~HORSES~


While the automobile and the tractor are now doing much of the work
formerly done by horses, the "horseless era" is still far off. A good
horse will always be worth good money, will always be a desirable and
profitable member of the farm family. But the undersized no-breed
specimen will be even less valuable in the future than in the past.

The great demand for horses for army use and the high prices paid by the
Government, tempted horse breeders and farmers to dispose of the fine
specimens which alone met the exacting requirements of army buyers. It
will take years to make good this tremendous wastage of horse flesh. But
this is a big opportunity for breeders of good horses and we may expect
them to make the most of it.

Prices of really desirable horses are now high. If you have a good one,
take good care of him. Protect his health, lengthen his life. If you
must buy, be sure that you get a sound animal which will serve you long
and faithfully.

See the horse in his stall. If he has a spavin he will hop on one leg
when made to "get over," or jerk it up as he backs out if he is affected
with chorea (St. Vitus' dance). In the latter disease the tail is
suddenly raised and quivers when the animal backs out of stall. Watch to
see if the horse "cribs" and "sucks wind": also that he is not vicious
in the stall. Stand him at rest on a level floor before exercise. If he
is lame he will rest the sore foot.