Raising sheep is very rewarding, whether you do it for work or to get food, or as a hobby. Success in this venture requires good planning and ongoing farm management. Here are some ideas to start raising these sheep. More complex related topics will also be added over time.
Steps
Step 1. Decide why you are raising sheep
Sheep are bred for various reasons: to earn money by selling wool, skins, meat and milk; obtaining organic meat and derivatives as a hobby; keep vegetation growth under control; or simply to have an animal. Some people like to raise sheep to fill the empty nest syndrome. The important thing is to understand right away that you can't try to do everything with the same animal. It is necessary to take into account the ultimate goal when choosing a specific breed, the type of pasture, feeding and production because they will vary accordingly. Unless you have the time, experience, resources and pasture, don't overdo it!
Step 2. Consider if you have enough time and money to raise sheep
Financially you have to calculate the cost of the sheep, the pen, the necessary food plus vaccinations, veterinary and transport costs. You also need to have spare food and shelter for any lambs that need shelter in case of adverse weather conditions.
Step 3. Choose a breed from the following categories:
- From wool - Merino, Ramboullet, etc.
- Meat - North County Cheviot, Southdown, Dorset, Hampshire, Suffolk, Texel etc.
- Dual purpose (wool and meat) - Columbia, Corriedale, Polypay, Targee etc.
- Triple purpose (milk, wool and meat) - especially in Europe.
Step 4. Decide how many sheep to buy
The number of sheep you can raise depends on the area you live in and the productivity of your land. Also, if you want to make a profit, you will need to calculate the market prices and the possible return. In many places it is hard to make a profit from small numbers of sheep. It also becomes more difficult in regions with severe winters, where sheep need to be provided with additional amounts of food and adequate shelter.
Step 5. Create a sheep-friendly environment
Evaluate the space you have available for the sheep. As a rule, five females are calculated for each acre.
Step 6. Some organic farmers believe it is possible to raise up to 18 sheep per hectare
Grazing must be productive. Fence it effectively to prevent sheep from wandering and other animals from entering and attacking them. Create a shed or shelter for the sheep - the adult ones are quite hardy, especially if you have chosen the right species for the climatic conditions in your region.
Step 7. Order your chosen breed from a certified breeder
Buy sheep from a breeder with great credentials. There should be a local or national association of breeders to refer to to find sellers. Check online or in telephone directories.
Step 8. Bring the sheep home
It would be easier if they delivered them to you directly. If, on the other hand, you have to go and get them, rent or buy a suitable and safe means of transport; if more than one trip is needed, make sure the farmer is not too far away, otherwise you will need to find a night shelter for the sheep.
Step 9. Feed the sheep as needed
Provide them with good quality pasture. The scarce ones should be enriched with hay, special pellets and salt blocks. When the sheep cannot graze, such as in snow or rain, you will need to feed them daily. This will take a long time, so consider getting family members involved as well.
Step 10. Make sure they always have fresh water
Usually a sort of long drinking trough is used that can be accessed by several sheep at the same time. Check that the water is recycled every day (if you use an electric pump) or change it by hand. If you don't, they will get sick.
Step 11. Brush the sheep and wash them regularly
If you raise sheep for wool, shower them as if they were normal pets - regular care ensures a clean and vigorous fleece.
Step 12. Check that the sheep do not get worms and stay healthy
Make sure they are wormed regularly by using a sheep paste. Among other treatments not to be underestimated, there is a complete bath to prevent parasite infestation and, in some places, preventive tail docking to avoid the development of Callifora. If you are in an area prone to foot and mouth disease, take the right precautions. Ask your vet for advice on the best and most humane procedures to protect sheep from disease.
Advice
- Ask other breeders any questions. Make sure you keep the farmer's addresses and numbers even after purchasing the sheep.
- If you really intend to raise sheep, dedicate some extra time to the females and lambs. Predators must be kept away, young and mothers must be supervised and any orphaned lambs must be raised by you.
- To raise sheep you have to be strong (or have someone strong enough in the family) to be able to turn them around in order to perform various strenuous operations, such as checking the legs, shearing them, vaccinating them, helping them to give birth etc.
- Sheep droppings are excellent fertilizers: they contain nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in greater quantities than those of horses and cows.
Warnings
- Always provide your sheep with fresh water.
- The main enemies of lambs are dogs and foxes. Take necessary precautions before babies are born to keep predators out of the birth area.
- Make sure you can really take care of the sheep.
- Learn hay prices and see if they fit your budget.
- Do you have permission to raise sheep in your area?
- Order sheep only from a certified breeder.
