Pastoralism is full of magical activities, because of the character of this work and dangers connected with it. Pastoral magic served as defence. Its role was to protect people and the flock against illnesses, bad weather, predators and other rational or magical dangers. Another aspect of magic was an assurance that the flock would give a lot of and of high quality milk. Giving sheep blessed salt or cleaning them with holy water should ensure that. Magic also treated animals and people.

In pastoral magic you had to follow strict rules which guaranteed its effectiveness. The rules were known for centuries and only to senior shepherds.

One piece of magical equipment worn by sheep was a bell. They wore them so that shepherds could find them more easily, but they also deterred the evil.