Pointers for Sheep Farmers in Hot Weather

The current high temperatures being experienced will put pressure on livestock and operators alike. Sheep specialist Ciaran Lynch gives a couple of points to consider in the short term:

• Check water supplies daily and ensure free access for all livestock.
• Provide some shelter by moving stock to a shady field with trees or hedgerow cover as there will be a noticeable temperature difference.
• Avoid handling sheep where possible, where necessary delay handling or moving sheep until late evening when temperatures cool.
• If transporting sheep ensure adequate ventilation and that they are stocked appropriately. Remember to check stock regularly during longer journeys. Ideally delay movements until late evening/night time where possible.
• Sheepdogs are susceptible to heat stress during the current period of high temperatures, as per other classes of stock delay work until late evening where possible, provide sufficient rest periods and access to water.
• Provide supplementation on farms where grass covers are low, those on higher levels of concentrate supplementation will have a higher water demand.