The past couple of weeks have been busy ones on our farm as lambs have reached weaning age. We sold several sets of lambs to new shepherds who are looking forward to the docile, friendly personality of the Gotlands. Along the way, I have sent them a series of emails to inform them on how to prepare for taking home their Gotland lambs. Here are some thoughts on settling in with your new lambs:
Settling In With Your New Lambs
Transporting sheep to a new home can be stressful for lambs. This will be the first time they have been away from their flock, shepherd, and normal routines that they have known since birth. Being handled by strangers and being put into a crate or in a vehicle can be frightening. Your lambs may seem more jumpy and afraid of you than they were when living here. This is all normal. As I told someone the other day, it is your job to make them feel safe and loved. It may take them a few days to settle in or even longer. Some things you can do to make them feel comfortable once you get them home are:
- keep dogs away from them (yes, even your tiny, sweet puppy dog)
- spend lots and lots and lots and lots of time with them
- choose one or maybe two people to be their primary care giver
- always move slowly and calmly when around them
- talk in soft voices around them (gun shots and fire works will terrify them)
- give them treats (A sure way to win the heart and trust of a lamb is with something yummy to eat. Give them a little grain or Chaffehay each day. REMEMBER to give a tiny amount at first and build slowly to just a handful. I like to offer it in a pan first and then move to them eating out of my hand.)
- approach them with your palm down so they do not feel threatened. (An upward palm often means someone is going to grab them.)
- be patient
- HAVE FUN!
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