74 EESTRAINT OF DOMESTIC ANIMALS. 



use in this particular case. We have the hobble, casting har- 

 ness, and the equine operating table from which to make our 

 selection. Each have their disadvantages as well as their ad- 

 vantages. The method selected or employed must depend large- 

 ly upon the circumstances and surroundings encountered in each 

 individual case. The temperament, size, strength, age and 

 conformation of the animal must each receive due considera- 

 tion. Then the location of the field of operation, the length 

 of time required to operate, number and ability of assistants, 

 value of the animal, and means of restraint available are all 

 to be considered. To avoid rupture or dislocation of important 

 internal abdominal organs it is best to prepare the patient before 

 casting. This is done by withholding water and food for from 

 twelve to twenty-four hours. When we once undertake the 

 task of casting and confining the animal it should be completed 

 with dispatch. Do it quickly, avoid accident unless same is 

 unavoidable, and, above all things else for the personal safety 

 and protection of the operator and the welfare of the animal, 

 the restrain should be secure. The dangers encountered in 

 jDerforming work of this character are legion. The operator is 

 often kicked, struck or bitten while applying and adjusting the 

 casting apparatus. The animal may receive halter burns, lacer- 

 ations and abrasions of different kinds. Rupture of muscles 

 and tendons sometimes take place. Fractures of the vertebrae 

 and other bones are by no means infrequent. Some patients 

 present radial paralysis as a sequela of casting, while others 

 become exhausted and never rise after being released. 



There are three useful adjuncts to casting and securing 

 animals which it is well to mention at this immediate juncture, 

 viz., the operating hood, the apparatus of Bemardot and Buttel 

 for preventing broken back, and the cross hobbles. 



The Operating Hood. 



The operating hood, Figure 78, is made of heavy canvas, 

 doubled, stitched and padded, after which the hood (a) is 

 bound around the edges with either leather or heavy cloth. 

 Openings are made at top (d) to accommodate the ears. It is 

 held on by buckles under chin and jaw (b) (c). This hood 



