Abstract: A serum inoculator for inoculating birds is disclosed. The inoculator includes a reservoir and a reciprocable needle having a portion movable into and out of the reservoir for insertion in and removal from the bird to be inoculated. The needle includes in that portion which enters and exits from the reservoir, an elongate diametric slot defining a side opening in each side of the needle. The slot includes flared sides and a projection extending into the slot at each end thereof and being adapted to positively attract and hold a predetermined measured serum dose for a single inoculation. A wiper fixed in position at the dispensing end of the reservoir for removing from the needle the serum other than that contained in the elongate diametric slot. A plunger is provided for imparting reciprocating strokes to the needle for drawing the elongate diametric slot into the reservoir and for charging it with serum and to project it therefrom to an exposed position for inoculating use.

Abstract: A gel-filled cap member having a retaining nut member therein for receiving a threaded contact member and a notch, at the open end of the cap member, for at least partially receiving a wire to be connected to the threaded contact member. The cap member may also have a portion at the open end of the cap member which is defined by reinforced wall having an increased cross-sectional area. Further, the cap member may have a plunger portion at the closed end of the cap member for applying increased pressure to the gel.