Thursday, December 29, 2011

Awassi Sheep - Colostrum Benefits

Colustrum is the first milk a ewe produces after lambing. Containing high levels of important nutrients, colostrum is a key factor in newborn lamb health starting just minutes after birth. Colustrum provides antibodies against a variety of infectious agents. At birth the lamb does not carry any antibodies as the ewes blood stream doesn't cross the placenta. It is critical for the lamb to receive colostrum during the first 24hrs of life to ensure adequate absorption of colostral antibodies.

Antibodies are large protien molocules that can cross the intestinal wall and enter the blood stream of the lamb. This occures only during the first 24-36hrs of life. At Karras Farm we closely monitor our newborn lambs to make sure they are receiving colostrum for a healthy immune system.

Have a very Happy New Year
Karras Farm



Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Fat Tailed Sheep Fun Facts

Fat Tailed Sheep

A few interresting fun facts


Some sheep have fat or broad rumps / tails. These sheep comprise 25% of the world's sheep population. They are very hardy and adaptable, able to survive tough challanges of desert life.

It is not customary to dock their tails. In fact, the tail fat is a delicacy in some cultures sheep tail fat is called "Allyah" in Arabic. Historical religious text (Hadith) claims that sheep fat is a cure for sciatic lower back and leg pain caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve.