CASTRATION OF THE BIRD (CAPONIZING) 



507 



in sponging the field of operation. The cold water thus acts 

 as an antiseptic, as well as causing a contraction of the capil- 

 laries of the region, and less hemorrhage result. 



When ready to make the incision, pull the skin over so that 

 after the incision is made and the skin released the wound into 

 the abdominal cavity will be closed. In making the incision 



Fig. 205. — A scientific operating-table: a, Tiie table top; b, cord looped 

 around the legs and wings; c, two awning hooks, around which the cord is 

 secured; d, the incision preparatory to removal of the testes. 



through the skin the bird will struggle, on account of the fact 

 that the skin is endowed with tactile or sensory nerve terminals, 

 as is the case with all animals. The muscular and areolar 

 tissue is not so sensitive. After this incision is made the bird 

 will struggle very httle. The knife or scalpel should be sharp 

 and the incision made quickly. The upper point of the incision 



