THE BROOD MARE. 173 



those intended for the reproduction of our 

 lighter breeds. 



In the selection of the brood mare we shall, 

 of course, be careful to eliminate all animals 

 afflicted with any congenital or hereditary 

 disease, such as she may be likely to transmit 

 to her ofPspring ; while remembering that 

 blemishes, being the result of an accident, 

 due more often, perhaps, to careless or in- 

 judicious management than to any natural 

 defect of the animal itself, do not count. 

 We have already expressed the opinion, 

 based upon observation and experience, that 

 of the two parents the dam is the more 

 likely to transmit such natural defect or 

 infirmity than the sire ; though the prudent 

 breeder will of course do his best to ensure 

 that both parents shall be free therefrom. 



As to shape and make, due regard must 

 of course be had to the stamp of animal 

 desired to be produced. The general charac- 

 teristics required in the brood mare are 



