Sheep
The issue of lameness in sheep flocks is something that never seems to go away and the knock on effects of it in terms of animal welfare...
Not only is lameness an animal welfare issue, but the loss in performance and the cost incurred of treating lame sheep is a costly one for farmers.
Lately, a number of issues relating to scald in lambs have been cropping up and will likely continue to crop up as the weeks' progress.
Speaking to farmers over the last week, they have said that they have come across a couple of flock health issues.
With the early-lambing season underway, the focus will turn to ensuring ewes are healthy and in good condition.
The wet weather over the past few weeks has made grazing conditions difficult for many farmers across the country.
Lameness is a huge concern to sheep farmers, not only for the effect it has on the animal's welfare but also the reduction in productivity.
Health is one of the biggest costs on sheep farms, but genetics can be used to breed healthier sheep, according to Teagasc's Noirin McHugh.
One of the main causes of lameness in sheep is contagious ovine digital dermatitis.
Video on how to prevent lameness in sheep. Recent sheep trails have shown that routine foot trimming can lead to higher cases of lameness in the flock.
