Over the weekend we had three ewe c sections and even one this morning!π
This particular ewe had dystocia- this can occur for many reasons. In this case it was due to a large single lamb in comparison to the ewes small pelvis.
A quick c section at the practice for this lady and sheβs up and enjoying meeting her lamb, already giving him a good clean ! π
This was the third c section over the weekend for our vet, Charlotte! Itβs all worth it though π
Johnes Disease π¦
JOHNES DISEASE π¦
Did you know Johnes disease is caused by the bacterium MAP (Mycobacterium avium Paratuberculosis).
The animals most at risk are youngstock aged up to 6 months. Route of infection is mainly fecal oral.
The bacteria reside in the gut causing changes to the thickness in the gut wall. The animal is unable to absorb nutrients efficiently thus causing diarrhoea and wasting (loss of condition). Reduced fertility and milk yield can also be early signs.
Testing can be carried out using milk, blood or fecal samples!
Control of Johnes disease can be achieved by IMPROVING FARM MANAGEMENT, STRATEGIC TESTING and CULLING positive animals.
Do not breed replacements from Johnes positive cows β
Breeding to beef can also be an option for high yielding cows.
BIOSECURITY is essential! π§Ό
Buy in from Johnes free herds or herds regularly testing for the disease.
MAP can live in dung and on pasture for up to one year! Avoid grazing youngstock on high risk pasture.
High risk cows may have MAP in their milk. Avoid feeding to replacement animals and do not keep colostrum from these cows.
Johnes can pose a welfare concern as animals will deteriorate and waste, potentially causing death and losses elsewhere.
For more information speak to one of our vets π π