Small Ruminants > Animal Health

Animal Health Research

The Animal Health research area focuses on farm animal health issues of economic and public health importance under the One health umbrella and alternative sustainable strategies to maintain health and performance including use of probiotics and plants with bioactive compounds. The goal is to empower small ruminant producer clientele with science-based tools to address animal health challenges and ensure the sustainability of their production enterprises. Completed research has evaluated the burden of antimicrobial resistance and important microbial pathogens (E.coli) in small ruminants (goats) in select animal cohorts including evaluation of awareness of producers on their public health relevance. We have also evaluated and demonstrated the potential of using stinging nettle to reduce gut E.coli, parasite burden and improve overall animal health indicators in yearling meat goats.

Ongoing and future research will expand to quantify the burden of gut microbial diseases and antimicrobial resistance, producer knowledge base, parasite diversity and burden in the broader small ruminant population within the state. We also continue to explore the use of probiotics, develop and evaluate small ruminant-specific probiotics as alternatives to antibiotics, and use of bioactive plants to control parasites in growing small ruminants. The findings will be used to inform and educate small ruminant clientele in partnership with VCE and to the wider public audience through presentations and publications. The animal health research area offers training opportunities for students to acquire 21st century ready to apply research and workforce skills while also preparing students for graduate studies in STEM fields.