£100 ceaser (ewe), is it worth it?

[Gulli]

Now that would depend on whether it's one of those funny pink faced rams, with a broad white head and muzzle that @andybk thinks so much of.

It came from that goat breeder we know, so I'll be disappointed if they don't walk out the back of my ewes

 

[andybk]

It came from that goat breeder we know, so I'll be disappointed if they don't walk out the back of my ewes

yea and slam the door on the way out ,

 

[MJT]

How do you know for certain? There must surely always be a higher risk of a repetition, so why chance it?

Because her name was Dorris and she was a bottle lamb therefore gets a second chance But in all seriousness if it was something like they hadn't opened up or they weren't right inside etc I'd get rid but in my lone experience with it, she's Lambed on her own every time since !

 

[jemski]

I had one about 6 years ago with ringwomb that wouldn't open. I chose cs over shooting her. She recovered incredibly well, and reared 2 lambs, not hers though. I would do it again in the same circumstances, it may not be the best financial option but for me it's the most ethical option and the one I am most comfortable with. Sometimes that is more important than a few £££ to me.

 

[bovine]

Surely it's your sheep so if you ask for a Caeser you should get one.

Not quite. I've twice had people bring me animals to caeser that had already lambed. It is vital from a surgical point of view that I have an idea how big the lamb is and how it is lying. I've had people want caesarians when the animal isn't even in labour (that VASTLY) reduces the chances. I also need to know if the lambs are likely alive or there is obviou damage/trauma to the ewe.

The animals interest has to be my main concern - just because you want a caeser - that might not be in her best interests. I'm a skilled professional - not a monkey paid to cut on your command.

If a farmer brings me a sheep that they think needs a caesarian - I will have a quick feel (10 seconds if often all it takes) - assuming it seems viable then I will get on with it. If I think I can lamb it (easily) then I will offer that. The farmer asking for a ceser massively lowers my threshold for doing one.

 

[neilo]

I agree with @bovine . If I didn't have enough confidence in my vet to make the call, and be willing to go with it, then he/she wouldn't be getting a chance to see any of my sheep.

They are only human though, and don't always perform miracles.