Sheep are highly social herd creatures. They naturally seek
a leader, on their own; they’re prone to wander. Social isolation is highly stressful for them,
as is contact with humans. They are greatly affected by the quality of the
handling they receive.
Sheep are easily influenced by a shepherd who provides an effective,
calming presence. They need the most
care of all livestock in that they constantly require fresh water and fresh pasture.
Their best water source is the early morning dew. They like to rest a lot, and they don’t like
to be handled, as in being sheared or cleaned.
Sheep are creatures of habit who can get into ‘ruts’, and can
be jealous and competitive for dominance.
They stampede easily and are vulnerable to ‘mob psychology’. With little or no means of self-defense, in real or perceived danger they panic and run, and are vulnerable to frustration, pests and
hunger. They’re easily killed by enemies,
and can even die of panic. Too much wool
can cause them to flip over on their back, where they’re helpless and unable to
right themselves. They will die of starvation if not turned over by the
shepherd.
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