Equipment 387 



are recommended as efficient lice-killers, but the expense 

 which they entail is ordinarily too great in comparison 

 with that of a regular dipping vat. A dipping vat for 

 pigs is constructed in the same manner as those for sheep 

 already described except that for large hogs the vat 

 must not be less than twenty-six inches wide at the top. 

 Other dimensions may be the same. 



MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT 



Under this heading will be considered such instruments 

 and implements as are useful and necessary in connection 

 with the pig business, but which cannot properly be spoken 

 of as fixtures on the place. If pastures are used the pigs 

 must be ringed. A small pair of pinchers for applying 

 the rings may be procured for fifteen cents and will last 

 a long time. The rings cost about ten cents a box. The 

 fish-hook rings are most generally used, but plain rings are 

 sometimes necessary, and both should be provided. 



An ear-punch similar to that used for cattle or sheep is 

 useful, if pigs are to be ear-marked; that is, notches 

 placed in their ears. 



A castration knife with a straight edge blade and 

 made of the best steel is very essential. Such a blade is 

 sometimes found on the ordinary pocket knife, but in 

 such cases the blade usually requires extra attention 

 before any operation is to be performed. 



If the pig house is to be kept disinfected and free from 

 vermin, a spray is needed and may be provided with small 

 expense. Such a device is worth having if the house has 

 been built in such a manner as to make disinfection 

 practicable'. 



A hog-holder, for ringing pigs or for holding them for 



