PULSATIONS. 343 



There is no material difference between male and female 

 as to the pulse, but during parturition it is both more frequent 

 and more full than at other periods in all animals. Delafond 

 says, that in the mare and cow the ordinary number of pulsa- 

 tions increases, on an average, four or five beats every month 

 after the sixth of utero-gestation, and the artery is tense, full, 

 and rolls under the finger. 



It is evident that temperament must affect the pulse in a 

 marked degree, and great contrasts are offered by the full 

 bounding pulse of the horse with a sanguineous temperament, 

 as contrasted with the slow, feeble, and small pulsations in 

 the lymphatic variety. 



Size does not affect the pulse to the extent that might have 

 been anticipated. In comparing the pulse of a pony with 

 that of a cart-horse, it is evident that in the first it is more 

 frequent and small. If we compare animals of different 

 species, then it is a very marked feature, that in proportion 

 to diminution in size the frequency of the pulse is increased. 



The veterinary practitioner cannot fail to observe a decided 

 contrast between animals enjoying fresh air and liberty to 

 those that are confined in hot and badly ventilated stables. 

 If I have stated that the pulse of the ox numbers usually 

 from 45 to 50, it will be found that in town byres the average 

 is often between 60 and 70, and I believe I never witnessed 

 it below 55 in London dairies. Great allowance should 

 therefore be made in examining patients for the circumstances 

 under which they live. Heat always increases the frequency 

 of the pulse, and this is perceived in the open air on a hot 

 summer's day, or in a confined apartment. 



The approach of a storm is readily felt by animals, and 

 horsemen are well acquainted with the repugnance which 

 horses manifest to face tempestuous weather. The atmos- 

 phere is charged with much electricity, and its effects are 



