Impact of research on contagious ovine digital dermatitis on the knowledge and practices of UK sheep farmers and veterinarians.

Background: Contagious ovine digital dermatitis (CODD) is a common foot disease of sheep which causes a severe form of lameness and can be difficult to control. Recent research has provided evidence-based guidance on diagnosis, treatment and farm management control. The aim of this study was to determine the uptake of this guidance on the knowledge and practices of UK sheep farmers and veterinarians and identify priorities for future research.

Methods: Data were collected in 2019-2020 by electronic surveys of UK sheep veterinarians and farmers distributed through sheep industry organisations and social media.

Results: Two hundred eight-four sheep farmers and 77 veterinarians responded to the surveys. Fifty-two per cent of farmers and 70% of vets considered that their management of CODD had improved as a direct result of recent research evidence on the disease. The principle areas improved for both sectors were biosecurity advice and use of antibiotic treatments. Farmers and veterinarians reported that the priorities for future research should be in therapeutics, vaccine development and the understanding of disease transmission.

Conclusion: There has been strong uptake of recent evidence-based veterinary medicine by farmers and veterinarians for the management of CODD, particularly in the areas of biosecurity and responsible antibiotic use.