194 BREEDING. 



as Avcll as themselves. At this time they ought, from their 

 general feverishness, as well as from their deprivation of ex- 

 ercise, to bo kept rather lower than iisual, and very little meat 

 should be given. Slops and vegetables, mixed with biscuit or 

 oatmeal, form the most suitable diet ; but, if the bitch has been 

 accustomed to a great deal of flesh, it will not do to deprive 

 her of it altogether. Bearing in mind then this caution, it is 

 only necessary to remember that she must be lowered in con- 

 dition, but not so starved as to do harm by the sudden change. 

 After the end of the period, a little cooling medicine will often 

 be required, consisting of a dose of oil or salts. (See Aperients.) 



MANAGEMENT OE THE BITCH IN WHELP. 



"When it is clearly ascertained that the bitch is in whelp, the 

 exercise should be increased and carried on freely till the sixth 

 week, after which it should be daily given, but with care to 

 avoid strains either in galloj)ing or jumping. A valuable bitch 

 is often led during the last week, but somehow or other she 

 ought to have walking exercise to the last, by which in great 

 measure all necessity for opening medicine will be avoided. 

 During the last few weeks her food should be regulated by her 

 condition, which must be raised if she is too low, or the reverse 

 if she is too fat, the desired medium being such a state as is 



