Helpful How-To’s: Owning Sheep as Pets - Part One (Shetland Sheep)

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What makes sheep such great pets? Well, first and foremost, they’re gentle, social animals that love to interact. Sheep are naturally curious, and once they feel comfortable, they form strong bonds with the people around them. 
Whether it’s a scratch behind the ears or just sitting quietly with them, sheep can be incredibly affectionate. Just ask Elsie here, she’s always ready for some love and attention! 
They’re also pretty easy to care for. Sheep enjoy a simple life—grazing on grass, munching on hay, and playing with their flock. They don’t need a massive farm to thrive, just a secure, comfortable space with enough room to roam and explore. 
While they don’t require a ton of attention, sheep do benefit from regular grooming and hoof trimming. And, of course, they need regular checkups to keep them healthy and happy. Here at Dalby, the sheep are shorn once a year - that means their wooly coats are gently removed so they can have a cool comfortable summer! We recommend you hire someone trained to do this if you do not have experience, as a difficult shearing can permanently change the relationship with your animal! 
But perhaps the most rewarding part of owning sheep is being able to witness their social nature. They thrive when they have other sheep around, and w hen they have a buddy to graze with, they feel safer and more content. It’s just part of their nature to be in groups, or flocks. Please don’t go and get one lamb just to leave it all alone! At Dalby Farm, we’re committed to protecting rare and endangered breeds like Shetland sheep. These animals are an integral part of our ecosystem and heritage, and by bringing them into your life as pets, you’re helping to preserve a piece of history. 
Owning sheep may seem like a big responsibility, but it’s an incredibly fulfilling one. They bring joy, teach patience, and offer companionship in a way that’s hard to match. So, if you’ve ever thought about adding a sheep—or a few—to your family, I’d say go for it. Sheep make wonderful pets that are gentle, loving, and just a bit quirky. They’ll be your companions, your teachers, and your friends. Thanks for joining us today. We hope this video inspires you to learn more about sheep and how they can be a part of your life, too. Until next time, remember: when we care for animals, we care for each other.