CHAPTER XXV. 



LAMBING. 



Three or four weeks before lambing time the ewes 

 should be dagged, and if crutching is followed, any wool 

 that might hinder the lambs from sucking may be 

 clipped in a careful manner. Rough handling of ewes 

 in lamb is very reprehensible. 



A well-sheltered, sunny paddock should be selected 

 for lambing. Inclement weather and exposure are 

 great enemies at this time. If bush, hedges, decayed 

 logs, or hills do not provide shelter, it should be fur- 

 nished in the shape of windbreaks of scrub or straw. 

 Sooner, however, good, permanet shelter is provided, 

 where it is wanted, the better, for the property will then 

 be regarded as a more suitable one for sheep, and be 

 valued accordingly. 



Dogs should be strictly kept away from ewes heavy 

 in lamb and at lambing time. It is prime folly to have 

 any other state than that of quiet and comfort at this 

 juncture. 



When the lambs begin to arrive the flock should be 

 visited constantly, and assistance given to ewes that 

 require it in their delivery. A short, practical experi- 

 ence or direction by a neighbour is the best way to learn 

 how to help. When the front feet and the head of the 

 lamb do not appear together assistance may be given by 

 pushing back the part of the lamb that emerges un- 

 timely. Sometimes the hind legs are the first to appear, 

 and the ewe may be successfully delivered this way ; but 

 if all the legs or the back show first help is necessary, 

 and a careful effort should be made to push back the 

 part appearing prematurely, and turn the lamb, so that 

 the front legs, with the head, or the hind legs, may be 

 got hold of and the ewe gently assisted, in unison with 

 her efforts in travail and without any dragging. Car- 

 bolic oil should be carried so as to smear the hands after 

 each operation. 



