CHAPTER XXXIX 

 MARKET CLASSES OF MULES 



The mule market is of more recent origin than the horse market, 

 but has developed into a large business. Whereas horses are usually 

 sold at auction, mules are usually sold at private sale, being sold singly, 

 in pairs, or in any number to suit the needs of the buyer. When large 

 numbers are wanted of a uniform height and weight, they are most 

 often sold at a fixed price per head and the salesman gives a guarantee 

 as to age, soundness, and other requirements. When an order is 

 placed for mules of different sizes or for different market classes, they 

 will ordinarily be figured individually, or in pairs. 



Market requirements. — The market requirements for mules are 

 similar to those for horses. They should be sound, of a desirable age 

 and color, well fleshed, and sleek in coat; and should possess abundant 

 quality and a strong conformation. They should also have good action. 

 These requirements are discussed in detail below. 



Soundness. — Mules should be serviceably sound. Blemishes are 

 objectionable, though not in the same degree as with horses. They 

 should be sound in eyes and wind, and should be good workers. The 

 most common and serious unsoundnesses are large spavins, puffs, side- 

 bones, defective eyes, and unsound wind. 



Age. — The most desired age is from four to eight years; however, 

 there are exceptions in some classes, as noted below. 



Condition. — The appearance is greatly improved if mules are 

 marketed carrying flesh enough to round out their middles. Sleek, 

 glossy coats of hair are often estimated to be worth ten dollars. The 

 flesh should be smooth, not lumpy or roily. The value of flesh on mules 

 is about equal to that on draft horses — which is twenty-five cents per 

 pound with a good grade of horses. 



Quality. — Refinement of head, hair, bone, joints, and hoofs is an 

 evidence of good bone and wearing qualities. 



Conformation. — All mules should have a large chest, long shoulder, 

 deep barrel, straight short back with as much spring of rib as possible, 

 a broad loin, and a long level croup. The underline should be com- 

 paratively straight, the rear flank well let down, and the thighs and 

 quarters heavily muscled. The legs should evidence both substance 

 and quality, the feet should be large, wide at the heel, and sound, and 

 the hoofs should be smooth. The form, muscling, and set of legs 

 should be approximately the same as in horses. The head of the mule 



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