Are any soilborne Alpaca diseases transferable to sheep?

[islandgal99]

Hello,

I am looking at purchasing a farm in the near future, and it was previously an alpaca farm. It's all fenced in top notch fencing, cross fence, waterers, shelters and to me it looks perfect for sheep. I am planning on getting into milking sheep and am VERY excited.

I am wondering if there is any soilborn disease that Alpacas can pass to sheep, and how long the area should be free from Alpacs before moving sheep in?

Thanks in advance.

Cheers,
Theresa

 

[BrownSheep]

There most likely are, but I honestly wouldn't be too worried. If you are concered I would call the Ag extension and ask if there is anything specific known you should know about in the area. Or ask the sellers as well.

If you do move in and want to take precautions without waiting ages before adding your sheep You can always bleach the heavy used areas. Things like shelters, waterers and feeders, any cribbed wood, and loafing areas can be spray down with bleach to help prevent any issues.

99.99% of the time there won't be any problems

 

[islandgal99]

Awesome and thank you. I am a bit concerned as they have sold of the flock, but have held back 5 as they were "off". They look healthy BUT. Hopefully the sheep expert is as friendly as the chicken expert, as the chicken people were very helpful last year with some issues that were resolved. Thanks again!