Kiko buck from Virginia tops 2008 test
A Kiko buck consigned by John Smith from Petersburg, Virginia,
was the top performing buck in the 2008 Western Maryland Pasture-Based
Meat Goat Performance Test, conducted at the University of Maryland's
Western Maryland Research & Education Center in Keedysvillle,
MD.
James "Kendall" and Dana Barnes from Kentucky had the
top consignment of bucks. All four of their bucks were in the top
20. The International Kiko Goat Association presented an award to
Merritt Burke from Delaware for having a buck in the top 3 of the
test.
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Top buck in 2008 test, consigned
by John Smith (R).
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Similar to the forage-based
buck test at Oklahoma State University, gold, silver, and bronze
standards of performance for average daily gain, parasite resistance,
and parasite resilience were established for the bucks on test.
Eighty-two (82) goats were nominated for the 2008 test. Nominations
were received from 21 breeders from ten (10) states: Delaware, Illinois,
Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania,
and Virginia.
Sixty-two (62) goats were accepted for testing. Fifty-seven (57)
finished the test. Three (3) died and two (2) goats were eliminated
because they failed to adapt to the pasture diet.
For the 100-day duration of the test, average daily gain (ADG) ranged
from -0.09 to 0.240 lbs. per day and averaged 0.124 for the 57 goats
that finished the test. The average goat gained 13 lbs. while on
test, while the best performing goats gained 24 lbs.
Average daily gain was below last year's performance of 0.253 lbs.
per day. The poorer performance was attributed to increased parasite
problems and rutting behavior. A mid-summer outbreak of soremouth
also likely impacted gains.
Last year, few goats required deworming and individual FAMACHA©
scores never exceeded three . This year, several goats required
multiple anthelmintic treatments. Each goat was dewormed an average
of one time, not including the initial double-deworming. Larvae
cultures showed the parasite infection to be almost all Haemonchus
contortus (barber pole worm).
Ten goats met the gold, silver, and bronze standards for performance.
Top 10 bucks in 2008 test
|
| Consigner |
State
|
ID
|
Breed
|
Start
Wt, lbs.
|
End
Wt
|
ADG
|
High
FEC
|
Avg
FEC
|
High
FAM
|
Avg
FAM
|
#
Tx
|
Performance
standard
|
| John Smith |
VA
|
191
|
Kiko
|
44
|
68
|
0.24
|
967
|
401
|
2
|
1.86
|
0
|
Gold
|
| Merritt Burke |
DE
|
339
|
75%
Kiko
|
41
|
63
|
0.22
|
600
|
236
|
2
|
1.38
|
0
|
Gold
|
| Kendell Barnes |
KY
|
X22
|
Kiko
|
43
|
64
|
0.21
|
600
|
376
|
2
|
1.25
|
0
|
Gold
|
| Don Smith |
VA
|
0824
|
92%
Kiko
|
46
|
66
|
0.20
|
200
|
49
|
2
|
1.25
|
0
|
Gold
|
| Don Smith |
VA
|
0811
|
75%
Kiko
|
42
|
59
|
0.17
|
1,375
|
424
|
3
|
1.63
|
0
|
Silver
|
| Jeanne Dietz-Band |
MD
|
1474
|
Kiko
|
50
|
67
|
0.17
|
1,200
|
266
|
2
|
1.50
|
0
|
Silver
|
| Kendell Barnes |
KY
|
X23
|
Kiko
|
45
|
60
|
0.15
|
1,320
|
639
|
2
|
1.75
|
0
|
Silver
|
| Robie Robinson |
VA
|
1084
|
Kiko
|
46
|
61
|
0.15
|
1,450
|
365
|
2
|
1.63
|
0
|
Silver
|
| Robie Robinson |
VA
|
1120
|
Kiko
|
46
|
59
|
0.13
|
542
|
142
|
2
|
1.50
|
0
|
Bronze
|
| Warren Barnes |
MO
|
1540
|
Kiko
|
54
|
67
|
0.13
|
1,550
|
400
|
2
|
1.63
|
0
|
Bronze
|
| Avg.
in test (n=57) |
49
|
62
|
0.13
|
4,830
|
1,312
|
3
|
2.02
|
1
|
|
| ADG - average daily
gain (lbs. per day); High FEC - highest fecal egg count during
test (eggs per gram of feces); Avg. FEC - average fecal egg
count during test; High FAM - highest FAMACHA© score during
test (1-5); Avg. FAM - average FAMACHA© score during test;
and #Tx - number of anthelmintic treatments received (excluding
initial double deworming). |
Performance-tested Buck and Doe Sale
The 1st Western Maryland Performance-Tested Buck and Invitational
Doe Sale and Field Day was held on October 4, 2008. The MD-PA-WV
Meat Goat Association assisted with the sale. Five of the top-performing
bucks were sold. Several bucks failed to receive the minimum bid.
Nineteen (19) does were sold. Several does did not receive the minimum
bid. Most of the does were half-sibs to the bucks on test. It may
take several years to build demand for performance tested meat goats,
especially pasture-reared ones.
A field day was held in conjunction with the sale. Dr. Dan Waldron
from Texas A&M University was the featured speaker. Dr. Waldron
discussed the performance testing of meat goats.
Meat Goat performance testing program
The Western Maryland Pasture-Based Meat Goat Performance Test was
initiated in 2006. The purpose of the test is to evaluate the performance
of meat goats consuming a pasture-only diet, with natural exposure
to internal parasites, primarily Haemonchus contortus (the
barber pole worm).
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Top consignment of bucks by James "Kendell"
and Dana Barnes.
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Upon arrival to the test site, the goats are made to stand in a
foot bath containing zinc sulfate. Body weights, FAMACHA©
and body condition scores are determined. A fecal sample is collected.
Each goat is dewormed with moxidectin and levamisole. A coccidiostat
is put in the water for the first three days of the test.
The goats are managed as a single group on pasture from early June
until early October. They are rotationally grazed among five 2-acre
paddocks composed of orchardgrass, MaxQ™
tall fescue, chicory,
and pearl
millet.
The goats always have access to a central laneway containing port-a-hut
shelters, a shade
structure, water, minerals, and a handling system. The perimeter
fencing is 6-strand, high-tensile, electric.
The goats are checked one to two times per day. They are handled
every two weeks to determine body weights, FAMACHA© scores,
and body condition scores. Low-stress livestock handling techniques
are used. Goats with FAMACHA© scores of 4 or 5 are dewormed
with either moxidectin or levamisole. Goats with FAMACHA© scores
of 3 are sometimes dewormed, depending upon other factors. Goats
with a FAMACHA© scores of 1 or 2 are generally not dewormed.
Fecal samples are collected every two weeks to determine individual
fecal egg counts (FEC). Fecal egg counts are determined by Dr. Dahlia
Jackson O'Brien's lab at Delaware State University. Pooled fecal
samples are collected and analyzed to determine parasite types.
Larval development assays are done by Dr. Ray Kaplan's lab at the
University of Georgia.
Near the end of the test, the goats are scanned to determine 12th
rib backfat thickness and rib eye area. Jim Pritchard from West
Virginia University does the ultrasound scanning. Scrotal measurements
are taken and the goats are evaluated for structural correctness
(feet, legs, and mouths) and reproductive soundness (teat number
and placement, scrotal splits).
The goat test committee includes Susan Schoenian1, Jeff
Semler1, Willie Lantz1, David Gordon1,
Jeanne Dietz-Band1, Mary Beth Bennett2, and
Dr. Dahlia Jackson O'Brien3. Dr. Kevin Pelzer4
serves as the consulting veterinarian.
2009 Goat Test and Sale
The 2009 test will be conducted in a similar manner as the 2008
test. The dates are June 6 thru October 3, 2009. A sale and field
day will be held on Saturday, October 3, at the Washington County
Agricultural Education Center near Boonsboro, MD.. Bucks meeting
gold, silver, and bronze standards of performance will be eligible
to sell. Consigners to the test may nominate does to the sale.
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Eligible goats for the test may be bucks or wethers of any breed
or breed cross. They must be born between December 15, 2008, and
March 20, 2009, and weigh between 35 and 70 lbs. on June 6th. They
are required to be vaccinated twice for overeating disease and tetanus
(CD-T). The nomination period is April 1 - May 15. There is a nomination
fee of $20 per goat. The total fee for testing in 2009 will be $85
per goat.
Breeders may consign up to five goats to the performance test. Preference
will be given to previous consigners and Maryland residents. A slaughter
component will be added in 2009. Consigners may nominate two goats
for this portion of the test. Carcass measurements will be taken
to determine the accuracy of ultrasound scanning, then the carcasses
will be deboned to determine lean meat yield.
While the Maryland test is open to any goat breeder, potential
consigners need to evaluate the relevance of this test to their
breeding, feeding, and management program and goals as a goat producer.
This test utilizes pasture only and places heavy emphasis on parasite
traits (resistance and resilience). Feed and pen tests are conducted
in nearby states (West Virginia and Pennsylvania)
and may be more relevant to breeders who dry lot their goats and/or
emphasize grain in their feeding programs.
For information about the test, visit the blog at http://mdgoattest.blogspot.com.
Read full article at http://www.sheepandgoat.com/releases/08goattestresults.html.
View images of the 2008 Goat Test at http://www.flickr.com/photos/baalands/sets/72157605491412625/.
1University of Maryland Cooperative Extension
2West Virginia University Cooperative Extension
3Delaware State University
4VA-MD Regional College of Veterinary Medicine
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Table of Contents
Goat production in China
by Susan Schoenian
There are more dairy goats in Fuping County than any county in
the world. Fuping County is in North Central China. There are 320,000
dairy goats in Fuping County compared to only 310,000 in the entire
United States. The land area of Fuping County is similar to Washington
County.
I was told that dairy goats are special to farmers in Fuping and
nearby counties because during difficult times, dairy goats provided
nutritious milk to the population. Millions of people starved to
death during the Great Leap Forward (1958-61) and Cultural Revolution
(1966-76).
The average goat farmer has fewer than 10 does. Single dairy goats
can often be seen being led down the road. The government is encouraging
larger dairy goat farms, based on several organizational models.
The larger farms I visited had 600 or more does. The goats were
owned by many farmers. Some of the big farms breed via artificial
insemination with fresh semen. Most of the goats are disbudded.
All Sannens
Almost all of the dairy goats are Saanen.
A few are crosses with a local breed that also has strong Saanen influence.
There are no colored breeds of dairy goats in China. The genetics
are European and in need of replenishing. I suspect high levels of
inbreeding. Currently, there is no breed registry for Saanens, nor
a record keeping program analogous to our DHIA
or NSIP programs.
On small farms, the goats are kept near the homestead. On large farms,
the goats are kept in confinement:
brick buildings with concrete or brick floors. The goats are fed in
fence
line feeders and have an outside loafing area. No bedding is used.
On the large farms, corn silage and/or green chop is fed, along
with some hay and grain. Small farmers feed mostly the corn plant
and some grain, if they can afford it.
Most of the goats I saw appeared healthy and well tended. There were
a few spoiled udders and some occasional hoof problems. China is not
free from foot-and-mouth disease, so vaccination is mandated by the
central government. Mastitis is probably a bigger problem than suspected,
especially on farms where the lots are not kept clean, teat dips are
not used, or where goats are overcrowded. There seems to be a heavy
reliance on herbal medicines for livestock. It would be good to test
some of these products in the U.S.
Fuping County is a crop production area, which is why dairy goats
are kept in confinement and fed harvested feeds. Corn is harvested
by hand and the grain is dried on the roads and in parking lots. Some
corn is kept on the ears and hung around the farmstead for drying.
The leftover fodder is fed to livestock or burned in the fields.
Dairy goat kids are born mostly from December through March. On most
of the farms, the kids remain with their dams for about a month. When
they're a month old, they'll weigh about 10 kg (22 lbs.) and those
not being kept for breeding will be sold.
Hand milking
Most of the goats, regardless of farm size, are milked by
hand. The milk is collected into a bucket, strained
into another container, then cooled in a vat
of cold water. It is transported to the processing plant in containers.
Most of the milk is made into powdered
milk, much of which is exported to other Asian countries.
If a doe is treated with a drug, her milk is segregated at the milking
station. The milk processing company purchases the tainted milk and
discards it. Apparently, the companies are reluctant to refuse to
purchase milk from farmers. There is an educational need to explain
to farmers why milk that contains antibiotic residues cannot enter
the food chain. There is also a need to teach farmers to wash the
udders of the goats prior to milking and to use teat-dips after milking.
Some do, but it is not a routine practice on small farms.
Within five years, most of the goats in China will probably be
machine milked at milking stations built by the milk processing
plants or World Bank. A farmer will be able to take his or her goats
to a milking station in their local village where the goats will
be milked by a trained milker. The authorities believe that centralized
machine milking will improve the quality and safety of the milk.
One milking
station is considered ample for milking 500 to 600 goats.
China's dairy goat industry remains untainted from the international
melamine scandal, in which Chinese milk processors admitted to adding
melamine to diluted cow's milk to increase protein levels. Melamine
is an industrial chemical used in the processing of plastic. Melamine-tainted
milk has been blamed for four infant deaths and is believed responsible
for thousands of illnesses and hospitalizations.
One of the dairy companies is experimenting with cheese
production. As in the U.S., goat products are not as popular
as cow products. There is a strong need for promotion and to tout
the health benefits of goat milk, cheese, and meat. Goats seem to
have more cultural significance in China than they do in the United
States, but cow's milk still dominates the market place. Prices
are similar for goat and cow milk.
Meat goats
China has far more goats than any country in the world: over 197 million,
according to the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United
Nations. Like the United States, the majority of them are meat goats.
There is also a large population of Cashmere goats.
I had the opportunity to visit a Boer goat breeding station. The
station was located in a more mountainous area, thus the goats were
allowed to graze. After having symptoms of Haemonchosis described
to me, I introduced my Chinese peers to the FAMACHA© eye anemia
system for monitoring barber pole worm infection.
According to goat specialists, Boers are crossed with local breeds
for meat production and the crossbred offspring are superior to
either of the parent breeds. Prices for meat goats are generally
good, though prices for Boer goat breeding stock have plummeted
as the breed has become established commercially. Boer goats were
imported into China in 1998 from New Zealand and Germany.
Meat goats are slaughtered when they are approximately 10 to 12
months of age and weighing over 35 kg (77 lbs.). The meat yield
is about 40 percent. Most of the meat goat kids are born from December
through January. According to goat specialists, the industry is
growing.
Northwest Agricultural & Forestry University
I was in China for two weeks in October. My travel companion was Dave
Martin, Agricultural Extension Agent and County Extension Director
in Baltimore County. While I was learning about China's goat industry,
Dave was getting an overview of the apple industry.
The University of Maryland (College of Agriculture and Natural Resources)
and Northwest Agricultural & Forestry University (in Yangling)
have entered into an agreement. The purpose of our collaboration will
be student and faculty exchanges and for us to work with our Chinese
counterparts to develop an agricultural extension program based on
the U.S. model of extension, in which extension is research-based
and delivered from the land grant university.
Northwest Agricultural & Forestry
University boasts world class facilities for biotechnology research.
It even has a farm for cloned animals. A Pygmy goat was cloned in
similar fashion as Dolly the sheep. Her name is "Sunshine"
and she has several offspring. She was cloned from skin cells. There
is an admission fee to enter the farm
for cloned livestock.
At the University's dairy goat farm, goats are still milked by hand.
A new goat farm is being built at another location on campus. The
new farm will include a milking parlor. It also has a large
vat for dipping goats. The vat is long and deep and we wondered
how the goats would handle the "swim". Dipping is no longer
a common practice in the U.S.
Sheep
The only sheep I saw during my visit to China were Polled
Dorsets at the University's farm for cloned animals. China has
more sheep than any country of the world: almost 172 million, according
to the FAO. Most are raised in northern China, where the land is not
suitable for cultivation.
China has some interesting breeds of sheep, notably the Large-tailed
Han, whose fat-tail is so huge (up to 25 kg) it hinders movement
during grazing. Hopefully, I'll see more sheep on my next visit
to China.
Read full article at http://www.sheepandgoat.com/articles/China.htm.
View my images of China at http://www.flickr.com/photos/baalands/sets/72157608247451790/.
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Table of Contents
Tools for humane slaughter
According to their web
site, Spirit of Humane is committed to the development and commercial
distribution of humane slaughter systems for small-scale operations.
They market restraint equipment and aids for Halal, Kosher, and
general hand slaughter.
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Restraining device for religious and
hand slaughter
(image by Spirit of Humane.
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Spirit of Humane are family farmers who raise sheep and goats in
Northwest Wisconsin. They worked with animal welfare experts to
develop a restraint system for the religious slaughter of livestock.
The restraint system complies with Halal and Kosher standards and
exceeds he requirements of the Humane Slaughter Act.
Spirit of Humane markets a suitable knife
for humane sheep and goat slaughter and a mobile slaughter unit.
The slaughter unit is built to USDA standards. It is designed for
small-scale custom and low volume state and federally inspected
facilities.
Partial funding of the Spirit of Humane process was provided by
a North Central Region SARE Producer Grant, a Wisconsin Added Value
Producer grant, and the Browse & Grass Farmer Association.
The Northeast Sheep
& Goat Marketing Program was also instrumental in the development
of these slaughter tools.
Download a brochure of their products at www.spiritofhumane.com.
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Table of Contents
Maryland hosts Annual Katahdin Expo
The 2008 Katahdin Hair Sheep International
(KHSI) Expo & Sale was held September 26-27 at the Washington
County Agricultural Education Center near Boonsboro, Maryland.
Approximately 160 Katahdin enthusiasts from 23 states and Mexico
attended the educational program on Friday. Representatives from
Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, West Virginia University,
and the University of Maryland and Delaware State University briefly
discussed their small ruminant programs and how Katahdin sheep were
being used.
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Top selling Katahdin (L-R) David Maddox
(buyer), Marcia and Carl Ginapp (consigners)
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Other speakers focused on the pasture production of Katahdin lambs,
genetic improvement of Katahdin sheep, including selection for parasite
resistance; and marketing Katahdin sheep and lambs. Two speakers
addressed the ethnic markets. Representatives from the Scott
County Hair Sheep Association shared their experiences marketing
Katahdin lamb through a multi-state supermarket chain (Food City).
Lunch was taco salad made from lamb. Two whole
lambs were roasted for dinner. The Hagerstown Canteen did an
excellent job on the meals. Entertainment was provided by a local
country and western band: Don and the Starlighters.
On the second day of the Expo, participants had the opportunity
to tour the nearby Western Maryland Research & Education Center,
home of the Western Maryland
Pasture-Based Meat Goat Performance Test. The tour also highlighted
pumpkins, forages, and vineyards.
Fifty-five registered Katahdin sheep were sold in the National
Katahdin Sale on Saturday. The high-selling sheep was a yearling
ram consigned by Marcia and Carl Ginapp from Iowa. The ram sold
on the strength of his outstanding EPD's and brought $3,100. The
buyer was Dave Maddox from Georgia.
Katahdins
are an American breed of hair sheep. They are known for their outstanding
reproductive qualities and easy-care nature: no shearing or docking
and minimal deworming. Katahdins are the sixth most popular breed
of registered sheep in the United States.
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Table of Contents
Out wintering
by Karen Hoffman*
Out Wintering is the practice of allowing animals to continue their
occupation of pasture during the winter. There are several advantages
and disadvantages to this method of "non-housing", as
well as strategies for making it successful.
It is important to remember that out wintered animals have considerably
higher energy requirements (up to 30% more depending on the weather),
so they need to be provided with both a higher quantity and higher
quality feed. In some cases, feeding a little bit of grain or corn
silage may be the only way to keep them growing, or even maintaining,
their body weight.
Don't be fooled by a long hair coat or thick wool. Body condition
score the animals periodically to make sure they are keeping enough
flesh on. Tough them over the spine, short ribs, and tail head to
assess. Also, depending on topography and prevailing winter winds,
they should be provided with a windbreak or shelter area where they
can escape the wind. Although most animals will stay out in very
cold temperatures by choice, it is still wise to have another option
available to them.
Out Wintered Pastures will take a beating, so it's also important
to think through where you will out winter. If you have a pasture
that you'd like to renovate or improve the fertility of, that is
your best choice. Your best pastures should be your last choice.
You may also want to consider doing some "rotational out wintering"
to minimize mud and muck if the winter stays fairly warm, and that
may require some planning now to make sure feed can be easily placed
and then accessed in a variety of locations.
*Karen Hoffman is an NRCS Animal Scientist from Norwich, New York.
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Table of Contents
Research
. . .
Ultrasound accurately predicts carcass traits
One hundred seventy two wethers from the mating of four terminal
sire breeds with Rambouillet ewes were used to determine the accuracy
and repeatability of live-animal ultrasound measures. The lambs
were finished in a feedlot to an average body weight of 138.4 +20.9
lbs.
Before transport to slaughter, loin eye area, loin depth, and backfat
thickness were measured from transverse ultrasound images taken
between the 12th and 13th ribs. After slaughter, the same measurements
were taken on each carcass. Carcasses were fabricated into sub-primal
cuts and weights were recorded.
Ultrasound bias approached 0 for loin eye area. Backfat thickness
was overestimated by only 0.69 mm (0.03 in.). At a standardized
body weight and backfat thickness, wethers with larger loin eye
area and loin depth depth yielded larger and more valuable carcasses,
and these relationships were detectable with ultrasound.
The data indicate biological and economical incentives for increasing
loin eye area in wethers, and live-animal ultrasound can provide
reliable estimates of carcass measures. These results are applicable
to terminal sire breeders and producers who market sheep using carcass-merit
pricing systems.
Source: Journal of Animal Science, November 2008.
Ultrasound Carcass Contest
The Maryland Sheep &
Wool Festival sponsors an ultrasound lamb carcass contest. This
year's contest will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2009, at the Howard
County Fairgrounds in West Friendship, MD.
For more information, contact Susan Schoenian at (301) 432-2767
x343 or sschoen@umd.edu or
visit http://www.sheepandwool.org/events/carcass_contest.html.
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Table of Contents
Just for Youth . . .
Maryland 4-Hers excel in judging contest
by David Gordon
The Maryland 4-H Livestock Judging Team capped off an impressive
fall by finishing 3rd overall at the National Contest and winning
an invitation to compete internationally in Scotland. The contest
was held as part of the North American International Livestock Expo
in Louisville, Kentucky.
The contest drew 33 teams and 126 youth that were all competing
to see who the best 4-H team in the nation was. The Maryland team
consisted of Drew Cashman, Claire Bennett, Troy Bennett and Lukas
Ziegler. All four members are 4-Hers in Carroll County.
In a very competitive contest the Maryland 4-Hers shined. The team
placed 3rd in sheep and goats, 8th in swine, 2nd in beef, 4th in
oral reasons and actually tied for 2nd overall but were 3rd because
of a tie breaker. The team had two members, Drew Cashman and Claire
Bennett that were also named All-Americans.
Drew Cashman was had a very consistent day and finished as the 9th
high individual overall. Claire Bennett was also impressive finishing
9th in oral reasons and as 12th high individual overall. Troy Bennett
was 9th in Beef, and 4th in Performance Beef. Lukas Ziegler was
also strong and finished as the 25th high individual overall.
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Maryland's Winning 4-H livestock judging
team (L-R) Drew Cashman, Claire Bennett, Troy Bennett, and
Lukas Ziegler (image provided by David Gordon).
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As one of the top three teams in the nation, the Maryland team
has also been invited to compete internationally at the Royal Highland
Show in Edinburgh, Scotland. The team will have the opportunity
to compete at the show, stay on farms in Europe, do some sightseeing
and visit agricultural farms and businesses on a variety of tours.
The trip is scheduled for the end of June in 2009. Congratulations
to four exceptional young people who truly represented Maryland
4-H well.
Editor's notes . . .
All four members of the winning judging team exhibit sheep and/or
meat goats at their county and state fair. They have competed in
the Sheep & Wool Skillathon at the Maryland Sheep & Wool
Festival.
The Maryland 4-H Livestock Judging Team is coached by David Gordon
(Montgomery County 4-H/Ag Extension Agent), Bonnie Boyden (Charles
County 4-H), Karen Holloway (Harford County 4-H volunteer), and
Kathy Gordon (Carroll County 4-H Extension Agent)).
2009 Youth Sheep & Wool Skillathon
The 2009 Sheep & Wool Skillathon will be held on Sunday, May
3 at the Howard County Fairgrounds in West Friendship, Maryland.
The skillathon is hosted by the Maryland
Sheep & Wool Festival.
The Sheep & Wool Skillathon consists of a series of stations
where youth are tested on their knowledge and abilities related
to sheep and wool.
The skillathon is open to any youth between the ages of 8 and 18.
Youth will compete according to their age on January 1 , 2009. Individuals
and teams of 3 or 4 may compete. Teams must be pre-registered prior
to the day of the contest.
Registration is required by April 25th. Send names, addresses,
phone numbers, and e-mail addresses to Susan Schoenian at 18330
Keedysville Road, Keedysville MD 21756, (301) 432-2767 x343, or
sschoen@umd.edu.
Sheep
and Wool Skillathon web page
2009 Maryland 4-H Tail Docking Policy
The 2009 Maryland 4-H Tail Docking Policy remains unchanged from
2008. 4-H lambs should be docked no shorter than the distal end
of the caudal tail fold. Lambs docked in this manner will have a
minimum tail length of 0.7 inches at the time of show, as determined
by the approved
measuring device.
Purchased lambs should have a minimum tail length of 1.4 inches
at the time of "weaning." This gives a high probability
that the lamb's tail will measure at least 0.7 inches at the time
of show. 4-Hers should use the DeTail
device to select lambs that have been properly docked.
Compliance with the Maryland 4-H Tail Docking Policy is voluntary.
Lamb tails (docks) will not be officially measured at any Maryland
4-H activity. No lambs will be disqualified from showing due to
tail length, unless the short dock has resulted in a rectal prolapse.
Any sheep or lamb that exhibits a rectal
prolapse at a 4-H activity will be ineligible for the activity
and sent home by the Extension Educator, Sheep Superintendent, or
other appropriately deemed individual. Lambs with purse-string sutures
will also be ineligible for exhibition in 4-H activities.
Exhibitors and breeders who complied with 2008 Maryland 4-H Tail
Docking Policy are to be commended for maintaining high ethical
standards.
Questions about Maryland's 2009 4-H Tail Docking Policy should be
directed to Susan Schoenian at (301) 432-2767 x343 or sschoen@umd.edu.
Where
to dock lambs (jpg image)
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Disease in-depth . . .
Infectious keratoconjunctivitis (pink eye)
Pink eye is the lay term used to describe any number of diseases
affecting the eye(s) of animals. The more proper name is infectious
keratoconjunctivitis. Webster's Dictionary defines keratoconjunctivitis
as "a combined inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva."
Pink eye is an infectious and contagious bacterial disease of sheep,
goats, and other animals. Though most common in the summer and in
young animals, it may occur at any time of the year and in sheep
and goats of any age.
Pink eye is caused by one of a number of different microorganisms.
The microorgansims most commonly associated with pinkeye in sheep
and goats are Chlamydia psittaci ovis and Mycoplasma conjunctivae.
The Chlamydia organism is the same organism that can cause enzootic
abortions in ewes and does. Several other bacteria may play
a secondary role in infections.
The causative organism(s) can be determined by a veterinary diagnostic
lab from a scraping or swab of the conjunctiva. Depending upon the
causative organism, pink eye can be contagious to people.
Noninfectious forms of pink eye can occur when the eye is irritated
by bright sunlight, dust, hay, or grass. Injuries or trauma may
also affect the eye(s).
Symptoms
Pink eye tends to occur as an outbreak in a flock or herd. The
causative organism is commonly introduced via purchased sheep or
goats. The microorganisms that cause pink eye are widely distributed
and may persist in resistant, carrier animals. Spread occurs via
direct contact.
Sheep and goats raised under intensive conditions are most commonly
affected. Overcrowding and poor ventilation contribute to the spread
of the disease. Dry, dusty conditions and irritants such as flies
tend to predispose or exacerbate the disease. Flies or dust can
carry the bacteria to the eye.
Whatever organism is responsible, the symptoms are similar. Affected
animals blink repeatedly and have an aversion to bright sunlight.
The side of the face below the eye may be wet due to tearing. Upon
close examination, the membranes of the eye appear red and inflamed.
The eyes become cloudy or opaque. An ulcer may develop. The condition
is painful and may affect one or both eyes. Pink eye can cause temporary
blindness in affected animals; permanent blindness in severe cases.
Sheep and goats rarely die from pink eye. The cost of the disease
is associated with treatment costs (medicine and labor) and production
losses, as affected animals may have difficulty finding food and
water. Animals that suffer temporary blindness may require hand
feeding or watering to prevent production losses.
Treatment
Affected animals should be isolated from the rest of the flock
to prevent spread of the disease. They should be housed in a clean,
dry, shady area.
Pink eye is usually treated with any number of antibiotics that
are injected into the body or placed directly in the eye. The most
common treatment is to apply terramycin
ointment to the affected eye(s) two to four times per day.
Some veterinarians advocate the use of intramammary mastitis tubes
for the treatment of pink eye. As with the terramycin ointment,
the antibiotic is applied directly to the eye.
Ointments are usually more effective than powders or sprays. They
are less irritating to the already inflamed eye. Eye drops are easier
to administer than ointments. Before applying medicine to the eye,
the animal's face should be cleaned and the debris around the eye(s)
should be removed. Surgical gloves should be used when affected
animals are handled.
Sometimes, subconjunctival injections of penicillin are given or
the antibiotic is dropped into the eye. When it is not practical
to treat individual animals repeatedly, antibiotics may be injected
systemically. Long-acting oxytetracyclines (e.g. LA-200®)
are most commonly used. The addition of oxytetracycline to be the
feed may be beneficial. Tylosin (Tylan®)
is also effective against the causative organisms of pink eye.
Because most of these antibiotic treatments are not FDA-approved
to treat pink eye in sheep and/or goats, veterinary advice should
be sought. Extra-label drug use requires veterinary approval, even
if the drugs can be purchased over-the-counter or via mail order.
Subconjunctival injections should not be attempted by lay people.
Despite efforts, treatment may have little effect on the course
or severity of the disease. Pink eye is similar to sore
mouth (orf) in that the disease is usually self-limiting and
the majority of affected animals will clear up without treatment,
usually in a week to 10 days.
Severely affected animals may take longer to recover. Recovered
animals have resistance for varying lengths of time. It is possible
for them to become re-infected, as acquired immunity is neither
strong nor long-lasting.
Prevention
There is no vaccine to prevent pink eye in sheep and goats. Because
the microorganisms that cause pink eye in cattle (Moraxella bovis)
are different from the ones that cause pink eye in sheep and goats,
the vaccine used to prevent pink eye in cattle will not prevent pink
eye in sheep or goats.
The best way to prevent pink eye is to maintain a closed flock or
herd. Do not purchase animals from public auctions. Isolate new
livestock for at least 30 days. Show animals should also be isolated
upon returning to the farm, as pink eye is common at fairs and expositions.
Dust and fly control will aid in the control and spread of pink
eye. Protection from sunlight should be provided. Complete disease
eradication is difficult because the organisms that cause pinkeye
are widespread and may persist in carrier animals.
Read full article at http://www.sheepandgoat.com/articles/pinkeye.html. |
Table of Contents
Almost all barber pole worm
Small ruminants are affected by different species of internal parasites,
and worms can be a problem at different times of the year. However,
summer time is usually the most troublesome period and the barber
pole worm (Haemonchus contortus) is usually the most prevalent
worm parasite in areas receiving summer rainfall.
The parasites affecting sheep and goats come primarily from the
strongyle (roundworm) family. Unfortunately, the eggs of most of
these worms look the same when they are examined under a microscope.
Consequently, it is necessary to hatch the eggs and look at the
larva to identify the exact type of parasite. The test is called
a larval
development assay (LDA) or DrenchRite® test.
At the 2008 Western Maryland
Pasture-Based Meat Goat Performance Test, fecal samples were
collected every 14 days from the 62 goats on test. Individual fecal
samples were sent to Dr. Dahlia Jackson's lab at Delaware State
University for fecal egg count determination, while pooled samples
were sent to Dr. Ray Kaplan's lab at the University of Georgia for
larval ID.
For the majority of the testing period, the barber pole worm comprised
96 to 100 percent of the worm infection. This "single"
species worm load meant that the FAMACHA© system could be used
to determine which goats required anthelmintic treatment.
Click on the graph
to view a slightly larger andclearer version of the graph in another
window.
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Annual VA-NC Shepherds' Symposium
The Annual Virginia-North Carolina Shepherds' Symposium will be
held January 9-10, 2009, at the Augusta
County Government Center in Verona, Virginia.
There will be a Sheep 101 Workshop on Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The workshop will include hands-on activities with sheep. Participation
is limited to the first 25 people who register.
The registration deadline for the Symposium is January 2. The registration
fee is $25 per person and it includes lunch, breaks, and materials.
Youth registration is $10. There is an additional $25 for those
participating in the Sheep 101 Workshop.
Checks payable to the Virginia Sheep Producers Association should
be sent to Virginia Tech, Department of Poultry and Animal Sciences,
Blacksburg, VA 24061. For more information, contact Dr. Scott Greiner
at (540) 231-9163 or sgreiner@vt.edu.
The Virginia-North Carolina Shepherds' Symposium is open to all
sheep producers from the Mid-Atlantic Region. It provides in-service
training opportunities for extension personnel, educators, and other
professionals in sheep and related agribusiness industries. Youth
are an important segment of the sheep industry and are invited to
attend.
View program at http://www.ext.vt.edu/news/periodicals/livestock/aps-08_12/aps-1207.html.
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Table of Contents
Calendar
of Events
January 9-10
Virginia-North Carolina Shepherds' Symposium
Augusta County Government Center, Verona, Virginia
Info: Dr. Scott Greiner at (540) 231-9163 or sgreiner@vt.edu
January 16-17
10th annual Future Harvest CASA Conference
Holiday Inn and Conference Center, Frederick, Maryland
Info: (410) 549-7878 or futureharvestcasa@gmail.com
or http://www.futureharvestcasa.org/09conference.html
January 21-24
American Sheep Industry Association Annual Convention
Marriott San Diego Mission Valley, San Diego, California
Info: info @sheepusa.org
or (303) 771-3500
March 5
Changing Ag Markets: New Opportunities Seminar
Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship, MD
Info: Cindy Mason at (301) 432-2767 or cmason@umd.edu or
http://www.agmarketing.umd.edu/Pages/2008ChangingBrochure.pdf
March 27-28
Maryland-Delaware Beginning Shearing School
Info: David Greene at greelamb@gmail.com
or (410) 329-6241.
April 4
Maryland-Delaware Advanced Shearing School
Info: David Greene at greelamb@gmail.com
or (410) 329-6241.
May 2-3
Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival
Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship, Maryland
Info: http://www.sheepandwool.org
Go to Calendar of Events at SheepGoatMarketing.info
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Table of Contents
 Wild
& Woolly, the Maryland Sheep & Goat Producer newsletter,
is published quarterly by University of Maryland Cooperative Extension.
It is written and edited by Susan Schoenian, Sheep and Goat Specialist
at the Western Maryland Research & Education Center.
To receive the newsletter, contact the Western Maryland Research
& Education Center at 18330 Keedysville Road, Keedysville,
MD 21756, (301) 432-2767 ext. 343 or 315, fax (301) 432-4089;
or e-mail: sschoen@umd.edu
or Pam Thomas, administrative assistant, at pthomas@umd.edu.
The cost of receiving the newsletter by mail is $10 per year payable
to the University of Maryland. The newsletter is free when
accessed via the Internet.
You can be added to an e-mail reflector list to receive an e-mail
message when a new issue of the newsletter has been posted to
the web at www.sheepandgoat.com/news/index.html.
Comments and suggestions regarding the newsletter are always welcome.
References to commercial products or trade names are made with
the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement
by University of Maryland Cooperative Extension is implied. Articles
may be reprinted with permission of the author(s). Article submissions
are encouraged.
More information on sheep and goats is available on the web at
http://www.sheep101.info,
http://mdsheepgoat.blogspot.com,
and http://www.sheepgoatmarketing.info.
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