Ewe lambs with their first time lambing can be difficult to predict when they are due. Some will show obvious signs and others will not even look that pregnant and you go out one day and there it is. My ewe lambs (Dorpers) typically dont get much of a bag until they are ready to pop. I started with Katahdins and they lambed in the pasture like my Dorpers do I have never used jugs. They do however have access to shelter if they want. Hypothermia can be a concern in extreme conditions and I will persuade expectant mommas to stay near the shelter if needed.
As soon as they lamb (after time for mom and baby to bond) I move both to another pasture, keeping preg ewes separate from moms and babies. Keeping 1 ewe especially with her first pregnancy separate from the others is usually pretty stressful on her.
With first time ewes, think teenage pregnancy. They know something is going on, but not always sure what. The grunting can just be discomfort, or it just may be her. Some worms cause anemia pale membranes, and others wont. While checking eye color and stool consistency is important, sometimes it is not enough. Take a sample to vet to be sure. Even a vet that does mainly small animals should be able to give you an idea of how loaded the sample is and whether or not worming would be advised while pregnant. And what to use if worming is indeed needed. Some are regarded as safe during pregnancy and some are not. Even the safe ones I tend to try not to use unless absolutely necessary until after she lambs.
Sorry this is not much help, but I know what you are going through. It is frustrating as well as exciting sometimes. Good luck and keep us updated.
As soon as they lamb (after time for mom and baby to bond) I move both to another pasture, keeping preg ewes separate from moms and babies. Keeping 1 ewe especially with her first pregnancy separate from the others is usually pretty stressful on her.
With first time ewes, think teenage pregnancy. They know something is going on, but not always sure what. The grunting can just be discomfort, or it just may be her. Some worms cause anemia pale membranes, and others wont. While checking eye color and stool consistency is important, sometimes it is not enough. Take a sample to vet to be sure. Even a vet that does mainly small animals should be able to give you an idea of how loaded the sample is and whether or not worming would be advised while pregnant. And what to use if worming is indeed needed. Some are regarded as safe during pregnancy and some are not. Even the safe ones I tend to try not to use unless absolutely necessary until after she lambs.
Sorry this is not much help, but I know what you are going through. It is frustrating as well as exciting sometimes. Good luck and keep us updated.
