Biosecurity for Reproductive Disease Prevention in Sheep and Goats

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Reproduction
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Infectious reproductive diseases represent a substantial economic burden on sheep and goat production.
• Effective herd health management relies on meticulous record-keeping, controlled breeding seasons, and vigilant monitoring for fertility deviations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and discuss key infectious causes of abortion in small ruminants.
• To emphasize the economic impact and zoonotic potential of these diseases.
• To highlight the importance of biosecurity and producer education.

Main Methods:

• Review of significant infectious agents causing abortion in sheep and goats.
• Discussion of clinical signs indicative of suboptimal fertility.
• Emphasis on preventative strategies including biosecurity and record-keeping.

Main Results:

• Key infectious causes identified: chlamydiosis (enzootic abortion), coxiellosis, campylobacteriosis, toxoplasmosis, and brucellosis.
• Suboptimal fertility signs include repeat breeding, open females, and abnormal gestation periods.
• Zoonotic potential necessitates producer awareness and education.

Conclusions:

• Sound biosecurity practices are essential to prevent pathogen introduction and improve flock/herd health.
• Producers must be educated on disease recognition and prevention to mitigate economic losses.
• Integrated herd health programs are critical for managing infectious reproductive diseases in small ruminants.