136 THE COW 



repeated, however, that this arrangement is not 

 good so far as light, ventilation and clean stable 

 walls are concerned, and if employed at all it must 

 be in cases in which soiling is to be a very impor- 

 tant part of farm practice. Outside of these rather 

 fixed dimensions and somewhat fundamental plans, 

 the details may vary to suit the wishes or special 

 needs of the owner, but never under any circum- 

 stances forgetting the convenience in following the 

 routine of caring for the herd. 



A great variety of methods and devices for stalls 

 for the cattle has been advised and patented and 

 used to some extent, but practically all experienced 

 herdsmen now agree that some form of swinging 

 iron stanchion is the best solution of the problem. 

 These stanchions should be hung with a short chain 

 at top and bottom so as to allow the cow a certain 

 degree of freedom and liberty of movement. Each 

 cow will need floor space from thirty-six to forty- 

 two inches in width and there should be about four 

 and one-half feet from the manger to the gutter 

 or drop, varying with the size of the cow. Various 

 firms are engaged in the business of supplying 

 fittings for cow stables and these carry a very ex- 

 tensive line comprising almost everything that can 

 be suggested. Such manufacturers are glad to 

 furnish detailed plans and to make estimates of 

 cost. 



Stables, even when rigid economy is sought, 

 should be constructed with manger, gutters and 



