Ask the Shepherd: How should I have my wool processed? Should I make roving or yarn? What mill should I use? Recently, I have been contacted by several people, who have fiber farms or are first time shepherds, asking me the same question, “How should I process my wool?” Some of them have Gotland sheep and some have other breeds. … Read More
There seems to be an art to preparing show lambs for the ring. Go to any sheep show and you will quickly begin to realize that each shepherd has their own way of getting their sheep ready for the judge, from how they trim their sheep, condition their wool and clean their feet to how they handle them in the … Read More
Do you want to buy sheep? Have you always wanted to purchase your first flock of sheep, but have lots of questions about shepherding? Just this week, I received a phone call from a woman saying that she is going to move to a new property that would allow her to start a small homestead. She had many questions about … Read More
Ask the Shepherd ~ Why do sheep curl their upper lip? Flehmen Response Curling back the upper lip. Inhaling deeply-head held high. The transfer of air carrying pheromones to an organ in the roof of the mouth, provides the animal with information about the scent. It’s a sheep thing. It’s the way that they gather information. It is how … Read More
For ten years, I had the privilege of working with young expectant mothers and fathers. I taught them about the birthing process, what to expect, and how to work alongside of their bodies to bring forth new life. Now, I work with bred ewes, but there is nothing to teach them, as it all comes instinctively. Knowing what “normal” labor … Read More
