Colustrum is the first milk a ewe produces after lambing. Containing high levels of important nutrients, colostrum is a key factor in newborn lamb health starting just minutes after birth. Colustrum provides antibodies against a variety of infectious agents. At birth the lamb does not carry any antibodies as the ewes blood stream doesn't cross the placenta. It is critical for the lamb to receive colostrum during the first 24hrs of life to ensure adequate absorption of colostral antibodies.
Antibodies are large protien molocules that can cross the intestinal wall and enter the blood stream of the lamb. This occures only during the first 24-36hrs of life. At Karras Farm we closely monitor our newborn lambs to make sure they are receiving colostrum for a healthy immune system.
Happy New Year!!
Karras Farm
Karras Farm specializes in breeding East Friesian Dairy Sheep. We have been in the dairy sheep business since the late 1800's starting in Greece. Four generations later we are still commited to breeding the highest quality and genetically pure East Friesian Sheep in the world. In 1994 we moved our operation to North Carolina with the same focus of excellence to our animals and customers.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
History of Sheep
Sheep were domesticated around ten thousand years ago in Central Asia, but it wasn't until 3500 B.C. that people learned to milk and spin wool. Sheep were a key component in spreading civilization. The production of sheep was well established during biblical times. Many references of sheep were made in the Old Testament and directly from Jesus. Sheep production is mans oldest organized industry. Wool was the first commodity of sufficient value to warrent international trade. Sheep milk has been instrumental in raising families from the beginning of humans time on Earth.
"We respect, appreciate and feel blessed for these wonderful animals"
Andy Karras ~ Karras Farm
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)