Preventative veterinary care in sheep involves implementing measures such as regular vaccinations, deworming, and parasite control to minimize the risk of diseases and infestations. It also includes routine health check-ups, proper nutrition management, and maintaining optimal living conditions to promote overall flock health and productivity.

Sick animal evaluations in sheep involve thorough physical examinations to assess symptoms, identify potential causes of illness, and develop appropriate treatment plans. We may conduct diagnostic tests, such as bloodwork, fecal analysis, and imaging, to aid in the diagnosis and ensure accurate treatment for sick sheep.

Respiratory diseases in sheep, such as pneumonia, pasteurellosis, enzootic pneumonia, and OPP, can cause significant health issues and economic losses. Treatment involves accurate veterinary diagnosis, antibiotic therapy for bacterial infections, supportive care, and vaccination against specific pathogens. Providing a clean and well-ventilated environment, proper nutrition, and implementing biosecurity measures are crucial. Consulting with a veterinarian is essential for appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies tailored to the specific respiratory disease situation on the farm. The treatment of respiratory diseases in sheep typically involves a combination of antimicrobial therapy, supportive care, and management practices. This may include the administration of antibiotics or immune-boosting medications, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and fever, adequate ventilation and housing conditions, and addressing any underlying factors contributing to the disease, such as stress or overcrowding. Prompt veterinary intervention and proper treatment protocols are crucial in managing respiratory diseases and promoting recovery in affected sheep.

Diarrheal diseases in sheep are characterized by frequent and watery bowel movements, which can lead to dehydration, weight loss, and reduced growth rates. These diseases are often caused by viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections and require quick veterinary attention, proper fluid and electrolyte management, and targeted treatments to prevent further complications and promote recovery. The treatment of diarrheal diseases in sheep typically involves a combination of supportive care, medications, and management practices. This may include fluid therapy to address dehydration, administration of antimicrobial agents or anti-parasitic medications based on the specific pathogen involved, and adjustments to diet and feeding practices to help the animal recover quickly and prevent further spread of the disease within the flock.

Vaccinations are crucial in preventing common diseases in flocks. We work with producers to create individualized vaccination plans and administer regular vaccines to protect against respiratory infections, clostridial diseases, and reproductive diseases. Common vaccinations for sheep include clostridial diseases, such as tetanus and enterotoxemia, as well as risk-based vaccines such as caseous lymphadenitis (CL), contagious ecthyma (Orf), and abortifacients like Campylobacter and Chlamydia.

Brucellosis is a contagious and infectious bacterial disease that can affect sheep, leading to the loss of young through miscarriage or the birth of weak offspring and infertility. The disease spreads among animals through direct contact with infected blood, placentas, fetuses, or uterine secretions. Humans can contract brucellosis by consuming infected and raw animal products. Unfortunately, antibiotic treatment against the Brucella bacteria in infected cattle is not always feasible, effective, or economically viable for producers, which is why prevention is paramount to ensuring a healthy flock.

Rabies management in sheep involves implementing preventive measures and responding quickly to suspected cases to protect both the affected animal and human handlers. Prevention includes vaccination of sheep against rabies, maintaining proper fencing and biosecurity measures to minimize contact with potentially infected wildlife, and reporting any potential rabies cases to local veterinary authorities. In the event of a suspected case, strict isolation and quarantine protocols may be implemented, and euthanasia of affected animals might be necessary to prevent the spread of the disease. Our prompt veterinary intervention and collaboration with public health agencies are vital for effective rabies management in sheep. Any bite wounds from infected sheep require serious evaluation due to the human lethality of the rabies virus and very limited treatment options early on in the course of the disease.

Tuberculosis testing in sheep is a diagnostic procedure conducted to detect the presence of Mycobacterium bovis, the bacterium responsible for tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that can affect sheep, as well as other animals and humans. The test typically involves the administration of a tuberculin skin test. We inject a small amount of tuberculin into the skin, usually on the neck or tail, and the site is examined for any reaction. If a positive reaction occurs, we may need further diagnostic tests, such as blood tests or imaging to confirm the presence of the disease. Tuberculosis testing is crucial for sheep disease surveillance and control programs to prevent the spread of tuberculosis to other animals or human handlers.

We assess the potential poisoning or toxicity of substances and plants that your animals may have been exposed to or ingested. During a toxicity evaluation, we do a thorough workup of the clinical signs and symptoms exhibited by the affected sheep, along with a detailed history of potential exposures. Diagnostic tests, such as blood work or tissue analysis, may be used to confirm the presence of toxins or identify the specific substances causing toxicity. Prompt veterinary intervention and supportive care are crucial to mitigate the effects of toxicity, minimize further exposure, and provide appropriate treatment to the affected sheep. Preventive measures, such as proper pasture management and feed quality monitoring, are also essential to prevent future instances of toxicity.

Wound and injury exams in sheep involve a careful evaluation of any cuts, lacerations, abrasions, or other types of injuries on the animal’s body. We assess the extent and severity of the wounds, looking for signs of infection, tissue damage, or underlying trauma. We may clean and dress the wounds, administer appropriate medications or antibiotics, and recommend necessary treatments, such as suturing or debridement, to promote healing and prevent complications. Wound and injury exams help ensure prompt and effective care for your sheep while minimizing pain, reducing the risk of infection, and facilitating the recovery process. Early recognition and intervention are essential to prevent more invasive treatment procedures.

We thoroughly assess the animal’s bones, joints, and muscles to evaluate structural integrity, mobility, and overall musculoskeletal health. We also perform physical examinations, observing the gait, posture, and range of motion, while palpating joints and muscles to identify any abnormalities, signs of pain, or indications of musculoskeletal disorders. These routine exams help in detecting fractures, arthritis, lameness, or other musculoskeletal issues, enabling appropriate interventions, treatments, and management strategies to enhance your sheep’s quality of life, mobility, and overall well-being.

Both new and seasoned sheep farmers alike can benefit from a farm walkthrough, during which we make recommendations to improve the health, comfort, and production of your flock while maximizing profits.

A balanced diet is essential for optimal sheep health. Ironsides Animal Health may include recommendations for proper nutrition, including feeding strategies, dietary supplements, and access to clean and abundant water sources. The plan may also address specific nutritional needs during different stages of production, such as breeding, gestation, and lactation.

Vaccinations for sheep play a vital role in preventing and controlling various diseases. Sheep vaccines are available for specific pathogens such as clostridial diseases, pasteurellosis, and other respiratory infections. Vaccination protocols are usually based on the age, health status, and risk factors of the animals. Effective parasite control is crucial for maintaining flock health. Regular deworming treatments and strategic grazing management are often included in the plan to prevent or minimize the impact of internal and external parasites, such as worms, ticks, and flies.

Dystocia in sheep, also known as difficult or prolonged labor, occurs when a sheep experiences challenges or delays in delivering her lamb. It can be caused by factors such as fetal malposition, inadequate uterine contractions, or the lamb being too large for smooth delivery. Veterinary intervention, which may include manual assistance or, in severe cases, a cesarean section, is crucial to ensure the health and survival of both the ewe and the lamb.

Hernia repair in sheep involves surgical correction of a hernia, which is an abnormal protrusion of an organ or tissue through a weakened area in the abdominal wall. The procedure typically involves making an incision near the hernia, returning the herniated tissue to its proper position, and reinforcing the weakened area with sutures or mesh. Proper post-operative care, including pain management and monitoring for complications, is essential for successful hernia repair in cattle, ensuring that your sheep are healthy, happy, and productive.

Sheep may occasionally suffer from bone fractures, joint problems, or other musculoskeletal conditions. Wellfarm Veterinary Consultants offers in-field fracture repairs for some bones and can manage mild- to – moderate musculoskeletal issues. Orthopedic surgeries, such as fracture repair or joint arthroscopy, may be performed to correct these issues and improve the animal’s mobility and comfort. If an animal requires orthopedic surgery, then we’ll refer them to a tertiary referral hospital for further care.

Cesarean sections are surgical procedures performed to deliver lambs when natural birth is not possible or poses a risk to the ewe or lamb’s health. These procedures involve making an incision in the sheep’s abdomen and uterus to safely remove the lamb.

Urolithiasis management in sheep involves strategies to prevent, diagnose, and treat urinary tract stone formation. This includes implementing dietary adjustments to promote a balanced mineral intake, providing ample water supply, and, in severe cases, utilizing surgical intervention or medical treatments to remove or dissolve the uroliths and alleviate urinary blockages.