Bedding for Animals 25 
as the animal is likely to become footsore. The hoofs 
of colts should be examined often to see that they 
are growing symmetrically. It sometimes happens 
that a piece is worn or broken from one side of 
a hoof, and this throws the weight of the body in 
such a way as to bring a strain upon the joints, 
that causes deformity or disease. In trimming hoofs, 
the outside of the wall should not be rasped or cut 
away, as it naturally forms a protective coating over 
the hoof. 
BEDDING 
Animals that are confined in stables through the 
night should be well bedded with some material that 
will not only make a comfortable place for them to 
lie on, but that will keep the animal clean and dry. If 
possible, a bedding should be used that will absorb 
moisture and help to keep the quarters clean. Bedding 
should be free from chemical substances or irritants 
that are liable to injure the skin or feet, or that would 
be injurious to the animal if eaten. Among good 
substances used for bedding are straw, shavings, coarse 
hay, sawdust, peat moss and tan bark. 
The bedding in the stall should be spread so that 
most of it is fairly well forward, as there is a tendency 
for it to work backward with the movements of the 
animal. Heaping the bedding in the center of the 
stall should be avoided, in order to prevent the animals 
from getting cast. Rye-straw makes excellent bedding. 
Jt is bright and clean, is easily handled and wears 
well. The bedding should be removed from stalls in 
