Farm Animals

Sheep Clostridial Disease Vaccination

Clostridial diseases including pulpy kidney, black disease, and blackleg cause sudden death and painful illness in sheep, but are almost entirely preventable through vaccination.

Key Facts

Clostridial diseases cause sudden death or rapid deterioration with severe pain
Pulpy kidney (Clostridium perfringens D) is most common in lambs on lush pasture
Vaccination with multivalent vaccines covering 7+ strains provides broad protection
Ewes should be vaccinated 4-6 weeks before lambing to provide colostral protection
Unvaccinated flocks suffer significant losses that are entirely preventable

Welfare Considerations

Clostridial disease causes agonising death in sheep. Vaccination is cheap, effective, and prevents enormous suffering. Failure to vaccinate represents an avoidable welfare failure.

What You Can Do

Implement a clostridial vaccination programme for all sheep annually
Vaccinate ewes before lambing to provide colostral immunity to lambs
Ensure replacement stock are vaccinated before introduction to the flock
Work with your vet to select the appropriate multivalent vaccine for your area