Types and Market Classes of Live Stock 



479 



that is likely to cause lameness or soreness. He must be good in wind 

 and eyes, but may have small splints and puffs, and a little rounding 

 on the curb joint. Broken wind; thick wind ; sidebones; unsound hocks 

 such as curbs, spavins, and thoroughpins; large splints; and buck knees 

 are discriminated against. 



Conformation. — If a horse is to do hard work, with a minimum of 

 wear, and give the longest possible period of service, he must possess 

 a conformation indicative of strength, endurance, and longevity, the 

 indications of which are good feet, a good constitution, good feeding 

 qualities, good bone, and symmetry of conformation. Conformation 

 has been discussed fully in connection with the various types described 

 in preceding chapters, and no further discussion is necessary here. 



Fig. 183. — Horse market at the Union Stock Yards, Chicago. Uindmg and 

 trying-out horses immediately after purchase. If the horse is found to be not as 

 represented at time of sale, the buyer has the privilege of returning him to the seller. 



Quality in a horse is of great importance, as has already been 

 emphasized. A horse lacking in quality is a comparatively cheap 

 animal. 



Condition. — To be appreciated on the market, a horse must be fat 

 and possess a good coat of hair, which gives him a sleek appearance. 

 Condition is most important in draft, chunk, and wagon horses. When 

 a green horse goes to the city, he loses weight during the first few weeks 

 until he becomes used to the new conditions, and it is a decided advan- 

 tage if he enters city work carrying a high finish. When a horse is 

 fed to a high state of fatness it invariably improves his spirit and style, 

 as well as his form and weight. In some individuals, fat covers many 

 faults. The man who sends his horse to market in finished form is 

 offering the animal in most attractive condition. Condition is a very 

 important item of value on the horse market. 



