GRAZING. 27 



noxious ammonia, and it does not consequently require 

 to be so often renewed. . In the loose-box also he can 

 take quite as much exercise as is necessary for an 

 invalid intended to be laid up, and there he can be 

 supplied with whatever grain, roots, or succulent food 

 may be deemed necessary. 



As for any other advantage to be derived from a run 

 at grass, unless for the purpose of using the herb as an 

 alterative, I never could see it : and even this end, un- 

 less the horse has a paddock to himself, can hardly be 

 gained; for if there are too many beasts for the pro- 

 duction of the ground, the fare must be scanty, and 

 each animal half starved. 



The disadvantages of changing a horse to grass from 

 the artificial state of condition are the following : — 



1. That condition is sure to be lost (at least as far 

 as it is necessary to fit for work, especially to go across 

 country at a hunting pace, with safety to himself and 

 his rider), and not to be regained for a considerable 

 time, and at great cost. 



2. The horse is exceedingly liable to meet with 

 accident from the playfulness or temper of his com- 

 panions. 



3. Worms of the most dangerous and pertinacious 

 description are picked up nowhere but at grass. 



4. Many ailments are contracted from exposure and 

 hardship or bad feeding ; and owing to the animal 

 being removed from under immediate inspection, such 

 ailments gain ground before they are observed. More- 

 over, at grass the horse is more exposed to contagious 

 and epidemic diseases. 



5. Horses suffer great annoyance from flies in sum- 

 mer time, not having long tails like horned cattle to 



