Are Icelandics resistant to foot rot?
There is no foot rot in Iceland, nor any in our flock. I do not know if this is because they are resistant or whether they are resistant or whether they have never been exposed to the disease. In any case we trim feet once or twice a year. White feet grow faster and need trimming more often. Black feet are stronger and grow more slowly so need trimming less frequently. If you have lots of rocks in your pastures you may be able to cut back on the trimming needed. Trimming prevents foot deformation and disease. For small flocks you can learn to set the animal up on their butts for this job. Your shearer or sheep mentor can show you how to do this. The best hoof shears are from Mid States Wool Growers Coop Association at 125 E. 10th Ave South Hutchinson KS 67505. They are called Shear Magic hoof trimmer. about $20 post paid. send for their catalog of sheep supplies. For larger flocks a turning cradle is wonderful. It is available from Premier (1-800-282-6621) and is essential for Artifici
