Lameness in sheep: the five-point plan

Find out how the five-point plan can help to reduce the number of new clinical cases of lameness.

The five-point management plan provides a clear strategy to control lameness on farm and is recommended where footrot, scald, and/or CODD, have been diagnosed as the cause of lameness.  

By implementing all five points in the plan together, farmers can tackle the disease from all angles and give their flock the best chance of avoiding lameness problems. 

Successfully implementing the plan should result in three outcomes for the flock: 

• Increased resilience to the diseases that cause lameness  
• Reduced disease challenge on farm  
• Improved immunity via vaccination 

Mark sheep to cull and quarantine lame sheep. You’ll find information on identifying repeat offenders and quarantining to reduce the spread of disease. 

Disease spreads quickly, so it’s important to treat even mildly lame sheep as soon as possible. We’ve got plenty of advice on treatment methods, including using foot sprays to antibiotic injections. 

Read about how to avoid spreading infection during handling, gathering and when the sheep are out in the field. You’ll also find information on housing, handling and breeding methods to help reduce the spread of infection. 

Decide with your vet if and when, to vaccinate. Our advice takes you through the options and timings.