42 SELECTING SHEEP FOR AGRICULTURAL SHOWS. 



thrive and do better in small lots; and in the case of rams, it is 

 absolutely essential to divide them as much as circumstances will 

 allow. 



Rams are not so likely to fight in lots of three as when two are 

 penned together, but as before stated the best animals should, if 

 possible, have pens to themselves. 



The sheep shed (vide engraving) should be placed on a dry 

 spot, and a good system of drainage is as essential. It will be 

 observed that the turnip house is placed in the centre of the shed, 

 and that the sheep can be fed right and left by means of the 

 gangway. In practice, it will not be found advisable to put the 

 show ewes and rams in the same shed ; and generally, another 

 building may be so arranged as to accommodate the ewes. 



A wooden sparred floor, made of creosoted timber, in sections, 

 and therefore easily put down and taken up, and raised some 

 6 or 8 inches above the ground, is recommended. By placing a 

 good layer of peat moss under this floor, the whole of the urine is 

 absorbed, and the shed kept sweet and healthy. These floors are 

 great litter economisers, owing to the perfect drainage ensured ; 

 and, as a natural consequence, the sheep have always a comfort- 

 able, dry, bed, and are not so liable to contract Foot Rot. 



Exercise is, however, essential, even after the sheep have been 

 shorn and housed, and the shepherd should be made to under- 

 stand that the chances of success are greater if the sheep have 

 gentle exercise daily to the extent of one or two miles. It 

 develops muscle and strength, keeps them well on their legs, 

 gives them an increased appetite, and promotes health ; all which 

 results in a thrifty growth, and firmness of flesh not to be seen in 

 the ungainly obese creatures often sent for exhibition. Exercising 

 the show animals is pleasant occupation for the proprietor ; and if 

 he be accompanied occasionally by a friend, so much the better ; 

 as the animals get used to strangers, and become docile and 

 quiet. In some cases, the master rarely goes near his sheep ; and 

 when he does do so, a few days before the commencement of the 

 show season, he is rather annoyed at finding them scared and 



