[Jacob-list] Docking tails on adult sheep

[Jaci Siehl]

I have two ewes with "an experiment gone wrong".  Last year I thought I'd try docking tails one joint longer.  Well, one was 2 joints longer and the other one slipped down about 4 joints.  Both have extremely dirty tails that I don't like and would like to dock them back to the normal length of all my other sheep.
 
I don't have a vet close by that would surgically dock for me so it would mean driving 60 miles one way, plus the cost at the vet's (not a practical option at this time).
 
I assume I could just band them again at the correct spot, but I am concerned that this may just make the end die but not fall off AND that it would be very painful for the sheep for a long time.
 
Third option would be for me to cut the tails myself - but I've only done day-old puppies this way and not sure about sheep.
 
Any opinions, suggestions, or previous experiences would be welcomed. 

Jaci Siehl
Sugarpine Jacobs
530-538-9474


      
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