134 BEGINNINGS IN ANIMAL HUSBANDRY 



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 com- 

 parison, it is necessary to keep in mind the important 

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

 gently as possible. In judging by comparison, it is custom- 

 ary 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 positions for inspection. The judge then begins his 

 comparison, first walking around the line of animals and 

 noting from different points of view the general comparison 

 of one with another. The judge must necessarily place first 

 in rank the animal that shows the most breed or type char- 

 acter, that has the most complete balance of parts, the most 

 perfection in various details, and the least number of faults. 

 Emphasis, however, must be placed on the special purpose 

 of the animal under consideration, as weight in heavy draft 



*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. 



