478 



TYPES AND MARKET CLASSES OF LIVE STOCK 



Army mules. The demand for mules in the army is very 

 limited and the class is not important except in time of war. 

 In the recent World War, the American mule played a very 

 important part, and large numbers were purchased at the var- 

 ious markets. Three classes are required, these being wheel 

 mules and lead mules used in four-in-hand teams on army wagons 

 for transport work, and pack and riding mules. 



Wheel mules. Government specifications call for mules 

 that are "sound, well bred, and of a superior class; of a kind 

 disposition, free from vicious habits, gentle, and well broken to 

 harness, with free and springy action at the walk and trot; and 

 otherwise to conform to the following description: A mare or 

 gelding of uniform and hardy color, in good condition, from 3 to 



Fig. 163. Small Pair of Wheel Mules to Army Wagon. 



8 years old. Three-year-old mules will be purchased only when 

 exceptionally fine individuals." Wheel mules stand 15-3 to 

 16-1 hands high, and weigh from 1150 to 1300 pounds. 



Lead mules. These are of the same general description as 

 the wheelers, but are smaller animals. They should stand 15 

 to 15-3 hands high, and weigh from 1000 to 1150 pounds. 



Pack and riding mules. Pack and riding mules stand 

 from 14-2 to 15-2 hands, and weigh from 950 to 1200 pounds. 

 They must be of stocky build, with a stout neck, short, strong 

 back, good coupling, large deep barrel, and good feet and legs, 

 with ample bone. The pack mules must be particularly deep 

 in the middle and strong backed, as they carry a long pack 

 saddle which fits well down on the sides of the mule, and they 

 carry from 300 to 350 pounds. Pack mules are used for trans- 



