240 VETERINARY STUDIES 



on the wire the obstruction is loosened, moved upward a short 

 distance, or removed entirely. If the obstruction is merely 

 loosened then the process is to be repeated. This has proven 

 fairly satisfactory in the writer's experience. In all such work 

 the nose should be extended, the gullet be kept in as straight a 

 line as possible, and the work be done carefully. The tube or 

 wire loop should be introduced slowly and carefully, high up 

 and well back in the mouth. If the animal coughs, the instru- 

 ment should be removed and another trial made, as the cough- 

 ing indicates that the instrument has entered the trachea. 



Tense, spasmodic action of the gullet gripping the choke may 

 be controlled by the use of morphin or aconite. Whips and 

 other stiff instruments must be avoided, as they are apt to tear 

 the gullet just below the pharynx. "Whatever is used must be 

 smooth and flexible. For at least a week after the removal of 

 the obstruction, the diet should consist of soft food. 



There is usually no reason for haste in treating choke. Some 

 cases will recover naturally if water is kept before them and 

 they are left quietly alone. However, in severe cases, and when 

 ordinary measures fail, call your veterinarian before you have 

 bruised and torn the esophagus, making the case hopeless. 



