Worm control: with the extended, wetter than normal summer worm control is very important. Missing a drench or extending intervals could lead to rapid build-up and contamination of pastures.

Wormwise - Seasonal Update: many of you have attended our Road Show events or read about sustainable worm control message. I thought for each seasonal period I would break down some of the key messages.

Lambs post weaning:

Use an effective combination drench. A triple combination or novel is best.
Stick to a 28-30 day drench interval.
If you really think there has not been any significant worm challenge then monitor with faecal egg count to ensure your assumption is correct.

Pre-tup drenching of ewes:

Use the most effective drench.
Utilise some refugia - that is leave some undrenched. Tag/mark them to monitor.

That’s not too complicated? It is a worthwhile exercise to review your Animal Health habits and rationale with us….

How do I get a Reduction Test done? Easy

Tell us when you’ve got lambs in the yards for weaning.
Set aside 80-100 that don’t get drenched.
Get 10 faecal samples for an egg count to ensure enough worms are present.
Then we do the first visit when you are ready. (The first visit takes about an hour.)
A week later we return to collect the 2nd dung samples to see if any worms remain after the drench treatments.
We analyse the results and send a comprehensive report of the drench resistance status of your farm.