332 MODERN FARRIER. 



not in svich a situation as may expose themselves or 

 their young to injury. It is proper always to watch 

 a cow that is near the time of bringing forth, and to 

 be at hand to afford assistance when necessary. 



Cows, particularly the short-horned species, often 

 need the assistance of the accoucheur. The natural 

 presentation of the calf is, with its head and fore- 

 feet, the nose between the feet, and the back up^ 

 wards. Downiiig enumerates seven preternatural 

 positions : namely, 1st, Reverse presentation, or tail 

 first. 2d, Fore-feet, no head appearing. 3d. Side- 

 belly upwards, head reversed over one shoulder, legs 

 appearing. 4th, Fore-feet, with head imder the 

 brisket. 5th, Head alone, or one fore-leg only with 

 it. Cth, Head and one leg, or head alone. 7th, 

 Calf tying on its back, its four legs folded nearly 

 together, and close up to the cow's back ; the head 

 appearing, or doubled back, even v, ith the ribs, on 

 one side or other '^ tlie hind-leg perhaps appearing. 



The following general i-viles are given by IMr. 

 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. 



Examinations best made, the coav standing, and in 

 the interval of pains. 



In pulling at the feet, inclose the claws in the 

 handy that the horn may not bruise the cow. 



Navel string bursting, and the usual flux of blood, 

 of no consequence. 



Instruments to be used only in the last resort, 

 and by experienced and steady persons 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 position of the calf may be ascertained after the 

 waters have been seen. A cord ought to be in 



