Raising sheep can be a rewarding experience and a profitable venture when carried out correctly, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most important considerations for raising healthy sheep is providing your flock with a suitable shelter.
A good shelter will not only protect your flock from the elements, keep them safe from natural predators, and provide them with a comfortable place to rest and sleep, but it will also be scalable and hassle-free to maintain so that you have the flexibility to modify the shelter in line with your changing requirements and farm layout.
Against the backdrop of rising utility and maintenance costs, farms that get to choose livestock shelters that offer flexibility, durability, and lower maintenance have a distinct advantage as their incomes will not be burdened by the costs of repairing or maintaining shelters as well as the additional costs of treating ailments in an unhealthy flock.
Read on and explore some of the key factors to consider when purchasing sheep housing as well as some helpful tips on how to select the right one for your farm.
Features of sheep housing structures to look for when making your purchase
Once you narrow down the livestock shelter options, there will be several aspects of each structure that can play a vital role in your purchase. This depends on the specific requirements of housing your flock and the needs of your farm. Here are some key features to consider:
Size: The shelter should be large enough to accommodate your entire flock of sheep comfortably, offering enough space for them to freely move around and lie down. It is vital to choose a modular shelter that is scalable in case you’re planning to grow the size of your flock in the short term.
Durability: The shelter should be made from sturdy materials that can withstand the elements and resist wear and tear, saving you money on repairs and maintenance. It is advisable to seek a mobile and expandable shelter that serves as a modern and adaptable alternative to traditional steel sheds.
Ventilation: Sheep require plenty of fresh air to stay healthy, so by ensuring that the shelter has good ventilation to keep the air circulating, you will be able to enhance the health and well-being of your flock significantly. This will also assist in reducing costs incurred for the treatment of sheep with infections.
Drainage: The shelter should have a good drainage system in place to prevent water from pooling and causing the sheep to become wet or muddy, as they can act as a breeding ground for bacteria and parasites. Effective drainage, therefore, can reduce the risk posed to your flock from infections.
Cost: Consider the asking price of the shelter as well as any additional costs you will have to incur for installation, maintenance, and upkeep. It is recommended to consider a high-quality shelter made domestically in the UK, as this will usually offer you swift and cost-effective maintenance services.
Conditions to consider when selecting sheep housing for your specific farm
Each farm presents its own unique set of requirements that can determine whether the selected shelter will be an ideal match. Selection based on the following criteria can ensure that you have a shelter that is an ideal fit for the requirements of your farm:
Climate: The weather and climate in your area should be the first consideration when purchasing a shelter. If you live in a region with harsh winters, your shelter will need to be well-insulated and equipped to keep your animals warm. If you live in a more temperate area, however, your focus should be on providing good ventilation to keep your animals cool during the summer months.
Size of the flock: The size of your flock is another important factor to consider when purchasing sheep housing. The size of the shelter will depend on the number of animals you plan to house. You’ll want to provide enough space for your sheep to comfortably lie down, rest, and move around without feeling cramped or crowded.
Access: Consider the location and ease of access of the shelter, including ease of moving the sheep to and from the shelter and feed, as well as cleaning, maintaining, and accessing veterinary assistance within the shelter.
Year-round protection: Concerning the seasonal changes in temperature and weather, the shelter should protect your sheep from all the elements, such as rain, wind, and extreme temperatures, as well as seasonal predators and insects.
It is helpful to reach out to a provider specialising in shelters for livestock housing that can closely assist you in choosing the perfect shelter for the needs of your agribusiness.
Reasons to choose Agri Span for housing sheep on your farm
Ready for rapid deployment: Agri Span is designed and held in stock to be rapidly deployed; meaning that your agribusiness can conveniently set up and start enjoying the benefits of high-welfare sheep housing in no time
Enhanced flexibility and scalability: The modularity, relocatability, and effortless expandability of Agri Span ensures it can be tailored into a setup to meet your specific and changing needs, making it the perfect fit for your farm
High-quality build for durability: The manufacturing of Agri Span uses the highest-quality raw materials and they are made in the UK to meet the highest production standards, ensuring that the structures are durable and long-lasting
Professional services and support: McGregor Structures provides professional after-sales services and comprehensive support, ensuring that the structure is installed correctly. Our readiness and commitment to service and support are resolute
Low maintenance costs: Agri Span requires very little maintenance, making it highly cost-effective for agribusinesses of all sizes. Agribusinesses can easily adapt the structure to match their changing needs inexpensively
Ease of access for cleaning: The modular design of Agri Span prioritises easy access to the interior of the structures. The aisles are wider, the corners are not as tight, and the ceilings are higher, making it easier for workers and their equipment to access
Leverage the expertise of a provider specialising in livestock housing
With a little research and some careful consideration, you’ll be able to find the perfect shelter for sheep on your farm.
With professional help and expert-led insights from a provider with a solid track record and specialisation in supplying livestock housing, you can conveniently find the ideal shelter to house your flock of sheep safely and comfortably.