Mortality Amongst Lambs.

Horowhenua Chronicle, 24 March 1910, Page 4

Mortality Amongst Lambs.

NEW ZEALAND STOCK DEPARTMENT'S INVESTIGATIONS. There appears to be considerable mortality among sheep and lambs in the Northern Wairoa district (says aiii Auckland contemporary). Following on a raupo experience of a few weeks ago, when Mr Owena lost a number of sheep, Messrs Dreahon Bros., Mangarata, have now lost 100 strong, healthy lambs within a few days, whilst other farmers have also been heavy losers. Mr Stone (inspector of stock) is making investigations, but in the meantime considerable anxiety is being felt by flock masters. A disease troubling sheep in some parts of the Stratford district, which has caused a great amount of concern generally, was investigated by Mr Young, M.R.C.V.S., Government Veterinarian, who (says the Stratford Post) arrived here on Saturday night last. Accompanied by Mr J. M. Hignett, Inspector of Stock, a visit was made to some flocks effected, and after examination the sheep were found to be suffering from facial eczema. From what we can learn this disease is common enough; the ears droop and the head swells to an abnormal size, and the complaint assumes a more virulent form in some years than others. Little or no mortality occurs in connection with it. Mr Young recommends an entire change of pasture. Treatment oonsists of smearing the face and ears and theli inside of the nostrils, if the weather promises to be fine for a few days, with sulphur or boracic. acid ointment, the sheep generally making a very rapid recovery.