Object Record
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Metadata
Description |
Cow vomit rope Cows sometimes get food stuck in their gullet: apples, potatoes and the like. When that happens, a vomit rope can come in handy. A vomit rope is a type of probang, a device used to reach obstructions in the esophagus. It is a cheap and affordable implement used to save an expensive dairy cow from at best being uncomfortable and at worst an unpleasant demise. Little Compton farmers would have learned about probangs from their fathers, or their neighbors, or from a farmer’s magazine or veterinary handbook. They’d see advice like this: use a ¾ inch thick rope, three or more feet in length. The end meant for the gullet of the cow was made smooth and firm by winding the rope twine around a metal center with a sort of knob on the end. Before use, the rope should be greased for easier passage and after use, the rope should be hung up from one end to keep it drying in a straight line. Some farmers recommend a dose of linseed or olive oil "to be poured down the throat before using the probang." The article goes on to say, "A simple gag and probang, such as we have described, should be kept at hand by every stock-owner. Though they may never be needed, they cost but a trifle and may save the farmer fifty or a hundred dollars, and will at least mark him as one who is merciful to his beast, as well as careful of his property." Contributed by Katie Coggins Registrar's Notes: On this particular rope one end is constructed of twisted fiber knotted on end with loose fibers hanging. The opposite end of the rope is constructed of wrapped fibers. A metal wire is wrapped around center for hanging. Old number is visible: 000.0062.00 |
Object Name |
Rope |
Catalog Number |
2007.2173 |
Date |
19th c. |
Category |
4: T&E For Materials |
Sub-category |
Animal Husbandry T&E |
Material |
fiber |