While there are probably no hard and fast rules which may be set down to insure perfect results in all cases, there are, however, a few important factors in the matter of successful fitting.

First, and of major importance, is the selection of the individuals which comprise the group. Each animal should be a good breed type and conformation, with the quality of fleece approved for its particular breed. Uniformity in size and general character is also essential. Having selected suitable animals, possibly two of the outstanding points in successful development are carefulness and regularity in feeding, combined with proper exercise.

In the matter of feeding, the quantity and variety of feeds will vary according to the climatic conditions encountered.

We believe there are probably more failures among breeders who have had years of experience through fitting animals to the extent that they are overdone, rather than in their bloom. This is particularly true of the aged members of the group in fitting. It is possible to take a two-shear animal in good field conditions and bring it to full bloom in thirty days.

With the yearlings the case is somewhat different, as the process here means growing the animal out as well as securing proper fleshing. Thus, the best results can only be obtained by months of careful preparation and by giving due thought to each individual in the group, for as every experienced breeder knows, all animals feeding from the same feed manger do not show equal development. Only a survey of the needs of each individual will insure best results.

Regarding the junior members of the group, namely the lambs: There is perhaps considerable controversy among experienced showmen as to the best methods of obtaining satisfactory results. Right here we may say that too much care cannot be given to the baby lambs. They should have clean and well ventilated shelter, with plenty of fresh water, as well as Moorman's Mineral before them at all times from the time they are a month old. Some prefer to allow the lambs to range the pasture with their mothers and assist the development by creep feeding in the pasture. Others again favor what we sometimes term the hothouse method by which we mean keeping the lambs and mothers corralled and carrying to them all feeds, both green and otherwise. There are probably good arguments to support either method, nevertheless, the writer personally believes the hot-house lamb will bloom earlier and be better fitted for the early exhibitions than those allowed to range.

Of just as much consequence, however, as the selection of individuals and a diet of the proper grain and green feeds, is a suitable place in which to carry on the fitting process. The fitting for the show ring begins with early dipping and washing of the fleeces, followed by blocking down the backs and around the dock. Care should be taken to trim the feet up so the sheep stand square. Immediately before showing, the trimming is done with a sharp pair of good imported shears. To get the finest finish of form and fleece the use of cards are used to bring out the loose ends and to pull out and shape the wool where it has been matted. After the sheep are trimmed for show, light blankets are used to keep the wool clean and in shape until they go into the ring.

Too much care cannot be exercised in providing suitable quarters for the flock at all times. By this we mean a building so located and arranged that the animals may be kept as cool as possible and with access to suitable exercise lots. It is well to remember that one hot summer day can spoil the result of six months of painstaking effort.