Something from the archives ... sheep in winter
If you see a sheep in the field, and it will be about this time of year generally when their fleeces are thick and heavy, and it’s lying on its back and waving its legs in the air it is NOT having a nice time playing. It is trying not to die and you can save it. Do not take your dog into the field. If the gate’s locked climb over it at the hinge end so you don’t damage it, then get hold of the sheep’s wool on its side and give it a heave, sort of rock it, so it can stand. Don’t be afraid of hurting it, it won’t hurt you, hopefully it will trot off in a most ungrateful manner. If it doesn’t get up it could be dead already. Don’t be too upset, a farmer will tell you that dying is a sheep’s mission in life. You might need a bath afterwards.