Ovine and Caprine Restraint Techniques and Care

Handling sheep

Never grab the wool of a sheep; it damages the skin and devalues carcass and fleece.

Flock behavior in sheep

Sheep are flock animals; their main defense mechanism is moving as a flock.

Response to soothing voices

Sheep don't calm with soothing voices or enjoy being petted. Keep noise to a minimum.

Temperature to avoid for sheep

Above 16°C (use caution to prevent hyperthermia).

Proper confinement for sheep

Place one hand on the tail base and the other under the jaw, or use a Shepherd's Crook. Hook the hind leg in the hock area.

Halter use on sheep

Do not occlude the nostrils with the nose band.

Coaxing sheep

Sheep may be coaxed or pushed from behind.

First step in sheep restraint

Approach quietly from the left side and restrain in the basic holding position.

Right hand movement in restraint

The right hand moves from the back to the right flank.

Left hand position change

Change the left hand from encircling the chest to grasping the animal by the lower jaw.

Twisting sheep's head

Twist the head to the right with the left hand and press back towards the shoulder.

Sheep positioning during restraint

A 60° sitting position, supported against your knees.

Caution in sheep restraint

Be aware of flailing feet.

Normal temperature range for sheep

38-39°C.

Normal heart rate for sheep

60-90 bpm.

Checking heart rate in sheep

Femoral artery.

Normal respiration rate for sheep

12-19 rpm.

Primary site for IV injections in sheep

Jugular vein.

Cephalic injections in sheep

Similar to a dog, using restraint for access.

Common site for IM injections in sheep

Lateral cervical muscles in the neck.

Avoid injecting into the rump of a sheep

It can damage the muscles and meat.

Subcutaneous (SQ) injection sites in sheep

Neck or axillary region.

Goat treatment differences

They do not have a strong flock instinct and are more independent.

Goat defense mechanisms

They may rear and charge, but they do not bite or kick.

Goats as escape artists

They are excellent at climbing and jumping.

Confine a goat

Use a high-fenced small area and grab by collar or around the neck.

Dark brown waxy material in goats

Normal secretion from sebaceous glands.