Welcome, Woolvember!

So how about starting my birthday month with a wee sheepy update on my wee sheep?

Bramble, the sheep in my header photo, is getting extra groceries now. Although she acts bright and alert, she's been losing weight, perhaps a combination of age and ongoing health issues (which may be related to being a freemartin). Anyway, the above set-up works well. The gate opens inward so she can't push her way out of the fold but can back up when she finishes her ration – and none of the other piggy girls can push into the pan!

All the girls (well, except the two in the honeymoon suite) also get out for short periods of fresh grass and maple leaves.

When I tried to put the girls back into the fold tonight, Blaise-the-flirt bolted past me and ran straight to the Ram-ada Inn lot. She pulled this stunt several times last fall and winter; the girl needs a date! The question is, should it be with Blake (not convinced that would be a good nick) or with Nightcap when he comes (her sire; ew?)? I'm glad I have good fences so I can make that decision!

This morning Bittersweet was almost non-weight-bearing on his left front leg. He wasn't going to let me catch him easily, I couldn't see any grievous injury, and I had to get to work, so I left him alone. This evening he is MUCH less lame, so for now I'll continue to let him rest and recover on his own.

That's it for today from . . .