Farm Animal Welfare

Sheep White Line Disease Welfare

White line disease is a painful lameness condition in sheep caused by separation at the white line junction. Prevention and prompt treatment reduce suffering.

Key Facts

White line disease occurs when the junction between wall and sole separates
Stone penetration and uneven hard surfaces are primary causes
Affected sheep are lame and reluctant to bear weight
Trimming to remove undermined horn and provide drainage is the treatment
Good foot bathing programs help prevent moisture-related white line problems

Welfare Considerations

Sheep with white line disease experience lameness that reduces grazing time and social behavior. The condition can progress to foot abscess without treatment. Regular foot inspection and prompt trimming of early white line lesions prevents progression to more severe disease. Foot bathing programs that maintain hoof horn quality reduce susceptibility.

What You Can Do

Inspect feet regularly and treat white line disease early
Maintain foot bathing programs that support hoof health
Avoid stony tracks and uneven hard surfaces where possible
Work with a sheep vet on flock lameness prevention protocols