In this episode of Farms Advice with Jack Cresswell, Jim Walsh, a seasoned veterinarian and technical advisor for Cooper's Animal Health, shares his extensive insights into foot rot in sheep, its diagnosis, prevention, and the role of vaccines like Footvax. Whether you're a sheep producer or involved in industry regulation, these practical strategies will help you manage this endemic disease effectively.
Key Topics Covered:
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to foot rot in sheep and industry relevance
02:44 - Jim Walsh’s background and expertise in foot rot
06:37 - Impact of regional conditions on foot rot prevalence
11:09 - Changes in regulation and access to foot rot vaccines
13:13 - Addressing stigma and encouraging proactive disease management
16:18 - Strain diversity of Dichelobacter nodosus and vaccine efficacy
20:13 - Vaccination strategies: timing, frequency, and herd-specific plans
22:06 - Inspecting feet and managing infected sheep during eradication efforts
24:26 - Infrastructure investments: foot baths and paddock rotation
26:36 - Building resistant flocks through genetics and culling
30:47 - The role of biosecurity in preventing spread via sheep movement
33:55 - Future policies, regulation harmonization, and industry collaboration
36:07 - Resources for diagnosing foot rot and avoiding chronic cases
37:06 - What working across states teaches us about industry improvement
39:26 - Core advice for farms: nutrition, management, and genetic selection
42:36 - Final thoughts and the importance of continued industry education
Resources & Links:
Connect with Jim Walsh:
This episode offers a comprehensive overview tailored for sheep producers and industry professionals aiming to proactively manage foot rot, reduce stigma, and improve farm profitability through science-backed strategies. This episode was sponsored by MSD and Coopers Animal Health.
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