102 The Bulletin. 



LIGHT HORSES. AND CARE AND MANAGEMENT OF LIVE STOCK. 



By Dk. G. a. Robehts. 



LIGHT HORSES. 



No doubt the heavy ox rtnift type of horse should be far more seriously cou- 

 sidered to-day on many of our farms. Yet there is room also on many farms 

 and elsewhere in the State for "The Light Horse." 



Both these classes of animals should be in greater numbers, and they should 

 be bred and raised as far as possible within the bounds of our own State. 

 There should be a good reason for not breeding all of our female animals, and 

 to a purebred sire, in an attempt to grade up our animals. 



The term "Light Horses" among the pure breeds refers to the carriage 

 (coach) type, the roadster type, and the saddle type, each being rather defi- 

 nite in its conformation. Other than among the pure breeds, the so-called 

 market classes are numerous and quite variable in conformation. 



For a concrete example and as the opposite extreme of the draft type (other 

 than pony), we Avill confine our remarks largely to the roadster type. 



All horses, of course, should be sound and free from disagreeable habits 

 and vices. If they are to be purchased they should preferably be mature, well 

 broken and seasoned, but should not be too old. Many horses are serviceable 

 up to the age of 20 years or more, yet the majority "have seen better days" 

 before this age. Pei'haps the average period of greatest usefulness is between 

 the ages of C and 14. 



The following are some of the desirable features or points of the light 

 horse, the roadster in particular: 



In such animals, while not necessarily possessing a racing speed, ability to 

 get up and go at a good gait and keep at it is desiretl. if not demanded. 



The weight should be about 1,000 pounds and in the neighborhood of ir)iA 

 hands (G2 inches) in height. 



Compared with the heavier animals, their logs ai)pear longer and therefore 

 a greater amount of "daylight" luider the belly is permissible. 



The head should be of medium size, clean cut. rather lean in appearance, 

 neatly attached to the neck and making an angle of slightly more than 90 

 degrees (right angle) with the neck. The space between eyes (forehead) 

 should be broad, nose fairly straight, sides of face slightly dished and free 

 from meatiness. Eye should be full, bright, and clear; nostrils comparatively 

 large and easily dilated ; ears of medium size, standing more or less erect, 

 showing alertness, approaching one another slightl.v at their tips. 



The expression given by the eye and ear often indicate the disposition of 

 llie animal. 



The neck should ai)poar rather straight, long, and soniewhat thin from side 

 to side, yet well covered with firm muscle. It shoidd blend well with the 

 shoulders, though not as smoothly as in the draft or the carriage types. 



