TRIMMING THE SHEEP'S HOOVES
This is preventative care to help the animals stay healthy.
When we first got our sheep, it was a new experience for us. We had never had any sheep before, but were eager to learn and enjoy all that came with them. This is one of the periodical chores that comes with them.
HOOF TRIMMIMG
The hooves of sheep and goats actually grow, much like our fingernails do. The outer edge of the hooves can have a tendency to grow longer and fold over. Once this happens, dirt, manure, and other debris can get caught underneath it and possibly lead to infection. If the animals are kept in an area with a lock of rock, the edges may wear off by themselves. For us, like many others, we have to trim the hooves though.
Shears, razors, or a sharp knife can all get the job done. Since I am handiest with a razor blade I chose to use one of them. If you look at the photo above, you can see that I am slowly slicing off the excess hoof.
After a bit, a good amount of the excess hoof has been removed. At this time we also clean the hooves and remove all the manure and dirt. Then, we continue cutting off the rest of the extra hoof material. It is important not to go too deep, or you will hurt the animal.
Here is another example of how long the edges can grow. The longer part on the left was folded over already, but I lifted the fold to show the length. I was glad to not only be able to learn how to complete this preventative care, but also that the @little-peppers could learn along with me.
Not only did the @little-peppers learn about the sheep hooves, they also did a great job taking the photos for this post! Thanks children!
As always, I'm @papa-pepper and here's the proof:
proof-of-hoof-care
Until next time…
Don’t waste your time online, invest it with steemit.com
Good job pappa pepper! Done like a pro ;)
Did black sheep get their wool trimmed also?
Not until spring, they'll need it this winter.
Amazing. I heard some sheep is modified so they glow in the dark
@papa-pepper. Trimming hooves can be a tedious job. I have found that a dremmel with a grinder attachment works well.
That could speed things up! Thanks!
Here's one for the @little-peppers:
good post friends. I am a newcomer. I hope support from you
Is that ur children's they ever cute
I fed some goats for a while, but I never trimmed any hooves.
They look great, and your helpers look happy!
Speaking of taking care of the animals.
I suppose you have a lot of relaxing medicine for New Years right? Because with all of the fireworks animals tend to be really nervous.
In my case we always give relaxing medicine to our dog.
We are out in the middle of nowhere. Probably won't even see any, much less hear any fireworks.
Very good friend.
Upvote and resteem
Looks the have fun for your childrens