Sheep Diseases

Sheep Diseases

This section deals with the specific conditions affecting sheep. Each disease or condition chapter includes information covering causes, symptoms, treatment, control, prevention, welfare implications and good practice based on current knowledge, with a particular emphasis on our sustainable livestock principles (available in the top right hand corner of the website).

It should be emphasised that the website is not intended as a diagnostic or self-help tool for animal health management on the farm. Diagnosis should always be carried out by a veterinary surgeon, in response to problems seen on the farm (please see Disclaimer). We also encourage farmers to work with a veterinarian to establish preventive disease management plans and welfare promotion strategies.

The disease section contains over 2,000 scientific references, most of which are supported by links that allow easy access to abstracts and documents.

 

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OUR SUSTAINABLE LIVESTOCK PRINCIPLES:

  • Livestock should be land-based and integrated with farm cropping enterprises
  • Animals should be provided with conditions that enable them to exhibit natural behaviours
  • Dependency on veterinary medicines should be reduced without jeopardising the well-being of animals

OUR SUSTAINABLE LIVESTOCK PRACTICES:

outdoor access

Animals having outdoor access, shade, shelter, lighting and sufficient space for them to undertake free movement and to exhibit natural behaviors.

Breed

Using breeds and strains well-suited and adapted to the prevailing conditions.

Health Plan

Implementing herd and flock planning based on sound ecological practices and epidemiological knowledge.

biosecurity

Undertaking good practice with regard to biosecurity.

closed herds

Maintaining animals in closed herds and flocks and at stocking rates that enables free-movement, reduces risks of disease spread and minimises environmental damage.

forage and grazing

Forage and grazing being the main source of nutrients for ruminants, and continuously available to non-ruminants.

production practices

Avoiding the use of mutilations as standard production practices.

Antibiotics

Improved understanding and responsible usage of veterinary medicines.