The implementation and value of diagnostic procedures in sheep health management

Good sheep flock health management is a prerequisite for economically sustainable, efficient productivity. Veterinary flock health planning involves disease investigations, monitoring and biosecurity, each of which is underpinned by the implementation of diagnostic techniques. While a large array of diagnostic techniques is available, it is important that the most appropriate tests are chosen and that the results are interpreted rationally, within the context of the problem being investigated or monitored. This paper uses examples of common production-limiting problems to illustrate the implementation and value of diagnostic techniques in sheep flock health management.