Cut the cost of LAMENESS: Lame sheep are a thorny problem for many a farmer, but not an intractable one, says Eblex

摘要

The British sheep industry loses ￡24 million a year to footrot alone - equal to ￡1.50 per sheep. Losses from all causes of lameness are far higher. It remains one of the top sheep health issues and a practical challenge for many producers. Levels oflameness vary in flocks according to season and management, but the average flock is estimated to be carrying around 10% lame sheep. Farmers who have made a particular effort to manage lameness achieve levels as low as 3%. "We may not be able to eradicate lameness entirely, but we can certainly make a positive impact on the financial penalty producers currently incur," says sheep farmer and Eblex board member David Raine.