Sheltered households or small-scale farmers often face challenges when it comes to building suitable sheep houses. Many of these structures are too basic, lacking proper insulation to keep the animals warm in winter and cool in summer. As a result, the living conditions inside are poor, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks and creating hidden health threats for the flock.
To address this, sheep houses should be built in locations that are dry, sunny, and protected from strong winds. In northern regions with cold climates, single-slope sheep houses are a good option. These typically have a height of about 2.5 meters at the front, 2 meters at the back, and a depth of 6 to 7 meters, with the length adjusted based on the number of sheep being raised. In warmer northern areas, semi-sheltered designs can be used, which are similar to single-slope models but feature a permanent structure at the rear and an arched plastic film roof on top. During the summer, the film can be removed to create an open-air shelter, improving ventilation and comfort.
Many farmers tend to build large, one-size-fits-all sheep houses without considering the specific needs of different groups of sheep. This leads to overcrowding, especially when all sheep—regardless of age, sex, or health—are kept together. Overcrowding negatively affects growth and productivity, reducing the overall quality of meat. To prevent this, farmers should separate their flocks into different groups and provide tailored care. Each pen should have enough space for movement, resting, and feeding, ensuring better animal welfare and higher yields.
Feed is a critical factor in successful sheep farming. Unfortunately, many farmers rely solely on straw and grain during the winter, without producing silage or other nutritious feed options. This results in slow growth and longer feeding cycles, which limits profitability. A better approach is to cultivate dedicated land for green fodder, such as Prunus persicae, Mexican corn, and ryegrass. These crops can be used fresh in summer and autumn, while dried hay or silage can be made for winter use, ensuring a balanced and continuous diet for the sheep.
Disinfection is another area where many small-scale farmers fall short. Most lack awareness and do not perform regular disinfections, sometimes using only lime, which is ineffective. Farmers must improve their hygiene practices, avoid complacency, and maintain daily cleanliness. Different types of disinfectants should be rotated to prevent resistance. All areas, including the sheep house, outdoor spaces, feeding troughs, water sources, and tools, should be thoroughly disinfected. The process usually involves three steps: cleaning, rinsing, and spraying with disinfectant. Sheep houses should be sterilized at least once a month, and more frequently—every other day—if there's an outbreak. Maintaining good sanitation is essential for preventing diseases and ensuring healthy livestock.
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