iy2-2 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE. 



many places — the symphysis of the lower jaw usually being 

 selected, when the foetus is alive, and in such cases a blunt 

 hook should be employed. In case the foetus is dead, a 

 sharp hook may be employed. After the hook is placed in 

 position, or the rope is attached to the jaw, as the case may 

 be, the foetus should be pushed back so as to afford the 

 head plenty of room in which to turn. Pushing the foetus 

 back cannot be very well effected by means of the hands alone, 

 but may be easily accomplished by the use of the repeller, or 

 crutch — the latter name being given the instrument in 

 reference to its shape. As an assistant steadily presses 

 upon and forces the fcetus back, gentle traction is brought 

 to bear upon the head by means of the hook, or rope, and 

 the head brought into position. Nothing further should 

 now be done until a uterine contraction, or labour-^^ain, 

 comes on, when the ropes attached to the feet and jaw 

 should be gently and steadily pulled upon and delivery 

 effected. All traction upon the ropes should cease with the 

 labour-pain, and be resumed on the appearance of the next 

 labour-pain. In all cases where the mother appears to be 

 suffering from severe pain, opiates may be administered 

 with benefit. 



AYhen the foetus is found to be lying upon its back, 

 with the back of the head presented, every endeavour must 

 be made to turn it into the proper position. In the case of 

 a very small foetus, delivery may in some cases be effected 

 without turning it; but in the case of an ordinary-sized 

 foetus, such an accomplishment would, of course, be im- 

 possible. By patience, perseverance, and plenty of hard 

 work, the foetus may be turned over into its proper position. 

 This result, however, is by no means certain — the practi- 

 tioner, despite his utmost endeavours, in many cases failing 

 to turn the foetus over. 



