The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Sheep => Topic started by: Danny on April 16, 2018, 09:13:28 am

Title: Sheep showing prep
Post by: Danny on April 16, 2018, 09:13:28 am

Hi guys, looking for some help and pointers with showing sheep(southdowns) it's been a while since I was in the show ring and just need some refreshing in the preparation i.e. Brushing and clipping, please. Thank you :)  :sheep:

Title: Re: Sheep showing prep
Post by: Marches Farmer on April 16, 2018, 10:04:50 am

I recommend a book called Showing Sheep by Sue Kendrick. 

Title: Re: Sheep showing prep
Post by: Julesscott1 on April 16, 2018, 06:58:25 pm

hello, I'm also really interested in this post as i plan to show my zwartbles for the first time this year (first time ever showing sheep!). When should I think about clipping them for a June show?

Title: Re: Sheep showing prep
Post by: Buttermilk on April 16, 2018, 08:59:03 pm

Taken from the society rules

7) Shearing

a) All adult sheep for showing to be shorn between 1st January and 1st May of the show year.

Title: Re: Sheep showing prep
Post by: Julesscott1 on April 17, 2018, 10:02:07 pm

thanks, better get shearing! Anyone know anyone in Angus? thanks

Title: Re: Sheep showing prep
Post by: roddycm on April 17, 2018, 11:41:47 pm

I went to a few shows with a neighbour and helped him show his sheep to get an idea, and then to prepare my sheep which were a different breed I got in touch with a local breeder and she very kindly showed me how to card and clip etc! You will find that most people are very encouraging and helpful. I loved going to the shows, I had a lot of fun and won a few prizes too!

As for shearing, you do it early so that they have a good fleece on them by the time you hit the shows. There is a lot of primping that goes into preparing the sheep. Shampoos, brushing, clipping etc! All a lot of fun! The basics you will need are a good carding brush, sharp shears and a paddle.

The main thing is to have fun and not be afraid to ask questions at the shows :)

Title: Re: Sheep showing prep
Post by: silkwoodzwartbles on April 18, 2018, 07:43:58 am

I'm not sure where you're based but the Berrichon Sheep Society are holding a show prep training day in a few weeks: https://www.facebook.com/events/1821889461445421/ (https://www.facebook.com/events/1821889461445421/)

Title: Re: Sheep showing prep
Post by: Dan on April 18, 2018, 09:00:08 am

We have a guide on the Scottish Smallholder Festival website you might find useful as an introduction:

https://ssgf.uk/exhibitors/beginners-guide-to-showing-sheep/

Title: Re: Sheep showing prep
Post by: Marches Farmer on April 18, 2018, 09:07:05 am

Most show sheep get shorn in January so the fleece grows back enough for the judge to see its quality.