Llama Health Issues

Our intent is to build up a database of articles
on health issues faced by llama owners in New Zealand

Ringworm

Feeding Ruminant Protein to Ruminants is Banned

TUBERCULOSIS (TB)

Camelids ARE susceptible to this disease. Although cases are relatively rare and transmission from one animal to another has not been documented, nevertheless Tb is a serious issue that you should educate yourself on. The disease is regarded as a threat primarily because it is possible for humans to become infected with bovine Tb. The Animal Health Board scheme is voluntary for camelids but all owners are encouraged to take part.

The AHB's campaign to eradicate bovine Tb from New Zealand works on two fronts – disease control and vector control.

Disease control aims to control and contain the spread of the disease within farmed animals, while vector control aims to control and contain the wild animal species mostly responsible for spreading the disease. The possum is recognised as the main cause of Tb infection in cattle and deer herds.  Observations show, that when infected, sick possums appear during daytime, they attract the attention of inquisitive animals.  This allows Tb to pass through respiratory infection. The control of possums is doubly important. Not only will reduced possum numbers reduce the likelihood of interaction between farm stock and infected possums, but it will also mean the collapse of the disease in the wild in those areas where possum numbers are kept at very low levels.

What should you do?

Establish what type of Movement Control area you are in
and the rules related to your area.

To join the voluntary scheme phone Agriquality 0508 00 11 22

Control possums and other pests on your property.

If you plan to show, plan to Tb test.

Request llamas entering your herd be tested before they arrive
or isolate until tested.

For more information on Tb 0800 4 TB INFO (0800 4 824 636)

To educate yourself about TB,
 visit the Animal Health Board website

www.ahb.org.nz

and view pages on

National Pest Management Strategy
Animal Status Declaration Forms
Herd Status
Infected Herd Information
Movement control
Tb testing
Farmer's Responsibility Code
Understanding Tb control
Tb Control Basics
Declared Movement Area Map
 Vector Control Programmes