Pricing

For detailed information on shearing day preparations, visit these accredited sources. Otherwise, please read my abbreviated version below…

Time To Prepare for Shearing Season (American Sheep Breeders Association)

Fasting of Sheep Prior to Shearing (WORKSAFE New Zealand)

Benefits of Shearing Before Lambing (University of Michigan)

Animals must be fasted for a MINIMUM of 24 hours (no food of any kind and water access at a minimum). More fasting time is needed for larger sheep. When a sheep’s stomach is full while in the shearing positions, the stomach pushes against their heart and lungs making it difficult to breathe. When the animal is uncomfortable, they fight the shearer making the shearing process longer and increase the possibility for injury. Are your ewes pregnant? They should be shorn at least 30 days before or 30 days after lambing.

Though shearing day can happen rain or shine, animals MUST be kept dry. The shearing equipment uses electricity and cannot move through wet wool.

An organized shearing day includes a catch pen, a shearing area with electricity close by, and a release area. Keep all animals confined to one area close to the shearing area. After shearing, release them into their normal grazing area with access to food and water. If you cannot contain them close to the shearing area, an efficient way of moving them will be needed, such as halters and volunteer assistants.

I have been trained in the New Zealand shearing method by professionals in Maryland. This shearing method is designed to stretch the skin to get a close shave with the least amount of cuts, though they do still happen. For oversized and/or sensitive animals, I use a shearing stand. I travel light and keep my equipment simple. This allows me to adapt to a wide range of farm and homestead environments. If it doesn’t fit into my Prius, I don’t bring it!

I prefer to shear in a calm environment with minimal external noise, minimal audiance members, and no other pets and animals present in order to concentrate and keep others safe.

I am available to provide demonstrations to groups that are curious about the shearing process. This is a only a demo, not a hands-on lesson, though audience members will have the opportunity to touch the wool and equipment. Shearing demos consist of information on why we shear, animal health, and fiber type/qualities and uses. I request the same set-up as any other sucessful shearing day with a safe distance from the audience. The health and safety of the sheep, shearer, and assistants is always the number one priority. No loud music and no dogs close the animals. Young children should also be supervised. Please see my pricing for a special demonstration rate.