364 DOMESTIC ANIMALS 
such a case it is a good plan to run a mower over the pasture 
so as to start a second growth. This will also serve the good 
purpose of destroying the weeds, some of which are injurious 
to the wool. If one can have two pastures, it is advan- 
tageous to change the sheep from one to the other occasionally. 
This gives the closely cropped parts a chance to get a good 
start and helps to clear the pasture from the germs of disease. 
If sheep are pastured on clover or alfalfa or very succulent 
grasses, there is danger of bloating, especially if the plants are 
young, or if wet with rain or dew. In case of such pasture, 
the sheep must be accustomed to it gradually by turning 
them into it for only about an hour in the afternoon and 
lengthening the period the next day. When the forage is 
wet, they should be kept off. 
Sheep wear a warm coat and should be able to escape from 
the rays of the sun during the hottest part of the day. Unless 
there are enough good trees in the pasture, the best way is to 
give the sheep access to a barn or shed. If the pasture is too 
distant for this plan, then a cheap roof should be especially 
constructed for the purpose. 
In the Winter. — Proper shelter and clean bedding must 
now be provided to keep the fleece dry and thus prevent 
colds and the resulting complications. The feeding problem 
is much the same as in the case of other stock. Clover and 
alfalfa are especially good for sheep, but any mixed hays will 
answer. Succulent food, such as corn silage or root crops, is 
relished and helps to keep the digestion in good tone. A little 
concentrated feed, such as wheat bran or oats, is desirable, 
especially for ewes that are to lamb in the spring. It must 
also be borne in mind that sheep are no exception to the rule 
that all animals need regular exercise. Stormy weather and 
deep snows often make it difficult to arrange for this outdoor 
