Nursing, 27 



rate her from the rest of the herd for one week before her 

 farrowing is due. In three weeks from their birth the 

 young pigs begin to eat other food than the milk of the sow, 



CHAPTER II. 



KUESIIs-G, CARE AND DIET OF SICK ANIMALS. 



Separation and Stabling — Disinfection — Rest and Sleep — . 

 Cleansing and Dressing — Position , Slings and Cradles — 

 Food and Drink — Special Diet Preparations. 



As in the human species, so in the domestic animals, very- 

 much of the success of medicines depends upon intelligent 

 nursing ; and the most approved skill of the veterinarian 

 will fail utterly, if the principles of hygiene and sanitation 

 are neglected. These principles we shall now specify. 



SEPARATION AND STABLING. 



Whenever an animal is seen to be ailing, it should be sepa- 

 i^ited from others and placed in a lot or pen apart, or in a 

 stall at a distance from others. This is especially important 

 when contagious diseases are prevalent, but it should be a 

 rule at all times and in e^'^ry instance. 



The stall chosen shoulo. be roomy, well drained and ven- 

 tilated, free from the odes of decaying animal or vegetable 

 matters, moderately lighted and quiet. The temperature to 

 be preferred is about 60° or 65° Fah. 



A loose box is preferable to a stall, when it is to be had, 

 as it allows an animal more liberty of movement, and permits 

 him to assume any position which is most comfortable. The 



