Farm Animal Welfare

Sheep Lambing Assistance Analgesia

Lambing assistance is often necessary in domestic sheep and should include analgesia for ewes experiencing prolonged or difficult birth.

Key Facts

Assisted deliveries are required in up to 15% of lambings in some breeds
Malpresentations, large lambs, and narrow pelves are common causes of dystocia
Prolonged unassisted dystocia causes significant maternal and foetal suffering and death
NSAIDs administered after assisted delivery significantly improve maternal recovery and lamb survival
Training farm staff in correct lambing assistance technique reduces injury to both ewe and lamb

Welfare Considerations

Dystocia without intervention causes extreme suffering; trained assistance, analgesia, and prompt veterinary involvement when needed are essential welfare provisions during lambing.

What You Can Do

Ensure all farm staff involved in lambing are trained in correct technique
Administer appropriate analgesia after difficult deliveries as standard practice
Have veterinary support available during lambing and use it without delay when needed