USE OF THE GAG. 145 



The size of the instrument should be as follows : — From a 

 to h four ruches, and one-eighth within, and from c to d three 

 inches, and three-eights within. It should be open at the right 

 side, by which means, if the patient becomes unruly at the time 

 it is used (which occasionally will occur) the hand of the opera- 

 tor is at liberty in a moment. 



The best way to construct a gag as represented is, in the 

 first instance, to make the oval complete upon every part ; 

 then make the instrument red hot, and while it is of a glowing 

 heat cut a piece out of the side of the size required ; then file 

 smooth the rough ends and edges ; after which temper it, and 

 it is ready for use. 



The gag should be made of what is called five-eighths half- 

 round iron, and the surface of the metal should be so arranged 

 as to present when in use the rounded surfaces to the palate 

 and tongue of the horse. 



Before using the gag,. turn the horse round in his stall. 

 The operator places himself on the right side of the patient, 

 with his back towards its shoulder, then takes hold of the 

 halter vnth his left hand to steady the head better, at the same 

 time holding the instrument in his right hand ; he then gently 

 insinuates the same into the side of the mouth, gradually forcing 

 the jaws asunder by bringing the handle of the gag into a 

 perpendicular position ; the tongue is then gently but firmly 

 secured as previously directed, the ball is given, and the iron is 

 immediately withdrawn. Should the animal operated upon 

 manifest alarm, which is frequently the case unless the opera- 

 tion be easily and steadily performed, the operator should take 

 time, and have recourse to gentleness and patience. Sometimes 

 it is necessary to place a twitch upon the nose. 



Administeation of Medicines ts Powdee.^ — -The medi- 

 cines which are given to the horse in a state of powder are not 



K 



