130 THE CAMEL 



perhaps, to the enervating nature of the climate ; 

 though this, I imagine, is merely secondary, and would 

 have but a trifling effect were the former to be re- 

 moved. 



Camels or any animals which have been brought 

 up on saline herbage are always healthier and more 

 vigorous than others, and if such is not procurable 

 salt must be given to them as a ration. Looking at 

 the question simply from an economical standpoint, 

 this daily ration is to be strongly recommended, as it 

 would often save the ultimate use of more expen- 

 sive drugs, and camel-flesh as well, and the sooner we 

 adopt it the better, for, in addition, it cannot fail in 

 breeding to have a marked effect on the offspring. 

 Summary Before concluding this chapter, I will summarise 

 to camel what I consider the chief points that are necessary 

 in order to improve the various breeds of camels, as 

 well as to check the excessive mortality among the 

 young. They are 



(1) The elimination of all markedly inferior types. 



(2) Selection of the best breeds, and of the finest 

 specimens of each, mentally and physically. 



(3) Cancellation of interbreeding. 



(4) Encouragement of cross-breeding. 



(5) Selection according to age. 



(6) Strictest care and attention in general manage- 

 ment, especially to hygienic conditions. 



Here we have the whole question in a nutshell, 

 and enough has already been said on the first four to 

 convince even a sceptic of their essential importance. 



Of the fifth, I can only say that, as with us, parents 

 in the prime of life produce the most vigorous children, 



