Preparation of Sheep for Show 273 



this means all floss is pulled to the surface, and after 

 the sheep is again trimmed, the coat is smooth and 

 it will keep so for months. In the work of trimming, 

 a strong open brush is of much assistance. It may 

 be employed to much advantage in dampening the 

 fleece as well as in bringing the irregular fibers to 

 the surface. A damp piece of flannel may be used 

 to excellent advantage by rubbing the fleece with it, 

 as it assists in removing the loose fibers and also 

 in cleansing the fleece. 



In Figs. 52, 53, PI. XXII, the loose ends and un- 

 even parts of the dampened fleece have been brought 

 out. In this case, an ordinary currycomb is being 

 used, though the card is preferable. In Fig. 54, PI. 

 XXm, the back is being leveled, and the sides 

 trimmed in Fig. 55. 



Frequency of trimming. — After the first trimming, 

 the sheep should be trimmed once a fortnight until 

 the work is complete. Within a week or so of the 

 exhibition, the final trimming should be given, and 

 the last Kght trimming just previous to the time for 

 the show. 



Oiling the fleece. — During the trimming, the fleece 

 of the sheep should be oiled slightly, and this should 

 be repeated before starting on the show circuit. 

 It is best accompKshed by taking a wine glass of 

 olive oil to one-half an ordinary pail of water. The 

 water should be heated to 100° Fahrenheit, as the 

 oil globules disperse much better in warm water. 



