Keeping Sheep

Sheep require a knowledgeable and dedicated shepherd to care for them throughout the year, and this book provides guidance on managing a healthy flock, including the history of native breeds, land preparation, welfare, handling, feeding, grazing practices, health problems, rams, tupping, pregnant ewes, lambing, aftercare, shearing, and wool.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2023
Publisher: The Crowood Press Ltd

Sheep, while resilient and self-sufficient, require the dedicated care of a knowledgeable shepherd throughout the year. This comprehensive guide, featuring over 200 color photographs, offers guidance on managing a healthy flock, encompassing various aspects such as the history of native breeds, land preparation, welfare, sheep handling, including sheepdog training, economical feeding and grazing practices, common health problems, ram breeding, tupping, pregnant ewe management, lambing and aftercare, shearing, wool production, and the significant role sheep play in grassland conservation, carbon sequestration, and wildlife habitat restoration.

The history of native breeds and their conservation is an essential aspect of sheep management. This guide explores the rich heritage of these breeds, their unique characteristics, and the efforts undertaken to preserve and protect them. By understanding the history of native breeds, farmers can make informed decisions about breeding strategies and ensure the long-term sustainability of their flocks.

Land preparation is a crucial step in ensuring the well-being and productivity of sheep. This guide provides detailed information on preparing land for sheep farming, including selecting suitable grazing areas, managing soil fertility, and implementing erosion control measures. Proper land preparation not only supports the growth of healthy grass and forage crops but also minimizes the risk of soil degradation and water loss.

Welfare is a top priority in sheep management. This guide emphasizes the importance of providing a safe and comfortable environment for sheep, including adequate shelter, clean water, and nutritious feed. It also covers topics such as sheep handling practices, disease prevention, and regular health checks to ensure the flock's overall well-being.

Sheep handling is a skill that requires careful attention and training. This guide provides comprehensive instructions on handling sheep, including proper lifting techniques, sheepdog training, and flock management strategies. By understanding the proper handling practices, farmers can minimize stress and injury to both sheep and handlers, ensuring a safe and efficient work environment.

Economical feeding and grazing practices are essential for sustainable sheep farming. This guide discusses various feeding strategies, such as rotational grazing, supplementation, and crop management, to optimize sheep nutrition and reduce feed costs. It also highlights the importance of proper grazing management to maintain healthy grasslands and promote soil fertility.

Common health problems in sheep are a significant concern for farmers. This guide provides detailed information on recognizing and managing common health issues, such as sheep scab, foot rot, and pneumonia. It also covers preventive measures, such as vaccination programs and regular health checks, to keep the flock healthy and productive.

Ram breeding is an important aspect of sheep management, as rams play a crucial role in determining the quality and productivity of the flock. This guide provides detailed information on ram breeding strategies, including selecting suitable rams, breeding programs, and managing breeding records. By understanding ram breeding, farmers can improve the genetic diversity of their flock and enhance their overall productivity.

Tupping is a process used to breed sheep. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on tupping, including selecting suitable ewes, timing the mating, and monitoring the pregnancy. It also covers topics such as lambing and aftercare, as well as shearing and wool production. By understanding tupping, farmers can increase the number of lambs born and improve the quality of their wool.

Pregnant ewes are a critical stage in sheep management, as they are responsible for nurturing and caring for their lambs. This guide provides detailed information on pregnant ewe management, including nutrition, monitoring, and veterinary care. It also covers topics such as lambing and aftercare, as well as shearing and wool production. By understanding pregnant ewe management, farmers can ensure the health and well-being of their flock and maximize lamb production.

Lambing and aftercare are critical stages in the life cycle. This guide provides comprehensive instructions on lambing and aftercare, including monitoring the pregnant ewe, assisting with lambing, and providing post-lambing care. It also covers topics such as weaning, feeding, and disease prevention. By understanding lambing and aftercare, farmers can ensure the healthy growth and development of their lambs and minimize the risk of disease transmission.

Shearing and wool production are essential aspects of sheep farming. This guide provides detailed information on shearing and wool production, including shearing techniques, wool grading, and marketing. It also covers topics such as wool processing and marketing, as well as the role of sheep in carbon sequestration and the restoration of wildlife habitats. By understanding shearing and wool production, farmers can maximize the value of their wool and contribute to the sustainability of the agricultural industry.

Weight: 506g
Dimension: 190 x 245 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780719842214