Don’t overlook the importance of quarantine

With ewe replacement and breeding tup sales in full swing, here is a timely reminder on the importance of quarantine.

It might not sound like an exciting subject, but ensuring new diseases are not brought onto your farm can save you money and time. Also, it ensures your flock has a good start to the next tupping season.

There are many diseases to factor into your quarantine protocol, from anthelmintic-resistant worms, sheep scab and liver fluke, through to foot rot, contagious ovine digital dermatitis (CODD), orf and iceberg diseases.

Speak to your vet or advisor about the best way to prevent and manage these diseases.

Don’t forget your flock vaccinations, the most common of which target abortion (enzootic and toxoplasma) and clostridial diseases. If you don’t know the vaccination status of your new sheep, assume that they are not covered and start the primary course of vaccinations.

There are ongoing supply issues with some vaccines, so you may need to go further afield to source the products you need. Don’t delay in securing your vaccines, as this could be detrimental to the health of your flock.

We also have a wide range of information on this topic on our website, including: