Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
A turning cradle, or tilt table, is
commonly used for foot trimming
and veterinary procedures but is
somewhat pricey for a small fl ock.
A more economical approach
to restraint for small-fl ock
owners than the turning cradle,
the sheep chair immobilizes
the sheep when it is “sitting,”
which makes giving shots and
trimming feet surprisingly easy.
themselves when they're on their rump (the same position that's used for
shearing). The chair hangs over the edge of a panel and adjusts to fi t all sizes
of sheep comfortably. Best of all, at less than $100, it is a viable option for
shepherds who have smaller fl ocks.
A gambrel restraint is a plastic device that was invented in New Zealand.
At less than $20, this is the least expensive restraining device and is a good
one for owners of really small fl ocks. The gambrel restraint controls an animal
by immobilizing its front legs. The bad news is that this restraining method
can be tedious if you're doing something to a bunch of sheep at the same time:
for example, pregnancy checking the whole fl ock.
Feeding Facilities and Equipment
The only special feeding equipment that you really need for small fl ocks is a
few rubber feed pans for feeding grain and treats and a slightly larger rubber
