Sheep producers will now find it easier to highlight areas where flock productivity can be improved, thanks to a practical new management tool developed by Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health, in conjunction with ADAS.

Designed to encourage positive dialogue between farmers and vets, the new Flock Performance Indicator helps both parties identify the key flock health issues that are damaging profitability on the farm. It will also help producers target specific health inputs such as vaccination and treatment regimes more effectively.

“Many sheep producers are losing income unnecessarily and by pinpointing areas of maximum potential loss - for example, by benchmarking total lambs sold per ewe put to the tup, problems can be highlighted and remedial action implemented,” says Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health ruminant veterinary adviser Paul Williams MRCVS.

Provided the farm keeps records, the indicator tool allows vet and producer to assess and benchmark scanning and abortion information, specific lamb loss details, as well as sales and replacement information. Importantly it also incorporates specific investigation notes for the different problem areas that could be causing poor performance.

Sheep producers interested in the new tool should talk to their vet.

Progress Being Made on Bluetongue Exit Strategy
H1N1 Flu in Turkeys May Spread
Protect Your Pigs From Swine Flu