Q&A for How to Shear a Sheep

Return to Full Article

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Does shearing hurt the sheep
    Karin
    Top Answerer
    No. The only time shearing will hurt the sheep is if the operator is rough, careless, or very inexperienced, and if the sheep is not restrained properly, allowing it to struggle through the process. Otherwise, shearing is very good for the sheep because it gets that heavy coat of wool off and makes the animal more comfortable in the summer heat. Experienced shearers are really good at quickly shearing sheep without hurting the animal at all.
  • Question
    Do I shear so that the coat comes off as one or just in pieces?
    Karin
    Top Answerer
    The shearing should be done so that the coat comes off in one piece. This makes handling much easier and less cumbersome compared with shearing it in pieces.
  • Question
    What do I do if the sheep struggles?
    Community Answer
    Relax and stop shearing for a moment. Still keep control of the sheep, placed on her butt and still held with your knees. Pulling on her legs can cause her to struggle more. Sometimes folding her head down a little can also help calm her down. Speak gently and calmly.
  • Question
    Is there a certain age at which someone can start learning how to shear sheep?
    Community Answer
    It is not advisable to let anyone younger than 16 shear a sheep and definitely don’t let anyone below 14 try to shear. You must be strong and responsible to handle animals that can move suddenly and can kick and cause harm.
  • Question
    What happens if the skin is nipped in the process?
    Community Answer
    If the skin gets nicked, it usually it heals on its own. But if you are worried, in any doubt or the nick is biggish, then spray it with tetramycin, which is a blue spray.
  • Question
    What do I do if the sheep gets cut?
    Surya Harrison
    Community Answer
    Spray it with Tetramycin. This is a blue spray that the vets can provide you with. You should always keep some in stock, as you can use it on the sheep's feet or cuts.
Ask a Question

      Return to Full Article