Vaccination schedules for sheep, Questions from readers

                                           

The first question was sent in by Mr.T.J. Riley from Apple Orchards via sms who wrote

"I came across your column in the Walkerville News today, excellent article. I recently
bought a number of sheep and a neighbour suggested I have them vaccinated. Is this necessary, where do I get the vaccine and how often must I do this?"

Answer: Quite simply Mr. Riley, yes, very necessary. Sheep need to be vaccinated against several deadly diseases which could pose a risk to your entire flock. Vaccinations are carried out annually

These include

• Clostridial Myositis (Gas Gangrene, Malignant oedema, Black quarter, Sponssiekte, Necrotic hepatitis)
• Enterotoxaemia (Redgut, Bloodgut, Pulpy kidney, Haemorrhagic enteritis)
• Tetanus

Fortunately there are vaccines available which cover all of these diseases such as Coglavax or Multivax,

These are available at several outlets such as Mia Feeds and Farm supplies in Walkerville,
Hi Performance Feeds Henley On Klip, the co op in Vereniging, or even our local chemist can
order it for you. However I do not recommend you attempt to inoculate them yourself, I strongly suggest you employ the services of a trained person who is familiar with the procedure.
Mia feeds and farm supplies offer such a service (ref to their ad on this page) 

It is recommended that these vaccinations are carried out annually.