Storey's Guide to Raising Sheep, 4th Edition: Breeding, Care, Facilities
H**A
Excellent for the serious sheep rancher
I found this book to be thorough in its content and what you need to know to raise any kind of sheep. Complete span of necessary information for the professional with a large flock, or for those who want to start and raise just a few. Filled with terrific information. I currently have 80 ewes and 4 rams of Barbado. Based on information I gained from this book I will be introducing rams and ewes from two different breeds, to create a blood-line that will be optimal for production in my geography and climate, and on my acreage. I'm looking to eventually have maximum flock size of 280. I am very grateful to the two authors for sharing their knowledge and all this information.
D**?
Great basic resource
This is definitely my go-to and go-back-to guide. Geared toward North America and the wool breeds a bit, but is generally helpful for all kinds of sheep raising in terms of basic care.Not enough meat here on genetics and selection for breeding, but I get the sense that a lot of shepherding knowledge is oral history. I supplement this with regular reading online, in shepherding fora, extension websites and email lists where this book lacks coverage or enough depth in a topic.Highly recommended!
B**C
Good for laying out the reality of the sheep industry
Lots of detailed information. Did what it was supposed to do: convince me that responsibly caring for sheep is more work than I am really interested in at the moment. But I have it on file for reference should that day arrive that I have too much time, money, and energy--and not enough cute, fluffy pasture animals.This is not a book with lots of romantic color pictures of lambs frolicking in green pastures that will lead you to an impulse purchase you will regret.
N**E
Was an overall really good book
I wish there was a lot more information on feeding. Though he does touch parts of it in the "Pastures, Fence and Facilities" but it doesn't go into a whole lot of details, i still feel like i need to do more research. I also wish the pictures in the "Breeding and Breeds" section was in color but that's just my personal preference. I actually did read the entire book besides the "Showing Sheep" and the information on Rams (i don't plan to own any). But overall i found this book to be fantastic, especially for a noobie as myself. It gave a tun of information without being overwhelmed. I really enjoyed the book.
J**Y
Very useful
As somebody who is new to sheep, but has extensive experience in other livestock, this book helped me have the confidence to start my flock. A lot of good information on diseases, breeding, lambing, shearing as well as breeds and guardian animals. Even has information on fencing, handling and housing. If you have some experience or are a total novice this book is great and a fantastic price point and place to get started.
C**E
Just What I Was Looking For
I live in town and have no aspirations to take up shepherding. However, if you (like me) write fiction, this is a GREAT reference. I found a wealth of easy-to-understand information to enhance the realism of the ancient sheep herder in my next novel. Although my reason for purchasing the book is not exactly mainstream, I enjoyed and highly recommend it.
K**Y
Starting out
This book is absolutely amazing! Anyone looking to get a start in raising sheep or looking to improve their flock MUST own this book! I am in the process of acquiring my first flock and this book has made it possible for me to select the right additions, take care of them, and make the entire process easier and less stressful!I would recommend this to everyone who wants to raise a flock!
S**A
Very good
I'm very much pleased about this very good guide for raising sheep. All my question have a answer and so much more then I ever tink about.I'm Italian and my english is poor, but in any case the easy way to write it, made me able to understand everything well.
J**E
Five Stars
Great book. I use it for reference all the time.
G**N
Outstanding guide for the would be Shepherd (or Shepherdess)!
I purchased this book with the intention that I would start my own little flock next spring. After reading the book cover to cover I have learned enough to know that I need to wait another year, when the time comes I will certainly read and re-read the guide before I jump in, and feel confident I know enough to do well and recognize when I am in trouble and need help. The book is that good.The guide is exceptionally well written, and easy to understand, for even the most novice shepherd.I give it 4 cloven hooves up!
R**A
Essential Sheep Guide for All Beginners
I would say this is the best sheep book out there!I also purchased 'The Backyard Sheep' by Weaver book and it is practically the exact same word for word even photos except for an excerpt about training pet sheep to do tricks.This book has more info on medical/illness for sheep.
S**E
The best reference guide available
The Storey's Guide series is hands down the best reference material for new and experienced keepers. This book has everything, from breeds, care, health, breeding, and housing. If you're interested in sheep for meat and/or wool, this is definitely a must have.
O**Y
An alround sheep book
An easy to read book ideal for the person starting out to keep sheep. Because its American some of the breeds look different to the British ones but the information is relavent and adaptable to our way of sheep keeping.
Trustpilot
5 days ago
1 month ago