Livestock

Sheep Welfare During Wet Winters

Prolonged wet winter conditions cause welfare challenges for sheep including foot rot, liver fluke, pneumonia and hypothermia, particularly in lowland flocks on heavy clay soils.

Key Facts

Foot rot caused by Dichelobacter nodosus is significantly worsened by wet conditions
Liver fluke risk increases dramatically in wet autumns and winters
Sheep lack access to shelter in many lowland systems, increasing cold stress
Pneumonia is a leading cause of sheep mortality, exacerbated by damp housing and stress

Welfare Considerations

Winter welfare in sheep is closely linked to pasture management and flock health planning. High-risk lowland systems on heavy soils require proactive fluke treatment timing, regular foot health checks and contingency plans for housing vulnerable animals during extreme wet periods. Ewe body condition at tupping is a key predictor of winter survival.

What You Can Do

Implement a flock health plan with a vet including fluke treatment timing and pneumonia vaccination
Monitor foot health monthly and treat foot rot promptly with a zinc sulphate footbath
Ensure adequate housing capacity to bring vulnerable ewes indoors during wet spells
Record mortality events to track welfare outcomes and identify improving interventions