374 DOGS : THEIR MANAGEMENT. 



vulva, nothing whatever must be done. In easy births 

 the pups invariably come into the world enveloped in 

 their membranes, and thereby their egress seems to be 

 greatly accelerated. If these burst, or are broken, the 

 delivery is thereby rendered more difficult. The mem- 

 branes consequently, if protruding, should not be touched. 

 Some persons, I know, seize them under an idea, that by 

 pulling at these, or at the cord', the foetus can be brought 

 away. The notion is fallacious. With the first or second 

 pup the membrane may be visible ; and, nevertheless, the 

 labor may not then have proceeded far enough to 

 detach all the placenta. The entirety of the caul, or 

 water-bag, denotes that the foetus is alive; and it also 

 shows that Nature is proceeding to accomplish, in due 

 time, her offices. 



The position which the bitch assumes during labor 

 also deserves to be noted. While she remains within her 

 bed, and continues lying upon her side, however tedious 

 may be the labor, there is little reason for apprehension. 

 A few cries vented when the throes are present, or a moan 

 or two emitted when they are coming on, may be 

 expected, and deserve little observation ; but when the 

 bitch gives forth sharp, short exclamations, leaves her 

 house or basket, and places herself in the attitude she 

 takes when voiding her faeces, there is cause to conclude 

 something wrong, and requiring immediate help, has 

 taken place. 



Most authorities make mention of what are called 

 wrong presentations ; and such are very commonly met 



