250 LIVE STOCK MANAGEMENT. 



horses are doing little or no work, the ration may be cheap- 

 ened in several ways. In some instances the grain ration is 

 almost solely withheld and the same kind and amount of 

 roughage is fed as when at work. In other instances part 

 of the grain is fed in conjunction with straw or some other 

 cheap kind of roughage. This in many ways is the better 

 method, due to the fact that the grain part of the ration, 

 seems to furnish more bottom and fettle in the animal, thus- 

 it will be in much better form for work when such is needed. 

 It is a fatal mistake to starve a horse while idle and then- 

 suddenly increase his grain ration when the work season 

 arrives. The increase should be made several weeks in 

 advance, and better still, to feed some grain all the time. 



Idle horses should not be allowed to remain in the stable,, 

 but should be given exercise. Where light work cannot be 

 had, they should be allowed the run of an open lot. They 

 will then be in a much better condition to withstand work 

 when the time arrives. 



There are certain general points which apply to all 

 classes of horses. For instance, during the winter season 

 some succulent feed should be supplied to keep the digestive 

 system in good condition. Roots, especially carrots, serve an 

 excellent purpose. Bran mash is also good. Steamed or 

 boiled grain to which has been added a little flaxseed is one 

 of the very best regulators that can be fed. It should be 

 supplied about twice per week. 



The feet must also receive attention. They should be 

 kept trimmed from time to time. Horses which are at hard 

 work on pavements should have their feet packed so as to 

 soften the hoof and eliminate any fever or inflammation. 

 This is done by using steamed bran or shorts which is 

 packed in the bottom of the hoof at least twice per week, 

 and in some cases every night. It is very beneficial to the 

 feet. Grooming should never be neglected, as it keeps the 

 skin and hair in good condition, thus causes much better 

 circulation of the blood; consequently better health. 



The teeth should be examined at least twice a year. 

 Any sharp projections on the grinders should be removed by 

 means of a rasp made for this purpose. Many horses suffer 

 a great deal due to sharp projections on the teeth. The 

 removal of the same by means of a file or rasp is called 

 "floating." Many horses which are thin and otherwise out 

 of condition are thus troubled. The front teeth sometimes 



