Are You A Sheep Producer? Here’s How To Better Manage Your Flock

Do you want to make more money off of sheep produce?  As a sheep producer, it is important that you are able to manage your sheep in the best way possible. But there are many different ways of doing this, and we’ll go through some of the most effective techniques for managing sheep produce below. If you’re interested in learning how to better market your sheep products, then keep reading!

1. Equip Your Farm

Before bringing the first batch of sheep into the firm, make sure that all your equipment is up-to-date and functioning properly. Sheep pens are a must-have for any sheep producer who wants to stay ahead of the game. You need sheep handling equipment that allows you to keep your sheep together so that it’s easier to feed and monitor them as a group. This makes sure they don’t wander off on their own, which is important because sheep can get lost pretty easily.

2. Identify The Type Of Sheep You Produce

sheep produce can be classified into three groups: sheep for meat, sheep for dairy, and sheep that are raised as a hobby. These are classifications that come with different needs. There are also some considerations that need to be factored in before making the final decision. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about these three classes of sheep: 

• Sheep for meat live a short life and are harvested after approximately six months. They have very little wool, but the majority of their weight is gained from muscle tissue.
• Sheep for dairy produce milk over an extended period of time, historical be bred to keep producing at optimal levels. A sheep with more than 50 pounds of milk per day production, sheep for dairy are known as “milk sheep;” these sheep have thick and long wool that is not harvested.
• Sheep raised as a hobby produce very little wool or meat; they live an average of five years because their sole purpose is to provide companionship.

Regardless of the type of sheep you produce, sheep are only productive for a limited amount of time. Sheep producers must plan months in advance to have enough sheep products available at their market’s peak seasons.

3. Get Organized

If you are keeping sheep for wool, one of the most important things you can do is create a production plan to ensure that your sheep will produce enough quality fiber and not too much. Wool producers must be aware of how many sheep they have in their flock so that they don’t over-produce. This is in the case the demand for wool is low.  On the other hand, If you are keeping sheep for meat, creating a production plan will ensure that the sheep can produce enough lambs to meet market demand and not too many so as not to damage their environment or become overpopulated.

4. Keep Records On How Many Animals Are In Your Flock

You can see sheep at the farm, but it’s hard to tell how many sheep are actually in your flock. Keeping records will ensure that you know how much work is needed for each sheep and what their production level has been historical, so they don’t over or underproduce.  It’s also important to have a record of your sheep’s produce, income, and expenses. You can do this with an excel spreadsheet, or you could use a sheep product management tool like Sheeptrack. 

6. Consider Diversifying With Other Types Of Livestock

Another way to diversify your sheep production is with other types of livestock, such as cattle and goats. The business can become more profitable if you’re able to manage multiple species. This also reduces the risk that one type of animal will suddenly die off in the event something bad happens (such as a virus attack). You’ll have better control over your sheep produce if you have sheep, cattle, and goats. However, be prepared for the competition of resources and disease outbreaks.  But then again, when well managed, it’s a great strategy that will provide you with a backup source of income.

7. Inspect Your Flock Regularly.

You can start by cleaning water troughs regularly to prevent them from becoming filled with dirt and other debris that can harm the sheep or contaminate their drinking water. Also, get sheep vaccinated for diseases such as sheep pox and scabies to prevent infection, making sure that a veterinarian helps you plan the vaccine schedule appropriately for each type of sheep in your care. Do not forget to check sheep feeders regularly, so they do not overflow with food or become contaminated by dirt and other debris.

As a sheep producer who wants to see an increase in production, watch for any signs of illness among sheep, as this is an easy way to save money in medical fees and ensure they stay healthy for maximized production.