Post Fair Maintenance

Many club lambs are heading to large fairs in the next several days and the majority of these show lambs will come back home. How you handle your sheep after the show may be more important than all the intense management of getting them ready to compete. Here is a MAJOR tip to keep your show lamb moving forward and free from setbacks:

Ringworm infections are likely, and preventative measures will keep your animal’s fungus free. The number one step to stop ringworm before it starts is to wash the sheep from head to toe with a good antifungal shampoo. I prefer to take the time to do this immediately after the show. Towel dry well and slip a CLEAN blanket on the sheep before you load out. I like to then use a good topical ringworm preventative when we unload back home. Sometimes the show schedule or other circumstances may delay this schedule but the bottom line is to not delay once you get home. Removing show preparations and breaking up any residues with an antifungal wash and rinse will prevent or slow down fungus adhesion. I still prefer “old school” Captan wet-able powder at 1 ounce per 2 gallons of water. Soft brush it on the entire body and let it set 5 minutes then lightly towel dry and air dry before blanketing. Keep out of the eyes and use protective gloves. I hear good reports on the Ring Out system. Keep those hides healthy and avoid the big fungus out breaks that can hit you later down the line.

Next time I will discuss some post fair nutrition and hydration. Thanks, and good luck with your show stock!