The other day I was speaking to one of the vets at my local practise about my lambing experience, and I was informed of a very important point that I had not previously known.
In all anatomically correct animals, except apparently Elephants the fore leg bends in a 'C' like shape, whilst the hind legs in more of a 'Z' like shape. This means that one is able to, when performing a internal examination, identify the position that the young animal is in, before you attempt to help pull it out, which can have serious consequences if the animal is not in the right position.
I was able to put this knowledge to use when I attended the Nottingham Vet School open day. Here there was a anatomically correct model calf in a simulator, and I was able to explain using this knowledge what position that the calf was in. This is an important lesson that I will now never forget!

It is important to remember that when carrying out an internal examination, that the hand is formed into a point rather than a fist. This is due to the fact that this is less invasive for the animal and avoids the risk of tearing any muscles on entry. To ensure that the entry is easy it is also important that the hand is well lubricated to prevent friction, which could cause unnecessary pain for the animal being examined.