On February 12 and 13, Italy hosted two editions of the HIPRA University course focused on milk quality in sheep and goats. The first session took place in Viterbo (Lazio) at a Lacaune sheep farm, while the second was held the following day in Siena (Tuscany) at the Sheep Breeding Genetic Center of ASSO.NA.PA, a farm dedicated to the preservation of the local sheep breeds Massese and Comisana.

The event featured the participation of Demetrio Herrera, a veterinarian specialized in milk quality and co-founder of Q-Llet; along with Piermario Mangili, the veterinarian in charge of the Milk Diagnostic Laboratory at the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche, in Perugia. 

The sessions began with a farm workshop led by Demetrio Herrera, who emphasized the crucial role of proper milking machine maintenance in mastitis prevention. During the demonstration, he explained how to assess different parameters and ensure the equipment operates correctly, while also sharing best milking practices for sheep and goats.

Following this, the theoretical session took place, where Demetrio provided an in-depth analysis of how the milking machine and routine impact udder health. Then, Piermario gave a presentation on the significance of somatic cell count analysis in small ruminants, highlighting it as a key indicator of udder health and emphasizing the importance of maintaining low levels within an acceptable range.

To conclude the event, Alessandro Necci, HIPRA’S Technical Service for ruminants, presented the benefits of vaccinating with VIMCO®, the company’s solution for mastitis control in sheep and goats.

The veterinarians and farmers who attended the course gave highly positive feedback, valuing the chance to share knowledge and address their questions with recognized experts in the field. 

With initiatives like this, HIPRA continues to demonstrate its dedication and commitment to the sheep and goat industry, specifically by helping to improve milk quality—one of the key challenges in the small ruminant sector. Beyond this, HIPRA’s broader mission is to ensure animal health within a One Health framework, while reinforcing its role as a leader in veterinary innovation.