Sheep Foot Rot Prevention: Flock Management and Vaccine Use

Foot rot caused by Dichelobacter nodosus is a major cause of lameness and suffering in sheep flocks worldwide.

Key Facts

Foot rot affects an estimated 10 million UK sheep at any one time, making it the most common welfare issue in the species.
It is caused by Dichelobacter nodosus, which requires wet conditions and soft interdigital skin to establish.
Clinical signs range from mild interdigital inflammation to severe underrunning of the horn causing intense pain.
Foot bathing with zinc sulphate (10%) is effective for prevention when used correctly.
A multivalent vaccine (Footvax) reduces new infections and severity in vaccinated flocks.
The Five Point Plan — culling, treating, vaccinating, foot bathing, and buying responsibly — is standard guidance.

Welfare Considerations

Foot rot causes severe, chronic pain that significantly impairs mobility, grazing, and social behaviour. Lame sheep lose body condition rapidly, compounding welfare impacts. Effective prevention requires commitment across the whole flock; treating individuals without addressing transmission perpetuates suffering. Lameness scoring and treatment recording are essential welfare monitoring tools.

What You Can Do

Implement the Sheep Veterinary Society's Five Point Plan in consultation with your flock vet.
Score flock lameness monthly and target a lameness prevalence below 2%.
Use Footvax annually as part of a comprehensive flock health plan.
Quarantine and treat purchased sheep before introducing them to the main flock.