What is a significant outcome of introducing new ewes into a flock?

Introducing new ewes into a flock carries the inherent risk of introducing zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans. When new animals are added to an existing flock, they may carry pathogens that the established flock has not been exposed to. This poses a threat to both the health of the existing animals and, potentially, public health.

While the introduction of new ewes can increase flock size, improve genetic diversity, and contribute to broader immunity within the flock, these factors don’t encapsulate the primary concern when integrating new animals. The potential introduction of zoonotic diseases emphasizes the need for careful health assessments, quarantine measures, and monitoring practices during the integration process to mitigate risks to both animal and human health. Understanding this dynamic highlights the importance of biosecurity protocols in veterinary practice, particularly in flock management and disease prevention strategies.