What to Expect When You’re Expecting Your First Babydoll Sheep Lambs
Welcome to Everly & Raine Co! If you’re expecting your first Babydoll Sheep lambs from a breeder, congratulations! Get ready for an exciting journey filled with joy and plenty of learning experiences. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through what to expect when preparing for the arrival of your fluffy bundles of joy. From creating the perfect space and shelter to providing nutritious food and minerals, we’ve got you covered!
A Cozy Home: Space and Shelter for Babydoll Sheep Lambs
Babydoll Sheep are charming, miniature versions (although not technically miniature sheep) of their larger sheep cousins, making them a delightful addition to any homestead or hobby farm. To ensure their well-being and happiness, it’s crucial to have a cozy and secure space ready for their arrival.
- Fenced Pasture: Babydoll Sheep lambs love to explore, so having a fenced pasture is essential. Ensure the fencing is sturdy, around 4 feet high, and has small gaps to prevent curious lambs from squeezing through.
- Shelter: These adorable lambs need a shelter to protect them from inclement weather and provide shade during sunny days. A simple three-sided shelter or small barn with proper ventilation will do the trick. Bed it with straw or hay for comfort.
- Bedding: Inside the shelter, provide clean and dry bedding. Learn more about the deep bedding method we use here. And here is the lime we use to keep it clean.
Nutritious Food and Minerals: A Healthy Diet for Happy Lambs
Babydoll Sheep lambs, like all animals, need a balanced diet to thrive. Their nutritional needs will vary depending on age and life stage.
- Hay and Pasture: Good quality grass hay is a staple in a Babydoll Sheep’s diet. Ensure the pasture they graze on is free from toxic plants and harmful substances.
- Minerals and Supplements: Babydoll Sheep have specific mineral requirements, especially when breeding. Provide a mineral supplement formulated for sheep to support their overall health and prevent deficiencies. We like to use this mineral for our flock.
- Fresh Water: Access to clean, fresh water is crucial at all times. Check water sources regularly to make sure they are not contaminated or frozen during colder months. I prefer this water trough.
Preparing for Arrival: What You Need
Before your adorable Babydoll Sheep lambs arrive, it’s best to have everything in order to welcome them to their new home. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared:
- Essential Equipment: Stock up on sheep-specific equipment like hoof trimmers, water and feed containers, general emergency supplies like iodine and glue for small scrapes and grooming tools.
- Veterinary Care: Find a reputable veterinarian experienced in treating sheep. Your breeder may be able to suggest a good local recommendation for you.
- Educate Yourself: Take the time to read books and online resources about Babydoll Sheep care and husbandry, like this blog. The more you know, the better you can care for your lambs.
A Few Items to Add to Your Lamb Shopping List:
Prepare Your Heart
Welcoming Babydoll Sheep lambs to your homestead is an incredibly rewarding experience. With a well-prepared space and shelter, a balanced diet, and all the necessary equipment, you’ll be well on your way to providing them with a happy and healthy life.
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Photographs by Leah Payne
