178 THE VETERINARY SCIENCE 



and cannula. It is better, however, to try to absorb the fluid 

 (by using medicines) before tapping, as it is not so likely to 

 return. 



3. Injuries to the Penis. 



Causes. — The penis of a stallion or gelding is often in- 

 jured by being hit with a whip or stick when protruding 

 from the sheath or by being frost-bitten. That of a stallion 

 is sometimes injured by being handled roughly or by receiv- 

 ing too many mares. 



Symptoms. — There is a considerable amount of swelling, 

 so much so as to prevent the penis from being returned to 

 the sheath. There is of course much soreness. 



Treatment. — Bathe well with warm water until the 

 swelling subsides. Tap, with a small sharp penknife, the 

 swollen parts to allow the water and blood to run off. This 

 will help to reduce the swelling. Next oil the penis well and 

 if possible return it to the sheath so that it may have the 

 benefit of the natural heat of the body. It may be kept in 

 position for a few hours at a time by plugging the opening 

 of the sheath with cotton batting. Bathe, oil and replace the 

 penis two or three times a day until it regains its strength, 

 and give the following: 



Ground Sulphate of Iron J4 pound. 



Powdered Nux Vomica J4 pound. 



Mix and give a teaspoonful three times a day in the feed 

 until the animal can draw the penis back into the sheath 

 himself. 



4. Swelling of the Sheath. 



Causes. — Swelling may result from what is known as a 

 dirty sheath. Bad blood and disordered kidneys may cause it. 



Symptoms. — There is swelling about the sheath and hind 

 legs. The urine is thick and yellow. 



Treatment. — With warm water and soap wash out the 

 inside of the sheath, and grease it with lard. Give a physic 

 ball, or drench, mentioned in the receipts at the back of this 

 book. Give the following powders: 



Nitrate of Potash or Saltpetre % pound. 



Sulphur % pound. 



Mix thoroughly and give a teaspoonful three times a day 

 in the feed. Allow a little exercise every day and the swell- 

 ing will soon disappear. 



