Sheep Production

 

Understanding the drivers of sheep production systems is the key to helping people having sustainable farming systems. This knowledge allows vets to help farmers navigate this changing world as we continue to face challenges such as drench resistance and GHGs. The future will require famers to have more fine-tuned systems; this course will allow vets to be in a strong position to help their clients with this.

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Date

Available from Monday 7 September 2026.

Audience

This course is best suited to those with at least two years in practice who wish to build on their knowledge and grow their skills in regard to flock production systems.

Format

This is a self-directed online course consisting of notes, presentations and quizzes.

Topics

Module 1: The production system

  • Topic 1: Farm production parameters: the measures and drivers of farm production and profit
  • Topic 2: The basics of feeding ewes for performance on pasture and crops
  • Topic 3: Key drivers of reproductive performance overview
  • Topic 4: Artificial manipulation of reproduction

Module 2: Conception to weaning

  • Topic 5: Breeding ewe management: mating to the end of the second trimester
  • Topic 6: Breeding ewe management: mating to the end of the second trimester - tactical management issues
  • Topic 7: Breeding ewe management: third trimester and lambing - the ewe in the third trimester
  • Topic 8: Breeding ewe management: third trimester and lambing - lamb survival
  • Topic 9: Lactation and lamb growth to weaning
  • Topic 10: Lactation and lamb growth to weaning: making the most of the second half of lactation
  • Topic 11: Lactation and lamb growth to weaning: suckling lamb animal health and LWG
  • Topic 12: Ewe hogget lambing

Module 3: Production support

  • Topic 13: Common production: limiting diseases in ewe flocks (practical management)
  • Topic 14: Applying the theory: planning, monitoring, scheduling/ prompting, reviewing and supporting

Learning objectives

  • Understand the basics of feed budgeting.
  • Learn the key drivers of sheep production.
  • Better understand what impacts lamb survival
  • Recognise how you can help farmers improve their farming systems and outcomes. 

Learning objectives

  • Improve your skills and confidence discussing farm production systems with farmers.
  • Feel confident giving farmers advice to help with improved fertility outcomes, e.g. conception rates and lamb survival.
  • Grow your career with this fundamental knowledge that will allow you to run discussion groups or speak confidently at farmer workshops/field days.

Tutors

Trevor Cook BVSc MACVSc
Production Animal Consultant – Totally Vets
A legend in the field of sheep farm systems and parasite management, Trevor has been a leading figure in this field for many years. Trevor travels the world, helping sheep farmers develop robust, sustainable and profitable farm systems. Many vets and consultants have benefited from Trevor’s extensive knowledge, and along with Ginny Dodunski he is the original author of this course.

Rachael Fouhy BVSc dist
Director, Team Leader, Mixed Animal Veterinarian – Tararua Veterinary Services
Rachael has a broad knowledge of all aspects of veterinary work, but her specific interest lies in sheep and beef. With 20+ years clinical experience, Rachael’s experience ensures clients minimise illness and maximise production. Outside of work Rachael is also a sheep and beef farmer herself.

Cost

NZVA member: $1100
NZVA Non-member: $1650

Contact

Shannon Leader
Events Manager
vetlearn@vets.org.nz