Why I Chose Shetland Sheep

I have an extremely loving and tolerant black cat, an ornery apricot standard poodle, and pastured poultry, but I have wanted ruminants on our homestead for some time.

I wanted a rare/heritage breed, for reasons I'll share when I'm feeling preachier. Using one of my all-time favorite web sites, The American Livestock Breeds Conservancy http://albc-usa.org/ , I researched different breeds. Storey's Illustrated Breed Guide to Sheep, Goats, Cattle and Pigs was an excellent reference.
http://www.amazon.com/Storeys-Illustrated-Breed-Guide-Cattle/dp/1603420363/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1372625134&sr=8-1&keywords=storey%27s+illustrated+guide+to+livestock


Having only a couple acres of our total 12 fenced in for pasture, cows were probably not the best option. Aside from the lack of space, I simply don't like the form cow feces take. Goats or sheep have little pellets that decompose quickly and don't make you feel like showering if you happen to step in a pile. For a final reason, assisting with calving is a terrifying prospect for me.

I considered goats. I visited a Nigerian Dwarf breeder. I have no experience with goats. I know they are notoriously hard to keep in. Dairy goats are apparently quite particular about their shelter; I had no shelter of any kind available for them. I was thrilled with the breeder; she took fabulous care of her animals. I wasn't ready to carry on her quality of care and they deserved someone who would. While I did not purchase any goats, I made a lovely friend and learned a great deal from our visit.

So that left sheep. I grew up around sheep and always swore I would never have any. I thought them stupid, frustrating creatures. I have since learned better. My mother has had sheep for years. My father also spent a large part of his life as a shepherd. I had them to turn to for help. I'm not a fan of mutton, but wool is an astounding fiber and had possibilities for farm income. Finally, sheep are hardy little creatures who prefer being outside, even in harsh weather. I only had to choose a breed.

The aforementioned Storey's Illustrated Guide said Shetlands were docile and easy for the beginning shepherd. That was definitely me! Shetlands have naturally short tails that do not require docking. They are very hardy. They're browsers, like goats, rather than strict grazers (they'll eat vegetation from trees and shrubs instead of just grass). The wool is outstanding for hand spinning. There is an enormous variety of wool colors within the breed. I was sold.

I found the National Shetland Sheep Association, via the ALBC. That led me to a list of breeders. After some time with Google Maps, I chose one who was close and contacted them. I went for a visit and the rest, as they say, is history. 

Fairlie cinched the deal for me. She is a beautiful black lamb with white spots. Her little ears look marbled with the mix of colors. Exhibiting very un-sheep-like behavior, she came right up to me and stood still while I petted her. I petted and petted. My legs eventually got tired, so I sat down. Apparently she felt the same way. She laid down beside me and rested her head in my lap. I was in love.

Fairlie's name means "a rare occurrence." To me, it references her atypical personality. Secondarily it could refer to her lovely spots. Of course she needed a buddy. I chose a little brown beauty, whose name is Bonnie. They're my girls.