Types and Market Classes of Live Stock 



521 



most desired from 5 to 8 years old, and little preference is shown 

 regarding sex. The demand is strong and quite constant the year 

 round. (See Fig. 202.) 



Army mules. — The demand for mules in the army is very limited 

 and the class is not important except in time of war. In the recent 

 World War, the American mule played a very important part, and 

 large numbers were purchased at the various markets. Three classes 

 are required, these being wheel mules and lead mules used in four-in- 

 hand teams on army wagons for transport work, and pack and riding 

 mules. 



Wheel mules. — Government specifications call for mules that are 

 "sound, well bred, and of a superior class; of a kind disposition, free 

 from vicious habits, gentle, and well broken to harness, with free and 

 springy action at the walk and trot; and otherwise to conform to the 



Fig. 208. — Small pair of wheel mules to army wagon 



following description: A mare or gelding of uniform and hardy color, 

 in good condition, from 3 to 8 years old. Three-year-old mules will be 

 purchased only when exceptionally fine individuals." Wheel mules 

 stand 15-3 to 16-1 hands high, and weigh from 1,150 to 1,300 pounds. 



Lead mules are of the same general description as the wheelers, 

 but are smaller animals. They should stand 15 to 15-3 hands high, 

 and weigh from 1,000 to 1,150 pounds. 



Pack and riding mules stand from 14-2 to 15-2 hands, and weigh 

 from 950 to 1,200 pounds. They must be of stocky build, with a stout 

 neck, short, strong back, good coupling, large deep barrel, and good 

 feet and legs, with ample bone. The pack mules must be particularly 

 deep in the middle and strong backed, as they carry a long pack saddle 

 which fits well down on the sides of the mule, and they carry from 300 

 to 350 pounds. Pack mules are used for transport work in very rough 



