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

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