How to Brace a Lamb

Bracing is a technique that helps to show off a lamb's physic.

Presentation is crucial when it comes to bringing an animal to a market, as it can result in a higher ranking from the judges, according to Philip Hasheider's book "How to Raise Sheep." The lamb exhibitor's job is to present the lamb in a way that demonstrates the animal's strengths. And, bracing is a technique that can be used in the show ring, to best display the lamb's body. This practice will help show the lamb's rack (rib cage), contours of its muscles and the animal will feel firmer to the touch.

Instructions

1. Evaluate the show ring beforehand to calculate the best ways to lead the lamb around the ring. Look for low spots to be avoided, so that the lamb's feet doesn't end up in these areas---which could result in a break in stride. Additionally, though it might not always be an option, it is always best to walk the lamb up hill, according to "Market Lamb Showmanship from Start to Finish."

2. Lead the lamb into the ring holding the animal from the left side. Grab the animal steadily by the chin, under the upper jawbone, not the neck, as to not choke it. Holding the lamb this way will help to keep the animal's head erect and parallel to ground. This technique can help the lamb to appear to be more alert, during its stride. If the lamb is not responding or moving, then lift up the lamb's tail or apply pressure behind the ears, which can help coax it to move in a smooth stride.

3. Line up the lamb with the others, shoulder to shoulder, keeping the lamb parallel to the other animals that are being judged. Then, square its front legs so that they fall right under the shoulders. Push the hind legs, backwards, slightly away from the body, to give a strong leg extension. Also, if it is possible, place the lamb's front legs slightly up hill, which will help to accentuate the back leg's extension.

4. Stand in front of the lamb and hold its head, while gently pressing the left knee into its breastbone. Then, push against the lamb, encouraging it to reciprocate, which will put the animal in the bracing position. When the animal pushes against the showman's body, it flexes its back leg and loin muscles. While the lamb is holding this pose, might be inclined to arch its back, this can be remedied by gently tapping on the animal's spine to keep it straight. Make sure that the lamb keeps the bracing position and all feet on the ground during the judging process.

References

• "How to Raise Sheep"; Philip Hasheider; 2009
• 4-H Manual: "Showing and Fitting Your First 4-H Lamb"; December 2007
• Kansas State University: Market Lamb Showmanship from Start to Finish
• Washington State University: Central Washington Animal Agriculture Team: Training, Grooming and Showing Market Lambs; Sarah M. Smith