134 A STUDY OF FARM ANIMALS 



ing method is generally discarded, except at poultry shows, 

 and here it has given such dissatisfaction that it has been 

 abolished in many cases. In spite of this criticism, we must 

 not lose sight of the value of the scale of points as a standard 

 and what it may teach. 



Judging by comparison is the next step to be taken after 

 a few lessons with the score card. This means keeping in 

 one's mind the essential features of the scale of points, and 

 then studying one or more animals of a kind and placing 

 mental values on the subject or subjects examined. A per- 

 son should make himself familiar with the different types or 

 breeds that he is interested in, and at every opportunity 

 give personal study to individual animals. In a matter of 

 comparison, it is necessary to keep in mind the important 

 features to be considered, and then judge the animals as in- 

 telligently as possible. In judging by comparison, it is cus- 

 tomary to line up the horses or cattle or sheep side by side, so 

 that they will face in the same direction. Hogs are usually 

 examined in small groups, being kept together with the help 

 of hurdles.* The front feet should stand slightly higher 

 than the hind feet, and there should be space enough for the 

 judge to pass easily between the animals to make his inspec- 

 tion. The center of an open space, with a firm, clean floor, 

 is most desirable. 



When the heads are lined up, the other parts are in the 

 best position for inspection. The judge then begins his com- 

 parison, first walking around the line of animals and noting 

 from different points of view the general comparison of one 

 with another. It is a good plan also to examine the animals 

 in single file, one directly behind another. Thus one secures 

 quite a different point of view, and obtains an outline of 

 head, back and quarters, and easily notes the difference in 

 depth of body and length of leg. In British shows the 

 judges commonly have the animals parade before them, in 



*A hurdle is similar to a small section of a light panel fence. Some hurdles weigh 

 only 3 or 4 pounds and are easily handled. Others may be longer and heavier, 

 requiring two men to handle. 



