Does this sound like you?
You can't wait to get your first flock of sheep...but you have a million questions about how to prepare for them, and no one gives you all the answers!
- How many sheep can you fit on your property?
- What kind of shelter do they need?
- What breed of sheep is best for your property or your family?
You're overwhelmed with nowhere to turn for guidance.
Or this?
Your brand new flock is out there in your backyard...and you have no idea what to do next!
- How do you protect them from predators?
- Will you be able to tell if one gets sick?
- What are common sheep ailments?
- What happens if you need to call a vet?
You're afraid something may happen to your sheep and you won't know what to do.
Let me help you out!
This course is designed just for people like you! Starting Your First Flock will cover all the bases of shepherding, from choosing a breed that works for you, to preparing your property for farming, to basic animal husbandry and sheep care.
All your unanswered questions? Wave them goodbye! Your anxiety and feelings of overwhelm? They're about to disappear! With this course under your belt, you can step into shepherding with confidence and security, knowing you are prepared to welcome home your first flock.
Choosing the Right Breed
The first important decision you'll have to make as a prospective shepherd is which breed of sheep to raise! In this secton of the course, I will walk you through the process of finding the perfect breed for you and your farm. We will talk about breed characteristics, temperament, and purpose, to discover the best breed for you.
Preparing Your Farm
This section of the course will help you make your farm safe and ready for your sheep. You will learn about what kind of shelters your sheep will need, how to choose the best fencing option, and what kinds of pastures you need for your sheep to flourish.
Caring for your Sheep
Many new shepherds invest so much time into preparing their farm for sheep that once they bring their flock home, they find they didn't ever learn how to care for them! This section will keep you ahead of the game by teaching you the basic information you need about animal husbandry so that you can care for your sheep with confidence.
Example Curriculum
Hey, I'm Kim Goodling.
I am shepherdess at Vermont Grand View Farm, and have been teaching in a variety of settings for the past thirty years. Through on-farm workshops, mentoring, and writing, I share my love of farming with others. I teach people like you - people who are crazy about everything sheep and wool! My goal is to support you in your journey living with sheep, and make sure you have the information you need when problems and questions arise. I will help you feel confident and empowered to make informed decisions as you welcome home your first flock!
You are beginning an exciting adventure - I am excited to be by your side to guide and support you through the thick and thin of owning sheep!