Birthing sheep amber goo

iowaiscold

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My pregnant sheep has been dripping amber goo for 5 hours. She's doing all the normal activities of labor but not producing a water bag. Is it still possible to have a healthy delivery or should I expect the worst?

I should also mention mom is feral. I've never been able to catch her.

Lastly, how long do I watch mom with babies before I pull to bottle feed? It's cold here very cold so I want to be prepared.
 

Mini Horses

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Sounds like all you can do is wait & see. I've had goats (no sheep here) with good one day, then nothing, then kid. As far as lambs -- watch to be sure they're nursing. If you want to bottle them, tame them, then 48-72 hrs to nurse, get colostrum & rich first milk. If you do not want to bottle, once you see they are nursing well, you're done.

"Very cold" -- wind breaks & shelter best. What is that situation like? You say feral but, I'm assuming she's probably fenced just not tame. 🤷
 

iowaiscold

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Sounds like all you can do is wait & see. I've had goats (no sheep here) with good one day, then nothing, then kid. As far as lambs -- watch to be sure they're nursing. If you want to bottle them, tame them, then 48-72 hrs to nurse, get colostrum & rich first milk. If you do not want to bottle, once you see they are nursing well, you're done.

"Very cold" -- wind breaks & shelter best. What is that situation like? You say feral but, I'm assuming she's probably fenced just not tame. 🤷
You are correct on your assumption. I have a barn, but wind does still go through it. I've laid out bedding etc. Still no babies. I appreciate your comment that eases my worries some.
 

rachels.haven

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If she won't let you catch her there's not much you can do.
I don't like colored goo from my laboring goat does. She's doing herself no favors being feral.
 
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