The arrival of lambing season brings both excitement and challenges for shepherds. A common concern among many is the question: “What methods can be used to help stillborn lambs start breathing?” While it’s heart-wrenching to deal with stillborn lambs, there are techniques you can employ to increase the chances of reviving them.
1. Act Quickly but Calmly
Time is of the essence when dealing with a stillborn lamb. Acting quickly can make the difference, but it’s also important to remain calm to ensure your actions are precise and effective. Have your lambing kit prepared ahead of time and be familiar with resuscitation techniques.
2. Clear Airways
One of the first steps is ensuring the lamb’s airways are clear of any obstructions. Gently but thoroughly remove mucus, membranes, or fluids from the lamb’s mouth and nose. Some shepherds use a bulb syringe for suctioning out fluids, which can be highly effective.
3. Stimulate Breathing
Once the airways are clear, the goal is to encourage the lamb to start breathing on its own. Here are a few common methods:
• Rubbing Vigorously
Dry the lamb with a clean towel while vigorously rubbing its body, especially around the chest and abdomen. This mimics the mother’s licking and stimulates circulation and breathing.
• Tickling the Nose
Using a clean piece of straw or a finger, gently tickle the inside of the lamb’s nostrils. This can trigger a reflexive gasp or sneeze, initiating breathing. Then with your thumbs on the spine just behind the shoulders and the middle fingers of both hands just below the sternum, start chest compressions- also using the palms of your hands to squeeze the ribs after each compression- this effectively pumps air in and out of the lungs. I’ve kept this up for nearly 20 minutes and had success.
• Swinging Method
This is a more controversial technique, but some shepherds find it effective. Holding the lamb securely by its hind legs, swing it in a controlled motion. This can help clear any remaining fluids from the lungs, but caution is essential to avoid causing harm to the lamb’s spine or neck.
4. Warm the Lamb
Cold temperatures can further stress a lamb that’s struggling to breathe. Once you’ve cleared the airways and attempted resuscitation, ensure the lamb is kept warm. If you have one a hot box is ideal, if not then wrappiung in a warm towel, a warm water bath or even the foot well in a car with a heater on can be used. Any such heat source can help stabilize its condition.
5. Monitor and Support
Even after the lamb starts breathing, it’s crucial to monitor its progress. Ensure it is kept warm and receives colostrum as soon as possible to boost its immunity and energy levels.
Conclusion
Lambing season can be unpredictable, but knowing how to handle emergencies like stillborn lambs can give you the confidence to act decisively. The key is to stay prepared, act quickly, and use techniques like clearing airways, stimulating breathing, and providing warmth. By incorporating these methods, you may be able to turn a challenging situation into a successful outcome for both you and your flock.