468 MODERN FARRIER. 



most delicate pork might be provided at a scarce 

 season. 



In all cases, however, great care should be taken 

 that the sows, as they advance in their pregnancy, 

 be lodged separately, lest their bellies be hurt by 

 others lying upon them ; and it is of still more con- 

 sequence, that no other swine be within reach of 

 them at the time of bringing forth, since in that 

 case the pigs would most probably be devoured as 

 they fall. The sows should also be attended in pig- 

 ging with much care, in order to preserve the pigs ; 

 and it may be necessary sometimes during three or 

 four days afterwards. Such sows as have the un- 

 natural propensity of devouring their young, should 

 be well secured at the time, and be disposed of as 

 soon as possible, as tliey never do any good in keep- 

 ing as breeders. It is found that dry, warm, and 

 comfortable lodging is of almost as much importance 

 as that of food, in this system of management ; the- 

 sows and pigs not being turned abroad by any means 

 in bad weather. The pigs may be weaned in about 

 eight weeks, after which the sows may be shut up, 

 feeding them well, and on the return of their milk, 

 they will piostly express very plainly their desire of 

 taking the boar. The sows require to be fed in an, 

 extraordinary manner while they are nursing, parti- 

 cularly if they liave a number of pigs to support. 



In the management of these animals, it is of great 

 utility and advantage to keep the different sorts se- 

 parate and distinct from each other, as the sows in 

 pig, those with pigs, and the stores according to 

 their ages ; as it is only in this way that they can be 

 kept to the most profit and advantage. 



24. Rearing Pigs. 



As the breeding of pigs is a business that affords 

 the farmer a considerable profit and advantage in 

 various view^s, it is of essential importance that he 



