Quick Answer
Lamb vaccinations should ideally take place at 4-6 weeks and 8-10 weeks of age. However, the specific timing may vary depending on regional parasite loads and the breed of sheep.
Vaccination Schedule Overview
The vaccination schedule for lambs typically starts at 4-6 weeks of age with the first vaccination. This initial dose is critical in providing protection against common diseases such as pasteurellosis and clostridial diseases. The first vaccination is usually administered subcutaneously, and the recommended dose is 1-2 mL per lamb.
Common Vaccination Doses and Timing
At 8-10 weeks of age, a booster vaccination is administered to maintain immunity levels. The 8-10 week dose is often given with other vaccinations such as a coccidiosis vaccine to provide protection against internal parasites. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific vaccine product being used.
Rotational Grazing and Vaccination
In rotational grazing systems, lamb vaccinations can be timed to coincide with the introduction of new pasture. This approach helps minimize the risk of parasite exposure and ensures the lambs are protected when they begin grazing on potentially contaminated pastures. Vaccinating lambs at 4-6 and 8-10 weeks of age can help maintain a healthy flock and reduce the need for anthelmintic treatment.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.