Sheep & Goats
Table of Contents
- 1 Keeping undocked sheep – catching and moving sheep correctly
- 2 Further specialist videos from the series “Keeping undocked sheep”:
- 3 – What are the best practices for catching and moving undocked sheep?
- 4 – What are the best practices for catching and moving undocked sheep to ensure their welfare?
Table of Contents
13. September 2024
Written by Rebecca Simon, Animal Husbandry Advisory Team
Keeping undocked sheep – catching and moving sheep correctly
Keeping uncut sheep can be challenging. As part of the Animal Welfare Competence Center (TWZ) Sheep project, possible solutions are being identified and made available for practical use.
When handling sheep, it is particularly important to catch and move them correctly and in a way that is appropriate for the animals’ welfare. Veterinarian Hannah Hümmelchen from the Justus Liebig University in Giessen shows and explains different ways of catching and moving sheep in this specialist video.
A notice: If these checks are carried out by external personnel, care must be taken to ensure that protective clothing is worn.
The aim of the TWZ sheep project is to improve animal welfare in sheep farming by combining expertise in animal health, breeding and advice on sheep. The focus is on keeping animals with intact tails, with breeding for shorter tails playing a special role. The project is funded by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture as part of the federal livestock farming program. The State Agricultural Enterprise of Hesse (LLH), the Justus Liebig University of Giessen (Animal Breeding Group and Veterinary Clinic for Reproductive Medicine and Newborn Science) and the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL Germany eV) are involved.
Further specialist videos from the series “Keeping undocked sheep”:
Digitalisation and technology for the future
– What are the best practices for catching and moving undocked sheep?
Sheep & Goats: Best Practices for Catching and Moving Undocked Sheep
As part of the Animal Welfare Competence Center (TWZ) Sheep project, experts are working together to identify and share practical solutions for improving animal welfare in sheep farming. One crucial aspect of sheep husbandry is catching and moving undocked sheep correctly, ensuring the animals’ well-being and safety. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of proper handling techniques, providing tips and guidance for farmers and shearers.
The Challenges of Keeping Undocked Sheep
Uncut sheep can present unique challenges for farmers and breeders. With the focus shifting towards more humane and animal-friendly practices, it’s essential to develop and implement effective methods for handling and managing undocked sheep. The TWZ Sheep project aims to promote animal welfare in sheep farming by combining expertise in animal health, breeding, and advisory services.
Catching and Moving Undocked Sheep: A Step-by-Step Guide
When it comes to catching and moving sheep, it’s vital to do so correctly and with the animals’ welfare in mind. Veterinarian Hannah Hümmelchen from the Justus Liebig University in Giessen shares her expertise on different methods for catching and moving sheep in a specialist video (available on YouTube). Here are some key takeaways:
- Approach calmly and quietly: Avoid sudden movements or loud noises, which can stress the sheep.
- Use gentle and firm handling: Support the sheep’s body and avoid pulling or jerking them.
- Choose the right equipment: Use suitable catch pens, gates, and handling facilities to minimize stress and injury.
- Monitor the sheep’s behavior: Watch for signs of stress or discomfort, and adjust your handling techniques accordingly.
Protective Clothing: A Must for External Personnel
When external personnel are involved in handling undocked sheep, it’s crucial to ensure they wear protective clothing, including:
Gloves
Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
Closed-toe shoes or boots
Safety glasses or goggles
The TWZ Sheep Project: Improving Animal Welfare in Sheep Farming
The TWZ Sheep project is a collaborative effort between the State Agricultural Enterprise of Hesse (LLH), the Justus Liebig University of Giessen (Animal Breeding Group and Veterinary Clinic for Reproductive Medicine and Newborn Science), and the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL Germany eV). The project aims to promote animal welfare in sheep farming by:
Developing breeding programs for shorter-tailed sheep
Improving animal health and disease prevention
* Providing advisory services and training for farmers and breeders
Further Resources and Expertise
For more information on the TWZ Sheep project and expert guidance on keeping undocked sheep, visit the project’s website or consult with local authorities and animal welfare organizations.
Conclusion
Keeping undocked sheep requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a commitment to animal welfare. By following best practices for catching and moving sheep, farmers and breeders can ensure the well-being of their animals while promoting a more humane and sustainable approach to sheep husbandry.
Keywords: sheep, goats, undocked sheep, animal welfare, catching, moving, handling, TWZ Sheep project, Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, State Agricultural Enterprise of Hesse, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture.
– What are the best practices for catching and moving undocked sheep to ensure their welfare?
Sheep & Goats: Best Practices for Catching and Moving Undocked Sheep
Table of Contents
Keeping Undocked Sheep – Catching and Moving Sheep Correctly
Further Specialist Videos from the Series “Keeping Undocked Sheep”
Best Practices for Catching and Moving Undocked Sheep
Keeping Undocked Sheep – Catching and Moving Sheep Correctly
Keeping undocked sheep can be challenging, but with the right techniques and practices, it can be made more manageable. As part of the Animal Welfare Competence Center (TWZ) Sheep project, veterinarian Hannah Hümmelchen from the Justus Liebig University in Giessen shares her expertise on catching and moving undocked sheep in a specialist video.
When handling sheep, it is crucial to catch and move them correctly and in a way that is appropriate for the animals’ welfare. Improper handling can lead to stress, injury, and even death. Therefore, it is essential to approach sheep handling with care and attention to detail.
In the video, Hannah Hümmelchen demonstrates different ways of catching and moving sheep, highlighting the importance of gentle and calm movements. She also emphasizes the need for protective clothing when handling sheep, especially if external personnel are involved.
Further Specialist Videos from the Series “Keeping Undocked Sheep”
The TWZ Sheep project has produced a series of specialist videos on keeping undocked sheep. Some of the other videos in the series include:
Handling Newborn Lambs: This video provides guidance on how to handle newborn lambs, including tips on nutrition, hygiene, and health monitoring.
Digitalisation and Technology for the Future: This video explores the role of digitalisation and technology in improving sheep farming practices, including monitoring and tracking systems.
Best Practices for Catching and Moving Undocked Sheep
When catching and moving undocked sheep, it is essential to follow best practices to ensure the welfare of the animals. Here are some tips:
Approach calmly and quietly: Sheep are easily spooked, so it’s essential to approach them calmly and quietly to avoid causing stress.
Use gentle movements: When catching and moving sheep, use gentle movements to avoid causing injury or stress.
Wear protective clothing: Protective clothing, such as gloves and aprons, can help prevent injuries and protect against disease transmission.
Handle sheep individually: Handling sheep individually can help reduce stress and prevent injury.
* Monitor sheep behavior: Pay attention to sheep behavior and body language to detect any signs of stress or discomfort.
By following these best practices and techniques, sheep farmers can improve the welfare of their undocked sheep and reduce the risk of injury or death. The TWZ Sheep project aims to promote animal welfare and improve sheep farming practices by providing expert guidance and resources.