Handling lambs when pregnant

[Hoth]

Hi. I'm 17 weeks pregnant and for the last 5 days I have petted, fed a pet lamb. The lamb was only 1/2 days old when we first got him. All feeding etc is done outside with no other sheep around. I've only just found out about the dangers associated with my actions. Has anyone been in a similar situation?

It’s extremely unlikely anything will come of it but I probably wouldn’t do it again just to avoid anxiety! It’s like many things in pregnancy- there’s risk but it’s really minimal

With lambs the risk is mainly from the amniotic fluid for catching infections. Most of the infections cause abortion in ewes. If the lambs were dry that risk is minimised. Most guidance is around the sheep in later stages rather than lambs. If you still want to help out with the pet lamb, make sure you don't touch your face/mouth whilst handling him, have no cuts or sores (if you do make sure we'll covered and wear gloves) change all outer cloths that come into contact with the lamb and wash hands, arms and face. Don't let the lamb nuzzle your face or sook your fingers.

If the lamb develops scour or watery mouth then stay well clear. These are signs of infection including e.coli.

You could just help with the making up of bottles and feeding the creep feed so you are still helping out but minimising the contact with the lambs.

Gov advice if you do come into contact with sheep is to watch out for any flu like symptoms, if you develop them then call GP and advise you have been in contact with sheep and are pg etc.

The risk is low anyway, and one dry, healthy lamb the risks will be lower again.

Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy

Thanks so much for all the advice. The lamb seems quite healthy but I'll keep my distance for awhile.