Worming sheep
Posted: Sunday 22 June, 2008
Since we got the sheep, it has been our intention to use as few chemicals as possible. They were wormed immediately before we got them and were turned on to clean land that hadn't had sheep on it since about 2003, when we fenced our land. We started using Verm-X, a herbal wormer - we also use this for the hens.
However, I decided to get a worm test done by Westgate Laboratories. Essentially, it is an equine service but they are happy to do other species, too. Our sample came back as <50 eggs per gram and no eggs were seen. On that basis, I have decided to worm on a "need to" basis, based on worm egg counts. I'll have another test done before tupping, so that I can worm if required.
Looking at their condition, though, I think all the nutrients are going on their backs!
Comments
Rosemary
Hi, Brad
This is new to me. I'll have a word with the vet next time I see him. Not soon, I hope!
Pete Tiley
It'd be great to know how to get diatom (food grade) into sheep. Any ideas folks?
rylan small holder
Hello i have 13 sheep and 2 of them are coughing and need worming where do i by the worming treatment from?
Rosemary
I suggest you have a word with your vet who will advise on the correct wormer to use and may be able to let you have sufficient for yrou small flock and save you buying a big bottle.
THis is a godo site for infromation https://www.scops.org.uk/
Comments are now closed for this post.
Brad K.
Sunday 22 June, 2008 at 3:35pm
Have you considered the organic, food grade diatomaceous earth parasite remedy?
Supposedly this versatile filter media (I got acquainted with the dried skeletons of diatoms as an aquarium filter 'super cleanse' periodic filtering medium) in food grade is so fine it doesn't harm the host, but slices parasites. A non-chemical way to clear the digestive tract of eggs and adult worms, etc.
I have seen packages / dosages for dogs, cats, and horses. I imagine sheep would be on someone's list. Or you might call your vet and ask for advice and guidance about using diatomaceus earth. Be sure to specify the food grade, not the swimming pool filter grade.