Mineral Point tribune. (Mineral Point, Wis.) 1869-1938, 1875-12-30

real import Of this one word, comfort, as
applied to the various animals of the
farm, and especially of that most useful
of all others, the COW? Is there fore
thought to keep them comfortable during
the cold and storms Of a rigorous winter,
when they depend upon man SO much
more than at other seasons? The animal
which is Of the greatest profit to its own
er, which increases most in bulk or flesh,
gives the most milk or does the most
work, is that one of easy disposition in
comfortable circumstances The profit
and interest of all farmers and stock own
ers would be promoted, as well rs kind
ness engendercd, by studying to promote
the comfort of our stock There are 8
variety of ways in which this may be
done to the economizing of our own profit.
The few following hints may serve as a
guide to others:
First in the list would place regular
ity III everything, especially in feeding
and watering. When stock are fed at ir-
regular intervals they consume more,
with less profit TO themselves or their
owners; they are constantly on the look
out for anew supply, ana a constant un-
easiness is the result. When there is a
stated hour for feeding, and regularity
and punctuality Is strictly observed, the
animals appetite is regulated in accord
ance; the food is taken with a relish, and
when eaten the stock are under no anx-
iety till the next feeding hour comes
around. Instead of uneasiness, there is a
Illuminating quietness, which is always
favorable to good and perfect diges-
ton and assimilation. All animals (eveu
the filthy hog) are naturally clearly
therefore they should be kept clean.
Cleanliness is antagonistic TO vermin life,
as all vermin seem to thrive in filth. Most
animals are fond Of being carded and
rubbed, when done gently; this not only
promotes cleanliness, but also tends to
keep the skin loose and healthy, and the
pores open and free. The office of the
skin is to perform some of the most i'm
portant functions of the body; through its
pores much matter is exuded that other
wise might prove detrimental to health
Therefore il becomes evident that if the
pores are clogged by being covered with
filth they cannot perform their Office and
health suffers accordingly. Keep all the
animals clean, then, by suitable bedding,
cleansing their stalls and pens and by
Cardng, rubbing and washing where nee
essary. A good bed of dry litter, straw,
meadow hay, sawdust or the like, with a
well-ventilated, warm stall or pen, pro-
notes comfort wonderfully, and also
cleanliness of the animal. Stalls, stables
and pens need frequent cleaning, daily at
least, in winter when occupied. Means
must be provided for conducting off all
liquid weddings where it may be used as
fertilizer of the soil. In pleasant weather
stock should be allowed to spend a few
hours daily in the open air and sun, as
continued confinement to the stall is irk-
some; sunshine is stimulating to all the
natural functions, is better than medicine
and essential 10 full health. All stables
should have more of it, especially those
for horses
Kindness TO animals in every respect is
as highly appreciated, apparently, as
among the human family, therefore keep
the animals in good humor yourself. The
man who makes practice Of judiciously
fondling his stock in the yard or stable
has more orderly, good natured stock
than he who cannot pass them by without
venting his spleen by kick or curse upon
some poor, unoffending brute In the
one case the animals are all reioiced to
see him, and are quiet among themselves
seldom crowding each other, except as 10
show their appreciation for their master
and keeper; in the other case they partake
of the disposition of the master, are cross
hook and kick each other; and instead of