DOCKING, 1S7 



days the pedicle will generally be cut through ; and 

 the tumour will drop off. 



Some have attempted to remove the polypus by 

 means of the knife. The objection to this is the 

 bleeding which will often follow, especially if the 

 tumour is large; but, if the ligature is used, although 

 the pedicle is thick and not readily divided; the 

 polypus may be safely taken off by the knife about 

 an inch from the ligature. The pressure will close 

 the vessels, and no hemorrhage will take place ; or 

 if any should ensue, the tightening of the ligature 

 will command it. The ligature may, however, be 

 objected to; and a more speedy mode of proceeding 

 desired. Then, let the practitioner firmly grasp the 

 polypus with a pair of forceps, made for the purpose; 

 and twist it round and round. This twisting may be 

 continued until the pedicle gives way ; or the rupture 

 may be anticipated by the knife. Of these two 

 methods, the use of the knife is to be preferred: 

 because we cannot make certain of the tumour being 

 torn off above the twisted pedicle ; and if it be not, 

 fearful haemorrhage is likely to ensue ; and because 

 the knife abbreviates the operation, and cuts short the 

 sufferings of the animal. 



CHAPTER XXV. 



OPERATIONS ON THE TAIL DOCKING. 



Fashion and convenience formerly determined that 

 the tail of the horse should be shortened. The length 



