METHODS OF RESTRAINT AND COMMON OPERATIONS 187 



precautions to exclude wound infection are neglected. Perhaps 

 the spring is the best time of year for castration, as the flies are 

 less prevalent and the weather is suitable. 



The testicles of a colt usually descend into the scrotum shortly 

 after birth. Too early removal interferes with the development of 

 masculine characteristics. It is the custom to postpone castration 

 until the colt is at least one year old. Colts are less difficult to 

 handle on account of their size, and are more resistant to wound 

 infections than mature stallions. The operation may be per- 

 formed either in the standing or recumbent position. Fractious 

 animals had better be thrown and securely tied to prevent injur- 

 ing themselves or the operator. Further advantages are that the 

 field of operation can be more thoroughly cleansed and subsequent 

 wound infection prevented. 



The emasculator and ecraseur are the two instruments given 

 preference in America for castrating. Undoubtedly the improved 

 emasculator is used more generally. It has the advantage of sim- 

 plicity in construction, so is easy to sterilize and use. It is designed 

 to crush the tissues before it cuts them and thus prevents serious 

 hemorrhage. The ecraseur has a chain loop, which is gradually 

 screwed down over the spermatic vessels by turning the handle. 



The clam is an instrument used for compressing the cord. It 

 is composed of two pieces of flat steel or wood, which have ser- 

 rated edges and are united by a joint. Up-to-date operators do 

 not favor the use of the clam, because there is greater danger that 

 pus-producing organisms will be retained. 



In order to insure success in castrating animals there must be 

 provided : 



(1) Cleanliness, which includes a careful washing and disin- 

 fection of the field of operation, the hands, and sterilization of the 

 instruments. 



(2) Good drainage for the wound, so as to prevent pus accumula- 

 tions. To insure this, a large, free opening should be made in the 

 skin and other coverings of the testicle. 



(3) Exercise, to consist of an hour's walk at the halter for the 

 first few days after the operation, then brisk trots. Colts turned 

 out to pasture immediately following the operation recover 

 quicker than those confined to the stable, where opportunity to 

 infect the castration wound is greater and daily exercise is limited. 



Castration of animals exposed to or infected with disease had 



