178 
THE VETERINARY SCIENCE 
and cannula. It is better, however, to try to absorb the fluid 
(by using medicines) before tapping, as it is not so likely to 
return. 
3. Injuries to the Penis. 
Causes. — The penis of a stallion or gelding is often in- 
jured by being hit with a whip or stick when protruding 
from the sheath or by being frost-bitten. That of a stallion 
is sometimes injured by being handled roughly or by receiv- 
ing too many mares. 
Symptoms. — There is a considerable amount of swelling, 
so much so as to prevent the penis from being returned to 
the sheath. There is of course much soreness. 
Treatment. — Bathe well with warm water until the 
swelling subsides. Tap, with a small sharp penknife, the 
swollen parts to allow the water and blood to run off. This 
will help to reduce the swelling. Next oil the penis well and 
if possible return it to the sheath so that it may have the 
benefit of the natural heat of the body. It may be kept in 
position for a few hours at a time by plugging the opening 
of the sheath with cotton batting. Bathe, oil and replace the 
penis two or three times a day until it regains its strength, 
and give the following: 
Ground Sulphate of Iron. 54 pound. 
Powdered Nux Vomica ^ pound. 
Mix and give a teaspoonful three times a day in the feed 
until the animal can draw the penis back into the sheath 
himself. 
4. Swelling of the Sheath. 
Causes. — Swelling may result from what is known as a 
dirty sheath. Bad blood and disordered kidneys may cause it. 
Symptoms. — There is swelling about the sheath and hind 
legs. The urine is thick .and yellow. 
Treatment. — With warm water and soap wash out the 
inside of the sheath and grease it with lard. Give a physic 
ball, or drench, mentioned in the receipts at the back of this 
book. Give the following powders: 
Nitrate of Potash or Saltpetre pound. 
Sulphur % pound. 
Mix thoroughly and give a teaspoonful three times a day 
in the feed. Allow a little exercise every day and the swell- 
ing will soon disappear. 
