CHAPTER XIV 

 PREPARATION OF SHEEP FOR SHOW 



It cannot be considered otherwise than proper to 

 have animals that are to be exhibited appear at their 

 best by legitimate means, but in such methods as 

 trimming the sheep into shape, felting the wool with 

 hot irons, staining it with dyes, and kindred practices 

 that enter into the preparation of sheep for show, 

 there is unlimited scope for deception. In trimming, 

 the shears are made to do the work that should be 

 done by breeding, and through coloring and oiling 

 the novice is likely to believe that the sheep has 

 qualities which it does not naturally possess. 



In selecting sheep for show and getting them into 

 the condition, bloom, and general appearance to 

 show their good qualities, there is much that calls 

 for the shepherd's skill. The discussion which 

 follows is from the pen of the late William Watson, 

 whose success in the show ring with stock from 

 Turlington Farm was well known some years ago. 



Importance of breeding. — It is important to 

 select the best-bred sheep for exhibition purposes. 

 As a rule, it is aimless labor to attempt to prepare 

 underbred animals. A complete equipment for 



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