[Jacob-list] Paralyzed Ewe?

[Susan J Martin]

I'm guessing that the lambs inside are pressing on a spinal nerve causing the paralysis.  If the lambs shift position,  relieving the pressure,  she will probably be ok.  We had a Jacob ewe a few yrs. ago who was pregnant with triplets and the first lamb presented for birth back (not breech, but the middle of the back) first....the lamb was literally folded in half and it was a horrific delivery -- the vet said he never saw a ewe able to do it on her own but she did.  Unfortunately the lamb was large and engaged in the birth canal in such a way that we couldn't push it back into the uterus or do any manipulation.  As a result of that awful delivery the ewe sustained permanent nerve damage in her pelvis and was paralyzed.  I worked with her for a few days to see if there was any hope of recovery but in the end we had to put her down.....and true to Murphy's law, she was my favorite, very tame, literally a pet.  All three triplets, who were beautiful and good size, died as a result of the birth difficulties.  Certainly the fact that your ewe is normal in every other way is a good sign.  It may be possible to place the ewe over a hay bale (the 50 lb. size) with legs down in a normal position and perhaps the weight of her body on her abdomen could shift things a bit inside of her -- but keep in mind I am not a vet and that's just an idea.
Sue Martin
Stonecroft

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Jason Anders 
  To: jacob-list at jacobsheep.com 
  Sent: Thursday, March 10, 2011 11:37 AM
  Subject: [Jacob-list] Paralyzed Ewe?


  Good Morning Everyone:

  I have an older pregnant ewe, 9-10 years old, that cannot stand.  Her back legs seem paralyzed.  She seems healthy and happy, is eating, seems fine except she can't stand up.  She was fine yesterday.   There doesn't seem to be any injuries to her.  Any ideas or advice would be appreciated.  Thanks!

  Jason


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