If the sheep is full of water or feed, shearing at this time might be harmful. Did you know you could get injured? Shearing is a healthy practice, but you need to keep a few things in mind. And the fasting policy for shearing comes on top!
A full sheep may tend to kick at the time of shearing. It goes without saying that ewes put on additional weight. Hence, hazardous conditions while shearing full sheep are not really uncommon. Of course, full sheep do not weigh in the share of challenges always – strains, sprains, and back injuries are also to be blamed.
Nevertheless, farmers and shearers must understand the fasting time for shearing. Yes, shearing leads to weight loss and dehydration. But you need to come up with a solid plan to find the balance.
Fasting Policy before Shearing
As every sheep needs fasting, you should not drench the flock 48 hours before the process. You can reduce their intake of wheat, barley or oats. In addition, you should not provide hormone and reproductive supplements prior to shearing. On the other hand, shearing contractors must follow a well-defined pre-fasting and fasting policy that everyone can understand well.
Provide Training
Shearing contractors might face a number of issues at the time of handling sheep. For minimising, separating, or eradicating the challenges in a proper way, employees must undertake training. The training program must include the following things:
- How to work with ewes
- How to handle sheep manually
- How to prepare sheep for fasting
- Shearing principles
For the employees’ part, they must take care of their health and safety, cooperate with other employees, and minimise health and safety risks.
In the end, an informed workplace leads to successful shearing with low risks. If you need a fasting policy for shearing, contact us!
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