CHAPTER XXXVIII. 

 MARKET CLASSES OF MULES. 



The mule market is of more recent origin than the horse 

 market, but has developed into a large business. Whereas 

 horses are usually sold at public auction, mules are usually 

 sold at private sale, being sold singly, in pairs, or in any num- 

 ber to suit the needs of the buyer. When large numbers are 

 wanted of a uniform height and weight, they are most often 

 sold at a fixed price per head and the salesman gives a guarantee 

 as to age, soundness, and other requirements. When an order 

 is placed for mules of different sizes or for different market 

 classes, they will ordinarily be figured individually, or in pairs. 



Market requirements. The market requirements for mules 

 are similar to those for horses. They should be sound, of a 

 desirable age and color, well fleshed, and sleek in coat; and 

 should possess abundant quality and a strong conformation. 

 They should also have good action. These requirements are 

 discussed in detail below. 



Soundness. Mules should be serviceably sound. Blem- 

 ishes are objectionable, though not in the same degree as with 

 horses. They should be sound in eyes and wind, and should 

 be good workers. The most common and serious unsound- 

 nesses are large spavins, puffs, sidebones, defective eyes, and 

 unsound wind. 



Age. The most desired age is from four to eight years; 

 however, there are exceptions in some classes, as noted below. 



Condition. The appearance is greatly improved if mules 

 are marketed carrying flesh enough to round out their middles. 

 Sleek, glossy coats of hair are often estimated to be worth ten 

 dollars. The flesh should be smooth, not lumpy or roily. The 

 value of flesh on mules is about equal to that on draft horses 

 which is twenty-five cents per pound with a good grade of horses. 



Quality. Refinement of head, hair, bone, joints, and hoofs 

 is an evidence of good bone and wearing qualities. 



Conformation. All mules should have a large chest, long 

 shoulder, deep barrel, straight short back with as much spring 

 of rib as possible, a broad loin, and a long level croup. The 

 underline should be comparatively straight, the rear flank well 



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