Black leg is a disease that affects cattle, sheep and goats. It is caused by several species of Clostridium bacteria that live in the animal's gut and is passed into the environment through manure. These bacteria thrive in low oxygen environments, and when conditions aren't right for growth, they create spores that can survive for years in the soil. The spores germinate in damaged tissues and emit toxic secretions, poisoning the animal. Young and breeding age animals are most susceptible to the disease. Vaccination is the best method of prevention.
Things You'll Need
Your veterinarian
Appropriate vaccination(s) for black leg and similar diseases
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Instructions
1
Goats, sheep and cattle are all susceptible to black leg disease.
Contact your veterinarian for a recommendation on a specific vaccine. There are many formulations that protect against multiple diseases in one vaccine, including black leg and related diseases. The first vaccination should be given at one to two months of age.
2
Administer a booster vaccination at four months of age.
3
Administer a second booster three to four weeks prior to the start of the breeding season, with a third booster given one month prior to lambing or kidding.