Dam and Puppies. 33 



indispensable to the future welfare of the 

 litter, and it is much the better plan to 

 allow her to run entirely unconfined. Her 

 diet, for the main part, should consist of 

 mutton broth, cooked meat, oatmeal, milk 

 and vegetables, all to be thoroughly cooked 

 except the milk — taking care not to cloy 

 her by overfeeding or long-continued use 

 of any one article of food. During this 

 period I believe it to be a good plan to 

 pay her particular attention by petting her 

 and keeping her with you as a companion 

 as much as you conveniently can, and, if it 

 is possible, to work or use her in her par- 

 ticular sphere or vocation as much as pos- 

 sible. If a hunting dog of any breed, she 

 should be often worked upon the game she 

 is accustomed to hunt, if it is in season ; 

 and even if not in season, a ramble with her 

 throuo-h the woods or over the fields will 

 be beneficial in giving her healthy exercise. 

 I have often at this period hunted my 

 pointers, setters and hounds up to the 



