[Foobar]

I was sponging my sheep last night and I came to the conclusion that the Intervet sponge applicator is a really $!*% design!

I think I will have to add something to the applicator end to make a "grip" for it.  When you have wet or lubed up hands you can neither push, pull or twist the soddin thing!  ...and then the push rod falls out onto the floor!  I'd hate to have to do hundreds with that thing.

I've seen a video on youtube of someone from NZ/Aus/US? who had a trigger gun type applicator - has anyone seen these in the UK?  .... update ... one like this:  http://www.animalhealthsupplies.com.au/reproduction-control/applicator-sponge-applicator.html

[harmony]

I know what you mean and I only had 6 to do.


My thoughts for next year was to tape something around the bit you hold that gives you grip such as the palm from those gloves that have the rubber bits in them for cycling or riding.

[Anke]

Just don't use any applicator. Lube on the tip of the sponge, fold sponge up a bit and in you go. My vet doesn't use applicators either, and especially not on goats. But I have found the sheep easier to do than the goats, even gimmers.

[ewesaidit]

One of my least favourite sheepy tasks  Agree with other comments - struggled to grip the end when it gets to the bit where you push the sponge out of the tip with the rod. Mucho sweary words!   I only had seven to do - the last one was a ewe lamb and I gave up and just lubed the sponge, squidged it up and put it in with a finger and it worked fine and she has since been tupped.  However..... if you do it this way remember to make sure the string will still be hanging out.  Thought I hadn't but phew it was ok. Also .... remember to wear gloves (I usually do but forgot this time - probably not good to be absorbing so much hormone!) 

The applicator in the link looks interesting though - has anyone used this type?

Should have a new shape designed by a woman  .... the design at the tip isn't great - would think a kinder shape could be developed?   

Might just put them in without the applicator next year - seems to work ok anyway.

[Foobar]

I've made a makeshift grip on mine from some string and tape ... will try it out tonight on my second batch ...

[Foobar]

...ah yes, that was much easier to use with the makeshift grip


...now, I have 7 sponges left over going spare....

[Anke]

...now, I have 7 sponges left over going spare....

Just seal them in a plastic tub or similar, store some where dry/ambient temp - they will be fine next year. I have used a spare one I had from last year after one of my goatlings decided to push her 1st one out within a couple of hours of it going in, but I replaced quickly and she held to AI successfully.