This evening I walked straight out to the girls as they grazed, sat on my stool, and shook a dish of oatmeal. (About a quarter cup in total) Heidi came running with the rest close behind and all five girls tried to shove their noses in the dish. While the chaos ensued I simply reached in and caught Heidi. She made a few attempts at bolting but I was rubbing her chest and ears and she settled down. The ewes wandered off and I gently restrained Heidi a bit longer. As she relaxed I released my hold until she was standing freely while I was petting her. Then she walked away and I left the pasture.
It may take a few more sessions. But I've had success befriending lambs in the past with this method. I'm hoping it works again.
Mirta & Heidi
2 comments:
Yep, that's what I do – catch and gently restrain while petting and scritching, finding just the right spot to make them go, "Oh, this is NICE!" I don't use the food treat, just the scratching and rubbing, because I don't like the pushing and jostling they do for food.
Hi Michelle!
So good to hear from you again. :)
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