SURGICAL, OPEEATIONS. 297 



In the case of the ox this is very easily done, either by use of horse 

 hobbles, should they be at liand, or by the application of a simple 

 rope. If the horse hobbles are used, they should be fastened on the 

 leg just above the fetlocks (ankle joints), as they are in that position 

 less liable to come off than if placed around the pastern. 



Of the many ways of applying the rojie for this purpose we will 

 describe two only, which we consider the best and simplest : 



First. Take a long, strong rope (one which has been used a few 

 times is more flexible), double it. and at 2 or 3 feet from the doubled 

 end, according to the size of the animal, make a knot and pass the 

 collar thus formed over the animal's head, allowing it to rest on what 

 would be the collar place in a horse. Now, pass the ends of the rope 

 between the forelegs, carry one around each hind leg just above the 

 fetlock joint, from outside in, under itself once, and bring the free 

 ends forward, passing each through the collar loop on its own side 

 and bringing the slack back toward and beyond the hind quarters. 

 (PI. XXVI, fig. 2.) Two or three stout men should then take hold 

 of each rope and at a given signal pull. The animal's hind legs 

 being drawn forward, the balance is lost, and if the animal does not 

 fall or lie down he can be readily pushed over on his side and secured 

 in the desired position. 



Second. The three half hitches. Take a rope 30 or more feet long, 

 make a slip noose at the end and pass it over the animal's horns, 

 leaving the knot in the loop between the horns; then pass the rope 

 backward along the neck to the withers, just in front of which take a 

 half hitch on it, passing it along the back, take one half hitch just 

 behind the forelegs and a second in front of the hind limbs round the 

 flank. (PI. XXVI, fig. 1.) The free end of the rope is taken hold of 

 by one or two assistants while another holds the animal's head. By 

 pulling firmly on the rope, or inducing the animal to make a step or 

 two forward while steady traction is made on the rope, the beast will 

 quietly lie down, when his feet can be secured in the way most con- 

 venient for the operator. 



There are numerous other methods, involving more or less complete 

 restraint, which may be equally efficacious, but one or other of the 

 ways indicated will doutless be found to meet fully all ordinary' cases. 



RINGING THE BULL. 



This is usually and ought always to be done before the calf has 

 attained sufficient weight or strength to make his restraint a matter 

 of serious difficulty. An ordinary halter is usually all that is re- 

 quired, the strap being secured to a tree or post. A jointed steel or 

 copper ring is ordinarily used. Those made of the latter metal are 

 preferable. 



