SYDNEY, Sept 23: The owners of the so-called “ship of death” stranded at sea with over 50,000 Australian sheep said on Tuesday the animals’ health was improving, as fears mounted that the crisis would permanently damage Australia’s one billion dollar ($680 million) livestock export industry.

Vroon BV, the Dutch owner of the MV Cormo Express, said the sheep had been supplied with extra food and water and were benefiting from better ventilation. Now the vessel was in open seas off the United Arab Emirates.

“They are in relatively good health at the moment, we have brought in extra food supplies, we have brought in extra water, there is maximum ventilation on board,” Vroon spokesman Cor Radings told ABC Radio.

“We have brought in extra crew to look after the ship, so they’re in a relatively good condition and even gaining weight.”

Saudi Arabia refused to admit the sheep five weeks ago on health grounds, alleging unacceptable levels of the disease scabby mouth, which an Australian vet travelling with the sheep disputes.

The United Arab Emirates and Pakistan have also refused to accept the animals, leaving the ship steaming around the Persian Gulf in searing conditions.

Queensland state Primary Industries Minister Henry Palaszczuk said the fallout from the crisis could damage Australia’s lucrative livestock export industry.

Mr Palaszczuk said a knee-jerk reaction could cause an animal welfare disaster, threatening future trade.

“We risk animal welfare becoming a non-tariff trade barrier into some existing markets,” he said.

The Australian government said Pakistan’s position was disappointing but “it simply means that the sheep’s (Saudi) owner and Australia’s negotiators and diplomats simply have to redouble their efforts”.—AFP