464 AMERICAN CATTLE. 



The following general rules are extracted from an excellent 

 work by Mr. Lawrence : 



"Timely assistance before the cow is exhausted. 



"Extraction never to be attempted in an improper position. 



"Supple the hand and arm with warm water and fresh lard. 



"Examination best made, the cow standing, and in the inter- 

 val of pains. 



"In pulling at the feet, enclose the claws in the hand, that the 

 horn may not bruise the cow. 



"Naval strings bursting, and the usual flux of blood of no 

 consequence. 



"Instruments to be used only in the last resort, and by an 

 experienced and steady person only. 



"The proper hook is of hard iron, four inches long, with a 

 loop for the cord at the straight end. 



"In a natural position, if the cow should want help, the posi- 

 tion of the calf may be ascertained after the waters have been 

 seen. A cord ought to be in readiness to attach to the fore legs 

 of the calf, in order to assist each natural exertion. The head 

 to be kept clear from obstruction. 



"Preternatural position. No. 1. as above. No attempt to 

 turn the calf (this position being favorable for extraction,) but 

 use expedition, for fear it be suffocated. Press the haunches 

 back with the palm of the hand, take hold of the bend of the 

 hough of one leg, pull at it, and reach the foot; both feet may 

 thus be brought forth. No. 2. Reduce the head to its proper 

 situation, between the fore legs, either by hold of the nose, or 

 the face bone. ' A long arm is needful, which must be kept to 

 the full extent of the body, that instant advantage may be taken 

 of every throe, the fingers being properly fixed. No. 3. Gently 

 move the calf back, and bring the head forth to the legs. No. 4. 

 Push the calf back to find the head; pull at the nose: this 

 requires address, but it is useless to employ force till the head be 

 in its proper place. No. 5 and 6. Push the calf back against 

 the shoulders and brisket : the feet will be found folded under the 

 belly; bring the feet forward, one at a time, the hand being 

 gently placed on the bend of the knee. Should the head be too 

 much swelled and bruised to be returned, it must be skinned and 

 amputated. Dissect in a straight line from the poll to the nose, 

 force the skin back over the first joint of the neck, divide the 



