POULARDIZJNU 21:3 



closely the posterior border of the rih this ineision should be made as close 

 to the anterior border of the last rib as possible. The spreaders are now 

 inserted. This opens the wound, and through the transparent membrane 

 (peritoneum) covering the intestines the egg cluster is examined. If there 

 is evidence of advanced egg formation it is iiot profitable to make a poulard. 

 It is more profitable to release the hen for egg production, in which event 

 the abdominal cavity is not opened. The spreaders are simply removed 

 and the fowl released. On the other hand, if, upon examination of the egg 

 cluster — through the transparent peritoneum — there is no evidence of egg 

 formation the peritoneum is nicked sufficiently to open the abdominal 

 cavity. Beginning close to the egg cluster a one-inch section of the egg 

 passage is removed with forceps and scissors. This stops egg formation. 

 By reference to Fig. 211 an idea may be had of the exact location of the 

 egg passage and the part of it to be removed in operating. The spreader 

 is now removed. This allows the ribs to come together, automatically clos- 

 ing the incision. 



After-Care and Treatynent — Upon being released from the operating table 

 poulards are usually put in a closed yard where they can find shelter, food 

 and water, and can be kept quiet. No roosts are provided, as the less 

 fiying and .jumjjing they do the sooner the wound heals. The poulards seem 

 to be very little inconvenienced by the operation, and water and soft feed 

 mixed with sweet skim milk may be given immediately. Some feeders give 

 this in unlimited quantity, while others feed more sparingly for a time. 



For a week or ten days the newly made poulards should be carefully 

 observed to see whether they become "wind-puffed." This is a condition 

 caused by air gathering under and puffiing out the skin near the wound. 

 When observed it can be readily relieved by pricking the skin with a 

 needle or knife and pressing out the air. 



