Accidents and Operations. 413 
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The operation, however, is not a humane one, and is 
therefore unworthy of further notice in these peyes. 
WORMING. 
This absurd and cruel practice is, I am thankful to say, 
not frequently, as compared with the past, adopted. 
This so-called “worming” consists in removing one of 
the cords or tendons of the fresnum, which, when removed 
and released from tension, is in its movements said to 
resemble a dying worm. Ignorant people are thus imposed 
upon by pretenders of equal ignorance, and with which 
barbarity is mingled. 
Two prevalent ideas regarding the operation are that it 
is a preventive of rabies and mischievous disposition, both 
of which are equally absurd and, I need scarcely add, 
erroneous, 
CASTRATION. 
Castration is now rarely performed on the dog, except 
for certain conditions of the testicles which render their 
removal necessary.. Emasculated dogs have a great 
tendency to become obese, idle, and, so far as sports are 
concerned, comparatively useless. In all animals, a loss of 
energy, physical strengt, and acuteness of the senses, 
generally results from castration. 
It bas been argued that animals, particularly dogs, in 
this state are more affectionate and faithful—the last result, 
so far as nature is concerned, that could be expected to 
follow such an operation. Slaves they may be. Disincli- 
nation to fraternise with their own species, and more 
especially those of the opposite sex, is a natural conse- 
quence of emasculation, and therefore the supposed ome 
affection and faithfulness are but the result of their 
unenviable state. ‘ 
The operation, which should be performed under chloro- 
form, is a simple one. An incision is made through the 
