The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Sheep => Topic started by: Pedwardine on March 05, 2013, 08:40:15 am

Title: How late can you transport pregnant ewes?
Post by: Pedwardine on March 05, 2013, 08:40:15 am

Hi guys, I have a lady due to pick up a starter flock including four ewes all due twins. First is due on 10th April. She was to collect this week but circumstances have contrived against her (Failed MOT and death in the family). She has a farmer friend who has offered to collect next weekend 15th-17th but my gut feeling is that this is a bit close for comfort. The breed are Gotland and are pretty laid back as a rule. It's also their second lambing so no first timers. What do you think? I've offered to take them myself for the cost of the diesel.

Title: Re: How late can you transport pregnant ewes?
Post by: Rosemary on March 05, 2013, 08:50:17 am

  From the transport regulations
 :)

·      Pregnant female animals will not be considered fit for transport if they have reached the latest stage of gestation (within 10% of the estimated time of the gestation before birth) and for a period of one week after giving birth
 

Title: Re: How late can you transport pregnant ewes?
Post by: Pedwardine on March 05, 2013, 08:54:33 am

Thanks Rosemary. What's the Russian looking writing at the top mean?!
Meant to add the journey is a good four hour one.

Title: Re: How late can you transport pregnant ewes?
Post by: SallyintNorth on March 05, 2013, 12:28:39 pm

It's a shame they are having to face such a long journey so late in their pregnancies in any case  :(

I would certainly aim to get them moved before they are in the last month - is there any reason she hasn't bitten your arm off at your offer?

Title: Re: How late can you transport pregnant ewes?
Post by: Hazelwood Flock on March 05, 2013, 07:59:50 pm

So with sheep 10% would be 15 days before lambing working to 150 days gestation.