THE sow ; SELECTIUN AND MANAGEMENT I 1/ 



also plenty of pumpkins, are valuable adjuncts. Fre- 

 quently it is convenient and inexpensive to feed raw 

 potatoes, and they have a value in affording" succulence 

 and variety, but as a principal diet for any considerable 

 length of time they are not at all to be recommended. 

 The especial need is material for bone and muscle- form- 

 ing. Fat for the pigs is not needed until a later time. 

 Very much corn is not desirable feed for any breeding 

 animal. Many valuable sows have been destroyed for 

 breeding- purposes by overfeeding on corn or corn meal. 



In the corn belt, however, most farmers find their 

 abundant and inexpensive corn a feed which cannot be 

 avoided or ignored, nor should it be; but while its use 

 need not by any means be omitted, it should be but 

 moderate, and as a part of a reasonably balanced ration. 

 Sows kept for breeding should not herd with fattening 

 hogs kept on corn, but be in pasture and given a supply 

 of slop, such as equal parts of shorts, corn meal and 

 wheat bran. Feeds which furnish considerable bulk are 

 preferable, and those tending to prevent constipation 

 are important. 



At the time of service the sow should be in what may 

 best be described as "good" condition, not too fat or 

 in exhibition form, nor, on the other hand, too thin. She 

 ought to be hearty in every way and a greedy feeder; 

 she is then entering upon the most important work of 

 lier career, and ought to be "fit." As winter approaches 

 the sows should have shelter adequate for any protection 

 that the climate may make necessary. Whether this 

 shelter l3e of straw and poles or of tight roofing it 



