Johne’s Disease Surveillance Program

To help detect and control Johne’s disease in the province, the Ministry of Agriculture has developed a surveillance and control program for Saskatchewan cattle. The Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association is the administrator for this program, which is funded under Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (S-CAP). A portion of the program funding covers testing of sheep and goats for Johne’s and Maedi-Visna

What is Johne’s Disease?

Johne’s disease is a chronic debilitating disease that affects the intestines of cattle, sheep, and goats. Although many animals in a herd/flock may be infected, usually less than five percent of infected animals develop clinical signs of disease. Animals that look normal can still shed the bacteria and infect other animals in the herd/flock. Poor nutrition, parasitism and stress can cause more of the infected animals to become visibly affected. Once the clinical signs are evident, the affected animals eventually die. There is no treatment for Johne’s disease.

The long incubation period of this disease makes it difficult to detect. Many animals within a herd/flock may be infected before any clinical signs are ever seen. The primary way any herd becomes infected with Johne’s is through the purchase of infected animals.

How the Program Works

A blood test is conducted on every mature animal in the herd/flock (over 2 years for cattle and over 18 months for sheep/goats). If Johne’s is found in a herd/flock, veterinary consultation is provided to complete a Johne’s disease risk assessment and develop a customized management plan.

The identity of program participants and individual test results is kept confidential.

Who is Eligible?

All Saskatchewan beef cattle, sheep and goat producers are eligible to apply for this program. Space is available on a first-come, first served basis.

Costs Covered

Veterinary fees incurred for blood collection
Sample shipping
Laboratory testing
Veterinary fees for Johne’s risk assessment and management planning

Program Overview

Click here for more information and a summary of past results.

How to Apply

Download and complete the SSGA Johne’s Disease Program application form. Mail it to:

The Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association
Box 4752
Regina, SK S4P 3Y4