The health of the sheep industry and the medicines to maintain it

The global sheep industry is changing dramatically to serve its diverse customers and in response to liberalised international trade agreements and resculptured (reduced) national subsidies. A drive for efficiency gains together with greater awareness of animal related public health issues means that there is a focus on disease reduction and welfare issues in sheep husbandry. Particular advances have been made in the rational use of anthelmintics, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory analgesics in sheep and veterinarians and drug licensing authorities must utilise these advances to the benefit of the health of the sheep industry.