Cattle and sheep farmers to engage with vets in parasite control strategy

Alternate methods of controlling worms in livestock that do not rely only on dosing should be considered

Minister Charlie Mc Conalogue recently launched a Parasite Control Strategy for Cattle and Sheep Farmers within the existing Targeted Advisory Service for Animal Health. Picture: iStock

Antiparasitic resistance is an increasing concern in livestock farming. Resistance is present when a wormer does not kill the target parasites as expected. 

Every time animals are treated with an anthelmintic (wormer), there is a risk of selecting for resistant worms. Therefore, alternate methods of controlling worms in livestock that do not rely only on dosing (e.g. herd or flock health plans, grazing management) should be considered.