552 THE ACTUAL CAUTERY IN VETERINARY PRACTICE. 
have frequently refused to perform the above-named opera- 
tions, not only on account of their extreme severity, but be- 
cause they mar and deteriorate, in the majority of instances, 
the beauty, and consequently the value, of the animal. 
Nature has given us nothing superfluous ; and I am happy to 
find that the custom of cropping ears and nicking tails has 
become entirely abolished. 
In concluding these few brief remarks, and before I explain 
the method I adopt in firing, and consider its supposed effects 
on the animal economy, I may, perhaps, not be out of place 
to mention that I derived great pleasure in looking over the 
Veterinarian for the present month in observing that the 
Council of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons have 
not only introduced an educational examination of all gentle- 
men presenting themselves as pupils, hut that next year it is 
proposed that all pupils should or shall undergo a practical 
examination previous to going up for the diploma of the 
College. This is as it should be. It is imperative that all 
gentlemen holding diplomas to practice as veterinary surgeons 
should be able, not only to perform all operations appertaining 
to the art, hut to perform them well ; I mean in a scientific 
manner, rapidly, and without nervousness, and hence to 
ensure the animal’s freedom from prolonged pain. 
Where is the pupil to learn this manipulation? I am 
afraid not at our Colleges, as the system of teaching is at 
present administered. 
I therefore say that all pupils should serve an apprentice- 
ship of not less than three years (if seven years so much the 
better for his future advancement), and, in the progress of 
time, I have no doubt but that such will be the established 
rule at all our colleges . — “ ’Tis a consummation devoutly to 
be wished.” 
Method of Firing . 
The operation of firing consists in the application of a hot 
iron to the diseased parts. 
We are all acquainted with the shape of the iron generally 
used, and, for all purposes, I am not aware that at present 
it can be improved upon. 
The diseases that cause lameness, and for which I recom- 
mend firing are, spavin, curb, splint, ringbone, ossified 
cartilage, all bursal enlargements, commonly known as 
thorough-pin, bog spavin, wind-galls, &c., sprain or rupture 
of tendons or ligaments, lameness in the hip or stifle, quittor, 
navicular disease, and, in short, in all cases where it is 
considered advisable to employ extreme measures. 
I have also found it of great service in other diseases, un- 
