The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Sheep => Topic started by: gingercloverbramble on May 06, 2010, 01:22:35 pm

Title: rubber bands and boy bits!
Post by: gingercloverbramble on May 06, 2010, 01:22:35 pm

One of our male pet lambs got the rubber band on his boys bits last night.  I'm well aware that he will feel uncomfortable for a wee while but I'm worried because he will not take any food.  Is this normal?!  I'm sure he is feeling very sorry for himself - and I don't blame him.  Just concerned that there may be a problem?!!

Title: Re: rubber bands and boy bits!
Post by: HappyHippy on May 06, 2010, 02:30:28 pm

I don't have sheep, but my gut feeling is if he's drinking and providing he's back to eating within 24 hours he'll be ok. I would imagine the older they are the longer it'll take to recover. So just keep an eye on him for the moment (until the experienced sheep keepers give you their advice ;))

Title: Re: rubber bands and boy bits!
Post by: Roxy on May 06, 2010, 03:04:18 pm

Did you put the band on yourself?  Are you satisfied it is on right?

Having said that, when we ring our lambs and male goats, some of them react more than the others.  Little pygmy for example, lay down, stood up, bleated, and then carried on eating.  I have seen some tremble, stand in corners.  Yes, it will hurt for a while, but the next day they are usually back to normal.

Title: Re: rubber bands and boy bits!
Post by: Wizard on May 06, 2010, 04:17:51 pm

Have you had them lay on their side and run as fast as their legs will go?Then they are puffed out they stand up and shake then start to eat again.I have had it explained why one should use Elastrator and those who prefer Burdizo But the poor little sods don't like either as I see it :o ::) ??? :farmer:

Title: Re: rubber bands and boy bits!
Post by: jembo on May 06, 2010, 07:04:17 pm

How old is the lamb?

Title: Re: rubber bands and boy bits!
Post by: egglady on May 06, 2010, 11:00:27 pm

did you check that you had both balls in the scotum before you removed the band and did oyu make sure the teats were free of the band?

if yes to both, then i think there is little to worry about - just keep an eye.

Title: Re: rubber bands and boy bits!
Post by: gingercloverbramble on May 07, 2010, 02:53:27 pm

Thank you so much for all your words of wisdom.  Am pleased to report that he is indeed more himself today and is feeding again!  Phewee!  We only have these two wee orphaned boys; we got them from our neighbouring farmer.  As you can imagine, they are being slightly petted and fussed over more than your average lamb!!  Hated to see him looking unhappy but know that he has to be castrated because everyone has told me htey will not make good pets if they are left intact. Thanks again!