Health Sheep Goat Toolbox The best animals are
Health Sheep & Goat Toolbox
The best animals are. . . Healthy • • Robust Alert Bright eyed Lively Well. Conformed • Strong in structure • Deep bodied • Wide chested • Able to walk squarely on feet & legs
What to look for: In General: • Proper body condition • Lively appearance • Good coat or fleece • No abscesses • No limping For does & ewes: • Well-balanced udders • Two functional teats
What to look for: Teeth http: //www. youtube. com/watch? v= gwp. Xzd. E 7 h 1 I&feature=youtu. be
Tips for keeping animals healthy • Prevention is key! • Provide adequate nutrition (pastures) • Observe animals daily • Provide sanitary conditions • Provide a low-stress environment • Cull chronically ill animals • Have a good working relationship with a veterinarian – www. aasrp. org (270) 483 -2090
Body condition score 1 2 3 4 5
Signs of poor health
Keep records! • Keep thorough health records including all illnesses and treatments. • Have a working relationship with a veterinarian
Vaccinations • Many Available • Most Common is CDT: – Clostridium – Overeating Disease – Tetanus • Consult Veterinarian
Parasites • Primary Concern • Signs of Parasitism: • • Rough Hair Coat Thin/Unthrifty Bottle Jaw Anemia • FAMACHA is a system for detecting anemia: www. acsrpc. org
Hoof care • Trim as needed • Helps prevent hoof problems including footrot • Keeps animals sound & walking properly
Hoof trimming http: //www. youtube. com/watch? v= 6 ff. U_c. Bjlsk&feature=youtu. be
How to prevent health problems • Provide low-stress environment and handling • Practice good management • Provide sanitary conditions • Vaccinate as recommended by veterinarian • Protect from predators • Provide good nutrition and plenty of forage • Observe animals daily • Cull animals that are chronically unhealthy
Resources • Books – See ATTRA Small Ruminant Resource List • Websites – www. attra. ncat. org – www. acsrpc. org – http: //www. luresext. edu/goats/training/qa. html – Infovets. com – Pipevet. com – Sheepandgoat. com
The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) is a nonprofit organization that helps people and communities. NCAT champions smallscale, sustainable and local solutions to reduce poverty, protect communities and promote natural resources. Since 1976, NCAT has weatherized houses, trained farmers, monitored energy use and demonstrated renewable technology. NCAT works on local and national projects that foster a healthy quality of life for everyone.
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