178 
D. P. YO.NKERMAN. 
be ready to give information of. The share in those measures 
for the suppression of a contagious disease which lie may be 
called upon to undertake, ought to be strictly and conscientiously 
carried out, and with sufficient zeal to secure the best results. 
As I have before mentioned, when a contagious disease ap¬ 
pears in a locality, the authorities should take every possible pre¬ 
caution, and in order to do this must seek the aid of science. In 
serious outbreaks, where the disease spreads rapidly, and also in 
cases of lesser moment, the veterinary surgeon will be delegated 
to prescribe the measures for its suppression. In the perform¬ 
ance of such a duty he is bound by every sentiment of honor and 
justice to devote himself entirely to his mission, which is one of 
great importance. 
According to the nature of the outbreak he will more or less 
promptly report, to the authorities who have sent him, its chief 
characteristics, its gravity, and the best means of preventing its 
extension. In his communication with the owners of animals, 
however, he must maintain a judicious reserve, and if he pre¬ 
scribes medical treatment or private hygienic measures with re¬ 
gard to suspected or sick animals, he must also remember that he 
cannot recommend and enforce sanitary measures; to the admin¬ 
istration alone belongs the power rendering these obligatory. 
Those which he may think it necessary to suggest, and, with the 
owners consent, to carry into practice, are but provisional until 
sanctioned by the authorities. The veterinary surgeon*is charged 
by these with the duty of carrying into execution, in healthy 
or infected localities, the general measures already described ; 
and in order to accomplish his ofttimes delicate task satisfactor¬ 
ily, he should maintain a firm attitude against all interested solici¬ 
tations and influences, acting with circumspection, guided by his 
conscience, and never departing from that spirit of deference and 
conciliation which is so essential in an agent intrusted with such 
a mission. 
In his relations with the authorities the same influences should 
govern him. His recommendations and suggestions to them 
should be conceived in a practical spirit, couched in the clearest 
terms, and devoid of all technicalities which might mislead. 
