PHYSIC. 



89 



have been drained to a greater extent even than two gallons ; but Bboald 

 the reader possess a blood can, it is hoped that it will be indeed an 

 extreme case in which he would behold the vessel once filled. 



One or two quarts should be the limits of an ordinary venesection ; 

 but even that quantity may be of much more service, when aiding the 

 circulation, than when withdrawn and permitted to coagulate apart from 

 the body. Many practitioners, however, deplete without either excuse 

 or justification. Having opened a vessel, they will allow the stream to 

 flow until the poor horse staggers. Some are proud not to possess a 

 blood can ; but they hold up the stable pail to catch the vital current, 

 and are quite content that the most ample drain of the system, conducted 

 under their supervision, cannot be otherwise than restorative. 



The next instrument requisite is a fleam. This article is much pref- 

 erable to the lancet, though there exists a species of foppery among 

 veterinary surgeons which tempts them to employ human implements. 



FLEAMS, OF THE NEWEST FORM, OPEN AND SHUT. 



For that reason they flourish a lancet as the more scientific indicator. A 

 lancet is, certainly, necessary to puncture the eye vein, which is visible 

 upon the cheek of the horse ; but as regards a vessel which is as large 

 as a cart rope, for such is the dimensions of the animal's jugular, this 

 last cannot demand the exhibition of vast scientific attainment to pierce 

 it, or admit of the display of nice manipulation in him who operates on 

 such a structure. For this reason the old-fashioned fleam is very much 

 to be preferred. Assuredly it does not appear so pretty as the lancet; 

 but it always cuts with certainty and leaves a limited orifice ; whereas 

 the more genteel blade has inflicted awkward gashes upon living flesh 

 when the creature proved restless under its infliction. 



The instrument with which the veterinarian extracts blood has been 

 represente/i^having the hlf^de bared and having it closed. It is readily 



