Veterinary services to the Pennsylvania sheep industry

Area of Science:

• Veterinary medicine
• Animal science
• Agricultural economics

Background:

• Ovine (sheep) production is a significant agricultural sector.
• Effective disease management and veterinary care are crucial for flock health and profitability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the economic importance of veterinary services for sheep producers in Pennsylvania.
• To understand producer perceptions and utilization of veterinary care.
• To identify strategies for improving the cost-effectiveness of sheep flock health programs.

Main Methods:

• Distribution of questionnaires to sheep producers and large animal veterinarians in Pennsylvania.
• Analysis of returned questionnaires focusing on economic aspects of veterinary services.

Main Results:

• Economic analysis of veterinary services was a primary concern for producers.
• Producers expressed reluctance to use veterinary services due to cost, yet average annual expenditure was $143 per flock.
• Producers demonstrated limited awareness of the potential benefits derived from veterinary services.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced coordination between veterinary services and producer management practices is recommended to improve production and economic outcomes.
• Determining cost/benefit ratios for veterinary care is essential for developing effective flock health programs.
• Demonstrating the efficacy of veterinary interventions can increase producer and veterinarian engagement.