TREATISE 
ON 
VETERINARY SURGICAL THERAPEUTICS 
FIRST PART. 
GENERAL SURGERY. 
I. 
MEANS FOR THE RESTRAINT OF ANIMALS. 
Since all tissues, with the exception of those of epidermic or epi- 
thelial nature, are provided with sensitive nerves, almost all opera- 
tions are painful, and give rise on the part of the animal to reactions 
which are dangerous for the operator, his assistants, or the patient 
itself. Under the influence of the pain produced by the instrument 
no animal will remain quiet. It will resist and try to defend itself, 
so that the surgeon who wishes to act with safety must take precau- 
tions against injury. The horse with his feet or teeth, the steer with 
his horns or his legs, the dog and the pig with their teeth, the cat 
with its claws and canines, may inflict dangerous wounds. 
A number of veterinarians have paid with their life for their neg- 
ligence and lack of precaution in providing means for the control of 
large animals. Generally means of restraint must be employed. 
Yet, with kindness, caresses, and patience, one may succeed in con- 
trolling an animal, which threats and pain would only exasperate 
and possibly render more dangerous. Rough handling and inflic- 
tion of great pain have often caused serious accidents. It is on 
account of such treatment that a great many horses hurt, disable, or 
kill themselves, and that too many men become victims of their own 
unskilfulness and their own brutality. (Bourgelat.) 
It is preferable to fasten the animal standing, even if the restraint 
of a recumbent position allows an easier surgical operation. Sucha 
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