41-Title: Foot affections in sheep: Clinical observations

Authors: Beenish Qureshi, Mujeeb ur Rehman Fazili, Nida handoo, Raja Aijaz Ahmad,

Shahid Hussain Dar and Mudasir Bashir Gugjoo

Source: Ruminant Science (2020)-9(2):413-418.

How to cite this manuscript: Qureshi Beenish, Fazili MR, Handoo Nida, Ahmad RA, Dar SH and Gugjoo MB (2020). Foot affections in sheep: Clinical observations. Ruminant Science 9(2):413-418.

Abstract

The clinical signs were recorded in 24 sheep presented with single foot lameness for an average duration of eight days. The mean age and body weight (Mean±SE) were 26.92±5.31 months and 35.21±4.12kg, respectively. Female (n=18) sheep outnumbered the males (n=6). Forelimbs (75.00%) and right feet (62.50%) were involved in the majority of the sheep. The lateral claws were affected more frequently. The interdigital skin lesions were noticed in 10/24 and local alopecia in nine animals. Seven sheep had lesions in the sole, four in the coronary area and three in the heel. Majority (79.17%) of the sheep had lesions showing discharges. Twelve animals had overgrown hooves and 10 also showed loose and under-run solar horn. The mean increase in the pastern circumference was 0.49 inches (range 0.2 to 1.0inches). Gross contamination was detected in 58.33% sheep. Mean±SE values of rectal temperature, heart rate and respiration rates were 101.91±0.50 oF, 96.29±5.30 beats per minute and 33.33±4.57 breaths per minute, respectively. The rumen motility and Capillary Refill Time (CRT) values were 1.54±0.17 per two minutes and 1.25±0.28 seconds respectively. The visible mucus membranes in nine sheep were pale and three showed congestion. The lameness and the pain scores were 2.33±0.26 and 2.08±0.29 respectively. From this study, it is concluded that adult female sheep most frequently suffer from acute foot affections. These animals exhibit a range of typical local symptoms, moderate pain and lameness. The farmer perception of animal health and welfare needs immediate improvement.

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