CHAPTER Y. 



FROM WEANING TO MARKET. 



UR remarks apply to the wether sheep destined for 

 the butcher. These have either been emasculated 

 according to the old-fashioned process of drawing 

 when a few days old — a practice which is a serious 

 trial to the lamb, and, in the event of a sudden change of 

 weather, sometimes followed by casualties : or are left to be 

 castrated towards the beginning of June — a plan which, where 

 skilfully performed, we think decidedly preferable. There are 

 various processes. We prefer searing and the use of blue oint- 

 ment and lard. In the sheep districts of the West of England 

 there are properly qualified experts, who travel at this season 

 from farm to farm and are wonderfully skilful ; so that under 

 ordinary circumstances, there is very little risk. One advantage 

 of this matured plan is that the purses are much larger and 

 fuller, so that the fat sheep, when turned, show to greater 

 advantage. After searing it is necessary to watch the sheep, 

 and keep them moving to prevent the settling of blood and 

 stiffness. As a rule they never suffer, and go on without a 

 check. 



Grreat attention is necessary at this stage to keep the lambs 

 in a healthy progressive condition. Food suitable, varied, and 

 supplied with discretion, are the requisites. One shej^herd will 

 starve in the midst of abundance, while another will make the 

 best of difficulties, and keep the sheep thriving during a drought. 

 Suitable food and frequent change are the great requisites. 

 Vetches often form the main food, but this is not well too long ; 

 and if the night fold is thus provided, we must, if possible, give 

 a change to sainfoin or clover during the day. 



