MSU to host a special program on sheep and goat health

Veterinarians, animal health professionals and small ruminant owners and producers are encouraged to attend this one day event on October 11.

Producers and health professionals alike are seeking the latest and most objective information on improving the health and welfare of sheep, goats and similar grazing animals including llamas and alpacas. To address this need, Michigan State University will host a special program on small ruminant health on Saturday, October 11, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Room G150 at the MSU Veterinary Medical Center. Veterinarians, animal health professionals and small ruminant owners and producers are encouraged to attend this one day event.

 A fundamental aspect of improved health and welfare is nutrition. Keynote speaker, Dr. Robert Van Saun, from Penn State University will share the latest concepts in nutrition during the transition period between late pregnancy and early lactation, as well as mineral nutrition during all phases of production. Richard Ehrhardt, PhD, Michigan State University Extension small ruminant specialist, will also speak on the topic of nutrition from a large flock/herd perspective. Ehrhardt will also discuss parasite management and share the latest information on sustainable parasite control in small ruminants.

Small ruminant producers also struggle with chronic disease concerns in their flocks and herds, so Dr. Judy Marteniuk, Large animal veterinarian, MSU, will discuss prevention of chronic diseases including Johne’s disease.

Finally, a critical part of any health program is the use of veterinary diagnostic services. Dr. Dalen Agnew, a pathologist with the MSU Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health (DCPAH) will discuss services available to small ruminant producers through DCPAH and how to submit samples to get the best possible results. The symposium will conclude with a panel discussion on small ruminant health followed by a reception.

Registration is $25 per person and includes symposium proceedings, lunch, snacks and refreshments, and a conclusion reception. Registration will close on Friday, Oct. 10 at noon. You must pre-register to attend.

Parking for the Symposium is available at the Veterinary Medical Center in Lot 27, and additional parking is available for a fee at the Wharton Center parking deck on E. Shaw Lane. Please do no park in the gated Veterinary Teaching Hospital client parking areas. Use the portico entrance located on the East side of the building across from the soccer field to Room G150.

Please contact Hanna Leestma at 517-353-7199 or alumni@cvm.msu.edu in the CVM Development and Alumni Relations Office with questions.

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