Foot rot is a pervasive and debilitating condition affecting sheep worldwide, significantly impacting animal welfare and farm productivity. This infectious disease, characterized by severe inflammation and decay of the hoof, leads to lameness, reduced mobility, and decreased productivity in affected sheep. Effective management and prevention are crucial to maintaining a healthy flock. One innovative solution to this problem is the use of Sheep Foot Mats, which offer numerous benefits over traditional methods.

Understanding Foot Rot

Foot rot is primarily caused by the interaction of two types of bacteria: Dichelobacter nodosus and Fusobacterium necrophorum. These pathogens thrive in warm, wet conditions, making sheep susceptible during certain times of the year or in specific environments. The disease is highly contagious and spreads rapidly through direct contact between animals and via contaminated soil and surfaces.

Symptoms of foot rot include severe lameness, swelling of the interdigital skin, and a distinctive foul odour emanating from the infected hooves. As the disease progresses, it can lead to significant hoof damage, impairing the animal’s ability to move and graze effectively. This, in turn, affects their overall health, weight gain, and productivity, ultimately leading to economic losses for farmers.

Treating Foot Rot

Regularly inspecting the hooves of your sheep is crucial for early detection of foot rot and other hoof problems. Trimming overgrown hooves helps prevent the accumulation of dirt and bacteria, reducing the risk of infection. Keeping the living environment of sheep clean and dry is essential for preventing foot rot. Regularly removing manure and ensuring proper drainage in pens and grazing areas can significantly reduce the prevalence of the bacteria that cause foot rot.

Traditional treatment involves soaking the sheep’s hooves in medicated footbaths, which can be time-consuming and inefficient. These footbaths often require significant amounts of solution, leading to waste and higher costs. Additionally, sheep may resist entering the baths, causing stress and complicating the treatment process. The labour-intensive nature of traditional footbaths makes them a less-than-ideal solution for many farmers.

Benefits of Sheep Foot Mats

• Efficient Use of Solution: One of the most significant advantages of the Sheep Foot Mat is its ability to use 75% less solution than conventional footbaths. This not only reduces costs but also minimizes environmental impact.
  
  
• Complete Hoof Coverage: The unique design of the mat ensures complete coverage of the hooves without splashing, ensuring that each hoof receives the necessary treatment.
  
  
• Durable Construction: The mat comprises a 4cm thick, high-density foam pad encased in a tough, non-slip cover. A unique waterproof sleeve holds the liquid solution, preventing leakage and maximizing the effectiveness of the treatment.
  
  
• Easy to Use and Mobile: Designed for ease of use and mobility, the mats can be safely deployed on any flat surface or within a race. They are easy to move and can be quickly set up wherever needed, providing flexibility and convenience for farmers.
  
  
• Stress-Free for Sheep: Sheep naturally walk over the hoof mats without jumping, splashing, or rushing, making the treatment process stress-free for both the animals and the handlers.
  
  
• Hygienic and Long-Lasting: The mats’ non-slip surface ensures safety, while the removable sleeves can be power-washed for thorough cleaning. This practical design ensures that the mats can be used repeatedly, providing long-term value.

How to Use Sheep Foot Mats Effectively

For optimal results, we recommend using the Sheep Foot Mats with proven hoof care products such as Golden Hoof. This combination ensures healthier hooves by effectively combating foot rot and scald in sheep and lambs. The mats can be easily set up in any location where sheep naturally walk, ensuring that every animal receives the necessary treatment without stress or resistance.