It was a new experience around here last weekend! During all our years with sheep I never knew there were crews that came in and just trimmed sheep toes? WHAT? That is the biggest job for us now that our son moved out. Feels like most of what we do is trim sheep toes and it's hard to get other things done. Eek! There is SO much to do here!
Chatted with Therese and decided to give them a try. Her hubby and his crew arrived about 9 in the morning and we had the sheep locked inside awaiting their spa day. It was chilly and I am pretty sure they thought it was shearing day. They were not ready to give up their warm wool yet.
Jeff (hubby) did the toe trims and his crew of 2 held the sheep. We used a sheep hammock to set the sheep down comfortably. Then the trimming began. I gave the sheep their vaccinations, wormed them and then their feet were treated with some good meds to keep them healthy. Jeff and his crew were very patient and kind to the sheep. Avi had a crush on Trevor- she just kept on leaning over and wanted to snuffle his face. Tee hee. I'm not sure he was too happy about it but he was a good sport! . Several of the sheep even took a nap in the sheepie hammock during their appointment? Good sheeps! I loved the fellow holding the sheep's head. He talked to the sheep, asked each of their names and even sang some songs. (We were getting a little punchy by the end of the day.) This would be Piper, waiting his turn, giving me the stink eye. He's usually so easy going but not that day. He told me the girls were telling the boys all week that they would have to wear brightly colored nail polish? I promised them it was not true but sometimes they don't trust me? Tee hee! We split the sheep into groups who needed additional treatment (only about 10!) and the rest went back to their regular groups. It was a long day, as long as a shearing day. It was so worth it though. Now we'll have the crew back in October and things will be much easier for Jim and me. We'll just be watching out for anyone limping in between appointments with the crew.
This also saves us an amazing amount of time on shearing day! Another benefit! They already have their spring shots and worming, toes trimmed- all we will have to do is put their spot on anti-tick med on after they are sheared. I'll be curious to see how much faster shearing day goes? Giddy UP! At one point poor old Bobbi got on the wrong side of the barn door. She gets very worried when strangers are around her sheep. I let her in and she found a comfy spot to have a nap. I adore that dog. She's so sweet and so dedicated to her sheep.
Hope you are all seeing a glimpse of Spring? We are here but do not trust it yet! We'll post updates as we find new ways to work with our flock on our own... (our son moved out a few years ago so we are in a new phase here). Smooches and hugs from the sheep with happy feet!
Jim & Sandy Ryan www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com ...where sheep may safely graze.