Which practice would potentially help prevent the spread of disease among sheep?

The isolation of new arrivals is a crucial practice for preventing the spread of disease among sheep. When new animals are introduced to a flock, they may carry pathogens that are not present in the existing group. By isolating these newcomers for a specific period, typically referred to as a quarantine, the opportunity for potential infections to manifest and spread to healthy animals is significantly reduced. During this time, the health status of the new arrivals can be monitored, and any signs of illness can be addressed before they come into close contact with the rest of the flock.

This practice helps maintain the overall health of the herd, as it effectively breaks the cycle of disease transmission and allows for better management of animal health. In contrast, transporting animals frequently or mixing them with different species can create stress and increase the risk of disease spread. Regular exposure to wild animals poses a similar threat; they can introduce new pathogens to domesticated livestock, further complicating health management efforts.