Recent rainfall has brought much needed relief from drought and heat across NSW but the wet weather can also pose risks for livestock.
“Now that we’ve had some rain in most parts of the region, it’s a good time to review the vaccination status of livestock and give booster injections where appropriate, particularly for clostridial diseases such as pulpy kidney” advised NSW Central Tablelands Local Land Services District Vet, Nigel Gillan.
Pulpy kidney most commonly occurs in young, growing sheep grazing lush pasture or being fed on grain or pellets. Symptoms include convulsions, tremors, and scouring, however mortality is swift and affected animals are often not discovered until after death.
“Summer rain also favours the development of Barber’s Pole worm larvae on pastures, and production losses or deaths can occur with little warning,” said Dr Gillan.
“We encourage sheep producers to do a worm egg count and adjust drenching programs where necessary.”
Landholders are also advised to check pastures for new weeds and toxic plants that could cause further problems for stock.
“Recently in the Central Tablelands region we have seen sheep suffering from photosensitisation caused by panic grasses, and we have previously seen cases of acute phalaris toxicity under similar conditions,” said Dr Gillan.
And while rainfall will hopefully alleviate water supply shortages, when heavy rain occurs after a long dry spell, water can be contaminated by an influx of debris and sediment.
“Water test kits are available from Local Land Services, and we are currently offering free testing services for drought or fire-affected producers.
“We have even seen flash flooding cause some stock losses. It may be wise to move animals to safer paddocks or higher ground where fast rising floods are less likely while the storm season continues.”
For more information about water quality, weeds, diseases and other animal health issues, contact your nearest Local Land Services office in Bathurst, Cowra, Lithgow, Molong, Mudgee or Orange.