Health and Vaccinations

Proactive health management prevents many problems.

• Observation: Know your sheep! Watch for changes in behavior, appetite, manure consistency, or breathing. Healthy sheep are alert, active, and chew their cud.

• Vaccinations: The core vaccination for most flocks is CD&T. This protects against Clostridium perfringens types C & D (enterotoxemia/overeating disease) and Tetanus.

  • Ewes: Annual booster shot, typically 3-4 weeks before lambing, to provide passive immunity to lambs via colostrum.

  • Lambs: Typically receive two doses, often around 4-8 weeks and then 12-16 weeks old (follow vet/label directions).

• Vet Relationship: Establish a relationship with a local veterinarian experienced with sheep before you have an emergency.