How to Prepare Your Sheep for Scanning

Proper preparation before your scanning day helps ensure accurate results, efficient handling, and minimal stress for your ewes. At Western Sheep Scanning, we work with farmers across Western Australia and Tasmania to make scanning as smooth as possible. Below is a quick guide to help you get your flock and facilities ready before we arrive.

 

Timing Your Scan

 

The best time to scan ewes for multiples is 85 to 100 days from the day the ram is introduced

The best time for wet and dry scanning is 42 days from when the ram is removed

  • Scanning too early can make results less accurate.
  • Scanning too late makes it harder to identify multiples
  • If you have a shorter joining or a very long joining the days may change to get the optimum day.
  • If you’re unsure, contact us — we can help you choose the most accurate window for your region and joining dates.

 

 Fasting Before Scanning

 For best image quality 

  • Remove sheep off feed 12 hours before scanning.
  • Keep sheep off water 12 hours before scanning
  • Avoid supplement feeding 3 days before scanning this includes hay 
  • Supplement feed takes longer to break down in the stomach 
  • Fasting reduces ultrasound waves being muffled, which makes the ultrasound clearer and improves accuracy

Yard Setup

  • 3 helpers make the process faster and easier.
  • this allows one person behind the crate one person in the middle of the race and one at the back bring more sheep in 

Marking & Drafting

We can spray-mark or draft wet, dry, and multiple-bearing ewes depending on your needs.

Biosecurity 

We follow strict hygiene and biosecurity procedures between farms. 

 

On the Day of Scanning

 

The scanner will arrive with all scanning equipment, Crate, and power supply will not be needed

We’ll:

  • Set up in your chosen yard area (preferably at the end of drafting race)
  • Scan ewes in mobs
  • Record results
  • Provide reports or data summaries on completion

 

Need Help or Have Questions?

 

If it’s your first time scanning or you’re unsure about preparation, just ask. We’re happy to provide advice on timing, fasting, or yard setup before your booking date.

 

Get in touch today to confirm your scanning window and ensure your flock is ready for the best possible results.