Bovine TB case in Sask. could have painful consequences

Jul 07, 2023

Two cows from a Saskatchewan ranch have tested positive for bovine tuberculosis, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

In February, the U.S. Department of Agriculture notified CFIA of a positive test for bovine TB in a tissue sample from a cow exported to an American feedlot from Saskatchewan in September 2022.

The herd of origin was tested in May, reactor animals slaughtered and two cases of bovine TB confirmed June 19.

The next steps could be painful for ranchers as CFIA officials begin to identify the origin of the infected cows and any contacts they may have had with other herds. Based on past circumstances, these measures have resulted in large-scale culling to stamp out the disease.

“The standard epidemiological approach will apply,” said Dr. Jamie Rothenburger, assistant professor at the University of Calgary’s faculty of veterinary medicine.

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Video: Selling Rams & Helping New Farmers Begin

It’s shipping day again at Ewetopia Farms as we sell another Suffolk yearling ram! In today’s episode, we load one of our Suffolk rams onto the trailer as he heads off to his new farm to sire the next generation of lambs.

This particular customer has been buying our rams for over eight years, trusting Ewetopia genetics for their gentle temperaments, strong builds, and proven performance. Back home, we get busy looking after the flock that’s staying behind. With the weather turning wet and chilly, it’s time to put down fresh, clean bedding to keep everyone cozy and comfortable for the season ahead. Later, we welcome a wonderful new family who’s just starting out in sheep farming!

They’ve chosen some of our Suffolk ewe lambs to begin their flock — and we couldn’t be happier to help them take their first steps into raising sheep. Stay tuned for a follow-up episode when we help deliver and settle their new flock at their farm.