64 MANNER OF FEEDING SHEEP. 



rot, and other diseases, on account of the water, and 

 in all places where they may be exposed thereto, salt 

 will probably prevent, or cure them. 



Q. What is the effect of salt upon sheep ? 

 A. Salt gives them appetite and strength ; it warms, 

 and makes them digest their food, prevents obstruc- 

 tions, and makes them discharge superfluous water, 

 which is the cause of most of their diseases. 



Q. At what time is it proper to give salt to sheep ? 



A. When they are feeble, and loathe their food ; 



which happens oftenest in foggy weather, or when it 



rains, snows, or is very cold, or they have only dry 



food. 



Q. Is it necessary to give them salt frequently ? 

 A. In some places, salt is given them every fifteen 

 days; in others, every eighth day, during winter; 

 but it is best to give it them, when it is seen that 

 they want it. 



Q. How much salt is given at once ? 

 A. A small handful to each animal every fifteen 

 days ; a pound for twenty, every eight days, being 

 about six drachms for each sheep. If it be given 

 every day, half the quantity will be sufficient ; too 

 much salt will heat and injure them. 



Q. In what manner is salt given to sheep ? 

 A. It is spread in the troughs, after being a little 

 ground ; in some places, it is laid on flat stones in the 

 field, where the flock is pastured. Salt is also scat- 

 tered over the fodder, or the fodder is wet with brine, 

 or with water, in which salt has been melted. 



