preparation 170 Restraint 170-171 Instruments . .171-173 Operative Technique .174-179 Spaying the Mare 153-163 Objects and Indications 153 Age 153 Season 153 Preparation 153 Restraint 154-155 Instruments 155 Aaiatomy 156-1 58 Warning 158 Operative Technique 158-163 After Care and Treatment 163 Sequelae 163 Spaying Sows 185-1!).") Objects and Indications 1> S "> Age 185 Season 185 Preparation 185 Restraint 186-189 Instruments 180 Anatomv 180-191 Operative Technique (Flank Method) . .191-1!):: Operative Technique (Belly Method) . .194-1 95 Stallion— Castration of the 14-35 Objects and Indications 14 Age 14 Season 11 Preparation 14 Anatomy 19-22 Complications in 47-73 After Care and Treatment 28 INDEX— Con tinted Page Sequelae 74-91 Prognosis 28 Stallion — Castration of in Recumbent Posture 14-28 Restraint for 14-16 Instruments for 16-19 Warning 23-24 Operative Technique 25-27 Stallion — Castration of in Standing Posture. 29-35 Restraint for 29 Instruments for 29 Warning 30 Operative Technique 31-34 Advantages 34 Disadvantages 34 Tetanus 74-75 '•Water Bag"— See Hydrocele. Restraint of Domestic Animals (2nd Edition) A BOOK FOR STUDENTS AND PRACTITIONERS With 312 illustrations from drawings by one of the best pen artists in tfa United States, and 26 halftones from original photographs BY GEORGE R. WHITE, M.D, D.Y.S. NASHYILLE, TENNESSEE This book contains over 300 pages and illustrates and fully describes every known means of Restraint of the Horse, Ox, Dog and Hog. It is by far the best illustrated book ever written in America on any branch of Veterinary Science. .«'?t 8 !r. t \ i ," t °* Domestic Animals" has already been adopted as a Text Book in 18 of the 21 Veterinary Colleges of America. Its sale has been phenomenal. Every practitioner should secure one for study and reference. Published and for sale by the author; also sold by all veterinary booksellers. ^ PRICE, $3.75 POSTPAID, TO ANY ADDRESS <* A FEW EXPRESSIONS FROM THE PROFESSION DR. JOHN G. RUTHERFORD, President American Veterinary Medical Association. "Your handsome and comprehensive book on 'Restraint of Domestic Animals' received, and I am convinced that it is a most valuable book. The illustrations are exceedingly well done and the letterpress is very clear and fully explains the methods of using the various appliances. You are to be congratulated upon striking an entirely new line in veterinary authorship." PROF-*. J, MACQUEEN, Royal Veterinary College, London, England. "I have looked through the book on 'Restraint.' It seems to be a very useful work In this country there is a growing tendency to operate under general anaesthesia. To those who experience difficulty in casting and fixing their patients for operation your book should be very welcome." PROF. W. L. WILLIAMS, Professor Surgery, New York State Veterinary College, Cornell University. "I have heartily recommended your excellent book to our students." PROF. LOUIS A. MERILLAT, Professor Surgery, Chicago Veterinary College. "I have looked over the book carefully and beg to express my appreciation of your successful effort. The book is needed by the teacher, by the student, and by the practitioner, and it will undoubtedly tend to standardize methods of restraint — a reforma- tion that is very desirable in veterinary surgery. I have already adopted it as a text- book and predict that it will be as favorably received wherever the importance of good surgical restraint is comprehended." PROF. HARRY D. GILL, Professor Surgery New York American Veterinary College. "I desire to compliment you on its comprehensiveness, and to assure you that it fills the widest gap in veterinary literature existing today. It is an indispensable reference i;ot only for teachers, but practitioners and students as well. "To thoroughly appreciate your work the reader should have witnessed your demon- strations along this line as I have, and I cannot understand why you have not long since been employed by the various colleges to teach this most important subject." PROF. D. E. SALMON, University of Montevideo, Uruguay. "I desire to congratulate you upon the completion of a book which has certainly required much time and labor in its preparation. It will be a useful handbook for both the student and practitioner of veterinary surgery." WILFRED S. PLASKETT, D.V.S., Clinton, Mass. "It is a capital book, and will be appreciated alike by the student and practitioner. The text is graphic and the illustrations are the 'best ever.' One can see the modus operandi from a glance at the cuts. I trust the book will be received by the profession and that the second edition will be shortly forthcoming. The book is neatly gotten out and is a credit to the publishing house and the printer. "You have filled a long felt want. I think I was one of the first to suggest that you undertake the work, consequently will watch its merited reception by the profession with a selfish interest." PROF. E. A. A. GRANGE, V.S., M.S., Principal Ontario Veterinary College. "I think you have approached a subject which has hitherto been almost neglected, <'iid you have done it in a manner that is both terse and comprehensive, and nicely illus- trated. "I think your volume will be a boon to young men who are just entering the practice of the veterinary profession, and no doubt to many who have been in practice for a long lime. "I have added it to our list of text-books." PROF. SESCO STEWART, M.D., D.V.M., Dean Kansas City Veterinary College. "We have adopted 'Restraint of Domestic Animals' as a text-book, feeling that it affords students very valuable instruction and guidance not readily obtainable elsewhere. I feel that the profession is greatly indebted to you for placing this matter in their hands in such an excellent form." PROF. DAVID S. WHITE, Dean Veterinary Department Ohio State University. "This is to inform you that we recommend the book to our students and they are supplying themselves with them. Let me congratulate you upon adding so valuable a work to our literature and at the same time in a very practical way offering a kind of information to veterinary students much neglected at most veterinary colleges." PROF. LOUIS P. COOK, D.V.S., Dean Cincinnati Veterinary College. "The work has been adopted as a text-book at this college, and we regret that it was net issued earlier. It fills a long felt need. Had it been issued before our session of L908-09 was so nearly over we would have required senior and junior students to obtain ( opies. I regard the work as one of merit and value to students and practitioners, and I Must you will be repaid for the (rouble you have evidently gone to to get the work together. Congratulating you on your success as an author and with best wishes." PR cu^e E ° RGE K GL ° VER ' Veteri "-y Apartment Colorado State College of Agri- "We are now using your text-book, 'Restraint of Domestic Animals ' and find it satis factory m every respect. It fills a long felt want and does you great credit" PROF. CHARLES KEANE, D.V.S., President San Francisco Veterinary College. this tastiSn? UliS WOlk a mUCh needed b °° k and VViU adopt same as text-book at PROF. C. A. CARY, B.S., D.V.M., Veterinary Department Alabama Polytechnic Institute literatu 1 ^!? wm m h1 HIZ favorabl f; Indeed < J think it supplies a vacant place in literature. It will be used as a text-book in this school." our PROF. W. J. R. FOWLER, V.S., Professor Surgery Ontario Veterinary College. give^^tn^n?^ 6 a b *°? k whic \ has lon S been needed. It is a complete work and will give a student or practitioner a thorough idea of the subject of restraint." PROF. C. E. STEEL, D.V.S., Dean St. Joseph Veterinary College. rn.-TT b °° 1 k ' ent ! tled Restraint of Domestic Animals,' has my hearty endorsement 1 tmnk it supplies a long felt want in veterinary literature." PRC o'n" Univer B sU CKINGHAM ' ^^ Department of Veterinary Medicine, George Washing -JtLtS co ^ ain ed to say that a master of the art has described all the methods of restraint, and the book is a masterpiece. I have adopted it as a text-book in this school." PROF. F. S. SCHOENLEBER, D.V.S., Veterinary Department Kansas Agricultural College. tn 2 ^V 66 that ^ fi i 1S A gap in 0Ur work and wil1 l"' ove a very valuable acquisition to the college course of study. I wish you the full measure of success that the book de- serves. PROF. GEO. B. McKILLIP, M.D.V., Secretary and Treasurer McKillip Veterinary College. "I am pleased to inform you that your book on "Restraint of Domestic Animals' has already been adopted as a text-book in the McKillip Veterinary College." PROF. JOHN R. SCULLY, Secretary Terre Haute Veterinary College. "This book is most complete and concise. For a text-book I am positive that it can- not but be well liked by both the practitioner and student." PROF. H. L. SCHUH, Professor Surgery Grand Rapids Veterinary College. "Your book on 'Restraint of Domestic Animals' received and we think it a very useful work. This book will be placed upon the list of recommended books for the student to buy, and we will do all in our power to assist you in getting 'Restraint of Domestic Animals' in the hands of students and practitioners." PROF. H. E. BEMIS, D.V.M., Assistant Professor Surgery, Division Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State College. "I consider the volume full of most practical and therefore useful information upon the subject of animal restraint. I gladly recommend it to our students, and they, too, seem much interested." PROF, R. C, MOORE, D.V.S., President Kansas City Veterinary College. "I think the work is most excellent and one that certainly is of verv great value to every practitioner." N.