Caring for sheep in the winter requires providing a dry, sheltered, and ventilated space, along with high-quality food and constant access to fresh water. Increase their feed to meet higher energy needs for body heat and provide warm, unfrozen water, as sheep can get a significant portion of their water from snow. Supplement diets with mineral blocks, and ensure shelter protects them from wind and moisture. 

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Shelter and environment

• Ensure a dry and well-ventilated space: Protect sheep from wind and moisture. Provide a windbreak, and add fresh straw or other dry bedding regularly to keep them insulated and clean.

• Maintain ventilation: Good airflow is crucial for preventing respiratory issues, but be cautious not to create drafts. Adjust curtains to control airflow, allowing fresh air without exposing sheep to direct, cold wind.

• Insulate from the cold: Use bedding like straw to insulate sheep from the cold ground. For confinement, a thick layer of sawdust or shavings under the bedding can provide extra insulation. 

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Nutrition and water

• Increase energy intake: Sheep need more food to stay warm in winter. Provide high-quality forage like alfalfa or clover, and consider feeding them more frequently during very cold periods.

• Provide plenty of water: Ensure sheep have constant access to unfrozen, fresh water. This is especially important for lactating ewes.

• Use de-icers or heaters: Use a de-icer or submersible water heater in troughs to prevent water from freezing.

• Offer supplements: Provide free-choice mineral blocks formulated for sheep to ensure they receive necessary vitamins and minerals.

• Use feeders: Feed hay in feeders to minimize waste and prevent the spread of diseases that can be carried in waste hay.

 

Health and safety

• Monitor body condition: Regularly check sheep's body condition to ensure they are gaining or maintaining weight. If they are too thin, you may need to supplement their diet with extra grain to give them more energy to stay warm.

• Check hooves: Trim hooves in late fall and again in mid-winter to help prevent slipping on ice.

• Be cautious with electricity: If using any electrical devices like water heaters or heat lamps, take precautions to avoid electrocution or fire hazards.

• Monitor newborns: Newborn lambs are particularly vulnerable to cold. Provide them with a heat lamp and monitor for signs of hypothermia.