Trimming Toes

John spent the day trimming the toes of seventeen ewe lambs that we want to add to our breeding herd. Toe trimming seems to tickle even an experienced ewe and they will kick a little in protest. But toe trimming to a lamb is a fight for life and death; they have no idea that they will survived the assault to their feet. As gentle as John tries to be they still react as if their whole life is in danger. By now all the lambs have learned to walk peacefully through the sorting chute as we have checked their weight frequently. They are expecting to be stopped on the scale and then have the gate opened so they can rush through the treatment station. They are astounded that after rushing into the treatment station they can go not further. They shift restlessly back and forth looking for a way out. Much to their astonishment John reaches in and tips them onto their side. Some lay there in momentary shock; while others struggle to right themselves. Just as they start to settle down John takes a hoof into his hand and begins to trim off the excess nail from each segment of hoof. A rare lamb just lays there and lets the trimming proceed. Most kick violently in protest. John came in with hoof marks on chest, back, arms and knees. Next time will be easier and in ten years they will just stand there and say thank you.