A NEW footbath solution for the sheep market has been launched by Progiene, a division of Rumenco.

Digicur, is described as a broad-spectrum, preventative disinfectant based on the compound glutaraldehyde.

Alison Clark, product manager, said it contained no formalin or heavy metals and worked by forming an invisible seal around the coronary band, drying on contact with immediate effect.

Described as a preventative control option for infections, such as sheep scald, she said scald had been a recurring topic of discussion at agricultural events across the country, as a result of the heavy rainfall at the beginning of the year.

“This combined with the plentiful supply of grass has compounded the problem, and resulted in the increased persistence and spread of this and other hoof-borne bacterial infections,” she said.

Sheep scald is one of the most common causes of lameness across the UK.

The highly contagious disease causes damage to the superficial layer between claws, affecting flock performance.

With pre-tupping season fast approaching, ensuring ewes and rams are in prime condition will be key to ensuring reproductive success, so a decent footbath at this time of year is key for sheep farmers.

Traditionally, farmers have used footbath products predominantly containing formalin.

“Farmers are increasingly seeking an alternative to formalin to avoid the associated risks with the solution, as well as looking for products that will save time and improve effectiveness,” said Alison.

“The benefits of Digicur have been highlighted by our customers. The willingness of both sheep and cattle to enter the footbath solution has been noted by farmers, and operators have stated Digicur as being more pleasant to deal with.”

She advises adopting a routine bathing and hygiene programme to help prevent the spread of disease and secondary infection.

“Ideally, farmers should be aiming to run sheep through a one per cent Digicur solution (one litre Digicur to 100 litres water) every four to six weeks.

“This may be increased to a two per cent solution if the farmer is suffering from an outbreak.

“For an all-encompassing footbathing programme, farmers should also be looking to adopt and maintain good hygiene practices for handling equipment, and disinfect foot trimming equipment between batches of animals,” she added.