Introduction
Dr. Maggie Highland, an anatomic pathologist and chief diagnostician at the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, presents an in‑depth overview of two major health challenges in sheep and goats: respiratory disease (including Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae, OPP, lungworms, and bacterial/viral pneumonia) and abortive diseases (including toxoplasmosis, chlamydial abortion, Campylobacter, Q‑fever, Listeria, Brucella, leptospirosis, Cache Valley virus, border disease virus, BVDV, and more).
This session explains how these pathogens spread, clinical signs, diagnostic strategies, necropsy and sample collection, and prevention practices producers can use to protect flock health. Dr. Highland also covers zoonotic risks, emerging research, and practical guidance for managing abortion storms, respiratory outbreaks, and chronic disease in small ruminants.
Published: January 24, 2024
