Record keeping is an integral part of most shepherding. There are many tools available to help with record keeping; everything from a wall calendar in the barn connected to a pen on a string, file folders in a home office, management software, and/or phone apps. Some will find it handy to use these tools in conjunction with others. Herdboss is the only management software app I have firsthand knowledge of and it has been quite handy. There is an app available as well for being able to take chute side notes or updates. The software can record multiple parameters such as weight, breeding date, pedigrees, purchases, and sales. You are also able to print reports on one or more of these.
At the end of the day, you should choose the method that you can be most consistent with. Consistently recording a few parameters will be more valuable for your reflections and decision-making than inconsistently measuring several parameters. For me, a small notebook in a rucksack, next to a delicious snack and a tea thermos works best.
Here is the basic information I have about each of my lambs, after which I use my breed associations online registration database for quick look-ups and print outs of family trees.
Date of birth
Sex of lamb born
Type of birth
Sire and Dam
Birth Comment (assisted/unassisted)
30. 60. 90. 120 day weights
Registration information
CD+T vaccination dates
During herd health checks I also record this information for each sheep:
BCS
FAMACHA score
Any procedures performed (hoof maintenance, vaccination, deworming etc.)
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