Sheep farmers warned about rhododendron poisoning
Sheep producers should ensure stock are kept away from rhododendron plants, after recent heavy snow has resulted in an upsurge in sheep being poisoned by the toxic shrub.
SAC Disease Surveillance Centres have confirmed several cases of poisoning since the snow storms began. In most cases little can be done to treat the sheep affected.
Brian Hosie, SAC Vet Services group manager, said: "Sheep will usually avoid rhododendron bushes when other sources of food are available, but in winter it is not unusual for sheep to break into woodland or nibble on green leaves as the heavy snow bends rhododendron branches within reach."
Rhododendrons contain a poison which, amongst other things, slows the heart and lowers blood pressure. The symptoms expressed in sheep include drooling, vomiting, pain and distress. They stagger and collapse before dying.
Other plants in the rhododendron family, such as Azalea and Pieris, are also toxic, as is the yew tree, another plant that can be problematic in severe winters.
Brian Hosie recommends keeping sheep and shrubs apart. "I suggest shepherds inspect field boundaries and move sheep from fields where there is a danger they will get access to rhododendrons or any other poisonous plants".
SAC Consulting, Vet Services provides a diagnostic and post-mortem service for vets and livestock keepers through its network of eight Disease Surveillance Centres in the main livestock areas.
Concerned sheep keepers are urged to discuss any unexpected recent losses with their vets.
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