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Farms Advice Podcast

Understanding Foot Rot Management in Sheep with Jim Walsh

Season 7, Ep. 280
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Understanding Foot Rot Management in Sheep with Jim Walsh

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:

  • The prevalence and regional differences of foot rot in Australian sheep
  • The biology and diversity of Dichelobacter nodosus strains and their virulence
  • The history and evolution of foot rot regulation and management policies
  • When and how to implement Footvax as part of a vaccination program
  • The importance of biosecurity, quarantine, and establishing a surveillance plan
  • Techniques for identifying infected sheep and deformed feet
  • The role of genetics and culling in building resilient flocks
  • Infrastructure investments such as foot baths and outyards to reduce challenge
  • The future of foot rot control and harmonizing policies across states
  • Practical tips for early detection and diagnosis, including online resources


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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