Understanding Foot Rot Management in Sheep with Jim Walsh

Understanding Foot Rot Management in Sheep with Jim WalshIn 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 sheepThe biology and diversity of Dichelobacter nodosus strains and their virulenceThe history and evolution of foot rot regulation and management policiesWhen and how to implement Footvax as part of a vaccination programThe importance of biosecurity, quarantine, and establishing a surveillance planTechniques for identifying infected sheep and deformed feetThe role of genetics and culling in building resilient flocksInfrastructure investments such as foot baths and outyards to reduce challengeThe future of foot rot control and harmonizing policies across statesPractical tips for early detection and diagnosis, including online resourcesTimestamps: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 educationResources & Links:Footvax Vaccine - Cooper's Animal HealthManaging Footrot in Sheep - South Australia ResourcesAustralian Sheep Veterinary ManualDiagnostic Resources for Footrot - State Veterinary AuthoritiesConnect with Jim Walsh:LinkedInTwitterCooper's Animal HealthThis 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. Follow to keep the conversation flowingFollow Jack on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cressy__/ and Twitter https://x.com/jcressw3 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@farmsadvice Follow Farms Advice - https://instagram.com/farmsadvice Join the Farmers Only Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/farmsadvice For more like this go to https://farmsadvice.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.