272 Sheep-Farming 



the trimmer thoroughly understands the model of 

 the breed he is preparing for exhibition, and knowing 

 this, he must clearly adhere to it as a pattern for the 

 sheep he is treating. In starting to trim, the belly 

 wool should be leveled first. This is necessary so 

 that the wool on the sheep's back may not be 

 roughened after it is trimmed. When trimming 

 the belly, also pare the feet. In trimming, always 

 dampen the wool, so that no shear marks will be 

 observable. Begin the work by letting the sheep 

 stand in a perfectly natural position when held by 

 an assistant ; then proceed to cut the tail head and 

 carry the line straight along the back. This is done 

 by reducing any elevation in the outline and leaving 

 the hollows untouched. In treating the sides, com- 

 mence at the shoulders and work gradually down- 

 ward to the belly. Be content with giving the de- 

 sired shape in the first trimming, and as the wool 

 grows take the opportunity to give the final shaping 

 and smoothening. Always be careful to work the 

 shears backwards on the same region, so as to remove 

 the slightest shear mark. After finishing the body, 

 shape the head, neck, and bosom in a similar manner. 

 Carding fleece. — After the sheep has been 

 trimmed into the desired form, and before much 

 smoothening has been done, it is a good plan to take 

 a fine wire-toothed comb and tear the fleece in such 

 a manner as to leave it in a much rougher plight 

 than it was before the work was commenced. By 



