30 



ANI.MAL CASTRATION 



(4) .Since the operator is not called upon to handle dirty roijes, etc., 

 immediately before operating and the oiDerative field itself is not on or in 

 close proximity to the mannre and dirt — as is the case in the recumbent po- 

 sition — less wound coiitamination takes place. 



Disddi'initd/jrs — (1) Danger to the operator has been heralded to the 

 four winds as an argument against castrating stallions in the standing 

 posture. The author's twenty-five years' experience with operating in 

 both the standing and recumbent postures leads him to believe, in fact 

 know, that the danger to the operator has been highly colored and much 

 exaggerated with reference to castrating in the standing posture, unless 

 the operating surgeon lie a novice or an extremely awkward and careless 

 person. Of course it could not reasonably be expected that everyone can, 

 even by time and practice, become an adept at such an undertaking. In 

 order to be a success it is necessary for the operator to possess a level head, 

 steady nerve, plenty of self-confidence, and more than average courage, 

 together with a reserve of physical strength and activity. He should re- 

 lain his equilibrium in spite of any untoward accident or emergency which 



Fjo-. :^l — Side view with animal in standing posture showing positions of 

 right hand, knife, left hand and scrotum prior to making the incisions. Observe 

 that the knife is thrust into the testicle well forward on the scrotum. The incision 

 is made by a single sweep of the knife backward. 



