36 The Practical Stud Groom. 



thick wind-proof hedge is lacking. Regular exercise is very 

 essential to the well-being of the in-foal mare, and this can 

 always safely be given (except during cold rains, thick fog, 

 snow storms and severe frost) if care is taken to regulate the 

 temperature of the sleeping quarters. No fixed rules can be 

 given that will fit the different circumstances that may pre- 

 vail as regards structure and situation of stabling ; the groom 

 must use his judgment as to what is required. There is 

 reproduced opposite a photograph of a block of well- 

 ventilated boxes. Their design renders the regulation of 

 ventilation quite easy, no matter whether a blizzard or a 

 heat wave prevails. 



EXERCISE AND FOOD. 



As to exercise, a big effort should be made to get the 

 mares turned out every day in the year. This not only pro- 

 motes health, but lessens the risk of accidents, which are 

 likely to occur when a number of mares are let loose after a 

 few days' close confinement to their boxes. But there are 

 conditions of weather which make it advisable to choose the 

 lesser of two evils. Thus in very thick fog there would be 

 the risk of mares colliding. In heavy rain, accompanied 

 with a cold driving wind, it would be asking for trouble to 

 evict the mares from their dry, snug boxes. During a heavy 

 snowfall, both the foregoing dangers arise. On the other 

 hand, the author would not hesitate, after the snow had 

 ceased falling, to turn mares out for a couple of hours' exer- 

 'cise, even in a foot of snow. In dealing with frost, the 

 groom's judgment must be exercised. In the case of what is 

 known as a " white " frost, i.e., when the herbage is covered 

 with rime, there is a risk of mares getting colic from 

 eating it. With "black" frost, i.e., when the pad- 

 docks are hard and dry and free from "rime," 



