Efficacy of a novel copper-based footbath preparation for the treatment of ovine footrot during the spread period

Objective: To determine the efficacy of a novel copper based footbath preparation (CHF-1020) for treatment of ovine footrot during the spread period.
Design: A series of field trials with treated and control groups run together.
Animals: Mobs of at least 125 sheep on each of six properties in southern New South Wales with equal numbers of controls.
Procedure: Sheep of group A were treated after minimal paring by making them stand in CHF-1020 for 15 minutes. Treatment was undertaken at intervals throughout the period of the trials (14 September to 17 December 1993). Group A sheep were run on the same pasture as those from group B (untreated sheep).
Results: The percentage of sheep exhibiting clinical signs of ovine footrot at the start of the trial ranged from 35 to 88% at score 3 or higher, using a 0 to 5 footscoring system. During the trial, the percentage of infected sheep (greater or equal to score 2) in group B increased and ranged from 40 to 90%. The level of infected sheep in group A on each property was reduced progressively to 1 to 16%. Cure rates of 45 to 94% were achieved, with the lowest rate being on a property with a metal footbath. The next lowest cure rate was 73%. Results indicated that treatment should be undertaken at 2-weekly intervals while spread continues. Treated sheep can be returned to contaminated pastures.
Conclusion: CHF-1020 is effective during the spread period and can be used for the progressive eradication of ovine footrot.