A Few Sheep For The Small Place

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Now the most economical way of getting started with sheep is to buy a couple of bred ewes in the winter. Ewes should be vigorous and in good flesh, but never fat. Also make sure they are free of external and internal parasites (notice droppings) otherwise the new born lambs will become infested. Bred ewes sell from $10.00 to $50.00 depending on whether they are scrubs, grades or registered purebreds, the reputation of the seller, age and merit of the animals. Fleece, conforma tion, age and udders should receive close inspection.

Housing and Equipment

Housing for sheep can be simple, a three-sided shed with roof and a dry dirt floor is satisfactory. Two sheep need an 8 by 10 foot pen or building. A wood or wire rack is necessary for feeding hay and a trough or manger for grain. Salt and phenothiazine mixed according to directions you get with the phenothiazine, plus water are kept available at all times.

Fencing

While it is true that sheep may be tethered by a chain and swivel, this is not practical. Sheep are not good lawnmowers - they'll eat the grass too close. Tethered sheep cannot be left out all night, and they are easy prey for dogs. Dogs are sheep's worst enemy! In fact, the primary purpose of fencing for sheep is to keep a stray sheep-killing dog out rather than the sheep in.

Choosing a Breed

In general there are two types of sheep - the wool and the meat variety. The homesteader should choose a meat variety. The breeds differ a great deal according to various sections and systems of management, but the part-time farmer should choose from the meat or so-called medium wool class - Southdowns, Shropshires, Hampshires, Oxfords, Dorsets, Cheviots. Unless you're going to keep a ram, it's a good idea to find out which breed of ram is available in your neighborhood. When your first lambing time comes (about 145 days after breeding) you might have to have a veterinary present. The simplicity of the whole thing will give you confidence to handle subsequent lambings yourself.

All in all, sheep are easier to handle than cows, goats, horses, or poultry.

Suggested Reading: Starting Right With Sheep - $1.00.

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