3G2 
On the Teeth of the Ox, Sheep, and Pig. 
From numeious cases which might be selected in proof of 
the value of these data, I shall take but two, chosen because 
they are among the more recent submitted to my opinion. A 
gentleman much interested in the subject of the dentition of this 
animal sent me the jaws of two pigs which he had bred. After 
examining the first jaw (which I have now before me) I remarked 
that were my opinion asked on this case, as one in dispute, I 
should state that the appearances indicated the animal to be about 
nine months of age. The other (also before me) was then examined, 
and the conclusion arrived at was that the animal was a year old. 
The statement given by the gentleman sending them was to 
the following effect : — " No. 1. The jaw-bones of a male pig, 
farrowed on the 30th of April, 1852, killed on the 15th of 
February, 1853 : nine months and 15 days old. — No. 2. The 
jaw-bones of a female pig, farrowed on the 22nd of December, 
1852, killed on the 2nd of January, 1854: one year and 11 
days old." It will be seen that the opinion I had given, and 
which Avas formed entirely on the state of the teeth, without, 
therefore, that assistance which the growth and general appear- 
ance of a living animal affoids, approached the exact age within 
11 days in one case and 15 in the other. 
I will merely observe in conclusion, that if in our improved 
breeds of cattle, sheep, and pigs, dentition be perfected earlier 
than is generally supposed, we are nevertheless in a position, 
from the information which has been obtained at the shows of 
this Society in particular, to do justice in cases of disputed age. 
That variations exist to some extent in the teething of animals 
is sufficiently exemplified by the general description hei'ein 
given, as also by the tables prepared for the elucidation of this 
subject. Still it is to be hoped that the conclusions arrived at, 
being, as before said, based on upwards of two thousand cases 
of attested ages, further experience will only tend to their con- 
firmation, and much will be gained if only a spirit of inquiry be 
awakened on this important subject. 
