Elk treponeme-associated hoof disease, previously thought to be limited to deformations in elks’ hooves, appears to create molecular changes throughout the animal’s system, according to WSU epigenetic research.
Mineral supplementation is not a clear answer to elk hoof disease.
While we don’t have ways to treat or cure elk with hoof disease in the wild, there are ways to help researchers and managers.
A disease in elk that causes deformed hooves and eventually leads to lameness and death is also associated with abnormal, asymmetrical antlers, a WSU‑led study of hunter reports found.
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Healthy elk can contract the rapidly spreading disease, known as TAHD, by simply walking on soil contaminated previously by infected hooves.
Experiment provides clues to how hoof disease is spread.
An overview of the Elk Research Facility
We are now obtaining preliminary findings from a more advanced diagnostic approach called metagenomic analysis.
Collaboration with the state and tribal wildlife managers and participation by hunters and landowners has been key.