Anti-parasite drugs 'affect lamb development'
AgResearch scientists have collected the first known data showing behavioural developmental impacts on lambs whose mothers were treated with long-acting drugs for parasites.
The Beef + Lamb New Zealand-funded Wormwise programme has developed the fact sheet to support farmers and their staff with internal parasite management in calves from the pre-weaning stage until their first winter.
"Worm larval challenge and drench resistant parasites are a common underlying cause of poor performance in heifer rearing systems," says Dr Ginny Dodunski, experienced veterinarian and manager of the Wormwise programme.
"The fact sheet outlines the basics of the worm life cycle and the effects of parasites on young cattle and introduces concepts around offering lower worm challenge grazing to young stock, with tools to mitigate and reduce the risk of drench resistance."
Dodunski says this is about recognising that practice change does not always come from the top down.
"Sometimes it's staff asking questions about something they have read or seen that starts a conversation about how things could be improved."
Wormwise aims to help farmers and their advisors to manage worms sustainably. It brings together industry experts to manage and integrate research work, education, communication and extension services for the benefit of farmers, vets, key influencers and retailers.
The fact sheet can be downloaded from the Wormwise website.
