47 
Extracts from British and Foreign Journals. 
THE IMPROVEMENT OE AGRICULTURAL HORSES SUITED 
TO THE WEST OE ENGLAND. 
By Professor Brown, M.R.C.V.S. 
[Continuedfrom vol. xxxvi, y?. 754.) 
Having by proper selection of parents obtained the young 
animals possessing the general qualities we seek, the next 
step will be to place them under conditions favorable 
TO THEIR DEVELOPMENT. 
During the first year of the foaEs existence there is nothing 
to suggest that would improve the system of management 
already pursued in well-conducted establishments. VVe 
assume that for some months the animal is mainly nourished 
by its mother, and is housed in the same stable or shed. 
When turned out to graze, a proper protection will be pro¬ 
vided against inclement weather.* Cold, damp, undrained 
pastures, we take for granted, are sedulously avoided; the 
colt’s legs^ are kept dry; as much time as can be con¬ 
veniently given is devoted to gentle handling ; and from time 
to time the coarse hairs which appear on the legs are removed 
in the way before explained. 
At two years old the colt will probably be sold at one of 
the fairs and taken into a grazing country; the same system 
of treatment being continued until he is old enough to be 
put to farm-work. 
The change from the pasture or strawyard to the stable 
may be looked upon as a very important one in the animal’s 
existence. The exact period at which it may properly take 
place will depend to some degree upon constitution; but, 
speaking generally, much mischief is occasioned by em¬ 
ploying the horse for active work at too early an age. Many 
colts are put to some sort of duty at two years old, and, 
whether in the shafts or in the middle or front of the team, 
it is nearly impossible to limit the animal’s exertions. Weak 
joints, bursal enlargements, curbs and other forms of sprains^ 
* If wintered out, a sheltered field will be selected, with a good shed. 
Hay, either long or in the form of chaff, with bran and bruised oats or barley, 
will be suitable food for the first year. When the straw-yard is preferred, 
a fair quantity of pulped roots may be advantageously mixed with the 
chaff. 
