Animal Crackers

2 C sugar
2 C long-cooking oats, uncooked
1 t. baking soda
1/8 t. salt
1/2 C. shortening
1/2 C. hot water
1/2 T vanilla extract
1/2 T Almond extract (1 full TBS of vanilla extract can be used instead of Almond extract)
2 to 2 1/2 C. all-purpose flour

Combine sugar, oats, baking soda and salt in a large mixing bowl; cut in shortening until crumbly. Add water and extracts; stir until blended. Add enough flour to form a stiff dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/8 inch thickness and cut into desired shapes. Bake on a greased baking sheet at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes. Cool on wire racks. Makes about 4 dozen.