The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Sheep => Topic started by: sjconnon on July 11, 2013, 03:43:48 am

Title: Sheep with Sciatica??
Post by: sjconnon on July 11, 2013, 03:43:48 am

I have a three year old ewe that was near full term and was chased by a dog.  She fell down and couldn't stand up again.

Her back legs are moving and she can drag herself along but can't seem to get her back legs to work properly.

She gave birth to triplets three days ago but still can't walk.

Any suggestions on how to help her get back on her feet would be really appreciated.

Title: Re: Sheep with Sciatica??
Post by: Pedwardine on July 11, 2013, 06:52:16 am

I'd get the vet to examine her. She could perhaps do with some painkillers/anti inflammatories. Probably wrenched something. How on earth are the babies feeding and how successfully can she wee? Can she stand but not walk, is that the case? Poor girl.

Title: Re: Sheep with Sciatica??
Post by: funkyfish on July 11, 2013, 07:08:13 am

She could have partially slipped a disc or other neuro prob, or put her pelvis out a bit. Vet check defo the way to go as she will soon loose a lot of muscle which will make it hard to get her right again. Walking funny will put other areas of her body out etc.

Title: Re: Sheep with Sciatica??
Post by: kanisha on July 11, 2013, 12:13:59 pm

+ 1 prompt treatment to reduce inflammation may well reduce the long term potential for damage.

Title: Re: Sheep with Sciatica??
Post by: Marches Farmer on July 11, 2013, 02:06:35 pm

Vet asap.

Title: Re: Sheep with Sciatica??
Post by: Bramblecot on July 13, 2013, 10:33:47 pm

What area are you?  If the vet is not optimistic, I  have a brilliant osteopath who also treats animals - she was a professional shepherd before a career change.  PM me if you would like her details.

Title: Re: Sheep with Sciatica??
Post by: sjconnon on July 14, 2013, 02:02:05 am

Quote from: Pedwardine on July 11, 2013, 06:52:16 am

I'd get the vet to examine her. She could perhaps do with some painkillers/anti inflammatories. Probably wrenched something. How on earth are the babies feeding and how successfully can she wee? Can she stand but not walk, is that the case? Poor girl.

Thanks for the advise.  Vet said to give aspirin.

Triplets all died at birth.  She is standing up to wee and is walking a bit better.

Thanks for your help and advise.

Title: Re: Sheep with Sciatica??
Post by: sjconnon on July 14, 2013, 02:04:54 am

Quote from: Bramblecot on July 13, 2013, 10:33:47 pm

What area are you?  If the vet is not optimistic, I  have a brilliant osteopath who also treats animals - she was a professional shepherd before a career change.  PM me if you would like her details.

I am in New Zealand, so a bit far for your osteo. LOL.

I have been massaging her and giving anti inflammatories so hope she improves soon :)

Title: Re: Sheep with Sciatica??
Post by: Alicenz on July 15, 2013, 11:56:43 am

Hi SJ Im in NZ too.  Did the vet give you injectable anti inflam?  I saw the other day a horse/ animal healer offering osteopath services here in the south, so they are available.   More so around Auck area though I think.  They may even just be able to advise you what to do.  Good luck.

Title: Re: Sheep with Sciatica??
Post by: Granny A on July 21, 2013, 11:33:58 am

Prop her up between bales. There are sheep phisios, ask your vet. Metacam might help, works on people and dogs.

Title: Re: Sheep with Sciatica??
Post by: Alicenz on July 21, 2013, 11:38:35 am

How is your sheep going SJ?