Resistance to wormer is one of the biggest risks for farmers in various parts of the world. If parasites become resistant to wormers, there is literally no way to treat outbreaks. It could result in massive problems for the farming industry, food supplies, and more.

Like other drugs, overuse leads to resistance. Sadly, many farmers have been committing this sin when worming sheep, cattle, and other animals for generations. However, we’re more knowledgeable about the risks today and how to approach parasite management more effectively. It’s better to do this and only use drugs when absolutely necessary, at the recommendation of a vet.

Relying on experts

As we said, a lot of the problems with wormers are due to poor practice. Many farmers were simply blanket dosing animals at different times to fight parasites because it was what they had always done. However, this opens the door for problems like under and over-dosing. Plus, it means animals were likely receiving treatments when they didn’t need them at all.

Better practice here involves working with the vet from the start. Crucially, you need to give them the right information to make a sound decision on what to do. One of the most important things is to provide clear information about the herd, including the type of animal and age. This can provide a big insight into the risk of different parasites and potential need for wormer.

Herd history is another vital thing you need to share with a vet. Crucial info is things like details of the pastures the animals have been using and their previous uses. If farmers are bringing in animals from elsewhere, it is essential to look at the conditions where they are coming from. Plus, will they be quarantined or treated on arrival?

Previous treatment

If you have a herd, you must give the vet as much info as possible about previous treatments. One of the key factors that lead to resistance is using the same drugs over and over. As a result, they become less effective over time.

The big problem here is farmers could be using the same drug over and over without even knowing it. Different wormer brands could have the same active ingredient or belong to the same class. So, simply changing brand is not enough.

Equipment and resources

Another important thing to discuss with the vet is what kind of equipment and resources you have for worming. This will have an impact on the product they suggest to use. For example, some products are best if you have a crush to safely restrain animals.

Speak to us about wormer

Our main goal at JS Hubbuck Ltd is to support farmers and ensure they can achieve their goals for the future. Key here is being able to keep happy, healthy animals. There are a number of risks to deal with, including disease, but the right products, effective husbandry, and relying on experts like vets helps.

So, if you want details about wormer, please feel free to contact us. We work to ensure we can give clients as much info as possible, especially about different brands.