Thank god, sheep are low-maintenance animals! But this does not mean they require zero maintenance. Just like any other livestock, little maintenance helps sheep thrive. And for maintenance, we mean going beyond watering and feeding.
So, what is this ‘sheep maintenance’ we are talking about?
Proper maintenance is the key to having a healthy flock. It’s good to follow the mentioned tasks:
- Keeping up with the hooves
- Laying out fresh bedding
- Managing mineral salt
- Keeping an eye out on parasites
- Shearing at least once a year
Sheep graze in the daytime, so they barely need care and maintenance. You need to supply fresh water and feed square or round bales to the sheep. Also, build a protective shelter with proper fencing in order to keep out predatory animals.
Inoculations and Regular Health Checkups
You need to make sure that diseases do not become a widespread problem. That’s why you need to crutch and shear for axing the possibilities of flystrike. In addition to it, you need to be cautious about diarrhoea which hints at different diseases.
In addition, you should look out for nasal discharge which signals a respiratory or parasitic infection. Keep the coat in check for mites or lice.
You can also vaccinate the sheep, but you should have a chat with the vets before taking a step further.
Other Things to Keep in Mind
Shearing plays a large role in sheep maintenance. When the wool grows heavier, it attracts moisture, faeces and dirt. If you shear sheep in spring or summer, it gives them relief. Hot months are difficult when their wool has grown thick.
Even though you are not in the shearing business, you still have to shear for their welfare. If you shear in spring, the sheep has ample time to grow wool back.
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