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  • SHEEP-fed-barely-sprouting-fodders, page : 107

Any overcrowded area is a main factor to the contribution of heavy parasite population density. The less sheep you have in an area the less problems because there will be fewer infective larvae to develop. If sheep are in an overcrowded area, more often than not they are weaker, and have to nibble away on short grass close to the ground, that ultimately means they ingest more larvae, and contribute through the passing of fecal matter to the increase in larvae numbers. One of the benefits of dividing your pasture into sections is that when you move your sheep from one section to the other, the larvae etc., very often die, and so when you return your sheep to the previous section it is more healthier for them.

In cool damp climates/weather eggs and larvae of several species of worms can survive for as long as 3 months, but may die within a few weeks during hot, dry weather. It is advisable in a moderate humid climate to turn your sheep out in the spring onto a paddock that was used during the heat of the summer, rather than one they were on during in the autumn.

Malnourished sheep have little immunity to worm infestation. Lack of proper nutrients, insufficient protein, and unbalanced nutritional elements, including lack of vitamins and minerals can leave them more vulnerable to worm damage.

Deworming:
This section will be discussed in greater detail later.

There are many drugs available to help control worms. At one time farmers wormed their flock every 3, 4, 6 or 8 weeks, the problem with this is that it is expensive and has led to parasite drug resistance.

Herbal remedies are worth looking into coupled to regular fecal tests.

The question arises, how often do I need to deworm my animals? The answer is as often as necessary. Lambs that are out on pasture with ewes are more prone to problems than mature sheep, so deworm them more often than other animals. If you are planning to send your lambs or sheep for slaughter and have used pharmaceutical wormers pay attention to the note relating to the withdrawal time on the label.

Worm resistance:
The incidence of resistance to worm preparation increases with the frequency of treatment. Resistance can be brought about from improper use of a drug, therefore always follow the instructions on the label. Never give less or an excess of drugs. However, do not assume that just because you use a wormer that the parasites are developing resistance to it. In the past it was recommended to change wormers often in an attempt to avoid developing resistance – this theory has proved to be wrong. The evidence now suggests that you may actually increase the worm population to become resistant to everything. Keep with the same effective wormer until you notice signs of resistance beginning to develop, when this happens it is time change your dewormer. It is important