As winter approaches, it is essential to shear the sheep to promote their well-being and health. Shearing them before entering the sheepfold helps prevent skin diseases, improves their comfort, and facilitates the lambing of ewes. Terwagne, a store specializing in shearing equipment and accessories for sheep, assists you in preparing for shearing before the cold season.
Why shear sheep before winter?
Shearing sheep is not just about aesthetics: it plays a crucial role in the animals' well-being and health. By removing overly thick wool, you limit moisture, parasites, and skin infections. Done just before they return to the barn, it also helps maintain a healthier environment by reducing sweating and bacterial growth.
A shorn sheep also adapts more easily to the indoor temperatures of the barn, which promotes better regulation of its body temperature.
For pregnant ewes, a clean and short shearing around the udder and hindquarters facilitates birthing and ensures better hygiene for the newborn.
What tools to use for sheep shearing?
Having good shearing equipment for sheep is essential to ensure quick, precise work without stress for the animal. Terwagne offers a wide range of equipment suitable for all types of farming, regardless of the number of sheep to be shorn.
Essential tools:
- Electric sheep clipper: powerful and ergonomic, it ensures a clean cut while respecting the animal's skin.
- Combs and counter-combs: they ensure optimal shaving according to the thickness of the wool and the season.
- Maintenance and cleaning accessories: brushes and oil extend the life of the equipment and prevent overheating.
Terwagne also offers a sharpening service for your combs to ensure a clean cut and avoid any risk of injury to your sheep.
How to shear a sheep in winter? Practical advice
To shear a sheep, it is essential to be calm, methodical, and well-prepared. Here are some practical tips to successfully complete this step safely:
- Immobilize the animal in a stable and comfortable position;
- Check the skin condition to spot any lesions, ticks, or lumps before starting;
- Ensure the wool is completely dry, as the clipper does not work well on damp fleece;
- Maintain your shearing equipment after each use: regularly brush and oil the combs to preserve their efficiency.
After shearing, remember to protect the sheep from the cold for a few days by keeping them sheltered from drafts and moisture.
Would you like to know more about sheep shearing equipment?
The Terwagne team is at your disposal to answer all your questions about the essential tools for successful shearing of your sheep. Contact us via our online form, by phone or visit us directly at our store in Ciney.
