Ask for health statement to avoid footrot

Several cases of footrot in sheep in the Riverina area have prompted the Livestock Health and Pest Authority (LHPA) to remind people to be aware of the disease when buying stock.

According to Riverina LHPA Ranger Sally Osborne, they have received many enquiries concerning lame sheep. A small number of these sheep have been infected with footrot, a contagious bacterial disease of sheep and goats which can be very debilitating.

"With significant rainfall, conditions are perfect for footrot to spread," said Ms Osborne.

She said that people need to be vigilant that they do not introduce this serious disease.

"A lot of work has been done to eradicate footrot over the last 20 years. NSW is a footrot protected area and it’s notifiable in this state.

"That’s why we are pleased that people are coming to us for a diagnosis. We are now working with those owners to control and eradicate the disease from their properties," she said.

Ms Osborne said the LHPA wants to stress to farmers that when buying sheep from Residual Areas they are at risk of introducing footrot and that a National Sheep Health Statement is mandatory when buying store sheep.

"It’s essential that the seller provides this as it will provide information about the health of the sheep being sold, which will allow the buyer to determine any risk to their flock."

Contact your local LHPA for more information about footrot.

Media contact: Vanessa Delaney 6391 3787 or 0428 465 378