COMMON SURGICAL OPERATIONS 229 



difference in the results, providing the animal can be kept under 

 close observation and given the necessary care and treatment. 

 The spring of the year, just before turning the herd on pasture, 

 is the best season to spay heifers. 



All animals should he prepared for the operation by with- 

 holding all feed for at least twenty-four hours before they 

 are operated on, and it may be advisable to give them a physic. 

 It is easier to operate when the intestinal tract is comparatively 

 empty, and the death rate is lower than when the animal is not 

 properly prepared for the operation. 



The method of operaUng is not the same in the different 

 species. In young heifers and sows, the flank operation is pre- 

 ferred, and in mares and cows, the vaginal operation. The 

 median line operation is practised in bitches. A spaying emascu- 

 lator, or ecraseur, are the special instruments uoed for removing 

 the ovaries. 



The animal must be properly confined for the operation. 

 Heifers are usually held in the standing position by fastening 

 the head securely, and crowding the left side of the animal 

 against a solid board partition, or side of a chute. If the vaginal 

 operation is performed, the mare or cow may be confined in 

 stocks. The bitch is usually anesthetized and placed on her 

 back on a table that is inclined, so that the hind parts are 

 elevated. 



Ovariotomy cannot be successfully performed by an un- 

 trained and inexperienced operator. The necessary precautions 

 acainst the infection of the part must be observed, in order to 

 promote the healing of the wound and prevent peritonitis. The 

 seat of the operation should be carefully cleaned and disinfected. 



Following tJte operation the animal should be fed a spare 

 diet for a few days. This is a very necessary part of the care 

 of the bitch. The general condition of the animal should be 

 noted daily until there is no further danger from wound infec- 



